Myrna Beth Haskell
Author - Syndicated Columnist - Editor - Speaker
In the Media: Click HERE
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Founder & Executive Editor:
 
 
 
 
My work has appeared in national and regional publications
throughout the U.S. as well as internationally:
--- Better Homes and Gardens --- PARENTS Magazine --- American Fitness --- About Families --- About Our Children --- Alexandria Woman --- All About Kids --- Arizona Parenting --- Art Times --- Atlanta Parent --- Austin Family --- Baltimore's Child --- Baton Rouge Parents --- Bay Area Parent --- Big Apple Parent --- Birmingham Parent --- Bronx Family --- Brooklyn Family ---Brooklyn Parent --- Broward Family Life --- Carolina Parent --- Central Penn Parent --- Charlotte Parent --- Charlotte Parent's Baby Guide --- Chesapeake Family --- Cincinnati Family --- Cincinnati Parent --- Connecticut Association for Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities (Vol. 20, #2) --- Connecticut Parent --- Connecticut's County Kids --- Coulee Parenting Connection --- Doha Family --- Emerald Coast Parent --- English Graduate Review (Vol. lll) --- Fairfax Woman --- Fairfield CT Parent --- Family Living --- Family Living's Child: Preschool Guide --- Family Magazine --- Family Times --- Genesee Valley Parent --- Georgia Family --- Gulf Coast Woman (FL) --- Gulf Coast Woman (MS) Gwinnett Parents Magazine --- Harford County Kids --- Hudson Valley Life --- Hudson Valley Parent --- Iowa Parent and Family --- Iowa Parent's Baby Book --- Ithaca Baby Book --- Ithaca Child --- Ithaca Parent & Teen --- Just Kids Magazine --- Kansas City Baby & Kids Too --- Kansas City Baby Guide --- Kansas City Parent --- Kern County Family --- Kids Life --- Kids VT --- Legitimate Home Based Business --- Little Rock Special Family --- Long Island Family --- Long Island Woman --- Lowcountry Parent --- Mahoning Valley Parent --- McHenry County Woman Newspaper --- McKinney Woman --- Memphis Parent --- Metro Augusta Parent --- Metro Family --- Metro Kids --- Metro Parent --- Metroparent Wisconsin ---Montana Parent --- Montreal Families --- Nashville Parent --- Northwest Woman --- Ohio Valley Parent --- Omaha Family --- Orlando Family Magazine --- Our Kids Atlanta --- Our Kids Austin --- Our Kids San Antonio --- Our Parent and Family --- Parenting New Hampshire --- Parenting OC --- Parents & Kids --- Piedmont Parent --- Pittsburgh Parent --- Portland Parent --- Queens Family --- Queens Parent --- Richmond Parents Monthly --- Rochester Woman --- Rutherford Parent --- San Diego Family --- Santa Barbara Family Life --- Simply Family Magazine --- Southern Maryland Woman --- Southwest Florida Parent & Child --- Space Coast Parent --- STIC Magazine --- Sumner Parent --- Tampa Bay Family --- Texarkana Parent --- The Parent Planner --- The People's Press --- The Village Family --- Today's Child (London, UK) --- Trumbull County Parent --- Tulsa Kids --- Valley Kids/Parent News --- Valley Parent --- Ventura County Parent --- Washington Families --- Washington Parent --- Westchester Parent --- Western New York Family --- Williamson Parent --- Wilmington Parent --- Work at Home Moms ---
Work Requested On Assignment
 
I generally ask for one to two months notice for solicited work (or "On Assignment" requests). Please ask for a list of "On Assignment" fees. Fees vary according to article length and complexity (i.e. number of interviews required, etc.).
 
Welcome To My Website!
 

I have been writing professionally for twenty-five years. Since 1997 I have been freelancing for consumer magazines. My work has appeared in Better Homes and Gardens, PARENTS Magazine, and American Fitness. I write regularly for several member publications of the PMA (Parenting Media Association).

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Click on "Articles"; then Click on "Reprint Articles By Category:" This reprint list contains categories for your convenience (i.e. infants and toddlers, children's health, etc.). There is a brief synopsis, word count and list of states where the articles were previously published. If interested, please send me the titles of those pieces you would like to review.

To see more recent available work:

Click on "Articles"; then Click "New Articles." This list contains recent work not yet printed. A brief synopsis and word count are listed. If interested, please send the title of the article you are interested in and would like to review.

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Click on "Articles"; then Click "Web Articles." These are examples of pieces that are currently on the Web.

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Click on "Articles"; then Click "Assignments." Information about solicited work (or "On Assignment" requests) is listed here.

Looking for information about me?

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Click on "Bio/Resume"; then Click "Resume." A complete list of published material is listed here.

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TOP OF THE SECOND is a new column discussing issues for women 40+. Please email Myrna if you would like to review completed installments. LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS is currently in reprint status. Installments are available for reprint and have been updated.

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Writer's Biography
 

My love for writing began in the third grade, and by the fifth grade I was writing fairly extensive short stories. In high school, I wrote book reviews for the school newspaper. In 1982, I matriculated into Albany State University where I majored in English literature. I wrote short stories and book reviews for the ASP (Albany Student Press). I received a B.A. in English in 1986.

From 1987 through 1988, I wrote several book reviews for the Art Times, an international art literary magazine.

In 1991, during my graduate studies at SUNY New Paltz, my book review "James Still, River of Earth" was chosen as the "Student Feature Article" for the English Graduate Review (SUNY New Paltz). The English Graduate Review was recognized internationally for its contribution to Hemingway studies in the prestigious The Hemingway Review. As a Student Co-op, I worked as a technical writer for IBM from June of 1990 through June of 1991. In 1992, I received my M.A. in English literature. From 1991 through 1994, I taught writing and college skills classes at Ulster County Community College in Stone Ridge, NY.

My decision to stay home with my two children did not deter my desire to write. I began a freelance career writing for consumer magazines in 1997. My work has appeared in Better Homes and Gardens (Meredith Publications), PARENTS Magazine (Gruner & Jahr) and American Fitness (AFAA). I've also been published in over 400 regional print magazines, Web magazines, and journals throughout the United States. In addition, my work has appeared in parenting publications in Canada, London, and Doha, Qatar.

My LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS advice column debuted in June 2009 and ran in parenting magazines across the U.S. through September 2014. It's peak circulation was over 500,000. Updated installments of this column are being reprinted.

My book, LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS: Expert advice and support for the conscientious parent just like you (Unlimited Publishing LLC) has received phenomenal feedback. I am available for parent seminars, book signings, and TV and radio appearances. Please click "BOOK" from the toolbar for details.

My column series TOP OF THE SECOND: For Women Only launched in June 2015. This column discusses issues for women experiencing the second half of their lives (women 40+). Please click "COLUMNS" from the toolbar for more information.

The latest project I am involved with is an international, online women's magazine. I am the founder and executive editor of SANCTUARY. This is an inspirational publication with a focus on women in the arts as well as interviews with women who have made an extraordinary difference in their communities. Readers can submit original art work. Informative articles about women's physical and emotional health are also posted. We have a rapidly growing audience with features and interviews with nationally and internationally known humanitarians and artists. Click HERE to visit SANCTUARY.

Thank you for visiting and for your interest in my work.

 
Writer's Fees
Print Fees:
Generally fees are negotiable and based on the circulation size of the magazine and the content and word count of the proposed article. Fees also vary if work is done "On Assignment."
 
Web Fees:
Negotiable
 
*** I prefer a copy of the issue my article appears in; however, I do accept tear sheets
Contact Writer
I prefer to be contacted via e-mail at myrnahaskell@hvc.rr.com
Phone calls are also accepted during the hours of 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. However, please make initial contact via e-mail. Thank you!
      
 
  
Articles
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Click on the magazine covers below to view complete articles:
 
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Complete Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Living in a Material World  
(Word Count: 1490 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Our world is saturated with advertisements. It's up to parents to minimize the effects of this incessant, visual and cultural reinforcement by showing their kids that money and material possessions are not express tickets to a fulfilling life. It’s okay to enjoy nice things, but kids need to learn to have a healthy attitude about material possessions, despite the contrary message bombarding us on all fronts. I interviewed Lynne Kenney, Psy.D., a pediatric psychologist based in Scottsdale, AZ, author and founder of the social-emotional literacy program Bloom Your Room™, Arlene Silva, Ph.D., chair of the School Psychology Department at William James College in Boston, MA and Bruce Ecker, Ph.D., a licensed clinical and educational psychologist and director of the Concentration on Children and Families of Adversity and Resilience at William James College.

Don't Divorce Your Kids! The marriage may have gone awry, but your children still need their parents  
(Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Divorce can be traumatic for the children who often misinterpret events and are left feeling that they are the cause of the split. It’s imperative that parents understand what their kids are going through and how to help ease the transition and alleviate fears (e.g. loss of security, safety, control and relationships). This can be extremely difficult because the parents are experiencing their own devastation. I interviewed Marilyn Benoit, M.D., a nationally recognized psychiatrist who is senior vice president of Clinical and Professional Affairs as well as chief medical officer and chief clinical officer at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health in PA, Thomas Gagliano, M.S.W., a relationship expert, marriage counselor and author of Don’t Put Your Crap in Your Kid’s Diaper: The Clean Up Cost Can Last a Lifetime and Steve DeBenedetti-Emanuel, LMFT, a Sacramento, CA based therapist who specializes in teens and parents.

The Demise of Kindness: When and Why Bullies Rule and How to Encourage Kindness & Empathy  
(Word Count: 1546 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

All fifty states now have anti-bullying laws or policies. However, bullying is still rampant in our schools and communities. So, where are we going wrong? I interviewed Michele Borba, Ed.D., an internationally recognized expert on bullying and character development and author of UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World, Jessie Klein, Ph.D., an associate professor at Adelphi University, founder and director of Creating Compassionate Communities and author of The Bully Society: School Shootings and the Crisis of Bullying in America’s Schools, Ellen W. deLara, Ph.D., an associate professor at Syracuse University and author of Bullying Scars: The Impact on Adult Life and Relationships and Rachel Annunziato, Ph.D., a child psychologist and associate professor at Fordham University.

TV TIME: The Good, the Bad and the In-Between  
(Word Count: 1464 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

TV programming has changed immensely in the last twenty years. There are so many choices that it can make one dizzy at times. Part of the positive aspect of this change, however, is that there are plenty of quality choices available. Perhaps the quandary for parents today is not if their children should watch TV but what they should watch and how often they should tune in. I interviewed Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a licensed neuropsychologist and founder and director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C., Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center, Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, Ph.D., a New York City-based clinical psychologist and supervising psychologist for Family & Children’s Services of Nantucket, and Angela Santomero, a child development expert, TV executive producer and co-creator of the current hit, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (PBS Kids) as well as Blue’s Clues (Nick Jr.) and Super WHY! (PBS Kids).

Is there Life without Electronics?  
(Word Count: 1507 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, FL

Instead of taking advantage of the warm weather or creating an indoor carnival, many kids obsessively engage their cell phone, iPad, laptop, game console or watch marathon re-runs of SpongeBob SquarePants. Parents should encourage their kids to ditch the electronics on a regular basis and enjoy life the old-fashioned way. This may be easier said than done, due to the fact that life in general this millennium is a technological one; but it is doable – not to mention healthier – for your children no matter what their age. I interviewed Sue Scheff, a nationally recognized parenting advocate, author, and founder and president of Parents’ Universal Resource Experts Inc. (P.U.R.E.) and Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center.

A Dad's Deep Influence: Fathers are Important Role Models for Sons AND Daughters  
(Word Count: 1490 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A father’s influence lasts a lifetime. Children look to their fathers for strength, encouragement and support. Dads have just as much influence on their daughters - despite the gender difference - and daughters often grow up to be reflective images of their dads. Fathers are role models for both genders in many profound ways. Children learn about honesty, relationships, compassion and self-love from their dads. I interviewed Mark Morman, Ph.D., a professor of communication studies and director of graduate studies at Baylor University in TX, LeRoy E. Reese, Ph.D., a psychologist at Akoma Counseling and Consulting, Inc. in Decatur, GA and Stevan Lynn (a.k.a. Coach Lynn), producer and host of the award winning television program Dare 2 Dream: A Father’s Guide to Success, guest talk show host (WHCR 90.3 FM in NY) and founder of the Fatherhood Training Center in Bronx, NY.

The Link Between Family Stability and a Child's Success  
(Word Count: 1436 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A stable environment provides nurturing caregivers, unconditional love, consistent discipline, and a dependable and safe living space. This secure and protective environment shapes a child’s perspective of himself and the world around him. It is the springboard that sets in motion a path to happiness and overall well-being. I interviewed Susan Kuczmarski, Ed.D., a family expert and author of several books including the award-winning Becoming A Happy Family: Pathways to the Family Soul and Gail Gross, Ph.D., Ed.D, a nationally recognized family and child development expert, author and educator.

Money Matters: Financial Literacy 101 for Kids  
(Word Count: 1456 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Command of financial matters is much easier for those who were raised to understand the concept, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” From a very young age, kids can be taught to respect money, to budget, to save, and to spend wisely. I interviewed Lisa Chin Mollica, CEO and founder of KidCash, Gina McKague, president and CEO of McKague Financial in Michigan and Sheri Atwood, founder and CEO of SupportPay.

Family Communication and Connection in a Digital Age  
(Word Count: 1260 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CT, NC

Has the digital world morphed our communication skills into bits and bytes for the long haul? We know that texting is not going away. The ease, convenience and instantaneous response aspects of texting are just too enticing. No matter what you prefer – texting or real-time, verbal banter – it’s time to examine if this new form of communication is for better or for worse. I interviewed Rebecca Levey, a family tech expert, host of ParentingBytes (a CBS podcast exploring parenting in the digital age), and co-founder of KidzVuz as well as Heather Leneau Bragg, a learning specialist and author of the book Learning Decoded: Using Your Child’s Unique Learning Style to Improve Academic Performance.

Glued to the Screen: What every parent needs to know about video game addiction, violence and choice  
(Word Count: 1475 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

This piece discusses video game addiction, violence, and how parents can help their kids curb their addiction and monitor the types of video games they are playing. It’s not healthy for children or teens to always choose gaming over social activities. Therefore, monitoring the amount of time spent in front of the screen, as well as the types of games kids are hooked on, is essential.

Are You Raising a Leader? Encouraging Kids to Become Motivated and Confident Self-Starters  
(Word Count: 1499 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, D.C., FL

This piece discusses how parents can encourage activities and behaviors that help kids to become leaders and develop the qualities that leaders possess. Key leadership qualities can be nurtured in children from a very young age. Leadership skills are important in any job market, and they are also deemed important qualities to highlight in college applications.

Time to Transfer? Important Tips for the College Transfer Student  
(Word Count: 1143 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA

Today, more and more students are finding a need to transfer from the college which was their original choice, and this process differs greatly from matriculating as a freshman. More students are also opting to complete their first two years at a local community college in order to save money on ever-increasing tuition costs. I interviewed two transfer admission specialists - one from the East Coast and one from the West Coast. Tips are universal to most schools. The SIDEBAR contains tips from students who actually went through the process.

Ghoulish Gatherings: Fun for All Ages  
(Word Count: 1028 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA

This piece discusses how to host a Halloween party for all age groups - including the parents! My family did this successfully for thirteen years. Tips for all aspects of the party are offered: costume contests, decorations, themes, food, music, getting the kids involved, etc.

Tips for Teens Traveling Solo  
(Word Count: 1064 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

This piece offers tips for teens who need to travel solo by plane, train, or car during the holiday season, for spring break, or to visit relatives. Advice from the following experts is included: Susan Kuczmarski, EdD, parenting expert, speaker and award-winner author and Jay Fitter, LMFT, a marriage and family therapist. I've also included tips from my son, who recently traveled solo to Europe at nineteen.

Girls on the Spectrum: Defining the Unique Characteristics of Girls with Asperger's Syndrome  
(Word Count: 1446 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CT, AR, LA, PA

This piece discusses the diagnosis dilemma and special concerns for girls on the spectrum. I wrote this with National Autism Awareness Month in mind (April); however, this article would be a great fit for any issue focused on children with disabilities. I included interviews and conference statements from Suzanne Gunther, a mother of a seventeen-year-old daughter with Asperger's, Tony Attwood, PhD, a world renowned expert and author of several books on the subject, including The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome, and Valerie Paradiz, PhD, the developer of Integrated Self Advocacy ISA (a curriculum and training series for educators and therapists) and author of the widely acclaimed Elijah's Cup: A Family's Journey into the Community and Culture of High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's Syndrome.

Sailing the Seas WITH the Kids   (Word Count: 1371 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: TX

Most cruise lines today offer something for everyone. While Grandma plays bingo, Mom and Dad can attend a wine tasting and the kids can go rock climbing. Even if folks have cruised before, there are some things they should familiarize themselves with before they take the kids along. This piece offers numerous tips for cruising with the entire family and would make a great addition to a travel pull-out section or to a winter issue when many are thinking of travel plans. There is a suggested sidebar included.

Nurturing and Supporting a Gifted Child   (Word Count: 1421 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA

It's unfortunate, but parents of gifted kids are often left to their own devices in finding resources for their children. Even though schools have the best intentions, these kids are often left behind. Teachers are not trained to differentiate curriculum for gifted learners, and federal and state money is only appropriated for struggling students. For years the system has failed these kids. Parents must seek their own resources, enroll their children in extracurricular programs, and find mentors for their kids. This piece explains giftedness, provides resources for parents, and offers suggestions for parents about how to navigate their child's school system.

