I love doing crafts with my daughter and trying new ones.  This is a picture of a placemat I did with her using carbon paper that I found at Hobby Lobby.  I had to ask the sales person since I wasn't sure what it looked like. I took a picture of it for you too if you want to try this with your child.  It's really easy and fun to do. She made a placemat for herself and her baby!  So cute and it was fun for her to find pretty leaves at the park! :)

I just wanted to share this with you! Please send me other ideas and traditions you do with your child or post it here!

Happy Holidays!
Dr. Nina

Santa Pancakes and more!

I hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving and you are enjoying the festivities around you!  In the business of it all, remember it's okay if you don't attend every event.  

Though all of it sounds fun, sometimes just the moments alone with your child are enough; doing crafts, baking cookies, making silly pancakes are just some ideas! 

Teaching your child about the true meaning of Christmas and what this season is really about is what matters most.

Happy Holidays and God Bless you!
Dr. Nina

Finger paint Fun! :)

Do you remember when you were a child and your Mom let you finger paint or she sprayed shaving cream on the table?  It's always fun and a great way for children to express emotion!

I have an art table set up for my daughter where she can paint, color, finger paint, etc.  There are times she is detailed and times she just wants to mix colors and laugh as she runs her hands all over the paper.

You will be amazed at the things your children will create if they have the opportunity to express themselves on paper.  What colors do they use?  At times, colors can be connected to an emotion. What do they like to draw, color, or paint?  Do they seem happier after expressing themselves on paper?

Overall, any type of art is great for children to do.  I encourage you to have a space where your children have an opportunity to be expressive.  There's many benefits...and you may discover a little artist in your child! :)

Happy Fall!

I love the fall and all of the festivities approaching. October is such a fun time for children with Halloween around the corner. My friend likes to call it the big "fall festival". This time of year is really an exciting time, especially now that school has started.

This morning my daughter and I saw a show about how to make some fun Halloween crafts and create some fun meals. We attempted the craft, pictured here. It's cooked spaghetti and then you put it in a baggy and mix it with glue. Then, you take the spaghetti and form a spider web on a plate. After this, you add lots of sparkle to it! Then you take a top of a bottle cap (preferably black or paint one) and then add legs with tape. You are supposed to glue this spider to your sparkly spider web. Once dry, pull it off the plate and hang.

I am not sure if ours is pulling off the plate! We'll see tomorrow! It was a fun experience and my daughter enjoyed it a lot.

Later that day, we made 2 pumpkin cakes because Mommy threw out the cupcake pan and forgot she had done that- pumpkin cakes seemed like a good solution! :)

Hope you are enjoying this season as well!

Happy Fall!
Dr. Nina

Ending the Homework Battle

I thought this was a great article to read as we get our children ready for the new school year.  New beginnings and new homework strategies!

Ending the Homework Battle


ScienceDaily (July 24, 2012) — As the shiny new school supplies beckon, the fresh start to the school year could be the inspiration for parents to shift their strategies when it comes to the nightly homework battle.

"The battle is different for every family," said Drew Edwards, adjunct associate professor of psychology at Wake Forest University. "Some children resist starting their homework, some have a hard time finishing and others do their homework -- but don't turn it in."

Edwards, who is the author of "How to Handle a Hard-to-Handle Kid," suggests parents work with their children to develop a good system for bringing the assignments home. That could be a planner or notebook children use to write homework assignments down daily, or an assignment sheet you send with them to school.

"It's important to get in the habit of writing it down and bringing it home," Edwards says. "That will help students get in the habit of bringing home the correct textbook or other materials needed to finish their homework."

Here are some other tips Edwards offers:
• Find the right spot. Some children like to do homework on the kitchen table, others need more isolation -- have your child try their homework in several places until one feels just right.

• Find the right time. Right after school? After a short break, but before dinner? After dinner? If you're not sure, pick a time and try it for two weeks. If it's not working, try another time for two weeks.

• Find a starting point. Does your child like to start with the hardest homework or easiest homework? Maybe there's a certain order they like. Edwards said you should offer suggestions, but let the child decide.

• Find the focus. Put all other books and materials away while your child is working on one subject. "Looking at a pile of books can make a child feel overwhelmed or can just make it tough to focus on the current assignment," Edwards said.

• Find the sweet spot. How much monitoring does your child need? Some children might need you to break an assignment into smaller parts, particularly for for assignments with several steps like math, or writing sentences for vocabulary. Keep the positive feedback coming, but try not to hover.

