Understanding and Responding to Child Lying: A Positive Parenting Approach

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Nov 25, 2024 | Toddler, Big Kid, Preschooler

As parents, we’ve all experienced those moments that test our patience and challenge our parenting skills. Recently, I found myself in such a situation – a seemingly simple question about breakfast that turned into a valuable lesson about child development and...

Understanding and Managing Toddler Meltdowns: A Compassionate Approach

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Nov 11, 2024 | Toddler, Preschooler

Picture this: You’re wrapping up a fun family weekend getaway with one last stop at a candy store before heading home. Your toddler spots a giant chocolate milkshake, and her brain gets stuck. She wants that milkshake. As you tell her she won’t be getting a...

Why Children Need Boundaries: A Guide For Parents

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Oct 28, 2024 | Toddler, Big Kid, Preschooler

It’s a typical day in your household. You’re supervising bath time, and suddenly, you catch your toddler about to take a sip of bath water. In the background, your preschooler is protesting loudly about turning off the TV, and you hear your partner telling...

Parental Preference at Bedtime: How To Respond

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Dec 21, 2023 | Toddler, Baby, Preschooler

Table of ContentsCommon Reasons Parental Preference Happens How to Deal with Parental Preference When Your Child Is UpsetHow Long Does Parental Preference Last?Helpful Reminders in Challenging MomentsKey Takeaways <span...

Balancing Magic And Truth: How To Talk To Kids About Santa

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Dec 1, 2023 | Toddler, Big Kid, Preschooler

One day, my daughter came to me and said, matter-of-fact, “Mom, I know Santa’s not real.” I got down to eye level with her and invited her to tell me more. “I just know that he’s made up,” she said. I wondered out loud if there was anything she wanted me to know. She...