FOUR OR MORE: Raising a Large Family in Today's Times   (Word Count: 1677 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, NE, NJ, WV

There are many days that I am overwhelmed...stuck with no carpool, but two places to get to at the same time, laundry piled to the ceiling, groceries flung on the counter yet unpacked...when I think of parents with large families. You know, those brave souls who somehow found the strength and energy to raise four, five or even more children. How do they do it? Do parents of large families have a key to a secret code that the rest of us missed out on? I've interviewed parents of large families to find out their secrets. Their solutions for storage, saving money at the stores, and parenting different personalities can be adopted by all families - both large and small. This article is universal and would fit well in a May issue (Mother's Day), or any issue focusing on sibling or family relationships.

When Your Child Walks to School: Tips to Help Him Get There Safely   (Word Count: 677 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: TX, NY, NJ, KS, CA

I remember the day quite vividly. It was a crisp September morning back in 1974. This was the morning my mother announced I could walk to school on my first day of fifth grade. For kids in my old neighborhood, being allowed to walk to school was a rite of passage - an intangible ladder rung on that uphill climb to full-blown independence. Today, walking to school can still be a healthy alternative to riding the bus for those students who live close enough to their school. Childhood obesity is becoming an epidemic and walking to school can provide a daily exercise routine for students.

Time to Stand Up and Say...Yikes!: When Your Child Fears Public Speaking   (Word Count: 1111 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: GA, NY, NJ, CT, CA, London

Some kids think standing up in front of the class is a cinch. However, for many others, speaking in front of a room full of peers is worse than getting a tooth pulled without Novocaine. Some even flat out refuse to do it! The most common form of Social Phobia is public speaking anxiety. In addition to the emotional aspects of public speaking anxiety, there are often physical symptoms as well. This piece includes tips for parents so they can help their children through this common fear. A suggested sidebar with additional resources for students is included.

Living with Type 1 Diabetes: The Trials and Tribulations   (Word Count: 1107 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, CT, GA

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

Doing Disney with Tweens and Teens   (Word Count: 1074)
Previously published in: IL

Many people think they've lost their "window of opportunity" to visit Disney World with their kids because their "older kids" are no longer anxious to be photographed with Mickey or to dine with Goofy. This is simply not the case, and why I wrote this piece. Disney World has a lot to offer the preteen and teen crowd. Yes, it is a different family experience, but one that is definitely worth it! This piece would fit well in a family travel guide, a winter travel issue when families plan warm weather vacations, or during the holidays when Disney is adorned with spectacular decorations and brimming with holiday festivities.

COLLEGE PREPARATION: Navigating the Labyrinth   (Word Count: 1150 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: PA, NY, CA, GA, NJ, NE, AL

Many students and their families find college preparation to be a daunting process. Admission to college can also be extremely competitive which often leaves students asking, "What on earth are they looking for?" In order to avoid a lot of frustration and disappointment, students should start planning for their future by eighth or ninth grade. This piece explores the kinds of things college admissions offices look for. A sidebar with additional resources is also included.

Does Your Child Have APD?  (Word Count: 1228 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, WV, PA

A child's difficulty with listening, following directions, interpreting oral information and other receptive language problems could be attributed to many different disabilities. One of these is called auditory processing disorder (APD). APD has been misunderstood and misinterpreted by many. This is because the label APD has been applied (often incorrectly) to a wide variety of difficulties and disorders. As a result, there are some who question the existence of APD as a distinct diagnostic entity and others who assume that the term APD is applicable to any child who has difficulty listening or understanding spoken language. Therefore, understanding the difference between APD and other disorders that also affect language skills is imperative. This is an informative piece for parents to help them understand this often "misunderstood" disability. A sidebar with additional resources is included.

DON'T SPRINT TO THE HOLIDAYS: Schedule a Holiday Break Day  (Word Count: 657)
Previously published in: NC, NY, FL

This piece blends humor, reality and tips about how to take a breath during the frenzy of the holiday season. Along with the regular work day and ensuing jaunts to karate, gymnastics and clarinet lessons, most are also attending holiday concerts, holiday plays and holiday parties. Once you figure in time to shop, wrap, bake, clean and send holiday cards (oh...you're not doing that?), you have exactly two hours left in your day for sleep - brushing teeth not included! This is a great "holiday filler" piece.

I Was a Second Born Child  (Word Count: 1149)
Previously published in: NE

"Why does it seem that the first born is always the luckiest in life? I'll tell you why - because it's in the cards. The first born always draws four of a kind, while the second child draws a lousy pair of Jacks." This essay is about a second born child's view of herself and her place in the world. It would fit well into any relationships, family, or point of view section such as: A Mom's View, Family Dynamics, Parents' Opinions, or Musings. This piece also suggests ways parents can help each child feel special no matter where his or her place is on the family tree.

"Just a minute...I'm..."  (Word Count: 1254)
Previously published in: TN, NE, NH, NY, VT

You're very likely to be on the phone engrossed in an important conversation when a tug at your arm or a voice of desperation pleads for your attention. A large ocean could probably be filled with the number of parents who have been interrupted while on the phone. I personally have gotten so frustrated with my children interrupting me that I've threatened, "Don't try to talk to me when I'm in a conversation with another adult unless you're bleeding profusely or the house is burning down!" This piece discusses techniques parents can use to teach their children restraint and the art of graceful interruption.

Depression and Women: Getting the Help You Need  (Word Count: 1596 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, MD, NH

A huge number of our mothers, sisters, and female friends are silently suffering from depression. That's because depression is hard to talk about. Frequently, women who suffer from depression perceive their plight as a necessary part of womanhood. This is a comprehensive piece about depression - specifically in women. It contains interviews with nationally recognized psychologists who specialize in depression. Readers will find information on how to recognize the warning signs and how to get help. A sidebar is included with this piece.

A Sleepover Survival Guide: The Rules of the Game  (Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, NE, VT, NC, PA, MD, Canada, WV, TX, MI, FL, LA, London

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

THUMBSUCKING: Beyond the Toddler Years  (Word Count: 913 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: KS, NY, OH, PA, OK, NC

This article differs from many on the subject in that it focuses ONLY on the older child. After all, this is when thumbsucking becomes the most problematic. For the school-age child or preteen who continues to suck her thumb, the habit has become a crutch. It is no longer a mere reflex. At this point in a child's development, breaking the habit will take patience, understanding and a joint effort by both the child and her parents to eliminate the prolonged habit. This article would fit well in a February issue (National Children's Dental Health Month), an issue focusing on childhood habits/behaviors or an issue focusing on "problem solving" for parents. A sidebar containing age-appropriate literature and a link to ThumbGuard is included.

BABY SIGNING: For Hearing Babies Too!  (Word Count: 964 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA, MT, NE

Did you know that babies are communicating their wants and needs before they reach twelve months of age? Yes, babies are "talking," not through verbal speech, but via sign language. Sign language has long been an alternative for deaf children and those who are hard of hearing. However, in the 1980s, important research on the use of sign language and the subsequent verbal language development of those infants provided a new perspective on the use of sign language with hearing babies. Studies showed that the parents of signing babies had less frustration, better communication, and a stronger parent-child bond with their infants than parents of non-signing babies. This piece includes a sidebar listing books, programs and DVDs which are available for those who would like to try "signing" with their baby.

CODDLING: When Overprotective Parenting Becomes a Hindrance  (Word Count: 1245)
Previously published in: NY, GA, OH, OK, MI, TN, PA, FL

The overprotective parent "coddles" her child when she believes that completely shielding her child from inevitable problems and disappointments is a necessary part of parenting. Subsequently, the coddled child will learn to depend on others to rescue him from life's calamities, instead of having the will and know-how to rescue himself. Coddlers step in to negotiate for their child instead of letting the child work it out for himself. They intervene, regardless of the severity of the problem, (whether it is an issue with a teacher, peer or another adult). The following experts were interviewed for the piece: Lauren Solotar, Ph.D., Chief Psychologist and Senior Vice President of clinical services with the renowned May Institute, Psychologist Erik Fisher, Ph.D., author of The Art of Managing Everyday Conflict, and Mary Ann LoFrumento, M.D., a pediatrician and creator of "Simply Parenting" (a program designed to end parents' anxieties and bring parenting back to basics).

SCRAPBOOKING: Anyone Can Do It!  (Word Count: 993 - Includes Sidebar)
Previously published in: NY, FL, GA

Remember those old photo albums your grandmother used to pull out on occasion? They contained black pages with photo mounting corners. The black and white photos were probably yellowed with age, and the inscription beneath might have been a "penciled in" date. For the most part, these albums were simply a collection of photographs - a series of snapshots from the past. What we now consider to be "scrapbooking" is the hobby of creatively arranging photos, various memorabilia and fanciful text on a page. This article is a "how-to" piece containing time-saving and money-saving tips. A sidebar is included which lists addtional resources for the hobbyist.

Taming Public Tantrums  (Word Count: 996)
Previously published in: NY, KS, GA, FL, TX

Many of us have been there. You're in aisle twenty-two of the grocery store and your toddler decides it's time to get out of the cart. When you don't oblige, she starts to scream at decibels heard by all, including the man in the bread section who dons a hearing aide. At home you have a handle on your tot's occasional tantrums. However, the public domain is another issue entirely. You would like to just ignore your child because you've developed the patience of Jobe since entering the world of parenthood, but those around you feel differently. They stare as though they've never seen a child have a tantrum. What's a parent to do?

School Programs Teach Kids to Manage Money  (Word Count: 1199)
Previously published in: CT, MD, PA

Many youngsters don't learn to balance a checkbook or to save money long-term until it's absolutely necessary - and some never do! When children are taught to apply these skills early, they become proficient at money management by the time they reach adulthood. Most parents and teachers agree that the best way to teach a child a skill AND to have it stick is via "hands on" experiences when children learn by actually going through a process. The following programs take advantage of this "hands on" approach: Washington Mutual School Savings Program, National Teach Children to Save Day, The Stock Market Game.

So You've Moved...Now What?  (Word Count: 1310 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: Online, NY, GA, VT, WI, MI

Moving is as hard for kids as it is for adults - maybe even more so. It's not so much the particulars which accompany Moving Day, but the fear of the unknown once you've gotten where you're going. Many parents find that unpacking or finding a new pediatrician is the least of their worries. The best you can do is to make things as comfortable and familiar as possible for each family member. This piece differs from others on the subject of moving children in that it focuses on helping your children adjust to their new environment (or the "post" move). I've included a suggested sidebar which lists age-specific reading materials to help kids cope.

Life in a Box  (Word Count: 1079)
Previously published in: GA, NY, IA, PA, NC, NE

Most parents hope to give their son or daughter something very special for high school or college graduation. Yes, a new car or big check will garner gleeful reactions. However, a gift that takes eighteen years or more to create, and one which will last a lifetime, will be cherished more than any big ticket item. This is a how-to piece for creating a "Memory Treasure Chest" or "Memories Box" for one's child. This piece will work well in a special Baby Guide, a graduation issue, or at the holidays, when parents become acutely aware of their children growing up too fast.

Educating the Child with Asperger's  (Approximate Word Count: 2287 - Sidebar included)
Shorter version available. Word Count: 1718
Previously published in: CT, NY, NC

This piece differs from other articles on autism spectrum disorders in that it focuses on the "education of children" with Asperger's. After speaking with countless families about their greatest frustrations and concerns, I learned that it is in the area of education and placement that most seem overwhelmed and ill advised. Although special education services have come a long way, traditional public and private schools are sometimes failing to provide children with Asperger's Syndrome the educational support they deserve. The attached piece, "Educating the Child with Asperger's" is an in-depth article discussing the best classroom environment and placement for this growing population of students in our schools. I have had the pleasure of interviewing the following experts for the piece: (1) Robert Putnam, Ph.D.: Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Senior Vice President of Consultation and Positive Schools at the May Institute. (2) Valerie Paradiz, Ph.D.: Author of the acclaimed Elijah's Cup (The Free Press, 2002) and Director of ASPIE (The School for Autistic Strength, Purpose, and Independence in Education in Boiceville, NY). (3) Kathleen Edwards, M.Ed.: A special education consultant and Director of Starpoint School at Texas Christian University.

Infants and Air Travel: Important Facts You Need To Know  (Approximate Word Count: 1110 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NYC, GA, NE, PA

I wouldn't consider myself a frequent flyer, but I've flown enough times to have occupied a seat across from an infant, precariously perched atop his mother's lap. Currently, parents traveling with children under two are not required to purchase a seat for their child in order to strap him into a child restraint system (CRS). On August 3rd, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revisited Safety Recommendation A-95-51 which suggests that the FAA revise the Code of Federal Regulation (14 CFR) to require that all occupants be restrained during takeoff, landing, and turbulent conditions. This piece discusses those issues parents must consider (such as safety risks, high cost, discomfort to the baby and other passengers, and other inconveniences) when deciding whether to purchase a seat and use a CRS or to opt for "lap travel" if traveling by plane with their baby. This piece would work well in a holiday issue or travel issue when many families take advantage of visiting relatives while their children are off from school.

Clothes Horse...Or Clothes War?  (Approximate Word Count: 1165)
Previously published in: CT, IA, OH, NY

I think most reasonable human beings understand that wearing a tank top to school when it's forty-two degrees outside is not a good choice. My second grader, however, will find one thousand upside-down reasons for why she should wear the garment. Her mother knows that the reason for this particular struggle is the horse applique on the front - the one adorned with a beaded bridle. My daughter is a "clothes horse" in the literal sense, you see. She would wear a horse shirt each and every day for the rest of her natural life if I would allow it. This is a humorous, slice-of-life piece - good for a "Family Ties" type section.

The Fairness Trap  (Approximate Word Count: 1382)
Previously published in: FL, NY, GA

Once you have that second child things change immensely. All of a sudden you are thrown into a world where your children scrutinize your handling of your other children like expert sleuths investigating high profile crimes. Your kids are looking for complete fairness - equal treatment or else! This article discusses fair and equal treatment issues that all parents who have more than one child have to face.

Moms Weigh In On Morning Rush Hour  (Word Count: 1360)
Previously published in: IA, CA, CT, NC, VA, VT, NY, MD, FL

It probably takes the average elementary school age child fifteen minutes to wash up and get dressed (full shower not included). However, on a typical school morning, my children are not focused. They are playing with the dog, arguing about who gets the computer first when they return home, or splashing in the sink water and staring at themselves in the mirror. This piece contains tips about how to organize stressful mornings and to motivate the kids to get out to the bus on time. Over 100 moms from twenty states participated.

Breaking the Cycle of Violence: Changing Attitudes About Bullying  (Word Count: 2060 - Sidebar included)
A shorter version of this piece is available.
Previously published in: IA, NC, MD, PA, GA

Children have been dealing with bullies for centuries. However, the idea that bullying is "just a part of growing up" or an inevitable condition of boyhood ("boys will be boys") is a prevailing, "laissez-faire" attitude that is slow to change. Too many school administrators are reluctant to hold perpetrators accountable, and some parents still consider bullying a part of growing up. Until parents, educators, and community leaders consider the issue of "bullying" a serious offense, children will continue to be injured physically and emotionally, bearing the negative effects of these injuries into adulthood. This piece suggests specific strategies parents, teachers and community leaders can use to diffuse this increasingly violent problem among our youth.

Connect With Your Neighbors: Throw An Annual Block Party  (Word Count: 1100)
Previously published in: Canada, MI, NY, FL, D.C., TX

My husband and I have been part of two communities in two different states that some might say exemplify an atmosphere of "neighborhood spirit" that seems too often to be absent from communities because of today's fast-paced and hectic lifestyles. For those who wish to connect with their neighbors and become part of a "community" instead of simply being called neighbors due to proximity alone, planning an annual neighborhood party is a great way to get to know your neighbors on a personal level. This piece is divided into four sections: "Get Organized," "Get the Word Out," "Yum - Food!" and "Fun For All Ages." I suggest ideas for invitations, an "As We Grow" photo album (This is a memories scrapbook that is showcased at our parties - it's a great conversation piece!), a suggestion box and games and activities for all ages. I have photos available for this piece. A "sidebar" is included. This is a suggestion for a winter party idea (a dine-around).

Summer Fun and Training In One: CIT Programs For Teens  (Word Count: 944 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, IA, PA, NC, TN, CA, TX, FL

Many young teens consider themselves too mature to attend camp. On the other hand, their parents may believe that summer camp is still a worthwhile venture considering the alternative - just hanging out all day. There is a solution to this dilemma. Young teens can participate in a CIT (Counselor In Training) program at many camps throughout the United States. A sidebar is included with this piece (a search for accredited CIT programs - localized for your state).

Tag Sale Tips: For Families Who Want To Get Organized  (Word Count: 1220 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: IA, Canada, TX

Do you have a Fisher-Price kitchen collecting dust balls in your basement? Does your son's closet explode with a myriad of long-lost game pieces and Tonka wheels each time you open the door to put away the laundry? Maybe your garage is filled with unwanted and outgrown children's items and you can no longer park there. Guess what? It is time to plan a garage sale. This piece focuses on tips for selling children's clothing and toys. It offers advice on how to advertise and how to display and price your items. It also lists safety tips and ideas to get the kids involved. A suggested sidebar lists general tips for the tag sale enthusiast.

