Anne’s Parenting Column

10 Jan

Published on January 10, 2013 in Anne's Parenting Column by

A little boy is at his mother’s feet in the play yard, slapping her shiny boots with a muddy stick. She is talking to another mother about summer camp ideas. Children are running and laughing close by. An unexpected and welcome surprise of warm weather in the middle of winter provides mothers a chance to socialize while their children are playing. The shiny boots aren’t shiny any more. The little boy means business. His mother tries...

03 Jan

Published on January 3, 2013 in Anne's Parenting Column by

Sustaining happiness is something we all wish we knew how to do. Is there some little way that we can try to do this with and for our children? Sometimes children find their way into complete and imaginative play. Rubber people and stuffed toys suddenly are equipped with a variety of voices. The play feels completely real to the children. Parents are delighted to witness such a peaceful and productive time. It is second nature for...

18 Dec

Published on December 18, 2012 in Anne's Parenting Column by

As young Mothers and Grandmothers gladly and wholeheartedly comb the earth to find a very special something for a little relative, they might be surprised to know they have this present already. What the child most wants is their attention and time. A child’s heart’s desire is unquestionably just a few hours with a parent or grandparent, somewhere simple, maybe at home, a cozy restaurant or outside. Phones and all technological devices are not invited....