It is impossible to imagine a human who has not been profoundly affected by the catastrophic fires in Pacific Palisades and Altadena, California. Those who lost their houses, all their possessions, and their physical mementos holding their family memories, are overwhelmed, are in pain, and are numb. Those who did not take a direct hit are suffering, too. In writing this blog, my goal is to offer support to parents of children, young and old, in dealing with their children. Parents need to … [Read more...] about Fire Talk, Part 2. Older children, tweens, and teens
Feelings
Fire Talk
An evacuee myself, I am attempting to write a blog on my little iPhone. My desktop computer is in my office at home in Pacific Palisades. Please know that my house is standing and I am safe. And please also know that I am among the very few, very lucky people who did not lose her home. I must have an angel on my shoulder. I don’t need to reiterate what a devastating time this is for so many families who have been affected by the fire. In addition, all the people who may not have been … [Read more...] about Fire Talk
All Kinds of Feelings: A Child’s Emotional Literacy
In the video, Emotional Baby is Moved to Tears by Mom’s Singing, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/29/emotional-baby-moved-to-tears-by-moms-singing_n_4173272.html?utm_hp_ref=parents&ir=Parents?utm_hp_ref=parents&ir=Parents, we witness the power of emotion in even the youngest of babies. At only 10 months old, the baby’s deep feelings spill over in the form of tears when he hears his mother’s beautiful singing. Learning about emotions like these is a long process and a big part of … [Read more...] about All Kinds of Feelings: A Child’s Emotional Literacy
“Mommy, What is 9/11?”
As the ten year anniversary of 9/11 approaches, the media is heating up with programs and references to that tragedy. Ten years ago already. Wow! As was the case when Kennedy was shot, many can easily answer the question, “What were you doing when you heard the news of 9/11?” That’s how big it was in our lives. To children fifteen years and younger, 9/11 is another event in American history to be learned. But learning about it from history books is quite a different story from seeing graphic … [Read more...] about “Mommy, What is 9/11?”
Sleep-Away Camp Separations
Way back in February you sent in the deposit. Sleep-away camp, here we come! It was going to be fantastic—swimming in the lake, roasting marshmallows by the campfire, pillow fights in the cabin. Just weeks before opening day, your son’s excitement fills the air. I get to go away for two whole weeks! No school! No chores! No sister getting on my nerves! No parents to bug me! Then, as you’re ironing on the last of name labels, he wanders in and quietly asks, “What if I’m homesick?” Reality … [Read more...] about Sleep-Away Camp Separations
Playing Favorites
“Mother always liked you best” claimed Tommy Smothers of the old comedy duo of the 60’s and 70’s, The Smothers Brothers. They were comedians, but that gag struck a chord, as the audience laughed and cried at the same time. “Who do you love the most?” No matter how it comes out, every child who has a sibling wonders and worries about which child plays the starring role in his parent’s heart. Favorites are tricky business, and the topic has a lot of press recently. In both a study … [Read more...] about Playing Favorites