Cultivating Companionship Between Kids and Dogs  (Word Count: 1400)
Previously published in: TN, NY

I grew up with Bullmastiffs. So when the opportunity arose to adopt a four-month-old female, my husband and I jumped at the chance. At the time, my children were ages five and seven, so I knew it was a great time to get a pet. However, growing up with dogs does not prepare you for the responsibility of pet ownership - especially when you have kids. This article offers many tips for families thinking of purchasing a dog or for those who already own one. Its focus is the child-dog relationship. I discuss finding the right breed, precautions to take with babies and infants, and how to involve your kids in the physical care of your pet.

Helping Your Forgetful Child Remember  (Word Count: 1325)
Previously published in: ND, MI, NY, WI, IA, PA, NE, NC, FL

"Mom! I can't find my..." You fill in the blank. My daughter has been losing or forgetting SOMETHING several times a day since she has been able to pick things up and carry them off. I've recently garnered advice from the experts, hoping to encourage my daughter to become responsible for her own possessions. This article suggests that parents teach their children remembering strategies and organizational skills. The piece also offers some tips for the "morning routine" and discusses the benefits of allowing children to suffer consequences for their actions in order to become more responsible.

Support Groups For Moms  (Word Count: 1227 - Suggested Sidebar included)
Previously published in: PA, CT, NY, TN

Nine and a half years ago, I left my teaching position at a community college to stay at home full time with my newborn son. Shortly afterward, we moved out of state. I had left my family and childhood friends to move to a state where I knew no one and had no connections. I yearned for some adult company during the day - another mom to share my joys and frustrations with. That first winter, however, the only adult conversation I had during daylight hours was with the checkout clerks at the supermarket. Most moms can feed an infant on the left and balance a toddler on the right while reading the morning paper. This does not mean that moms don't need help emotionally or physically from others. "Support Groups For Moms" lists and describes a variety of national and local support groups for mothers. This piece also includes a suggested sidebar.

Raising Kids On One Salary  (Word Count: 1290)
Previously published in: GA, NY, IA, NC, AR

Many parents struggle with the question, "Can we afford to raise our kids on one salary?" The answer can be "yes." This piece lists ten reasons why living on one salary can be affordable. It is written with the intent to help parents begin to assess their fiscal future as they consider going from a one to two salary household. This article does not advocate "staying home" as the BEST choice; it only helps those who feel that it may be the RIGHT choice for their family.

The Accidental Breakfast Club  (Word Count: 753)
Previously published in: NY, TX, PA, WA, NC, Canada, CT, VT, IA, TN, CA

This essay reflects on the emotions I experienced when I sent my youngest child off to kindergarten. Most moms are surprised by the intense emotions they experience when they send their youngest to school full time. You expect to feel a sense of loss when the youngest goes off to college, but no one prepares you for the "first empty nest syndrome." This article is a perfect fit for a "back-to-school" issue, but it would also work well with a "mom's view" or similar column.

When Working From Home Can Work For Your Family  (Word Count: 1490)
Previously published in: NY, GA, CT, FL, NE

When acquaintances hear that I have an office at home, the typical response is, "You're living the good life!" After all, I don't have to fight traffic each morning, spend a small fortune on hosiery, or dodge casual office gossip. Instead, I make myself a cup of coffee after dropping the kids at the bus, and head upstairs to my comfortable and cozy domain, where I have seven hours of uninterrupted work time. Yeah, right! There seems to be an increase in parents who choose to work from home, and with today's advanced technology this is becoming an easier task. Working from a "home office" can be a convenient and rewarding experience for the whole family. Creating and sticking to a reasonable work schedule that allows for flexibility is paramount to achieving a successful "home office" environment.

Check Out My New Wheels!  (Word Count: 800)
Previously published in: Canada, TN, OH, VT, CT, SC

When my son was five he learned to ride his bicycle without training wheels in a two-hour session with my husband over at our local park. Phew! I was relieved that this learning experience was tackled with ease. If my memory serves me well, my experience was quite different. I vaguely recall many bruises and a damaged self esteem. When my daughter became "of age," her attempts to ride her bike were much like mine. I thought she would never let us take the training wheels off. Learning to ride a "big bike" without the use of training wheels can be difficult for some children for a plethora of reasons. My article offers tips for parents to facilitate a painless and joyful experience.

When Your Child Has A Language Delay  (Word Count: 915 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CT, NJ, MI, NE, GA, PA

When my daughter uttered her first word I was thrilled. I knew that the next several months would bring a litany of new phrases and humorous garble that would keep me entranced and captivated with each new syllable. I knew this because my son (who was three at the time) would ramble on as if mastering the English language was simply a ho-hum affair. But after those first few words things just didn't progress as I had expected. I was soon to learn that my daughter had severe expressive and receptive language delays. This article was written with the express purpose of helping parents who find themselves overcome with feelings of apprehension and helplessness when they find out that their child has a language disability. This piece differs from other articles that I've read on the subject in that it focuses on the parent's role - in other words, how parents can play an integral part in their child's therapy and recovery.

Decorating Chic With Kid-Friendly Practicality  (Word Count: 1440)
Previously published in: NC, CT, FL, NY, MD

Too many of my friends have postponed spending the time and money to decorate their homes because they have young children. These same friends are amazed when they visit my home because I have taken the time to decorate - and my things have miraculously survived an onslaught of play dates and birthday parties! If you have a love of objects d'art and fine furnishings, you need not put your passion for decorating on hold until your kids enter college. My article offers readers many tips for family-friendly decorating.

You Can Dress Them Up AND Take Them Out: Dining Out With Children  (Word Count: 844)
Previously published in: PA, IA, VT, NH

Have you ever been in a restaurant trying to have an adult conversation when the three-year-old child in the booth behind you is pretending that the seat is a trampoline? I used to be appalled when parents allowed their children to behave like field mice in restaurants. Then...I had kids. This is an honest piece about the trials and tribulations of eating out with young children. It offers many tips for those parents who wish to venture out to service establishments with their kids. Don't let your "reservations" get in the way of having a pleasant outing with your family.

When Your Child Is Afraid of the Water  (Word Count: 1570)
Previously published in: D.C., CA, MI, NC, NY, CT, PA, NE, TX, FL

My son had a very difficult time learning to swim. It wasn't that he disliked being in the water. He loved to take baths and play in the swimming pool. However, he was unable to put his face in or submerge himself passed his waist. I tried a myriad of things to try to help him. Throughout my experience with my son I have spoken to many parents and swim instructors to get ideas. My article is broken up into three sections: "Prevention," "Go Slow" and "Be Positive." I believe that this piece can serve as a tool to help parents who are trying to deal with this fairly common childhood fear.

Gymnastics: A Great Activity For Your Developing Preschooler  (Word Count: 1677)
Previously published in: D.C., NJ, CT, CA

My daughter attended preschool gymnastics classes and it proved to be a very positive experience for her. I competed in gymnastics for nine years, and, when I couldn't get the sport out of my system, I continued on as a judge for another fifteen. As a level 10 USAG rated official, I attended the National Safety Certification Course (which I mention in my article) and I traveled to many parts of the country to judge gymnasts ages six through twenty-two. I have been exposed to the sport as an athlete, a professional and a mother of a gymnast. This article discusses everything from safety to choosing the right gym.

Easing Your Child's Tension At the Dentist's Office  (Word Count: 1432)
Previously published in: D.C., FL, NJ, PA, CA, GA, LA

I was compelled to write this article because of my daughter's trepidation about going to the dentist. I have since learned many ways to help my children relax in the dentist's chair. I share my own ideas as well as expert advice about how to handle a fearful child in this situation. My article offers recommendations for both preschoolers and older children.

How To Curb Your Child's Video Game Addiction  (Word Count: 1700)
Previously published in: CA, NY, PA, IA, CT

My son was spending too much time in front of the television screen, not because he was watching too many cartoons, but because I couldn't drag him away from the Nintendo machine. I know that I am not alone. Many of the moms I've talked to complain about the same thing. There is definitely a video game craze in this country and many kids have opted for this type of entertainment. This activity can be just as unhealthy as too much TV if the use of video games becomes an obsession and a child is no longer interested in other toys. My mistake was that I dealt with the problem too late and too drastically. I waited until the problem was out of control to make my big announcement: "No more Nintendo ever again! I'm throwing the thing out!" Fortunately, things calmed down and I was able to set some limits. Even if parents set firm limits with their children, however, it is still pertinent to find healthy alternatives to playing video games. This article speaks to both.

Volunteering In Your Child's Classroom: A Win-win Situation  (Word Count: 835)
Previously published in: CA, NY, TN, FL, IA, NE, GA

This article is based on the truly rewarding experience I have had volunteering in my children's classrooms over the years. I believe that my regular presence in school has shown my children that I care deeply about their education. My article offers ideas for parental involvement, even for those parents who work full time and cannot volunteer during school hours. It lists the many reasons why volunteering is truly beneficial for everyone involved (students, teachers and parents). It is my belief that the cooperative alliance of parents and teachers who work together as a team is a formula for success.

When Your Child Is Terrified of Dogs  (Word Count: 1018)
Previously published in: CT, FL, NY, FL

It happened when my son was about fourteen months old. We were taking our usual stroll around the neighborhood when we encountered a dog-sitter walking our neighbor's new terrier. The dog got excited and leaped into the stroller on top of my son and began to ferociously bark just inches from his face. He was not bitten, but his memory of the horrific experience would remain vivid for years to come. That day it took close to an hour to calm him down, but I would soon find that this was just the beginning of a long and painful saga. For years we were unable to visit friends who owned dogs, to have an uneventful trick or treating experience, or to go to a public beach or park without my son agonizing over the thought of having to be in close proximity to a dog. Working with your child to overcome an intense fear is never an easy task. This article gives parents ideas about how to help their child overcome his fear of dogs.

Teaching Your Tot: How Much Is Too Much?  (Word Count: 1463)
Previously published in: NY, MS, NC, CT, IL, NH, TN, WV, NE, NJ, GA, AR, FL

I have to admit that I was one of those mothers who compared the intellectual prowess of my preschooler to others his age, for I was constantly hoping that he would have a head start when he entered kindergarten. I realize now that putting too much pressure on a child to excel at such a vulnerable age can do more harm than good. Millions of parents are trying to keep up with our aggressive society and are pushing their preschoolers too much in the process. My article explains the problems that can occur when one tries to mold a "child scholar." It also offers specific examples about how to teach your child with positive results.

Your Child's Imaginary Friend  (Word Count: 1096)
Previously published in: DE, SC, TX

I had been living with "Whale's parents" for quite some time when I wrote this article. "Whale's parents" were my son's imaginary friends. I have since found out that imaginary friends are extremely commonplace and quite healthy as long as the child enjoys a variety of activities and relates well with his peers. Children who tend to adopt them are often social, creative, independent and cooperative.

Baby-sitter Anxiety  (Word Count: 1449)
Previously published in: NC, NY, CT, GA, IA, FL

She was going to arrive in thirty minutes and the anxiety was beginning to set in. I had made a dinner reservation to celebrate my husband's birthday, and had hired a seventeen-year-old to watch my kids. This would prove to be a nerve wracking evening until I settled in at the restaurant and realized I had some precious uninterrupted time with my husband. Many parents experience anxiety when they have to leave their child in someone else's care. However, there are many things you can do to prepare yourself and your precious little one for these brief and necessary separations.

Family of Three and Dee  (Word Count: 1340)
Previously published in: CA, IL, FL, TX, GA, OH

The lamb was just one of many gifts that we received for our infant son. Dee, as my son named her, has been toted everywhere. There were several times that we had to backtrack twenty miles or so on road trips having left the pesky thing in a booth at some restaurant. Before I entered the world of parenthood, I never stopped to notice that hordes of toddlers had some ragged thing tucked under one arm as their mom held the other. I've since learned that experts often deem such special toys "comforters," and that toddlers who tote these objects are perfectly normal and healthy.

Helping Your Toddler Cope When Your Infant Arrives  (Word Count: 1330)
Previously published in: KS, NY, IL, D.C., NC, IA

Sometimes parents are hesitant about planning a second child when their first has yet to reach the age of two. They foresee the difficulty in raising two children very close in age. However, the transition to double-diaper-changing is only a minor adjustment when you consider the wealth of challenges for parents who are about to enter the world of "parents of two." One of the imminent problems that parents encounter is how to help their oldest child (especially if this child is a toddler) cope with the arrival of a sibling. My article speaks to parents through the eyes of someone who has been there. My adoring son was not so pleased when my daughter first arrived home, even though he had seemed pleased with the "idea" all along.

Preparing Your Preschooler For An Operation or Hospital Stay  (Word Count: 1528)
Previously published in: CA, CT, VT, NY

When my son was born one of the first things I remember my husband saying was that two of his little toes were joined together on his left foot. Eleven months later we found ourselves facing an operation to have it fixed. Thousands of parents go through the stressful experience of preparing a small child for an operation, yet most never want to believe it will happen. Fortunately, my son's operation was relatively simple and most of the risk was inherent in the anesthesia administered prior to the operation. However, whether it's a trip to the emergency room because of a dog bite, or a major operation requiring a hospital stay, young children are better off when they are physically and mentally prepared for what is to come; and parents need to be just as prepared in order to be a calming influence for their child.

New Articles
The following list contains articles that have not yet been published. Please contact me for complete manuscript. Also, please check with me on article status, as this website will not necessarily be updated on a daily basis.
New Articles will be posted here until published.  
(Word Count and sidebar info.)
Once published, the article will appear under its appropriate category.

Currently, all articles are reprints.

My Resume
 

Myrna Beth Haskell

Email: myrnahaskell@hvc.rr.com

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

State University of New York at New Paltz; Master of Arts (English), December 1992
State University of New York at Albany; Bachelor of Arts (English), May 1986
 

WORKS PUBLISHED

BOOK

LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS: Expert advice and support for the conscientious parent just like you
Publisher: Unlimited Publishing LLC, March 2012

SYNDICATED COLUMN

LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS
June 2009 through 2014. Currently in reprint status (Peak circulation: 500,000 +).

NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINES

"Understanding Depression"
Winter 2016 - WHOA Women, Madison, MS / Editor-n-Chief: Laine Lawson Craft
"Tips for Teens Travelling Alone" and other features
2014 to present - DOHA FAMILY, Doha, Qatar / Editor-n-Chief: Rachel Henriquez
"Time to Stand Up and Say...YIKES!" and other features
2013 to present - TODAY'S PARENT, London, UK / Executive Editor: Susan Koppel
"Tumbling Tots"
May/June 2004 - AMERICAN FITNESS, Sherman Oaks, CA / Editor-n-Chief: Meg Jordan, Ph.D.
"When Kids Sleepwalk"
January 2004 - BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS, Des Moines, IA / Editor-n-Chief: Karol DeWulf Nickell
"The Accidental Breakfast Club" and other features
2001 - 2004 - MONTREAL FAMILIES, Montreal, Canada / Managing Editor: Kelly Wilton
"Garage Sale Savvy"
April 2002 - PARENTS MAGAZINE, New York, NY / Editor-n-Chief: Sally Lee

WOMEN'S MAGAZINES

Alexandria Woman: Leonardtown, MD
FW: The Magazine for Chicago Women: Chicago, IL
Fairfax Woman: Leonardtown, MD
Gulf Coast Woman: Gulfport, Cape Coral, FL
Gulf Coast Woman: Gulfport, MS
LivingBetter50: LivingBetter50.com
Long Island Woman: Malverne, NY
McHenry County Woman Newspaper: Algonquin, IL
McKinney Woman: McKinney, TX
Northwest Woman: Spokane, WA
Rochester Woman: Rochester, NY
Southern Maryland Woman: Leonardtown, MD
WHOA Women: Madison, MS
Women's Voices Magazine: Women's Voices Media, LLC
Work at Home Moms: WAHM.com