Sometimes your child will tell you they don't have any homework. And sometimes that's true. "It's important to keep your routine going to create good homework habits in your child," Edwards said. "Set aside 45 minutes to an hour and create your own assignment that reflects what your child is learning. That could be reading, practicing other math problems or looking up current events." According to Edwards, making sure children know they are going to be doing learning activities every Monday-Thursday could help break the cycle of children who don't bring the assignments home.

While you are working on your new strategies, Edwards suggests retiring constant nagging and doing the work for the child -- the two biggest mistakes parents make. "School is important," Edwards said, "but so is the relationship you have with your child. Don't let homework become an issue that harms that relationship."



Story Source:
The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Wake Forest University, via Newswise.
Note: Materials may be edited for content and length. For further information, please contact the source cited above.



I hope everyone is enjoying their summer with their children!  There is so much to do in the area.  There are many splash pads open throughout the metroplex that can be fun for kids of all ages.  Here's a photo of my daughter at Mcpherson Park.

What fun and creative things do you do with your children?  Post it here! 

I think we'll be off to six flags and a baseball game sometime this summer too. I heard the Frisco Rough Riders is a great place to go with your children. The outfield area is a great place to sit while the children run around and play! :) I will post our experience.

Happy Mother's Day!

A Mother’s Love

A mother’s role matters in all aspects of a child’s life. There are several studies which discuss the importance of a mother’s love. It’s all about the relationship that can have many long term benefits.

The following are just 4 reasons why a Mommy’s love makes such a difference:

1. A recent study published in the Proceedings of The National Academy of Sciences Journal found that children who received a lot of love and affection from their mothers have bigger hippocampus. The portion of the brain that is responsible for learning, memory and response to stress.


2. Research conducted by scientists from the University of British Columbia, Canada found that children who received an abundant amount of ‘maternal warmth’ as children, regardless of their socio-economic status, are less prone to certain illnesses in their adult years. This ‘maternal warmth’ creates in the child a sense of wellbeing and self worth so that as they grow up they are less prone to depression and feelings of low self esteem. (Journal of Molecular Psychiatry, 2010)

3. A mother’s relationship with their son when he was a child can make a difference in their teen years. Young boys who experienced a lot of conflict with their mothers were more likely to engage in delinquent behavior as teens. However, boys who had a close relationship with their mothers were more likely to have a better relationship with their best friends during their teen years. (Journal of Child Development, 2011)

4. Research from the United Kingdom shows that the way mothers talk to their children at a young age influences their social skills later in childhood. The study, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, found that children whose mothers often talked to them about people's feelings, beliefs, wants and intentions developed better social understanding than children whose mothers did not.

It’s incredible the role a mother plays in a child’s development. Remember, it’s not about quantity of time but quality of time. Everything you do and say to your child matters and develops their character.

I often hear from mother’s who have children in college, that it seemed liked yesterday when they were toddlers. The time goes by fast. So appreciate the moments, appreciate what your children are doing right (and what you are doing right too!), and most importantly always communicate the message that they are unconditionally loved and accepted.

1 Corinthians 13:4 -"Love is patient. Love is kind. It does not envy. It does not boast. It is not proud. It is not rude. It is not self-seeking. It is not easily angered. It keeps no record of wrong doing. It does not delight in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It always protects, trusts, hopes, perseveres."

Happy Mother’s Day!

Dr. Nina

6 Parenting Tips that Prevent Power Struggles

6 Parenting Tips that Prevent Power Struggles
The teen years are challenging for parents as well as for teenagers. Teenagers want their independence and parents struggle with how much independence is appropriate. How can parents prevent power struggles with their teenagers? What parenting style works best? Here are six tips that can help reduce power struggles, empower teens, and increase the peace within the home.

Our thinking as parents needs to shift from “not who’s going to win the battle but how can I help empower my teen so that they feel understood and accepted.” The teenage years are a challenging stage of development; trying to fit in with their peers, figuring out who they are, and wanting independence but knowing that this is limited.

Parenting Tip 1:

Validate Feelings- Parents can help their teens through this stage of life by validating their feelings. Teenagers need to feel understood. They don’t always want to know how to fix a problem or what they should do next but just that it’s okay to feel the way they do.

Parenting Tip 2:

Ask Questions - Parents can encourage their teen to solve their own problem or dilemma. How do parents do this? Parents need to ask their teen questions. For example: “I can see why you would be frustrated with the situation, how do you think you will handle it?” or “What are some ideas you have about talking to your boss or friend about the situation?”

