Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

Developing Your Baby's Brain

Have you ever wondered why toys for babies tend to have so many bells, whistles and lights? Or why they have so many different textures, and materials and colors?It's almost as if we want to provide young babies with a whole world of stimulation and we can't quite get it to them fast enough.Play gyms or activity gyms as they are sometimes called tend to be a firm favorite with babies from newb. . .

Teen Driver Statistics

As a parent, if you search for any information about Teen Driving Statistics you will find statistics similar to those below. I have reviewed various websites to summarize the information from these sources, however, please feel free to search the web for “teen driving statistics” for more websites and information on this subject.The information allows us to ponder if teen driving needs to be . . .

Pregnancy Symptoms, Signs and Symptoms of Being Pregnant

EARLY PREGNANCY SYMPTOMSAlthough a lot of women experience pregnancy symptoms, and find signs of being pregnant, other's don't "feel" pregnant. Certain signs and symptoms of being pregnant can be confused with other illnesses. The following list are some telltale symptoms of pregnancy. Morning sickness is one of the most common signs of being pregnant, but you also might be one of the lucky . . .

Questions To Ask A Pediatrician (for new to be parents)?

Having a baby is already scary enough. There are so many new things that need to be taken care off and you are swamped with decisions to be made. One decision is to select the best pediatrician for your newborn. Take the time to research a couple of pediatricians to make sure that you are comfortable with your choice. Call the practice and make an appointment to get to know the pediatrician bef. . .

Fun In The Kitchen - Age-Appropriate Activities Your Chil...

1 Year Olds grab the rolling pin and let your toddler roll it across the floor wooden spoons are great for increasing your 1 year olds hand coordination (and they make great sounds too!) let your toddler play with the lids from your pots. It's like they have started their own little band!2 Year Olds help mom wash fruits and vegetables. take a plastic juice container or pop container and fill. . .

Advising Teens? Getting Your Point Across

Giving advice to a teenager is very easy; getting a teenager to take that advice is another matter altogether. It's not only a case of the advice 'falling on deaf ears', sometimes the teenager seems to go deliberately out of their way to do the exact opposite, that's when you know you’ve got a problem. So how do you go about giving advice to a teen?The short answer to this question is "don't". . . .

What Julia Roberts Has to Say about Motherhood

Julia Roberts recently gave birth to twins: Hazel and Phinnaeus. At 37, America’s Pretty Woman couldn’t be happier in her new role of motherhood.The twins were delivered at a hospital in Southern California. Since the twin’s birth Julia has done voice-over work for the remake of E.B. White’s “Charlotte’s Web”. She is also set to work on a film for children called “Ant Bully”.Roberts has often t. . .

Choosing a Daycare or Pre-School – Top Ten Safety Tips

When it’s time to put your child into a daycare or pre-school, there is some homework involved. Here are the top ten safety tips that are useful when looking for a pre-school or daycare center. Take the time to make sure the program is reputable and whether the facility has had any past complaints. Either with parents, previous teachers or care-givers. You also want to know about the existing t. . .

Number 1 Key to Good Parenting

The numbers are chilling. Teen suicide and homicide rates have tripled from twenty years ago. There is a 50% increase in childhood obesity. Teenage pregnancy rates are the highest for any Western society. SAT scores have plummeted. 15-20% of kids are flunking kindergarten. Millions of children are medicated to be more “manageable” at home and school. One of the ongoing tragedies in our culture. . .

The Parent Teen Relationship And How To Improve It

It was the homework that did it. Each night became a challenge in how I was going to get my son, a non-academic, to do his homework. I tried patience, encouragement, and teaching, all to no avail. I moved on to bribery, threats and punishment, still no success. Finally I tried anger, frustration and tears, but still no joy. At the end of my tether I knew it was time for a change. Looking back o. . .

What Is Happening In Your Child’s Life?

Understanding a child in every aspect is always a challenging & unpredictable task. If we pay more attention than he expects then it creates even more problems. Knowing what’s happening in child’s inner & outer, Personal, Social, Physical, Sexual, Intellectual & Spiritual life. ; is not a part of worry but is a part of responsibility & Right, paying attention & observing for having positive, . . .

Lessons in Shooting Hoops

No matter where we look or what life throws our way, there is always a lesson to be learned, if we just take the time to look for it.On February 27, 2004 our family was fortunate enough to take a mini-vacation, courtesy of our 13-year-old son. The week before this big event, our son entered a local “Hoop Shooting” competition and won first place, four tickets to the University game, and a chan. . .