REGIONAL PARENTING, FAMILY, and LIFESTYLE MAGAZINES

About Families: Wernersville, PA
About Our Children: Teaneck, NJ
All About Kids: Cincinnati, OH
Atlanta Parent: Atlanta, GA
Austin Family: Austin, TX
Baltimore's Child: Baltimore, MD
Baton Rouge Parents: Baton Rouge, LA
Bay Area Parent: San Francisco, CA
Big Apple Parent: New York, NY
Birmingham Parent: Birmingham, AL
Bronx Family: Bronx, NY
Bronx Parent: Bronx, NY
Brooklyn Family: Brooklyn, NY
Brooklyn Parent: Brooklyn, NY
Broward Family Life: Davie, FL
Carolina Parent: Raleigh, NC
Central Penn Parent: Harrisburg, PA
Charlotte Parent: Charlotte, NC
Charlotte Parents' Baby Guide: Charlotte, NC
Chesapeake Family: Annapolis, MD
Cincinnati Family: Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati Parent: Cincinnati, OH
Connecticut Parent: Branford, CTY
Connecticut's County Kids: Westport, CT
Coulee Parenting: La Crosse, WI
Emerald Coast Parent: Florida
Fairfield CT Parent: Fairfield, CT
Family Living: Sarasota, FL
Family Living's Child: Sarasota, FL
Family Magazine: Mountainside, NJ
Family Time Magazine: Christiana, DE
Family Times: Central, NY
Genesee Valley Parent: Pittsford, NYL
Georgia Family: Macon, GAL
Gwinnett Parents: Gwinnett County, GA
Harford County Kids: Bel Air, MD
Hudson Valley Parent: Newburgh, NY
Iowa Parent: Des Moines, IA
Iowa Parent's Baby Book: Des Moines, IA
Ithaca Baby Book: Ithaca, NY
Ithaca Child: Ithaca, NY
Ithaca Parent & Teen: Ithaca, NY
Just Kids: Atlanta, GA
Kansas City Baby: Kansas City, MO
Kansas City Baby Guide: Kansas City, MO
KC Parent: Kansas City, MO
Kern County Family: Bakersfield, CA
Kids Life: Tuscaloosa, AL
Kids VT: Burlington, VT
Little Rock Family: Little Rock, AR
Long Island Family: Long Island, NY
Long Island Special Child: Long Island, NY
Manhattan Family: New York, NY
Manhattan Parent: New York, NY
Mahoning Valley Parent: Youngstown, OH
McKinney Kids: McKinney, TX
Memphis Parent: Memphis, TN
Metro Augusta Parent: Augusta, GA
Metro Family OK: Edmund, OK
Metro Kids: Philadelphia, PA
Metro Parent: Southfield, MI
Metro Parent Wisconsin: Milwaukee, WI
Montana Parent: Bozeman, MT
Montreal Families: Montreal, Canada
Nashville Parent: Nashville, TNL
New York Special Child: New York, NY
Ohio Valley Parent: Wheeling, WV
Omaha Family: Omaha, NE
Orlando Family Magazine: Orlando, FL
Our Kids Atlanta: Atlanta, GA
Our Kids Austin: Austin, TX
Our Kids San Antonio: San Antonio, TX
Our Parent and Family: Arizona
Parenting New Hampshire: Nashua, NH
Parenting OC: Anaheim, CA
Parents & Kids: Jackson, MS
Parents Know Group: New York, NY
Piedmont Parent: Piedmont, NC
Pittsburgh Parent: Pittsburgh, PA
Portland Parent: Portland, OR
Queens Family: Queens, NY
Queens Parent: Queens, NY
Richmond Parents Monthly: Richmond, VA
Rutherford Parent: Rutherford, TN
San Diego Family: San Diego, CA
Santa Barbara Family Life: Santa Barbara, CA
Simply Family Magazine: Billings, MT
Staten Island Family: Staten Island, NY
SW FL Parent & Child: Fort Myers, FL
Space Coast Parent: Rockledge, FL
STIC Magazine: Raleigh, NC
Sumner Parent: Sumner, WA
Tampa Bay Family: Tampa Bay, FL
Texarkana Parent: Texarkana, AR
The Parent Planner: Harford, CT
The Parent Notebook: Florida
The Peoples' Press: Connecticut
The Village Family: Fargo, ND
Today's Child: London, UK
Treasure Valley Teen: Boise, ID
Trumbull County Parent: Trumbull County, OH
Valley Kids/Parent News: Columbus, OH
Valley Parent: San Francisco, CA
Ventura County Parent: Newbury, CA
Washinton Families: Washington D.C.
Washington Parent: Washington D.C.
Westchester Parent: Westchester, NY
Western NY Family: Buffalo, NY
Williamson Parent: Williamson, WV
Wilmington Parent: Wrightsville, NC

REGIONAL NEWSLETTER FOR THE DISABLED

"What To Do When Your Child Has A Language Delay"
Fall 2003 - CACLD Update: Vol. 20, #2, East Norwalk, CT / Advisory Chair: Simon Epstein, M.D.

SCHOLARLY JOURNAL BOOK REVIEWS

"James Still, River of Earth"
December 1991 - English Graduate Review (Vol. III), New Paltz, NY / Editors: Lawrence Sullivan & Harry Stoneback

INTERNATIONAL ART LITERARY JOURNAL BOOK REVIEWS

"Collecting: The Passionate Pastime, by Susanna Johnston"
April 1987 - Art Times, Mt. Marion, NY / Editor: Raymond J. Steiner
*** I wrote several book reviews for this publication from 1987-1988.
 

AWARDS

Bronze Award: News Feature, Parenting Media Association, 2018
50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading: Contest Winner, The Authors Show, 2013
Leadership and Community Service Award, Hyde Park Central Schools, 2013
NYS Taconic Region Leadership Award, NYS Taconic Region PTA, 2009
Vermont State Service Award, USA Gymnastics, 1998
 
Back To School / Education Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
The Demise of Kindness: When and Why Bullies Rule and How to Encourage Kindness & Empathy  
(Word Count: 1546 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

All fifty states now have anti-bullying laws or policies. However, bullying is still rampant in our schools and communities. So, where are we going wrong? I interviewed Michele Borba, Ed.D., an internationally recognized expert on bullying and character development and author of UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World, Jessie Klein, Ph.D., an associate professor at Adelphi University, founder and director of Creating Compassionate Communities and author of The Bully Society: School Shootings and the Crisis of Bullying in America’s Schools, Ellen W. deLara, Ph.D., an associate professor at Syracuse University and author of Bullying Scars: The Impact on Adult Life and Relationships and Rachel Annunziato, Ph.D., a child psychologist and associate professor at Fordham University.

TV TIME: The Good, the Bad and the In-Between  
(Word Count: 1464 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

TV programming has changed immensely in the last twenty years. There are so many choices that it can make one dizzy at times. Part of the positive aspect of this change, however, is that there are plenty of quality choices available. Perhaps the quandary for parents today is not if their children should watch TV but what they should watch and how often they should tune in. I interviewed Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a licensed neuropsychologist and founder and director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C., Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center, Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, Ph.D., a New York City-based clinical psychologist and supervising psychologist for Family & Children’s Services of Nantucket, and Angela Santomero, a child development expert, TV executive producer and co-creator of the current hit, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (PBS Kids) as well as Blue’s Clues (Nick Jr.) and Super WHY! (PBS Kids).

Is there Life without Electronics?  
(Word Count: 1507 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, FL

Instead of taking advantage of the warm weather or creating an indoor carnival, many kids obsessively engage their cell phone, iPad, laptop, game console or watch marathon re-runs of SpongeBob SquarePants. Parents should encourage their kids to ditch the electronics on a regular basis and enjoy life the old-fashioned way. This may be easier said than done, due to the fact that life in general this millennium is a technological one; but it is doable – not to mention healthier – for your children no matter what their age. I interviewed Sue Scheff, a nationally recognized parenting advocate, author, and founder and president of Parents’ Universal Resource Experts Inc. (P.U.R.E.) and Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center.

Money Matters: Financial Literacy 101 for Kids  
(Word Count: 1456 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Command of financial matters is much easier for those who were raised to understand the concept, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” From a very young age, kids can be taught to respect money, to budget, to save, and to spend wisely. I interviewed Lisa Chin Mollica, CEO and founder of KidCash, Gina McKague, president and CEO of McKague Financial in Michigan and Sheri Atwood, founder and CEO of SupportPay.

Glued to the Screen: What every parent needs to know about video game addiction, violence and choice  
(Word Count: 1475 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

This piece discusses video game addiction, violence, and how parents can help their kids curb their addiction and monitor the types of video games they are playing. It’s not healthy for children or teens to always choose gaming over social activities. Therefore, monitoring the amount of time spent in front of the screen, as well as the types of games kids are hooked on, is essential.

Time to Transfer? Important Tips for the College Transfer Student  
(Word Count: 1143 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA

Today, more and more students are finding a need to transfer from the college which was their original choice, and this process differs greatly from matriculating as a freshman. More students are also opting to complete their first two years at a local community college in order to save money on ever-increasing tuition costs. I interviewed two transfer admission specialists - one from the East Coast and one from the West Coast. Tips are universal to most schools. The SIDEBAR contains tips from students who actually went through the process.

Nurturing and Supporting a Gifted Child   (Word Count: 1421 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA

It's unfortunate, but parents of gifted kids are often left to their own devices in finding resources for their children. Teachers are not trained to differentiate curriculum for gifted learners in college, and federal and state money is only appropriated for struggling students. For years the system has failed these kids. Parents must seek their own resources, enroll their children in extracurricular programs, and find mentors for their kids. This piece explains giftedness, provides resources, and offers suggestions for parents about how to navigate their child's school system.

When Your Child Walks to School: Tips to Help Him Get There Safely   (Word Count: 677 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: TX, NY, NJ, KS, CA

I remember the day quite vividly. It was a crisp September morning back in 1974. This was the morning my mother announced I could walk to school on my first day of fifth grade. For kids in my old neighborhood, being allowed to walk to school was a rite of passage - an intangible ladder rung on that uphill climb to full-blown independence. Today, walking to school can still be a healthy alternative to riding the bus for those students who live close enough to their school. Childhood obesity is becoming an epidemic and walking to school can provide a daily exercise routine for students.

Time to Stand Up and Say...Yikes!: When Your Child Fears Public Speaking   (Word Count: 1111 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: GA, NY, NJ, CT, CA, London

Some kids think standing up in front of the class is a cinch. However, for many others, speaking in front of a room full of peers is worse than getting a tooth pulled without Novocaine. Some even flat out refuse to do it! The most common form of Social Phobia is public speaking anxiety. In addition to the emotional aspects of public speaking anxiety, there are often physical symptoms as well. This piece includes tips for parents so they can help their children through this common fear. A suggested sidebar with additional resources for students is included.

COLLEGE PREPARATION: Navigating the Labyrinth   (Word Count: 1150 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: PA, NY, CA, GA, NJ, NE, AL

Many students and their families find college preparation to be a daunting process. Admission to college can also be extremely competitive which often leaves students asking, "What on earth are they looking for?" In order to avoid a lot of frustration and disappointment, students should start planning for their future by eighth or ninth grade. This piece explores the kinds of things college admissions offices look for. A sidebar with additional resources is also included.

School Programs Teach Kids to Manage Money  (Word Count: 1199)
Previously published in: CT, MD, PA

Many youngsters don't learn to balance a checkbook or to save money long-term until it's absolutely necessary - and some never do! When children are taught to apply these skills early, they become proficient at money management by the time they reach adulthood. Most parents and teachers agree that the best way to teach a child a skill AND to have it stick is via "hands on" experiences when children learn by actually going through a process. The following programs take advantage of this "hands on" approach: Washington Mutual School Savings Program, National Teach Children to Save Day, The Stock Market Game.

Educating the Child with Asperger's  (Approximate Word Count: 2287 - Sidebar included)
Shorter version available. Word Count: 1718
Previously published in: CT, NY, NC

This piece differs from other articles on autism spectrum disorders in that it focuses on the "education of children" with Asperger's. After speaking with countless families about their greatest frustrations and concerns, I learned that it is in the area of education and placement that most seem overwhelmed and ill advised. Although special education services have come a long way, traditional public and private schools are sometimes failing to provide children with Asperger's Syndrome the educational support they deserve. The attached piece, "Educating the Child with Asperger's" is an in-depth article discussing the best classroom environment and placement for this growing population of students in our schools. I have had the pleasure of interviewing the following experts for the piece: (1) Robert Putnam, Ph.D.: Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Senior Vice President of Consultation and Positive Schools at the May Institute. (2) Valerie Paradiz, Ph.D.: Author of the acclaimed Elijah's Cup (The Free Press, 2002) and Director of ASPIE (The School for Autistic Strength, Purpose, and Independence in Education in Boiceville, NY). (3) Kathleen Edwards, M.Ed.: A special education consultant and Director of Starpoint School at Texas Christian University.

Moms Weigh In On Morning Rush Hour  (Word Count: 1360)
Previously published in: IA, CA, CT, NC, VA, VT, NY, MD, FL

It probably takes the average elementary school age child fifteen minutes to wash up and get dressed (full shower not included). However, on a typical school morning, my children are not focused. They are playing with the dog, arguing about who gets the computer first when they return home, or splashing in the sink water and staring at themselves in the mirror. This piece contains tips about how to organize stressful mornings and to motivate the kids to get out to the bus on time. Over 100 moms from twenty states participated.

Breaking the Cycle of Violence: Changing Attitudes About Bullying  (Word Count: 2060 - Sidebar included)
A shorter version of this piece is available.
Previously published in: IA, NC, MD, PA, GA

Children have been dealing with bullies for centuries. However, the idea that bullying is "just a part of growing up" or an inevitable condition of boyhood ("boys will be boys") is a prevailing, "laissez-faire" attitude that is slow to change. Too many school administrators are reluctant to hold perpetrators accountable, and some parents still consider bullying a part of growing up. Until parents, educators, and community leaders consider the issue of "bullying" a serious offense, children will continue to be injured physically and emotionally, bearing the negative effects of these injuries into adulthood. This piece suggests specific strategies parents, teachers and community leaders can use to diffuse this increasingly violent problem among our youth.

The Accidental Breakfast Club  (Word Count: 753)
Previously published in: NY, TX, PA, WA, NC, Canada, CT, VT, IA, TN, CA

This essay reflects on the emotions I experienced when I sent my youngest child off to kindergarten. Most moms are surprised by the intense emotions they experience when they send their youngest to school full time. You expect to feel a sense of loss when the youngest goes off to college, but no one prepares you for the "first empty nest syndrome." This article is a perfect fit for a "back-to-school" issue, but it would also work well with a "mom's view" or similar column.

Volunteering In Your Child's Classroom: A Win-win Situation  (Word Count: 835)
Previously published in: CA, NY, TN, FL, IA, NE, GA

This article is based on the truly rewarding experience I have had volunteering in my children's classrooms over the years. I believe that my regular presence in school has shown my children that I care deeply about their education. My article offers ideas for parental involvement, even for those parents who work full time and cannot volunteer during school hours. It lists the many reasons why volunteering is truly beneficial for everyone involved (students, teachers and parents). It is my belief that the cooperative alliance of parents and teachers who work together as a team is a formula for success.

Teaching Your Tot: How Much Is Too Much?  (Word Count: 1463)
Previously published in: NY, MS, NC, CT, IL, NH, TN, WV, NE, NJ, GA, AR, FL

I have to admit that I was one of those mothers who compared the intellectual prowess of my preschooler to others his age, for I was constantly hoping that he would have a head start when he entered kindergarten. I realize now that putting too much pressure on a child to excel at such a vulnerable age can do more harm than good. Millions of parents are trying to keep up with our aggressive society and are pushing their preschoolers too much in the process. My article explains the problems that can occur when one tries to mold a "child scholar." It also offers specific examples about how to teach your child with positive results.

Children & Animals Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Cultivating Companionship Between Kids and Dogs  (Word Count: 1400)
Previously published in: TN, NY

I grew up with Bullmastiffs. So when the opportunity arose to adopt a four-month-old female, my husband and I jumped at the chance. At the time, my children were ages five and seven, so I knew it was a great time to get a pet. However, growing up with dogs does not prepare you for the responsibility of pet ownership - especially when you have kids. This article offers many tips for families thinking of purchasing a dog or for those who already own one. Its focus is the child-dog relationship. I discuss finding the right breed, precautions to take with babies and infants, and how to involve your kids in the physical care of your pet.

When Your Child Is Terrified of Dogs  (Word Count: 1018)
Previously published in: CT, FL, NY, FL

It happened when my son was about fourteen months old. We were taking our usual stroll around the neighborhood when we encountered a dog-sitter walking our neighbor's new terrier. The dog got excited and leaped into the stroller on top of my son and began to ferociously bark just inches from his face. He was not bitten, but his memory of the horrific experience would remain vivid for years to come. That day it took close to an hour to calm him down, but I would soon find that this was just the beginning of a long and painful saga. For years we were unable to visit friends who owned dogs, to have an uneventful trick or treating experience, or to go to a public beach or park without my son agonizing over the thought of having to be in close proximity to a dog. Working with your child to overcome an intense fear is never an easy task. This article gives parents ideas about how to help their child overcome his fear of dogs.

Children's Development Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Living in a Material World  
(Word Count: 1490 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Our world is saturated with advertisements. It's up to parents to minimize the effects of this incessant, visual and cultural reinforcement by showing their kids that money and material possessions are not express tickets to a fulfilling life. It’s okay to enjoy nice things, but kids need to learn to have a healthy attitude about material possessions, despite the contrary message bombarding us on all fronts. I interviewed Lynne Kenney, Psy.D., a pediatric psychologist based in Scottsdale, AZ, author and founder of the social-emotional literacy program Bloom Your Room™, Arlene Silva, Ph.D., chair of the School Psychology Department at William James College in Boston, MA and Bruce Ecker, Ph.D., a licensed clinical and educational psychologist and director of the Concentration on Children and Families of Adversity and Resilience at William James College.

Don't Divorce Your Kids! The marriage may have gone awry, but your children still need their parents  
(Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Divorce can be traumatic for the children who often misinterpret events and are left feeling that they are the cause of the split. It’s imperative that parents understand what their kids are going through and how to help ease the transition and alleviate fears (e.g. loss of security, safety, control and relationships). This can be extremely difficult because the parents are experiencing their own devastation. I interviewed Marilyn Benoit, M.D., a nationally recognized psychiatrist who is senior vice president of Clinical and Professional Affairs as well as chief medical officer and chief clinical officer at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health in PA, Thomas Gagliano, M.S.W., a relationship expert, marriage counselor and author of Don’t Put Your Crap in Your Kid’s Diaper: The Clean Up Cost Can Last a Lifetime and Steve DeBenedetti-Emanuel, LMFT, a Sacramento, CA based therapist who specializes in teens and parents.

The Demise of Kindness: When and Why Bullies Rule and How to Encourage Kindness & Empathy  
(Word Count: 1546 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

All fifty states now have anti-bullying laws or policies. However, bullying is still rampant in our schools and communities. So, where are we going wrong? I interviewed Michele Borba, Ed.D., an internationally recognized expert on bullying and character development and author of UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World, Jessie Klein, Ph.D., an associate professor at Adelphi University, founder and director of Creating Compassionate Communities and author of The Bully Society: School Shootings and the Crisis of Bullying in America’s Schools, Ellen W. deLara, Ph.D., an associate professor at Syracuse University and author of Bullying Scars: The Impact on Adult Life and Relationships and Rachel Annunziato, Ph.D., a child psychologist and associate professor at Fordham University.