The more parents listen, validate, and encourage, then the more teens will feel understood and accepted. For example: “This sounds like a difficult situation you are dealing with at work. You seem to have come up with some great ideas. I hope it turns out the way you want.”

Allow them to think through their own frustrations. This can be empowering for your teen and sends the message, “You can handle this and we are here for you.” This is a great confidence booster and will help them later in life when you are not there to think for them.

Parenting Tip 3:

Offer Encouragement- Parents can boost their teens self esteem by offering encouragement when possible. What have you seen your teen do right around the house? Point out the positive things they are doing even if it’s limited. Also, encourage them to embrace their gifts and talents. Find ways that they can use them. Teens will never get tired of hearing positive messages about themselves, especially from Mom and Dad.

Parenting Tip 4:

Choices - It’s important that parents offer their teens choices when possible. Teens want to feel included in the situation and that their opinion matters.

Parenting Tip 5:

Rules & Consequences – Parents need to have a general set of rules in the household that all teens know and follow. Teens also must be aware of the consequences that happen when they break the rules. I always encourage parents to meet with their teen ahead of time to discuss possible consequences for breaking the household rules. This can prevent many future arguments from transpiring since the teen will already know the consequences.

Parenting Tip 6:

Be Consistent- Parents need to stay committed to decisions they make and follow through with any consequences of the household.

The teenage years can be a challenging time for many parents. Follow these basic tips and keep God first in the family. There can be some great teachable moments during this period and you are the perfect teacher to assist them.

Dr. Nina

Encouraging Independence in your child

I hope everyone is enjoying this spring weather! This is the best time to get outdoors and enjoy the parks before it gets too hot!

I was reminded this morning when I opened my daughter's cupboard, the importance of encouraging independence. This can really help build their confidence and instill an "I can do it!" attitude. There are many things children can do at an early age if we give them an opportunity. This is key. Look for opportunities where your child can attempt to do something on their own, eventhough it would probably be easier for us to do it for them!

My child enrolled in Montessori before she was 2 years old. Montessori's philosophy focuses on encouraging a child's independence, giving them freedom within limits, and respecting a child's natural psychological development.

One of the things we did early on is create a cupboard just for her. She has her cups, plates, silverware, straws, etc. that she can get at any time. She loves this area and it gives her the freedom to choose also which cup, plate, bowl, etc. she wants to use.

Also, she has some bowls and plates that she and I may have painted at a pottery store. These are great keepsakes but also a reminder of the things she's done and can do too! :)

Here's a picture of what it looks like! She has picked many of the cups, plates and bowls out when we were shopping. It's not perfectly color coordinated but it's fun for her!

I encourage you to create one for your child or children if you haven't yet!

All the best to you and your family this spring!
Dr. Nina

Love and Laughter in our children

Love and Laughter

Have you ever noticed when your child laughs, you smile. It’s a natural reaction and it can help us look at life a little less seriously. Laughter can turn an uncomfortable or negative situation around, especially with our child. There are many ways parents can encourage laughter and develop their child’s sense of humor, which can have many long term benefits.

Physical Benefits:
· Relaxes the body- Laughing relieves tension and stress, which leaves your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes.

· Boosts immune system- Dr. Lee S. Berk and Dr. Stanley Tan of Loma Linda University in California have published studies that show laughter boosts the immune system by: lowering blood pressure, reducing stress hormones, and raising levels of infection-fighting T-cells.

· Triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.

· Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

Relationship Benefits:
Research has also found that children who laugh and have a sense of humor about life will have better relationships. “These children tend to be well-liked by their peers and adults.” states psychologist Louis Franzini author of “Kids Who Laugh, How to Develop Your Child’s Sense of Humor ”. Additionally, children with a well-developed sense of humor are happier and more optimistic, have higher self-esteem, and can handle relationship differences more effectively.

Developing your Child’s Sense of Humor:
There are many ways to develop your child’s sense of humor. Engage in activities that are fun and will encourage your child to laugh. Look for opportunities in everyday situations that can help your child look at life optimistically. Turn a possible negative situation around by handling it in a positive and light hearted way. As a result, you both will benefit and your relationship will become even stronger.

Here are some other ideas:
• Increase your exposure to comedies, funny shows, riddles and joke books.
• Create fun games or play some with your child or teen.
• Take a humor break each day where you and your child do something fun. What you choose to do will depend on their age. Be creative and have fun with it!
• Spend time with others that have a positive outlook on life and encourage you to laugh. This will help you when working with your child.
Research has found that four-year-old children smile and laugh about 400 times a day while adults smile and laugh only about 14 times a day. Life has its challenges but children don’t see what we see. Let’s learn from our children and encourage their light hearted attitude and optimism about life.