Garage Sales Aren't For Wimps

This month I learned a very valuable lesson about myself. I do not like to host garage sales, but I love the money that comes from getting rid of my “junk.” Yep! You heard me say it, “JUNK!”By definition junk means to me: used stuff, in good condition, that one person no longer wants but another person has been looking for at a good price.I’ve always been an avid believer in donating my used . . .

Crippling our Children the Heelys Way – And now in Adult ...

“Heelys – The only shoe with a removable wheel in the heel”. – http://www.heelys.comI figured that Heelys had the best description of their own product, so I decided not to re-invent the wheel and copied it verbatim.Fortunately, or maybe not, Heelys’ positioning in the market has made them the “Scotch Tape” of the wheel in the heel industry. Customers interchangeably use the term “Scotch Tape” . . .

Baby is Coming, Are You Ready?

It has been a long pregnancy. You are probably tired and feeling worn more often then not. But, are you prepared for baby's arrival? Do you have all the baby clothes, baby furniture and bedding that you need? Perhaps you aren't even sure what you need to have? Not to worry, even if you didn't have a baby shower to help you prepare, you can find all the items you need for baby right under your n. . .

Validating vs. Indulging Children’s Feelings

I grew up at a time when children’s feelings were not important. I was supposed to go along with the program without complaint, regardless of how I felt. If I was upset about something, my mother generally responded with, “Don’t be ridiculous,” while my father just ignored me. Many of my counseling clients had similar experiences in their growing-up years.Those of us on a personal growth path d. . .

COMMITMENT: Teaching Children the Lessons of a Lifetime

It's been said, time and again, that for a child to learn what is most important, he must be shown the lessons through example, not through words. And, if we are to nurture certain traits within our children, we must first develop those traits in ourselves. Parents and teachers must come to understand that our children learn more from what we do than what we say. The old saying, "do as I say, n. . .

Are You Chasing Dollars or Your Kids?

Striking a perfect balance between work and home today can be difficult task for most of us. However, do you ever wonder if your spending too much time chasing money and not enough with your children? Everything in moderation right? Haven’t we been told this countless times and yet still we tend to find ourselves constantly plunging into excess. It seems that we always do too much of one thing . . .

A Special Kind Of Love

My grandmother taught me to crochet the moment my clumsy, chubby fingers could hold a crochet hook. By the time that I was six, she handed me her sewing needles to thread for her because her eyes could no longer see the needle's eye. When I was eight, my mother spent all of her precious off-work night-time hours making me a spring wardrobe that I can still describe in minute detail, right down . . .

Profile of Encouraged Children

Walk through any mall and you will see discouraged families. The parents look weary because the children are controlling them. How did this happen? With both parents working and returning home tired, sometimes it’s just easier to give in to the demands of the children. Eventually the pattern is set. An Audio child knows if he relentlessly demands his way, he will win. A Visual knows if she asks. . .

Baby Clothes By Disney

Disney and children go together like milk and crackers. Its just a given that in almost any American household where children reside there is something in the home that was made by, produced by, licensed by, or endorsed by Disney.Because of this natural affinity that Disney and kids seem to have, the Disney Corporation has been making clothing for children for nearly as long as they’ve been in . . .

Alternative Baby Clothing

Whoever coined the phrase that there is nothing new under the sun was clearly not expecting to see the latest trend in clothing for infants and toddlers. The members of the punk rock generation of the ‘80s are the parents of today and it seems that a good number of them chose to go the way of Peter Pan and simply refused to grow up. That is the only viable explanation for the aforementioned bab. . .

Parenting Strategy, One of the Worst Ever!

Some parents rush to serve every squeak and squawk from their kids. "I can't let my child feel pain!" said one dad. Parents, if you are giving way too much, find out why your parenting strategy may be one of the worst strategies ever. I remember counseling with a teenager and her mom. The young girl sassed and criticized her principal, her teachers, and her family. She yelled if any of them sai. . .

Alternative Clothing For Babies

While the concept of "baby tees" has taken on a whole new meaning in the new millennium, some companies have made a real dedication to the original intent of the phrase. Of course there is always the basic "I Love My Mommy" and "Someone in Tallahassee Loves Me" t-shirts, but in keeping with the times, some companies have designed some shirts that really let baby and parent's personality shine t. . .

Organizing Ideas To Make This A Great Year For Your Child

It’s that time of year again. The kids are back in school, or are about to be. Parents are writing checks for PE clothes and school supplies. You’re finding out that your child has grown 2 or more shoe sizes since summer started. Not to mention that none of their clothes fit anymore. You have a lot on your mind right now. If you’re anything like me you are concerned already about upcoming grade. . .