TV TIME: The Good, the Bad and the In-Between  
(Word Count: 1464 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

TV programming has changed immensely in the last twenty years. There are so many choices that it can make one dizzy at times. Part of the positive aspect of this change, however, is that there are plenty of quality choices available. Perhaps the quandary for parents today is not if their children should watch TV but what they should watch and how often they should tune in. I interviewed Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a licensed neuropsychologist and founder and director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C., Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center, Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, Ph.D., a New York City-based clinical psychologist and supervising psychologist for Family & Children’s Services of Nantucket, and Angela Santomero, a child development expert, TV executive producer and co-creator of the current hit, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (PBS Kids) as well as Blue’s Clues (Nick Jr.) and Super WHY! (PBS Kids).

Is there Life without Electronics?  
(Word Count: 1507 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, FL

Instead of taking advantage of the warm weather or creating an indoor carnival, many kids obsessively engage their cell phone, iPad, laptop, game console or watch marathon re-runs of SpongeBob SquarePants. Parents should encourage their kids to ditch the electronics on a regular basis and enjoy life the old-fashioned way. This may be easier said than done, due to the fact that life in general this millennium is a technological one; but it is doable – not to mention healthier – for your children no matter what their age. I interviewed Sue Scheff, a nationally recognized parenting advocate, author, and founder and president of Parents’ Universal Resource Experts Inc. (P.U.R.E.) and Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center.

A Dad's Deep Influence: Fathers are Important Role Models for Sons AND Daughters  
(Word Count: 1490 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A father’s influence lasts a lifetime. Children look to their fathers for strength, encouragement and support. Dads have just as much influence on their daughters - despite the gender difference - and daughters often grow up to be reflective images of their dads. Fathers are role models for both genders in many profound ways. Children learn about honesty, relationships, compassion and self-love from their dads. I interviewed Mark Morman, Ph.D., a professor of communication studies and director of graduate studies at Baylor University in TX, LeRoy E. Reese, Ph.D., a psychologist at Akoma Counseling and Consulting, Inc. in Decatur, GA and Stevan Lynn (a.k.a. Coach Lynn), producer and host of the award winning television program Dare 2 Dream: A Father’s Guide to Success, guest talk show host (WHCR 90.3 FM in NY) and founder of the Fatherhood Training Center in Bronx, NY.

The Link Between Family Stability and a Child's Success  
(Word Count: 1436 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A stable environment provides nurturing caregivers, unconditional love, consistent discipline, and a dependable and safe living space. This secure and protective environment shapes a child’s perspective of himself and the world around him. It is the springboard that sets in motion a path to happiness and overall well-being. I interviewed Susan Kuczmarski, Ed.D., a family expert and author of several books including the award-winning Becoming A Happy Family: Pathways to the Family Soul and Gail Gross, Ph.D., Ed.D, a nationally recognized family and child development expert, author and educator.

Money Matters: Financial Literacy 101 for Kids  
(Word Count: 1456 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Command of financial matters is much easier for those who were raised to understand the concept, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” From a very young age, kids can be taught to respect money, to budget, to save, and to spend wisely. I interviewed Lisa Chin Mollica, CEO and founder of KidCash, Gina McKague, president and CEO of McKague Financial in Michigan and Sheri Atwood, founder and CEO of SupportPay.

Family Communication and Connection in a Digital Age  
(Word Count: 1260 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CT, NC

Has the digital world morphed our communication skills into bits and bytes for the long haul? We know that texting is not going away. The ease, convenience and instantaneous response aspects of texting are just too enticing. No matter what you prefer – texting or real-time, verbal banter – it’s time to examine if this new form of communication is for better or for worse. I interviewed Rebecca Levey, a family tech expert, host of ParentingBytes (a CBS podcast exploring parenting in the digital age), and co-founder of KidzVuz as well as Heather Leneau Bragg, a learning specialist and author of the book Learning Decoded: Using Your Child’s Unique Learning Style to Improve Academic Performance.

Glued to the Screen: What every parent needs to know about video game addiction, violence and choice  
(Word Count: 1475 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

This piece discusses video game addiction, violence, and how parents can help their kids curb their addiction and monitor the types of video games they are playing. It’s not healthy for children or teens to always choose gaming over social activities. Therefore, monitoring the amount of time spent in front of the screen, as well as the types of games kids are hooked on, is essential.

Are You Raising a Leader? Encouraging Kids to Become Motivated and Confident Self-Starters  
(Word Count: 1499 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, D.C., FL

This piece discusses how parents can encourage activities and behaviors that help kids to become leaders and develop the qualities that leaders possess. Key leadership qualities can be nurtured in children from a very young age. Leadership skills are important in any job market, and they are also deemed important qualities to highlight in college applications.

Nurturing and Supporting a Gifted Child   (Word Count: 1421 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA

It's unfortunate, but parents of gifted kids are often left to their own devices in finding resources for their children. Teachers are not trained to differentiate curriculum for gifted learners in college, and federal and state money is only appropriated for struggling students. For years the system has failed these kids. Parents must seek their own resources, enroll their children in extracurricular programs, and find mentors for their kids. This piece explains giftedness, provides resources, and offers suggestions for parents about how to navigate their child's school system.

Living with Type 1 Diabetes: The Trials and Tribulations   (Word Count: 1107 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, CT, GA

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

Does Your Child Have APD?  (Word Count: 1228 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, WV, PA

A child's difficulty with listening, following directions, interpreting oral information and other receptive language problems could be attributed to many different disabilities. One of these is called auditory processing disorder (APD). APD has been misunderstood and misinterpreted by many. This is because the label APD has been applied (often incorrectly) to a wide variety of difficulties and disorders. As a result, there are some who question the existence of APD as a distinct diagnostic entity and others who assume that the term APD is applicable to any child who has difficulty listening or understanding spoken language. Therefore, understanding the difference between APD and other disorders that also affect language skills is imperative. This is an informative piece for parents to help them understand this often "misunderstood" disability. A sidebar with additional resources is included.

"Just a minute...I'm..."  (Word Count: 1254)
Previously published in: TN, NE, NH, NY, VT

You're very likely to be on the phone engrossed in an important conversation when a tug at your arm or a voice of desperation pleads for your attention. A large ocean could probably be filled with the number of parents who have been interrupted while on the phone. I personally have gotten so frustrated with my children interrupting me that I've threatened, "Don't try to talk to me when I'm in a conversation with another adult unless you're bleeding profusely or the house is burning down!" This piece discusses techniques parents can use to teach their children restraint and the art of graceful interruption.

THUMBSUCKING: Beyond the Toddler Years  (Word Count: 913 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: KS, NY, OH, PA, OK, NC

This article differs from many on the subject in that it focuses ONLY on the older child. After all, this is when thumbsucking becomes the most problematic. For the school-age child or preteen who continues to suck her thumb, the habit has become a crutch. It is no longer a mere reflex. At this point in a child's development, breaking the habit will take patience, understanding and a joint effort by both the child and her parents to eliminate the prolonged habit. This article would fit well in a February issue (National Children's Dental Health Month), an issue focusing on childhood habits/behaviors or an issue focusing on "problem solving" for parents. A sidebar containing age-appropriate literature and a link to ThumbGuard™ is included.

BABY SIGNING: For Hearing Babies Too!  (Word Count: 964 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA, MT, NE

Did you know that babies are communicating their wants and needs before they reach twelve months of age? Yes, babies are "talking," not through verbal speech, but via sign language. Sign language has long been an alternative for deaf children and those who are hard of hearing. However, in the 1980s, important research on the use of sign language and the subsequent verbal language development of those infants provided a new perspective on the use of sign language with hearing babies. Studies showed that the parents of signing babies had less frustration, better communication, and a stronger parent-child bond with their infants than parents of non-signing babies. This piece includes a sidebar listing books, programs and DVDs which are available for those who would like to try "signing" with their baby.

Helping Your Forgetful Child Remember  (Word Count: 1325)
Previously published in: ND, MI, NY, WI, IA, PA, NE, NC, FL

"Mom! I can't find my..." You fill in the blank. My daughter has been losing or forgetting SOMETHING several times a day since she has been able to pick things up and carry them off. I've recently garnered advice from the experts, hoping to encourage my daughter to become responsible for her own possessions. This article suggests that parents teach their children remembering strategies and organizational skills. The piece also offers some tips for the "morning routine" and discusses the benefits of allowing children to suffer consequences for their actions in order to become more responsible.

Check Out My New Wheels!  (Word Count: 800)
Previously published in: Canada, TN, OH, VT, CT, SC

When my son was five he learned to ride his bicycle without training wheels in a two-hour session with my husband over at our local park. Phew! I was relieved that this learning experience was tackled with ease. If my memory serves me well, my experience was quite different. I vaguely recall many bruises and a damaged self esteem. When my daughter became "of age," her attempts to ride her bike were much like mine. I thought she would never let us take the training wheels off. Learning to ride a "big bike" without the use of training wheels can be difficult for some children for a plethora of reasons. My article offers tips for parents to facilitate a painless and joyful experience.

When Your Child Is Afraid of the Water  (Word Count: 1570)
Previously published in: D.C., CA, MI, NC, NY, CT, PA, NE, TX, FL

My son had a very difficult time learning to swim. It wasn't that he disliked being in the water. He loved to take baths and play in the swimming pool. However, he was unable to put his face in or submerge himself passed his waist. I tried a myriad of things to try to help him. Throughout my experience with my son I have spoken to many parents and swim instructors to get ideas. My article is broken up into three sections: "Prevention," "Go Slow" and "Be Positive." I believe that this piece can serve as a tool to help parents who are trying to deal with this fairly common childhood fear.

Your Child's Imaginary Friend  (Word Count: 1096)
Previously published in: DE, SC, TX

I had been living with "Whale's parents" for quite some time when I wrote this article. "Whale's parents" were my son's imaginary friends. I have since found out that imaginary friends are extremely commonplace and quite healthy as long as the child enjoys a variety of activities and relates well with his peers. Children who tend to adopt them are often social, creative, independent and cooperative.

Children's Health / Disabilities Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Girls on the Spectrum: Defining the Unique Characteristics of Girls with Asperger's Syndrome  
(Word Count: 1446 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CT, LA, AR, PA

This piece discusses the diagnosis dilemma and special concerns for girls on the spectrum. I wrote this with National Autism Awareness Month in mind (April); however, this article would be a great fit for any issue focused on children with disabilities. I included interviews and conference statements from Suzanne Gunther, a mother of a seventeen-year-old daughter with Asperger's, Tony Attwood, PhD, a world renowned expert and author of several books on the subject, including The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome, and Valerie Paradiz, PhD, the developer of Integrated Self Advocacy ISA (a curriculum and training series for educators and therapists) and author of the widely acclaimed Elijah's Cup: A Family's Journey into the Community and Culture of High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's Syndrome.

Living with Type 1 Diabetes: The Trials and Tribulations   (Word Count: 1107 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, CT, GA

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

Does Your Child Have APD?  (Word Count: 1228 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, WV, PA

A child's difficulty with listening, following directions, interpreting oral information and other receptive language problems could be attributed to many different disabilities. One of these is called auditory processing disorder (APD). APD has been misunderstood and misinterpreted by many. This is because the label APD has been applied (often incorrectly) to a wide variety of difficulties and disorders. As a result, there are some who question the existence of APD as a distinct diagnostic entity and others who assume that the term APD is applicable to any child who has difficulty listening or understanding spoken language. Therefore, understanding the difference between APD and other disorders that also affect language skills is imperative. This is an informative piece for parents to help them understand this often "misunderstood" disability. A sidebar with additional resources is included.

Educating the Child with Asperger's  (Approximate Word Count: 2287 - Sidebar included)
Shorter version available. Word Count: 1718
Previously published in: CT, NY, NC

This piece differs from other articles on autism spectrum disorders in that it focuses on the "education of children" with Asperger's. After speaking with countless families about their greatest frustrations and concerns, I learned that it is in the area of education and placement that most seem overwhelmed and ill advised. Although special education services have come a long way, traditional public and private schools are sometimes failing to provide children with Asperger's Syndrome the educational support they deserve. The attached piece, "Educating the Child with Asperger's" is an in-depth article discussing the best classroom environment and placement for this growing population of students in our schools. I have had the pleasure of interviewing the following experts for the piece: (1) Robert Putnam, Ph.D.: Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Senior Vice President of Consultation and Positive Schools at the May Institute. (2) Valerie Paradiz, Ph.D.: Author of the acclaimed Elijah's Cup (The Free Press, 2002) and Director of ASPIE (The School for Autistic Strength, Purpose, and Independence in Education in Boiceville, NY). (3) Kathleen Edwards, M.Ed.: A special education consultant and Director of Starpoint School at Texas Christian University.

When Your Child Has A Language Delay  (Word Count: 915 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CT, NJ, MI, NE, GA, PA

When my daughter uttered her first word I was thrilled. I knew that the next several months would bring a litany of new phrases and humorous garble that would keep me entranced and captivated with each new syllable. I knew this because my son (who was three at the time) would ramble on as if mastering the English language was simply a ho-hum affair. But after those first few words things just didn't progress as I had expected. I was soon to learn that my daughter had severe expressive and receptive language delays. This article was written with the express purpose of helping parents who find themselves overcome with feelings of apprehension and helplessness when they find out that their child has a language disability. This piece differs from other articles that I've read on the subject in that it focuses on the parent's role - in other words, how parents can play an integral part in their child's therapy and recovery.

Essays / Slice Of Life Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
DON'T SPRINT TO THE HOLIDAYS: Schedule a Holiday Break Day  (Word Count: 657)
Previously published in: NC, NY, FL

This piece blends humor, reality and tips about how to take a breath during the frenzy of the holiday season. Along with the regular work day and ensuing jaunts to karate, gymnastics and clarinet lessons, most are also attending holiday concerts, holiday plays and holiday parties. Once you figure in time to shop, wrap, bake, clean and send holiday cards (oh...you're not doing that?), you have exactly two hours left in your day for sleep - brushing teeth not included! This is a great "holiday filler" piece.

I Was a Second Born Child  (Word Count: 1149)
Previously published in: NE

"Why does it seem that the first born is always the luckiest in life? I'll tell you why - because it's in the cards. The first born always draws four of a kind, while the second child draws a lousy pair of Jacks." This essay is about a second born child's view of herself and her place in the world. It would fit well into any relationships, family, or point of view section such as: A Mom's View, Family Dynamics, Parents' Opinions, or Musings. This piece also suggests ways parents can help each child feel special no matter where his or her place is on the family tree.

Clothes Horse...Or Clothes War?  (Approximate Word Count: 1165)
Previously published in: CT, IA, OH, NY

I think most reasonable human beings understand that wearing a tank top to school when it's forty-two degrees outside is not a good choice. My second grader, however, will find one thousand upside-down reasons for why she should wear the garment. Her mother knows that the reason for this particular struggle is the horse applique on the front - the one adorned with a beaded bridle. My daughter is a "clothes horse" in the literal sense, you see. She would wear a horse shirt each and every day for the rest of her natural life if I would allow it. This is a humorous, slice-of-life piece - good for a "Family Ties" type section.

The Accidental Breakfast Club  (Word Count: 753)
Previously published in: NY, TX, PA, WA, NC, Canada, CT, VT, IA, TN, CA

This essay reflects on the emotions I experienced when I sent my youngest child off to kindergarten. Most moms are surprised by the intense emotions they experience when they send their youngest to school full time. You expect to feel a sense of loss when the youngest goes off to college, but no one prepares you for the "first empty nest syndrome." This article is a perfect fit for a "back-to-school" issue, but it would also work well with a "mom's view" or similar column.

Infants, Toddlers, & Preschoolers Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
A Dad's Deep Influence: Fathers are Important Role Models for Sons AND Daughters  
(Word Count: 1490 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A father’s influence lasts a lifetime. Children look to their fathers for strength, encouragement and support. Dads have just as much influence on their daughters - despite the gender difference - and daughters often grow up to be reflective images of their dads. Fathers are role models for both genders in many profound ways. Children learn about honesty, relationships, compassion and self-love from their dads. I interviewed Mark Morman, Ph.D., a professor of communication studies and director of graduate studies at Baylor University in TX, LeRoy E. Reese, Ph.D., a psychologist at Akoma Counseling and Consulting, Inc. in Decatur, GA and Stevan Lynn (a.k.a. Coach Lynn), producer and host of the award winning television program Dare 2 Dream: A Father’s Guide to Success, guest talk show host (WHCR 90.3 FM in NY) and founder of the Fatherhood Training Center in Bronx, NY.

The Link Between Family Stability and a Child's Success  
(Word Count: 1436 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A stable environment provides nurturing caregivers, unconditional love, consistent discipline, and a dependable and safe living space. This secure and protective environment shapes a child’s perspective of himself and the world around him. It is the springboard that sets in motion a path to happiness and overall well-being. I interviewed Susan Kuczmarski, Ed.D., a family expert and author of several books including the award-winning Becoming A Happy Family: Pathways to the Family Soul and Gail Gross, Ph.D., Ed.D, a nationally recognized family and child development expert, author and educator.