Proverbs 17:22 – “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength.”

God Bless you with more love, laughter, and fun with your family!

Dr. Nina

The Importance of Friendships

As parents, we want our children to have positive and healthy relationships with friends. There are so many great benefits gained from friendships. They help your child build and develop social skills. Also, they encourage communication and help with problem solving. Friendships are especially important during the middle school and high school years. They provide emotional support and also help build self esteem during this critical stage of development. A positive circle of friends can prevent unpleasant experiences, like peer victimization (bullying) and teasing from other children or teens.

Parents play a large role in their child’s life when it comes to building and sustaining friendships. Parents can encourage this by modeling healthy relationships to their children. Children can benefit greatly from having a secure and healthy attachment to their parents. Parents who are loving, accepting, and respectful communicate to their child that they are valued, loved, and special.

There are many things parents can do to help their child develop and sustain friendships.

1. Encourage Conversational Skills- Teach them basic social skills. Parents can do this by spending quality time with them. Family outings and dinner gatherings are a great place to model this behavior.

2. Give them opportunities to make friends- Getting children involved in sports or clubs at school can help develop friendships. Of course, church groups and activities are great too!

3. Help them learn to control emotions- Research has found that children who have emotional control have more friends. Parents can role model positive ways to deal with every day frustrations. Expressing emotions appropriately and talking about them in front of the child will make a difference.

4. Expressing and showing empathy – Parents can model this by looking for opportunities around them. For example: If a parent sees someone sad or hurt in a real life situation or possibly on TV, they can talk about it with their child – “How do you think they feel? What do you think they need to feel better?”

Also, parents can model caring behavior towards others so that their child can see how it makes other people feel. It teaches the child that they have the power to make another person happy and understood.

5. Teach them to compromise -Parents can role model this by offering their child choices in the home and also getting the child’s help when making decisions. This can help a child later when they are confronted with a dilemma with their friends. It teaches them to offer choices and help with decision making.

Finally, let your child or teen know that you are available to them if they need your help and support. Research has found that children that could depend on their parents have better quality friendship with their peers. Parents play such a large role in a child’s overall development. Showing them constant love and support will get them through their childhood and teenage years and also help build and sustain their friendships.

Proverbs 27:9- “Oil and perfume rejoice the heart; so does the sweetness of a friend's counsel that comes from the heart.”

Dr. Nina

Family Time in the New Year!

This is always a great time of year to evaluate how your family is communicating and staying connected with one another. It's challenging to balance work, school, activities, and other commitments on a daily basis. How can we build on our family relationships and stay connected in the New Year?

In many research studies on family relationships, it has been found that family meal time together can have many benefits.

Family Connection- Having meals together as a family creates a sense of unity. The structure and predictability provides security for your children. It also provides an opportunity for everyone to share something about themselves and their day. It has been found that teens will share and confide more in their parents when they have routine meal times.

Positive Well-Being for Children and Teens- A national study of young children's (age 3-12) found that more mealtime at home was the single strongest predictor of better achievement scores and fewer behavioral problems.

The largest federally funded study of American teenagers found a strong association between regular family meals (five or more dinners per week with a parent) and academic success, psychological adjustment and lower rates of alcohol use, drug use, early sexual behavior and suicidal risk.

Better academic performance- Regular family meal time's help children do better at school. It was found that children and teens that have regular meal time together do better on tests, spend more time on homework, and read more for pleasure.

Social Relationships- Family mealtime help children, especially teenagers, feel more well-adjusted. They have better relationships with others and this could be influenced by the positive relationships within the family. Family meal time also allows for opportunities to role model good conversational skills that can be used outside the home.

Healthier eating habits – Children and teens that have family mealtime together are more likely to develop healthier eating habits, and this has been found to continue into adulthood. Your children are so impressionable and the food choices you make can affect them long term and help them make positive and healthy choices which may decrease their chances of weight issues in the future.

Make a commitment this year to have family meal times at least 3 to 5 times per week. It can be challenging but if you plan ahead there are many benefits this tradition can bring to your family. I still remember my father whistling when it was time for dinner when I was younger. We were often outside playing with friends. There was something very special about eating with the entire family. It provided structure, security, and many of the other benefits listed above.

Wishing you all a year full of love, health, and family connection!

Dr. Nina