Mommy & Baby: Feeding

If you are a mom who intends to breastfeed her baby, start as soon as practical after the baby is born. Some of this will depend on the hospital’s procedures with newborns; there are hospitals which test a newborn, often returning him to you after several hours time has elapsed; others who deliver via caesarian will have to be in post-op for several hours.Your milk will not be “in” immediately;. . .

Children and Night Terrors

Q. "My 7-year old son wakes up periodically in the middle of the night. We find him sitting bolt upright, staring straight ahead, and screaming at the top of his lungs. He sounds like he's being viciously attacked. This goes on for a while, during which we try to console him. He goes back to sleep without knowing we were even there. If we decide to awaken him, he appears confused, and doesn't r. . .

Preparing For The Birth Of A Baby - Essential Baby Clothes

If you are expecting a baby in the next few months, the chances are you will have started planning for some of her important things, if not doing them and buying them already. Her crib may be chosen; her nursery may be painted and decorated; you may have some beautiful bedding to match the baby decor of her room; and you may have bought a few gorgeous newborn outfits with which to adorn your ne. . .

Have Fun With Baby Halloween Clothes

There are lots of great things about being a new parent. For example, the joy of bringing a new life into the world, the thrill of shaping a young mind, the pride with each new stage of your baby's life. Few things are more exciting, however, than the license to be a kid again. What better way to celebrate your newfound childhood with your baby than by dressing up with them for Halloween?There . . .

Baby Clothes For All Seasons

Few things seem more important at a baby shower than duckies, monkeys and theme colors. Once you get the baby home though, the most important thing about baby clothes is how well they protect your baby.Depending on the time of year that your baby is born, and the type of climate you live in, there are a variety of concerns to take into consideration for your baby's very sensitive nature.For sum. . .

Baby Clothes On The Cheap

In the world of art, there is a movement called Postmodernism. If you're not an art student, or an artist, or a professor of art, there's really only one thing you need to know about Postmodernism. It means that you can do whatever you want. Essentially, it is a melding of things that have come before, a new take on old things. What does this have to do with baby clothes? Anything you want it t. . .

Is Candy Corn Actually Good For Kids? Do The Math And See

Does all the sugar in candy corn have you wondering whether or not it is good for your kids? In some ways, it just might be. Candy corn could possibly boost thinking skills and improve grades! After letting them eat their fill, have your kids use the candy corn for some math lessons.On a very basic level, the orange, yellow, and white triangles can help teach colors and shapes. Mix them with so. . .

Is There Sex After Motherhood?

If you’re like many new moms, your sex life may have undergone some changes since the birth of your baby, especially if this is your first child. Sleepless nights, the added responsibilities, as well as hormonal adjustments can all contribute to a lack of sexual desire on the part of a new mom.Many women also struggle with the apparent conflict between motherhood and sex. You may find it diffic. . .

Games To Encourage Thinking Skills

There is no doubt about it, using computer games is a great way to encourage children to expand their realm of thinking. Your options for entertaining your child may seem numbered. Many people allow their children to spend quite a bit of time in front of the television. But, what good does that do? If you want them to learn something while they are zoned out, you are completely lost. But, if yo. . .

Cell Phones for Kids - How Young is Too Young?

Take a random tween, age 8-12, place them in front of a rotary phone and observe at the blank stare of bewilderment. Yes, gone are the days of the landline, pushed aside by the next wave of technological advancement. Mobile phones are fast displacing landlines in many homes; accompanying this movement is the fact kids regularly use and know how to use these cell phones. The mobility of cell pho. . .

Health and Fitness in Pregnancy and Delivering a Healthy ...

Pregnancy is when women are most beautiful, when there's another life being nurtured inside the mother's womb. This act of creating life, though, is not without its complications, and expectant soon-to-be mothers should do their best to keep their health in optimal condition, for their sake as well as the unborn child's. Even the common cold can affect the pregancy. So what are the steps to tak. . .

Discover More About The Importance of Early Childhood Edu...

Were you or your children ready for Kindergarten at the age of five years old? Most students pass the physical, emotional, and academic criteria to enter Kindergarten. However, some students have trouble transitioning from preschool to Kindergarten in their early childhood education. These children can benefit from early childhood education programs such as Head Start.There is a constant deb. . .

Buying & Selling Gently Used Baby Clothing, Strollers, To...