Living with Type 1 Diabetes: The Trials and Tribulations   (Word Count: 1107 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, CT, GA

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

"Just a minute...I'm..."  (Word Count: 1254)
Previously published in: TN, NE, NH, NY, VT

You're very likely to be on the phone engrossed in an important conversation when a tug at your arm or a voice of desperation pleads for your attention. A large ocean could probably be filled with the number of parents who have been interrupted while on the phone. I personally have gotten so frustrated with my children interrupting me that I've threatened, "Don't try to talk to me when I'm in a conversation with another adult unless you're bleeding profusely or the house is burning down!" This piece discusses techniques parents can use to teach their children restraint and the art of graceful interruption.

THUMBSUCKING: Beyond the Toddler Years  (Word Count: 913 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: KS, NY, OH, PA, OK, NC

This article differs from many on the subject in that it focuses ONLY on the older child. After all, this is when thumbsucking becomes the most problematic. For the school-age child or preteen who continues to suck her thumb, the habit has become a crutch. It is no longer a mere reflex. At this point in a child's development, breaking the habit will take patience, understanding and a joint effort by both the child and her parents to eliminate the prolonged habit. This article would fit well in a February issue (National Children's Dental Health Month), an issue focusing on childhood habits/behaviors or an issue focusing on "problem solving" for parents. A sidebar containing age-appropriate literature and a link to ThumbGuard™ is included.

BABY SIGNING: For Hearing Babies Too!  (Word Count: 964 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA, MT, NE

Did you know that babies are communicating their wants and needs before they reach twelve months of age? Yes, babies are "talking," not through verbal speech, but via sign language. Sign language has long been an alternative for deaf children and those who are hard of hearing. However, in the 1980s, important research on the use of sign language and the subsequent verbal language development of those infants provided a new perspective on the use of sign language with hearing babies. Studies showed that the parents of signing babies had less frustration, better communication, and a stronger parent-child bond with their infants than parents of non-signing babies. This piece includes a sidebar listing books, programs and DVDs which are available for those who would like to try "signing" with their baby.

CODDLING: When Overprotective Parenting Becomes a Hindrance  (Word Count: 1245)
Previously published in: NY, GA, OH, OK, MI, TN, PA, FL

The overprotective parent "coddles" her child when she believes that completely shielding her child from inevitable problems and disappointments is a necessary part of parenting. Subsequently, the coddled child will learn to depend on others to rescue him from life's calamities, instead of having the will and know-how to rescue himself. Coddlers step in to negotiate for their child instead of letting the child work it out for himself. They intervene, regardless of the severity of the problem, (whether it is an issue with a teacher, peer or another adult). The following experts were interviewed for the piece: Lauren Solotar, Ph.D., Chief Psychologist and Senior Vice President of clinical services with the renowned May Institute, Psychologist Erik Fisher, Ph.D., author of The Art of Managing Everyday Conflict, and Mary Ann LoFrumento, M.D., a pediatrician and creator of "Simply Parenting" (a program designed to end parents' anxieties and bring parenting back to basics).

Taming Public Tantrums  (Word Count: 996)
Previously published in: NY, KS, GA, FL, TX

Many of us have been there. You're in aisle twenty-two of the grocery store and your toddler decides it's time to get out of the cart. When you don't oblige, she starts to scream at decibels heard by all, including the man in the bread section who dons a hearing aide. At home you have a handle on your tot's occasional tantrums. However, the public domain is another issue entirely. You would like to just ignore your child because you've developed the patience of Jobe since entering the world of parenthood, but those around you feel differently. They stare as though they've never seen a child have a tantrum. What's a parent to do?

So You've Moved...Now What?  (Word Count: 1310 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: Online, NY, GA, VT, WI, MI

Moving is as hard for kids as it is for adults - maybe even more so. It's not so much the particulars which accompany Moving Day, but the fear of the unknown once you've gotten where you're going. Many parents find that unpacking or finding a new pediatrician is the least of their worries. The best you can do is to make things as comfortable and familiar as possible for each family member. This piece differs from others on the subject of moving children in that it focuses on helping your children adjust to their new environment (or the "post" move). I've included a suggested sidebar which lists age-specific reading materials to help kids cope.

Infants and Air Travel: Important Facts You Need To Know  (Approximate Word Count: 1110 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NYC, GA, NE, PA

I wouldn't consider myself a frequent flyer, but I've flown enough times to have occupied a seat across from an infant, precariously perched atop his mother's lap. Currently, parents traveling with children under two are not required to purchase a seat for their child in order to strap him into a child restraint system (CRS). On August 3rd, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revisited Safety Recommendation A-95-51 which suggests that the FAA revise the Code of Federal Regulation (14 CFR) to require that all occupants be restrained during takeoff, landing, and turbulent conditions. This piece discusses those issues parents must consider (such as safety risks, high cost, discomfort to the baby and other passengers, and other inconveniences) when deciding whether to purchase a seat and use a CRS or to opt for "lap travel" if traveling by plane with their baby. This piece would work well in a holiday issue or travel issue when many families take advantage of visiting relatives while their children are off from school.

You Can Dress Them Up AND Take Them Out: Dining Out With Children  (Word Count: 844)
Previously published in: PA, IA, VT, NH

Have you ever been in a restaurant trying to have an adult conversation when the three-year-old child in the booth behind you is pretending that the seat is a trampoline? I used to be appalled when parents allowed their children to behave like field mice in restaurants. Then...I had kids. This is an honest piece about the trials and tribulations of eating out with young children. It offers many tips for those parents who wish to venture out to service establishments with their kids. Don't let your "reservations" get in the way of having a pleasant outing with your family.

Easing Your Child's Tension At the Dentist's Office  (Word Count: 1432)
Previously published in: D.C., FL, NJ, PA, CA, GA, LA

I was compelled to write this article because of my daughter's trepidation about going to the dentist. I have since learned many ways to help my children relax in the dentist's chair. I share my own ideas as well as expert advice about how to handle a fearful child in this situation. My article offers recommendations for both preschoolers and older children.

Teaching Your Tot: How Much Is Too Much?  (Word Count: 1463)
Previously published in: NY, MS, NC, CT, IL, NH, TN, WV, NE, NJ, GA, AR, FL

I have to admit that I was one of those mothers who compared the intellectual prowess of my preschooler to others his age, for I was constantly hoping that he would have a head start when he entered kindergarten. I realize now that putting too much pressure on a child to excel at such a vulnerable age can do more harm than good. Millions of parents are trying to keep up with our aggressive society and are pushing their preschoolers too much in the process. My article explains the problems that can occur when one tries to mold a "child scholar." It also offers specific examples about how to teach your child with positive results.

Family of Three and Dee  (Word Count: 1340)
Previously published in: CA, IL, FL, TX, GA, OH

The lamb was just one of many gifts that we received for our infant son. Dee, as my son named her, has been toted everywhere. There were several times that we had to backtrack twenty miles or so on road trips having left the pesky thing in a booth at some restaurant. Before I entered the world of parenthood, I never stopped to notice that hordes of toddlers had some ragged thing tucked under one arm as their mom held the other. I've since learned that experts often deem such special toys "comforters," and that toddlers who tote these objects are perfectly normal and healthy.

Helping Your Toddler Cope When Your Infant Arrives  (Word Count: 1330)
Previously published in: KS, NY, IL, D.C., NC, IA

Sometimes parents are hesitant about planning a second child when their first has yet to reach the age of two. They foresee the difficulty in raising two children very close in age. However, the transition to double-diaper-changing is only a minor adjustment when you consider the wealth of challenges for parents who are about to enter the world of "parents of two." One of the imminent problems that parents encounter is how to help their oldest child (especially if this child is a toddler) cope with the arrival of a sibling. My article speaks to parents through the eyes of someone who has been there. My adoring son was not so pleased when my daughter first arrived home, even though he had seemed pleased with the "idea" all along.

Preparing Your Preschooler For An Operation or Hospital Stay  (Word Count: 1528)
Previously published in: CA, CT, VT, NY

When my son was born one of the first things I remember my husband saying was that two of his little toes were joined together on his left foot. Eleven months later we found ourselves facing an operation to have it fixed. Thousands of parents go through the stressful experience of preparing a small child for an operation, yet most never want to believe it will happen. Fortunately, my son's operation was relatively simple and most of the risk was inherent in the anesthesia administered prior to the operation. However, whether it's a trip to the emergency room because of a dog bite, or a major operation requiring a hospital stay, young children are better off when they are physically and mentally prepared for what is to come; and parents need to be just as prepared in order to be a calming influence for their child.

Miscellaneous Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Time to Transfer? Important Tips for the College Transfer Student  
(Word Count: 1143 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA

Today, more and more students are finding a need to transfer from the college which was their original choice, and this process differs greatly from matriculating as a freshman. More students are also opting to complete their first two years at a local community college in order to save money on ever-increasing tuition costs. I interviewed two transfer admission specialists - one from the East Coast and one from the West Coast. Tips are universal to most schools. The SIDEBAR contains tips from students who actually went through the process.

FOUR OR MORE: Raising a Large Family in Today's Times   (Word Count: 1677 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, NE, NJ, WV

There are many days that I am overwhelmed...stuck with no carpool, but two places to get to at the same time, laundry piled to the ceiling, groceries flung on the counter yet unpacked...when I think of parents with large families. You know, those brave souls who somehow found the strength and energy to raise four, five or even more children. How do they do it? Do parents of large families have a key to a secret code that the rest of us missed out on? I've interviewed parents of large families to find out their secrets. Their solutions for storage, saving money at the stores, and parenting different personalities can be adopted by all families - both large and small. This article is universal and would fit well in a May issue (Mother's Day), or any issue focusing on sibling or family relationships.

DON'T SPRINT TO THE HOLIDAYS: Schedule a Holiday Break Day  (Word Count: 657)
Previously published in: NC, NY, FL

This piece blends humor, reality and tips about how to take a breath during the frenzy of the holiday season. Along with the regular work day and ensuing jaunts to karate, gymnastics and clarinet lessons, most are also attending holiday concerts, holiday plays and holiday parties. Once you figure in time to shop, wrap, bake, clean and send holiday cards (oh...you're not doing that?), you have exactly two hours left in your day for sleep - brushing teeth not included! This is a great "holiday filler" piece.

I Was a Second Born Child  (Word Count: 1149)
Previously published in: NE

"Why does it seem that the first born is always the luckiest in life? I'll tell you why - because it's in the cards. The first born always draws four of a kind, while the second child draws a lousy pair of Jacks." This essay is about a second born child's view of herself and her place in the world. It would fit well into any relationships, family, or point of view section such as: A Mom's View, Family Dynamics, Parents' Opinions, or Musings. This piece also suggests ways parents can help each child feel special no matter where his or her place is on the family tree.

A Sleepover Survival Guide: The Rules of the Game  (Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, NE, VT, NC, PA, MD, Canada, WV, TX, MI, FL, LA, London

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

SCRAPBOOKING: Anyone Can Do It!  (Word Count: 993 - Includes Sidebar)
Previously published in: NY, FL, GA

Remember those old photo albums your grandmother used to pull out on occasion? They contained black pages with photo mounting corners. The black and white photos were probably yellowed with age, and the inscription beneath might have been a "penciled in" date. For the most part, these albums were simply a collection of photographs - a series of snapshots from the past. What we now consider to be "scrapbooking" is the hobby of creatively arranging photos, various memorabilia and fanciful text on a page. This article is a "how-to" piece containing time-saving and money-saving tips. A sidebar is included which lists addtional resources for the hobbyist.

Life in a Box  (Word Count: 1079)
Previously published in: GA, NY, IA, PA, NC, NE

Most parents hope to give their son or daughter something very special for high school or college graduation. Yes, a new car or big check will garner gleeful reactions. However, a gift that takes eighteen years or more to create, and one which will last a lifetime, will be cherished more than any big ticket item. This is a how-to piece for creating a "Memory Treasure Chest" or "Memories Box" for one's child. This piece will work well in a special Baby Guide, a graduation issue, or at the holidays, when parents become acutely aware of their children growing up too fast.

Infants and Air Travel: Important Facts You Need To Know  (Approximate Word Count: 1110 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NYC, GA, NE, PA

I wouldn't consider myself a frequent flyer, but I've flown enough times to have occupied a seat across from an infant, precariously perched atop his mother's lap. Currently, parents traveling with children under two are not required to purchase a seat for their child in order to strap him into a child restraint system (CRS). On August 3rd, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revisited Safety Recommendation A-95-51 which suggests that the FAA revise the Code of Federal Regulation (14 CFR) to require that all occupants be restrained during takeoff, landing, and turbulent conditions. This piece discusses those issues parents must consider (such as safety risks, high cost, discomfort to the baby and other passengers, and other inconveniences) when deciding whether to purchase a seat and use a CRS or to opt for "lap travel" if traveling by plane with their baby. This piece would work well in a holiday issue or travel issue when many families take advantage of visiting relatives while their children are off from school.

Connect With Your Neighbors: Throw An Annual Block Party  (Word Count: 1100)
Previously published in: Canada, MI, NY, FL, D.C., TX

My husband and I have been part of two communities in two different states that some might say exemplify an atmosphere of "neighborhood spirit" that seems too often to be absent from communities because of today's fast-paced and hectic lifestyles. For those who wish to connect with their neighbors and become part of a "community" instead of simply being called neighbors due to proximity alone, planning an annual neighborhood party is a great way to get to know your neighbors on a personal level. This piece is divided into four sections: "Get Organized," "Get the Word Out," "Yum - Food!" and "Fun For All Ages." I suggest ideas for invitations, an "As We Grow" photo album (This is a memories scrapbook that is showcased at our parties - it's a great conversation piece!), a suggestion box and games and activities for all ages. I have photos available for this piece. A "sidebar" is included. This is a suggestion for a winter party idea (a dine-around).

Easing Your Child's Tension At the Dentist's Office  (Word Count: 1432)
Previously published in: D.C., FL, NJ, PA, CA, GA, LA

I was compelled to write this article because of my daughter's trepidation about going to the dentist. I have since learned many ways to help my children relax in the dentist's chair. I share my own ideas as well as expert advice about how to handle a fearful child in this situation. My article offers recommendations for both preschoolers and older children.

School-Age Kids Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Living in a Material World  
(Word Count: 1490 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Our world is saturated with advertisements. It's up to parents to minimize the effects of this incessant, visual and cultural reinforcement by showing their kids that money and material possessions are not express tickets to a fulfilling life. It’s okay to enjoy nice things, but kids need to learn to have a healthy attitude about material possessions, despite the contrary message bombarding us on all fronts. I interviewed Lynne Kenney, Psy.D., a pediatric psychologist based in Scottsdale, AZ, author and founder of the social-emotional literacy program Bloom Your Room™, Arlene Silva, Ph.D., chair of the School Psychology Department at William James College in Boston, MA and Bruce Ecker, Ph.D., a licensed clinical and educational psychologist and director of the Concentration on Children and Families of Adversity and Resilience at William James College.

Don't Divorce Your Kids! The marriage may have gone awry, but your children still need their parents  
(Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Divorce can be traumatic for the children who often misinterpret events and are left feeling that they are the cause of the split. It’s imperative that parents understand what their kids are going through and how to help ease the transition and alleviate fears (e.g. loss of security, safety, control and relationships). This can be extremely difficult because the parents are experiencing their own devastation. I interviewed Marilyn Benoit, M.D., a nationally recognized psychiatrist who is senior vice president of Clinical and Professional Affairs as well as chief medical officer and chief clinical officer at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health in PA, Thomas Gagliano, M.S.W., a relationship expert, marriage counselor and author of Don’t Put Your Crap in Your Kid’s Diaper: The Clean Up Cost Can Last a Lifetime and Steve DeBenedetti-Emanuel, LMFT, a Sacramento, CA based therapist who specializes in teens and parents.

The Demise of Kindness: When and Why Bullies Rule and How to Encourage Kindness & Empathy  
(Word Count: 1546 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

All fifty states now have anti-bullying laws or policies. However, bullying is still rampant in our schools and communities. So, where are we going wrong? I interviewed Michele Borba, Ed.D., an internationally recognized expert on bullying and character development and author of UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World, Jessie Klein, Ph.D., an associate professor at Adelphi University, founder and director of Creating Compassionate Communities and author of The Bully Society: School Shootings and the Crisis of Bullying in America’s Schools, Ellen W. deLara, Ph.D., an associate professor at Syracuse University and author of Bullying Scars: The Impact on Adult Life and Relationships and Rachel Annunziato, Ph.D., a child psychologist and associate professor at Fordham University.

TV TIME: The Good, the Bad and the In-Between  
(Word Count: 1464 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

TV programming has changed immensely in the last twenty years. There are so many choices that it can make one dizzy at times. Part of the positive aspect of this change, however, is that there are plenty of quality choices available. Perhaps the quandary for parents today is not if their children should watch TV but what they should watch and how often they should tune in. I interviewed Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a licensed neuropsychologist and founder and director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C., Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center, Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, Ph.D., a New York City-based clinical psychologist and supervising psychologist for Family & Children’s Services of Nantucket, and Angela Santomero, a child development expert, TV executive producer and co-creator of the current hit, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (PBS Kids) as well as Blue’s Clues (Nick Jr.) and Super WHY! (PBS Kids).

Is there Life without Electronics?  
(Word Count: 1507 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, FL

Instead of taking advantage of the warm weather or creating an indoor carnival, many kids obsessively engage their cell phone, iPad, laptop, game console or watch marathon re-runs of SpongeBob SquarePants. Parents should encourage their kids to ditch the electronics on a regular basis and enjoy life the old-fashioned way. This may be easier said than done, due to the fact that life in general this millennium is a technological one; but it is doable – not to mention healthier – for your children no matter what their age. I interviewed Sue Scheff, a nationally recognized parenting advocate, author, and founder and president of Parents’ Universal Resource Experts Inc. (P.U.R.E.) and Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center.

A Dad's Deep Influence: Fathers are Important Role Models for Sons AND Daughters  
(Word Count: 1490 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A father’s influence lasts a lifetime. Children look to their fathers for strength, encouragement and support. Dads have just as much influence on their daughters - despite the gender difference - and daughters often grow up to be reflective images of their dads. Fathers are role models for both genders in many profound ways. Children learn about honesty, relationships, compassion and self-love from their dads. I interviewed Mark Morman, Ph.D., a professor of communication studies and director of graduate studies at Baylor University in TX, LeRoy E. Reese, Ph.D., a psychologist at Akoma Counseling and Consulting, Inc. in Decatur, GA and Stevan Lynn (a.k.a. Coach Lynn), producer and host of the award winning television program Dare 2 Dream: A Father’s Guide to Success, guest talk show host (WHCR 90.3 FM in NY) and founder of the Fatherhood Training Center in Bronx, NY.

The Link Between Family Stability and a Child's Success  
(Word Count: 1436 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A stable environment provides nurturing caregivers, unconditional love, consistent discipline, and a dependable and safe living space. This secure and protective environment shapes a child’s perspective of himself and the world around him. It is the springboard that sets in motion a path to happiness and overall well-being. I interviewed Susan Kuczmarski, Ed.D., a family expert and author of several books including the award-winning Becoming A Happy Family: Pathways to the Family Soul and Gail Gross, Ph.D., Ed.D, a nationally recognized family and child development expert, author and educator.

Money Matters: Financial Literacy 101 for Kids  
(Word Count: 1456 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Command of financial matters is much easier for those who were raised to understand the concept, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” From a very young age, kids can be taught to respect money, to budget, to save, and to spend wisely. I interviewed Lisa Chin Mollica, CEO and founder of KidCash, Gina McKague, president and CEO of McKague Financial in Michigan and Sheri Atwood, founder and CEO of SupportPay.

Family Communication and Connection in a Digital Age  
(Word Count: 1260 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CT, NC

Has the digital world morphed our communication skills into bits and bytes for the long haul? We know that texting is not going away. The ease, convenience and instantaneous response aspects of texting are just too enticing. No matter what you prefer – texting or real-time, verbal banter – it’s time to examine if this new form of communication is for better or for worse. I interviewed Rebecca Levey, a family tech expert, host of ParentingBytes (a CBS podcast exploring parenting in the digital age), and co-founder of KidzVuz as well as Heather Leneau Bragg, a learning specialist and author of the book Learning Decoded: Using Your Child’s Unique Learning Style to Improve Academic Performance.

Glued to the Screen: What every parent needs to know about video game addiction, violence and choice  
(Word Count: 1475 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

This piece discusses video game addiction, violence, and how parents can help their kids curb their addiction and monitor the types of video games they are playing. It’s not healthy for children or teens to always choose gaming over social activities. Therefore, monitoring the amount of time spent in front of the screen, as well as the types of games kids are hooked on, is essential.

Are You Raising a Leader? Encouraging Kids to Become Motivated and Confident Self-Starters  
(Word Count: 1499 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, D.C., FL

This piece discusses how parents can encourage activities and behaviors that help kids to become leaders and develop the qualities that leaders possess. Key leadership qualities can be nurtured in children from a very young age. Leadership skills are important in any job market, and they are also deemed important qualities to highlight in college applications.

Nurturing and Supporting a Gifted Child   (Word Count: 1421 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA

It's unfortunate, but parents of gifted kids are often left to their own devices in finding resources for their children. Teachers are not trained to differentiate curriculum for gifted learners in college, and federal and state money is only appropriated for struggling students. For years the system has failed these kids. Parents must seek their own resources, enroll their children in extracurricular programs, and find mentors for their kids. This piece explains giftedness, provides resources, and offers suggestions for parents about how to navigate their child's school system.

When Your Child Walks to School: Tips to Help Him Get There Safely   (Word Count: 677 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: TX, NY, NJ, KS, CA

I remember the day quite vividly. It was a crisp September morning back in 1974. This was the morning my mother announced I could walk to school on my first day of fifth grade. For kids in my old neighborhood, being allowed to walk to school was a rite of passage - an intangible ladder rung on that uphill climb to full-blown independence. Today, walking to school can still be a healthy alternative to riding the bus for those students who live close enough to their school. Childhood obesity is becoming an epidemic and walking to school can provide a daily exercise routine for students.

Time to Stand Up and Say...Yikes!: When Your Child Fears Public Speaking   (Word Count: 1111 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: GA, NY, NJ, CT, CA, London

Some kids think standing up in front of the class is a cinch. However, for many others, speaking in front of a room full of peers is worse than getting a tooth pulled without Novocaine. Some even flat out refuse to do it! The most common form of Social Phobia is public speaking anxiety. In addition to the emotional aspects of public speaking anxiety, there are often physical symptoms as well. This piece includes tips for parents so they can help their children through this common fear. A suggested sidebar with additional resources for students is included.

Living with Type 1 Diabetes: The Trials and Tribulations   (Word Count: 1107 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, CT, GA

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

"Just a minute...I'm..."  (Word Count: 1254)
Previously published in: TN, NE, NH, NY, VT

You're very likely to be on the phone engrossed in an important conversation when a tug at your arm or a voice of desperation pleads for your attention. A large ocean could probably be filled with the number of parents who have been interrupted while on the phone. I personally have gotten so frustrated with my children interrupting me that I've threatened, "Don't try to talk to me when I'm in a conversation with another adult unless you're bleeding profusely or the house is burning down!" This piece discusses techniques parents can use to teach their children restraint and the art of graceful interruption.

A Sleepover Survival Guide: The Rules of the Game  (Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, NE, VT, NC, PA, MD, Canada, WV, TX, MI, FL, LA, London

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

THUMBSUCKING: Beyond the Toddler Years  (Word Count: 913 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: KS, NY, OH, PA, OK, NC

This article differs from many on the subject in that it focuses ONLY on the older child. After all, this is when thumbsucking becomes the most problematic. For the school-age child or preteen who continues to suck her thumb, the habit has become a crutch. It is no longer a mere reflex. At this point in a child's development, breaking the habit will take patience, understanding and a joint effort by both the child and her parents to eliminate the prolonged habit. This article would fit well in a February issue (National Children's Dental Health Month), an issue focusing on childhood habits/behaviors or an issue focusing on "problem solving" for parents. A sidebar containing age-appropriate literature and a link to ThumbGuard™ is included.

CODDLING: When Overprotective Parenting Becomes a Hindrance  (Word Count: 1245)
Previously published in: NY, GA, OH, OK, MI, TN, PA, FL

The overprotective parent "coddles" her child when she believes that completely shielding her child from inevitable problems and disappointments is a necessary part of parenting. Subsequently, the coddled child will learn to depend on others to rescue him from life's calamities, instead of having the will and know-how to rescue himself. Coddlers step in to negotiate for their child instead of letting the child work it out for himself. They intervene, regardless of the severity of the problem, (whether it is an issue with a teacher, peer or another adult). The following experts were interviewed for the piece: Lauren Solotar, Ph.D., Chief Psychologist and Senior Vice President of clinical services with the renowned May Institute, Psychologist Erik Fisher, Ph.D., author of The Art of Managing Everyday Conflict, and Mary Ann LoFrumento, M.D., a pediatrician and creator of "Simply Parenting" (a program designed to end parents' anxieties and bring parenting back to basics).

School Programs Teach Kids to Manage Money  (Word Count: 1199)
Previously published in: CT, MD, PA

Many youngsters don't learn to balance a checkbook or to save money long-term until it's absolutely necessary - and some never do! When children are taught to apply these skills early, they become proficient at money management by the time they reach adulthood. Most parents and teachers agree that the best way to teach a child a skill AND to have it stick is via "hands on" experiences when children learn by actually going through a process. The following programs take advantage of this "hands on" approach: Washington Mutual School Savings Program, National Teach Children to Save Day, The Stock Market Game.

So You've Moved...Now What?  (Word Count: 1310 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: Online, NY, GA, VT, WI, MI

Moving is as hard for kids as it is for adults - maybe even more so. It's not so much the particulars which accompany Moving Day, but the fear of the unknown once you've gotten where you're going. Many parents find that unpacking or finding a new pediatrician is the least of their worries. The best you can do is to make things as comfortable and familiar as possible for each family member. This piece differs from others on the subject of moving children in that it focuses on helping your children adjust to their new environment (or the "post" move). I've included a suggested sidebar which lists age-specific reading materials to help kids cope.

Clothes Horse...Or Clothes War?  (Approximate Word Count: 1165)
Previously published in: CT, IA, OH, NY

I think most reasonable human beings understand that wearing a tank top to school when it's forty-two degrees outside is not a good choice. My second grader, however, will find one thousand upside-down reasons for why she should wear the garment. Her mother knows that the reason for this particular struggle is the horse applique on the front - the one adorned with a beaded bridle. My daughter is a "clothes horse" in the literal sense, you see. She would wear a horse shirt each and every day for the rest of her natural life if I would allow it. This is a humorous, slice-of-life piece - good for a "Family Ties" type section.

Breaking the Cycle of Violence: Changing Attitudes About Bullying  (Word Count: 2060 - Sidebar included)
A shorter version of this piece is available.
Previously published in: IA, NC, MD, PA, GA

Children have been dealing with bullies for centuries. However, the idea that bullying is "just a part of growing up" or an inevitable condition of boyhood ("boys will be boys") is a prevailing, "laissez-faire" attitude that is slow to change. Too many school administrators are reluctant to hold perpetrators accountable, and some parents still consider bullying a part of growing up. Until parents, educators, and community leaders consider the issue of "bullying" a serious offense, children will continue to be injured physically and emotionally, bearing the negative effects of these injuries into adulthood. This piece suggests specific strategies parents, teachers and community leaders can use to diffuse this increasingly violent problem among our youth.

Helping Your Forgetful Child Remember  (Word Count: 1325)
Previously published in: ND, MI, NY, WI, IA, PA, NE, NC, FL

"Mom! I can't find my..." You fill in the blank. My daughter has been losing or forgetting SOMETHING several times a day since she has been able to pick things up and carry them off. I've recently garnered advice from the experts, hoping to encourage my daughter to become responsible for her own possessions. This article suggests that parents teach their children remembering strategies and organizational skills. The piece also offers some tips for the "morning routine" and discusses the benefits of allowing children to suffer consequences for their actions in order to become more responsible.

How To Curb Your Child's Video Game Addiction  (Word Count: 1700)
Previously published in: CA, NY, PA, IA, CT

My son was spending too much time in front of the television screen, not because he was watching too many cartoons, but because I couldn't drag him away from the Nintendo machine. I know that I am not alone. Many of the moms I've talked to complain about the same thing. There is definitely a video game craze in this country and many kids have opted for this type of entertainment. This activity can be just as unhealthy as too much TV if the use of video games becomes an obsession and a child is no longer interested in other toys. My mistake was that I dealt with the problem too late and too drastically. I waited until the problem was out of control to make my big announcement: "No more Nintendo ever again! I'm throwing the thing out!" Fortunately, things calmed down and I was able to set some limits. Even if parents set firm limits with their children, however, it is still pertinent to find healthy alternatives to playing video games. This article speaks to both.

Your Child's Imaginary Friend  (Word Count: 1096)
Previously published in: DE, SC, TX

I had been living with "Whale's parents" for quite some time when I wrote this article. "Whale's parents" were my son's imaginary friends. I have since found out that imaginary friends are extremely commonplace and quite healthy as long as the child enjoys a variety of activities and relates well with his peers. Children who tend to adopt them are often social, creative, independent and cooperative.

Solutions For Parents Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Living in a Material World  
(Word Count: 1490 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Our world is saturated with advertisements. It's up to parents to minimize the effects of this incessant, visual and cultural reinforcement by showing their kids that money and material possessions are not express tickets to a fulfilling life. It’s okay to enjoy nice things, but kids need to learn to have a healthy attitude about material possessions, despite the contrary message bombarding us on all fronts. I interviewed Lynne Kenney, Psy.D., a pediatric psychologist based in Scottsdale, AZ, author and founder of the social-emotional literacy program Bloom Your Room™, Arlene Silva, Ph.D., chair of the School Psychology Department at William James College in Boston, MA and Bruce Ecker, Ph.D., a licensed clinical and educational psychologist and director of the Concentration on Children and Families of Adversity and Resilience at William James College.

Don't Divorce Your Kids! The marriage may have gone awry, but your children still need their parents  
(Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Divorce can be traumatic for the children who often misinterpret events and are left feeling that they are the cause of the split. It’s imperative that parents understand what their kids are going through and how to help ease the transition and alleviate fears (e.g. loss of security, safety, control and relationships). This can be extremely difficult because the parents are experiencing their own devastation. I interviewed Marilyn Benoit, M.D., a nationally recognized psychiatrist who is senior vice president of Clinical and Professional Affairs as well as chief medical officer and chief clinical officer at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health in PA, Thomas Gagliano, M.S.W., a relationship expert, marriage counselor and author of Don’t Put Your Crap in Your Kid’s Diaper: The Clean Up Cost Can Last a Lifetime and Steve DeBenedetti-Emanuel, LMFT, a Sacramento, CA based therapist who specializes in teens and parents.

The Demise of Kindness: When and Why Bullies Rule and How to Encourage Kindness & Empathy  
(Word Count: 1546 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

All fifty states now have anti-bullying laws or policies. However, bullying is still rampant in our schools and communities. So, where are we going wrong? I interviewed Michele Borba, Ed.D., an internationally recognized expert on bullying and character development and author of UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World, Jessie Klein, Ph.D., an associate professor at Adelphi University, founder and director of Creating Compassionate Communities and author of The Bully Society: School Shootings and the Crisis of Bullying in America’s Schools, Ellen W. deLara, Ph.D., an associate professor at Syracuse University and author of Bullying Scars: The Impact on Adult Life and Relationships and Rachel Annunziato, Ph.D., a child psychologist and associate professor at Fordham University.

TV TIME: The Good, the Bad and the In-Between  
(Word Count: 1464 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

TV programming has changed immensely in the last twenty years. There are so many choices that it can make one dizzy at times. Part of the positive aspect of this change, however, is that there are plenty of quality choices available. Perhaps the quandary for parents today is not if their children should watch TV but what they should watch and how often they should tune in. I interviewed Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a licensed neuropsychologist and founder and director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C., Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center, Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, Ph.D., a New York City-based clinical psychologist and supervising psychologist for Family & Children’s Services of Nantucket, and Angela Santomero, a child development expert, TV executive producer and co-creator of the current hit, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (PBS Kids) as well as Blue’s Clues (Nick Jr.) and Super WHY! (PBS Kids).

Is there Life without Electronics?  
(Word Count: 1507 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, FL

Instead of taking advantage of the warm weather or creating an indoor carnival, many kids obsessively engage their cell phone, iPad, laptop, game console or watch marathon re-runs of SpongeBob SquarePants. Parents should encourage their kids to ditch the electronics on a regular basis and enjoy life the old-fashioned way. This may be easier said than done, due to the fact that life in general this millennium is a technological one; but it is doable – not to mention healthier – for your children no matter what their age. I interviewed Sue Scheff, a nationally recognized parenting advocate, author, and founder and president of Parents’ Universal Resource Experts Inc. (P.U.R.E.) and Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center.

The Link Between Family Stability and a Child's Success  
(Word Count: 1436 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A stable environment provides nurturing caregivers, unconditional love, consistent discipline, and a dependable and safe living space. This secure and protective environment shapes a child’s perspective of himself and the world around him. It is the springboard that sets in motion a path to happiness and overall well-being. I interviewed Susan Kuczmarski, Ed.D., a family expert and author of several books including the award-winning Becoming A Happy Family: Pathways to the Family Soul and Gail Gross, Ph.D., Ed.D, a nationally recognized family and child development expert, author and educator.

Money Matters: Financial Literacy 101 for Kids  
(Word Count: 1456 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Command of financial matters is much easier for those who were raised to understand the concept, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” From a very young age, kids can be taught to respect money, to budget, to save, and to spend wisely. I interviewed Lisa Chin Mollica, CEO and founder of KidCash, Gina McKague, president and CEO of McKague Financial in Michigan and Sheri Atwood, founder and CEO of SupportPay.

Family Communication and Connection in a Digital Age  
(Word Count: 1260 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CT, NC

Has the digital world morphed our communication skills into bits and bytes for the long haul? We know that texting is not going away. The ease, convenience and instantaneous response aspects of texting are just too enticing. No matter what you prefer – texting or real-time, verbal banter – it’s time to examine if this new form of communication is for better or for worse. I interviewed Rebecca Levey, a family tech expert, host of ParentingBytes (a CBS podcast exploring parenting in the digital age), and co-founder of KidzVuz as well as Heather Leneau Bragg, a learning specialist and author of the book Learning Decoded: Using Your Child’s Unique Learning Style to Improve Academic Performance.

Glued to the Screen: What every parent needs to know about video game addiction, violence and choice  
(Word Count: 1475 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

This piece discusses video game addiction, violence, and how parents can help their kids curb their addiction and monitor the types of video games they are playing. It’s not healthy for children or teens to always choose gaming over social activities. Therefore, monitoring the amount of time spent in front of the screen, as well as the types of games kids are hooked on, is essential.