Hi Moms and Dads,So, you had your precious baby, and you couldn't resist -- all of those cute and beautiful baby dresses, rompers, suits, jean sets, christening gowns, onesies and unique designer baby clothes (like Tommy Hilfiger) that called to you when you were in the Gap, Old Navy, Osh Kosh or Little Me. Not to mention the countless baby clothes that relatives gave you that weren't quite yo. . .

Make Your Child's First Days of School Memorable

Do you have a child or grandchild getting ready to start the school year? If yes, you are in a position to make the experience a great one. The first few days of school can be exciting and yet, overwhelming for many young students. It is a time of change for parents, grandparents and children. How you handle yourself can directly impact the child’s experience. The younger the child the more imp. . .

Reduce Stress With This Simple Time-Management Tool

Do you feel frustrated and overwhelmed because you have too many obligations, errands, and lists to keep track of? Do important things sometimes fall through the cracks? You can reduce your stress and stay on top of important details by using a simple time-management tool that I call a “skeleton schedule.”The skeleton schedule is simple enough to use on a regular basis, yet powerful enough to o. . .

A Step-By-Step Plan to a Healthy Pregnancy

Having a baby is an exciting moment. However, the nine months leading up to the experience can be a bit unnerving. Most women worry throughout their pregnancy about the health of their baby. To alleviate the stress and worry that often creep up during pregnancy, plan instead to have a healthy pregnancy and you can rest assured that you have done your very best to have a healthy baby. 1. Get in . . .

Baby Feeding Options for the Working Mother

Significant events in the 20th century resulted in changes in family dynamics. War, technological advances, and shifts in economics caused women to work outside of the home. Women traditionally stayed at home to take care of the home and the needs of the children. While initially many people scoffed at the idea of a woman leaving her children while she worked, it served the purpose of additiona. . .

You Are Your Child's First Teacher

How much thought have you given to your child’s future? In three years, my daughter will be eighteen. Most likely, she will be leaving home at this time, and on her way to college.I ask myself as a parent, will she be ready? Have I prepared her well enough for the future? Have I built courage within her, and will she have the right decision making skills needed to live on her own? I know that t. . .

How to Conduct Personal Background Checks

You want to conduct a personal background check on a colleague, maybe even a prospective mate, but you’re not quite sure how to go about it? Before you spend a fortune on private investigators, you might want to try a little gumshoeing of your own.The net is teeming with search engines and public records just waiting to be explored. You might have to do a little digging (or perhaps a lot), but. . .

How I Met My Angel

Today I was in rather a whimsical mood, and so instead of my usual “how to” article, I thought I'd create a fairy tale for the child within you to enjoy. When I was just a young soul, on my first incarnation to be a human being, I wasn't sure that I wanted to go to Earth School. I felt so happy here, in Paradise. I did what I liked and I never ran out of time. I played with my friends and we ma. . .

The Treasure of reading to Children

This placard graced my late mother’s bedroom wall, and until recently, I didn’t understand what it meant.After spending a normal vacation with my loved ones in Atlanta and Detroit, I reflected how wonderful it is to enjoy adult children and grandchildren when times are normal. No one in the immediate family was in harm’s way. Everyone is being blessed. One friend is moving into a new house. Ins. . .

Pregnancy Photography - Tips For The Belly!

These tips have been provided by Heather Hart of A La Mode Photo who specializes in natural environment, pregnancy, family and pet photography.1. Find a friend.Since you are the model, you need someone who has a few hours to dedicate to you and your Belly!2. Try using a camera with real film and not digital. Go to a camera store and ask for professional black and white film - avoid going to the. . .

Global Mamas – Baby Clothes With A Conscience

There are a lot of options in today’s world for parents seeking to purchase baby clothes for the newest members of their families. The trends in baby clothing run from the simplistic and traditional (average, low cost baby clothing purchased second-hand or from discount stores like Kmart and Wal-Mart) to the seemingly extravagant (“designer” baby clothing created by the likes of Christian Dior . . .

The Discipline Stick and Kindness

I remember one dad who made his 11-year old son dig his own grave in their backyard. No one remembers what wrong the son had done. Everyone remembers his dad's discipline. One mother beat and cursed her daughter shouting, "I wish you were never born." Do you ever wonder if your discipline crosses the line? To find out, let's imagine a Discipline Stick. It's shaped like a ruler. It's effective a. . .

Tips For Buying Children's Books for Little Ones

Reading is seeing a return with more and more parents wanting their children to read. This has resulted in an increase in the sale of children's literature month by month. Parents want to catch their children young and get them hooked on to the written word. Making them aware of the world around them giving them a jump start on to education and learning. There are many types of children's books. . .