Are You Raising a Leader? Encouraging Kids to Become Motivated and Confident Self-Starters  
(Word Count: 1499 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, D.C., FL

This piece discusses how parents can encourage activities and behaviors that help kids to become leaders and develop the qualities that leaders possess. Key leadership qualities can be nurtured in children from a very young age. Leadership skills are important in any job market, and they are also deemed important qualities to highlight in college applications.

Girls on the Spectrum: Defining the Unique Characteristics of Girls with Asperger's Syndrome  
(Word Count: 1446 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CT, LA, AR, PA

This piece discusses the diagnosis dilemma and special concerns for girls on the spectrum. I wrote this with National Autism Awareness Month in mind (April); however, this article would be a great fit for any issue focused on children with disabilities. I included interviews and conference statements from Suzanne Gunther, a mother of a seventeen-year-old daughter with Asperger's, Tony Attwood, PhD, a world renowned expert and author of several books on the subject, including The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome, and Valerie Paradiz, PhD, the developer of Integrated Self Advocacy ISA (a curriculum and training series for educators and therapists) and author of the widely acclaimed Elijah's Cup: A Family's Journey into the Community and Culture of High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's Syndrome.

Nurturing and Supporting a Gifted Child   (Word Count: 1421 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA

It's unfortunate, but parents of gifted kids are often left to their own devices in finding resources for their children. Teachers are not trained to differentiate curriculum for gifted learners in college, and federal and state money is only appropriated for struggling students. For years the system has failed these kids. Parents must seek their own resources, enroll their children in extracurricular programs, and find mentors for their kids. This piece explains giftedness, provides resources, and offers suggestions for parents about how to navigate their child's school system.

FOUR OR MORE: Raising a Large Family in Today's Times   (Word Count: 1677 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, NE, NJ, WV

There are many days that I am overwhelmed...stuck with no carpool, but two places to get to at the same time, laundry piled to the ceiling, groceries flung on the counter yet unpacked...when I think of parents with large families. You know, those brave souls who somehow found the strength and energy to raise four, five or even more children. How do they do it? Do parents of large families have a key to a secret code that the rest of us missed out on? I've interviewed parents of large families to find out their secrets. Their solutions for storage, saving money at the stores, and parenting different personalities can be adopted by all families - both large and small. This article is universal and would fit well in a May issue (Mother's Day), or any issue focusing on sibling or family relationships.

When Your Child Walks to School: Tips to Help Him Get There Safely   (Word Count: 677 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: TX, NY, NJ, KS, CA

I remember the day quite vividly. It was a crisp September morning back in 1974. This was the morning my mother announced I could walk to school on my first day of fifth grade. For kids in my old neighborhood, being allowed to walk to school was a rite of passage - an intangible ladder rung on that uphill climb to full-blown independence. Today, walking to school can still be a healthy alternative to riding the bus for those students who live close enough to their school. Childhood obesity is becoming an epidemic and walking to school can provide a daily exercise routine for students.

Living with Type 1 Diabetes: The Trials and Tribulations   (Word Count: 1107 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, CT, GA

This children's health piece includes comments from the mother of five-year-old, Amanda (who is a child living with the disease). It discusses risk factors, warning signs, treatments, and the daily struggles of those living with type 1 diabetes. It also contains important information for parents who have a diabetic child entering school. There is a suggested sidebar which lists additional resources and places readers can go to find local support groups, camps, and health care information. This piece would fit well in an issue focusing on childhood diseases, or one with an editorial focus on children's health in general.

Doing Disney with Tweens and Teens   (Word Count: 1074)
Previously published in: IL

Many people think they've lost their "window of opportunity" to visit Disney World with their kids because their "older kids" are no longer anxious to be photographed with Mickey or to dine with Goofy. This is simply not the case, and why I wrote this piece. Disney World has a lot to offer the preteen and teen crowd. Yes, it is a different family experience, but one that is definitely worth it! This piece would fit well in a family travel guide, a winter travel issue when families plan warm weather vacations, or during the holidays when Disney is adorned with spectacular decorations and brimming with holiday festivities.

COLLEGE PREPARATION: Navigating the Labyrinth   (Word Count: 1150 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: PA, NY, CA, GA, NJ, NE, AL

Many students and their families find college preparation to be a daunting process. Admission to college can also be extremely competitive which often leaves students asking, "What on earth are they looking for?" In order to avoid a lot of frustration and disappointment, students should start planning for their future by eighth or ninth grade. This piece explores the kinds of things college admissions offices look for. A sidebar with additional resources is also included.

DON'T SPRINT TO THE HOLIDAYS: Schedule a Holiday Break Day  (Word Count: 657)
Previously published in: NC, NY, FL

This piece blends humor, reality and tips about how to take a breath during the frenzy of the holiday season. Along with the regular work day and ensuing jaunts to karate, gymnastics and clarinet lessons, most are also attending holiday concerts, holiday plays and holiday parties. Once you figure in time to shop, wrap, bake, clean and send holiday cards (oh...you're not doing that?), you have exactly two hours left in your day for sleep - brushing teeth not included! This is a great "holiday filler" piece.

"Just a minute...I'm..."  (Word Count: 1254)
Previously published in: TN, NE, NH, NY, VT

You're very likely to be on the phone engrossed in an important conversation when a tug at your arm or a voice of desperation pleads for your attention. A large ocean could probably be filled with the number of parents who have been interrupted while on the phone. I personally have gotten so frustrated with my children interrupting me that I've threatened, "Don't try to talk to me when I'm in a conversation with another adult unless you're bleeding profusely or the house is burning down!" This piece discusses techniques parents can use to teach their children restraint and the art of graceful interruption.

Depression and Women: Getting the Help You Need  (Word Count: 1596 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, MD, NH

A huge number of our mothers, sisters, and female friends are silently suffering from depression. That's because depression is hard to talk about. Frequently, women who suffer from depression perceive their plight as a necessary part of womanhood. This is a comprehensive piece about depression - specifically in women. It contains interviews with nationally recognized psychologists who specialize in depression. Readers will find information on how to recognize the warning signs and how to get help. A sidebar is included with this piece.

A Sleepover Survival Guide: The Rules of the Game  (Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, NE, VT, NC, PA, MD, Canada, WV, TX, MI, FL, LA, London

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

THUMBSUCKING: Beyond the Toddler Years  (Word Count: 913 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: KS, NY, OH, PA, OK, NC

This article differs from many on the subject in that it focuses ONLY on the older child. After all, this is when thumbsucking becomes the most problematic. For the school-age child or preteen who continues to suck her thumb, the habit has become a crutch. It is no longer a mere reflex. At this point in a child's development, breaking the habit will take patience, understanding and a joint effort by both the child and her parents to eliminate the prolonged habit. This article would fit well in a February issue (National Children's Dental Health Month), an issue focusing on childhood habits/behaviors or an issue focusing on "problem solving" for parents. A sidebar containing age-appropriate literature and a link to ThumbGuard™ is included.

BABY SIGNING: For Hearing Babies Too!  (Word Count: 964 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA, MT, NE

Did you know that babies are communicating their wants and needs before they reach twelve months of age? Yes, babies are "talking," not through verbal speech, but via sign language. Sign language has long been an alternative for deaf children and those who are hard of hearing. However, in the 1980s, important research on the use of sign language and the subsequent verbal language development of those infants provided a new perspective on the use of sign language with hearing babies. Studies showed that the parents of signing babies had less frustration, better communication, and a stronger parent-child bond with their infants than parents of non-signing babies. This piece includes a sidebar listing books, programs and DVDs which are available for those who would like to try "signing" with their baby.

CODDLING: When Overprotective Parenting Becomes a Hindrance  (Word Count: 1245)
Previously published in: NY, GA, OH, OK, MI, TN, PA, FL

The overprotective parent "coddles" her child when she believes that completely shielding her child from inevitable problems and disappointments is a necessary part of parenting. Subsequently, the coddled child will learn to depend on others to rescue him from life's calamities, instead of having the will and know-how to rescue himself. Coddlers step in to negotiate for their child instead of letting the child work it out for himself. They intervene, regardless of the severity of the problem, (whether it is an issue with a teacher, peer or another adult). The following experts were interviewed for the piece: Lauren Solotar, Ph.D., Chief Psychologist and Senior Vice President of clinical services with the renowned May Institute, Psychologist Erik Fisher, Ph.D., author of The Art of Managing Everyday Conflict, and Mary Ann LoFrumento, M.D., a pediatrician and creator of "Simply Parenting" (a program designed to end parents' anxieties and bring parenting back to basics).

SCRAPBOOKING: Anyone Can Do It!  (Word Count: 993 - Includes Sidebar)
Previously published in: NY, FL, GA

Remember those old photo albums your grandmother used to pull out on occasion? They contained black pages with photo mounting corners. The black and white photos were probably yellowed with age, and the inscription beneath might have been a "penciled in" date. For the most part, these albums were simply a collection of photographs - a series of snapshots from the past. What we now consider to be "scrapbooking" is the hobby of creatively arranging photos, various memorabilia and fanciful text on a page. This article is a "how-to" piece containing time-saving and money-saving tips. A sidebar is included which lists addtional resources for the hobbyist.

Taming Public Tantrums  (Word Count: 996)
Previously published in: NY, KS, GA, FL, TX

Many of us have been there. You're in aisle twenty-two of the grocery store and your toddler decides it's time to get out of the cart. When you don't oblige, she starts to scream at decibels heard by all, including the man in the bread section who dons a hearing aide. At home you have a handle on your tot's occasional tantrums. However, the public domain is another issue entirely. You would like to just ignore your child because you've developed the patience of Jobe since entering the world of parenthood, but those around you feel differently. They stare as though they've never seen a child have a tantrum. What's a parent to do?

So You've Moved...Now What?  (Word Count: 1310 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: Online, NY, GA, VT, WI, MI

Moving is as hard for kids as it is for adults - maybe even more so. It's not so much the particulars which accompany Moving Day, but the fear of the unknown once you've gotten where you're going. Many parents find that unpacking or finding a new pediatrician is the least of their worries. The best you can do is to make things as comfortable and familiar as possible for each family member. This piece differs from others on the subject of moving children in that it focuses on helping your children adjust to their new environment (or the "post" move). I've included a suggested sidebar which lists age-specific reading materials to help kids cope.

Life in a Box  (Word Count: 1079)
Previously published in: GA, NY, IA, PA, NC, NE

Most parents hope to give their son or daughter something very special for high school or college graduation. Yes, a new car or big check will garner gleeful reactions. However, a gift that takes eighteen years or more to create, and one which will last a lifetime, will be cherished more than any big ticket item. This is a how-to piece for creating a "Memory Treasure Chest" or "Memories Box" for one's child. This piece will work well in a special Baby Guide, a graduation issue, or at the holidays, when parents become acutely aware of their children growing up too fast.

The Fairness Trap  (Approximate Word Count: 1382)
Previously published in: FL, NY, GA

Once you have that second child things change immensely. All of a sudden you are thrown into a world where your children scrutinize your handling of your other children like expert sleuths investigating high profile crimes. Your kids are looking for complete fairness - equal treatment or else! This article discusses fair and equal treatment issues that all parents who have more than one child have to face.

Breaking the Cycle of Violence: Changing Attitudes About Bullying  (Word Count: 2060 - Sidebar included)
A shorter version of this piece is available.
Previously published in: IA, NC, MD, PA, GA

Children have been dealing with bullies for centuries. However, the idea that bullying is "just a part of growing up" or an inevitable condition of boyhood ("boys will be boys") is a prevailing, "laissez-faire" attitude that is slow to change. Too many school administrators are reluctant to hold perpetrators accountable, and some parents still consider bullying a part of growing up. Until parents, educators, and community leaders consider the issue of "bullying" a serious offense, children will continue to be injured physically and emotionally, bearing the negative effects of these injuries into adulthood. This piece suggests specific strategies parents, teachers and community leaders can use to diffuse this increasingly violent problem among our youth.

Helping Your Forgetful Child Remember  (Word Count: 1325)
Previously published in: ND, MI, NY, WI, IA, PA, NE, NC, FL

"Mom! I can't find my..." You fill in the blank. My daughter has been losing or forgetting SOMETHING several times a day since she has been able to pick things up and carry them off. I've recently garnered advice from the experts, hoping to encourage my daughter to become responsible for her own possessions. This article suggests that parents teach their children remembering strategies and organizational skills. The piece also offers some tips for the "morning routine" and discusses the benefits of allowing children to suffer consequences for their actions in order to become more responsible.

Support Groups For Moms  (Word Count: 1227 - Suggested Sidebar included)
Previously published in: PA, CT, NY, TN

Nine and a half years ago, I left my teaching position at a community college to stay at home full time with my newborn son. Shortly afterward, we moved out of state. I had left my family and childhood friends to move to a state where I knew no one and had no connections. I yearned for some adult company during the day - another mom to share my joys and frustrations with. That first winter, however, the only adult conversation I had during daylight hours was with the checkout clerks at the supermarket. Most moms can feed an infant on the left and balance a toddler on the right while reading the morning paper. This does not mean that moms don't need help emotionally or physically from others. "Support Groups For Moms" lists and describes a variety of national and local support groups for mothers. This piece also includes a suggested sidebar.

Raising Kids On One Salary  (Word Count: 1290)
Previously published in: GA, NY, IA, NC, AR

Many parents struggle with the question, "Can we afford to raise our kids on one salary?" The answer can be "yes." This piece lists ten reasons why living on one salary can be affordable. It is written with the intent to help parents begin to assess their fiscal future as they consider going from a one to two salary household. This article does not advocate "staying home" as the BEST choice; it only helps those who feel that it may be the RIGHT choice for their family.

When Working From Home Can Work For Your Family  (Word Count: 1490)
Previously published in: NY, GA, CT, FL, NE

When acquaintances hear that I have an office at home, the typical response is, "You're living the good life!" After all, I don't have to fight traffic each morning, spend a small fortune on hosiery, or dodge casual office gossip. Instead, I make myself a cup of coffee after dropping the kids at the bus, and head upstairs to my comfortable and cozy domain, where I have seven hours of uninterrupted work time. Yeah, right! There seems to be an increase in parents who choose to work from home, and with today's advanced technology this is becoming an easier task. Working from a "home office" can be a convenient and rewarding experience for the whole family. Creating and sticking to a reasonable work schedule that allows for flexibility is paramount to achieving a successful "home office" environment.

Decorating Chic With Kid-Friendly Practicality  (Word Count: 1440)
Previously published in: NC, CT, FL, NY, MD

Too many of my friends have postponed spending the time and money to decorate their homes because they have young children. These same friends are amazed when they visit my home because I have taken the time to decorate - and my things have miraculously survived an onslaught of play dates and birthday parties! If you have a love of objects d'art and fine furnishings, you need not put your passion for decorating on hold until your kids enter college. My article offers readers many tips for family-friendly decorating.

Volunteering In Your Child's Classroom: A Win-win Situation  (Word Count: 835)
Previously published in: CA, NY, TN, FL, IA, NE, GA

This article is based on the truly rewarding experience I have had volunteering in my children's classrooms over the years. I believe that my regular presence in school has shown my children that I care deeply about their education. My article offers ideas for parental involvement, even for those parents who work full time and cannot volunteer during school hours. It lists the many reasons why volunteering is truly beneficial for everyone involved (students, teachers and parents). It is my belief that the cooperative alliance of parents and teachers who work together as a team is a formula for success.

When Your Child Is Terrified of Dogs  (Word Count: 1018)
Previously published in: CT, FL, NY, FL

It happened when my son was about fourteen months old. We were taking our usual stroll around the neighborhood when we encountered a dog-sitter walking our neighbor's new terrier. The dog got excited and leaped into the stroller on top of my son and began to ferociously bark just inches from his face. He was not bitten, but his memory of the horrific experience would remain vivid for years to come. That day it took close to an hour to calm him down, but I would soon find that this was just the beginning of a long and painful saga. For years we were unable to visit friends who owned dogs, to have an uneventful trick or treating experience, or to go to a public beach or park without my son agonizing over the thought of having to be in close proximity to a dog. Working with your child to overcome an intense fear is never an easy task. This article gives parents ideas about how to help their child overcome his fear of dogs.

Baby-sitter Anxiety  (Word Count: 1449)
Previously published in: NC, NY, CT, GA, IA, FL

She was going to arrive in thirty minutes and the anxiety was beginning to set in. I had made a dinner reservation to celebrate my husband's birthday, and had hired a seventeen-year-old to watch my kids. This would prove to be a nerve wracking evening until I settled in at the restaurant and realized I had some precious uninterrupted time with my husband. Many parents experience anxiety when they have to leave their child in someone else's care. However, there are many things you can do to prepare yourself and your precious little one for these brief and necessary separations.

Sports Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Gymnastics: A Great Activity For Your Developing Preschooler  (Word Count: 1677)
Previously published in: D.C., NJ, CT, CA

My daughter attended preschool gymnastics classes and it proved to be a very positive experience for her. I competed in gymnastics for nine years, and, when I couldn't get the sport out of my system, I continued on as a judge for another fifteen. As a level 10 USAG rated official, I attended the National Safety Certification Course (which I mention in my article) and I traveled to many parts of the country to judge gymnasts ages six through twenty-two. I have been exposed to the sport as an athlete, a professional and a mother of a gymnast. This article discusses everything from safety to choosing the right gym.

Spring / Summer Reprint List
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Connect With Your Neighbors: Throw An Annual Block Party  (Word Count: 1100)
Previously published in: Canada, MI, NY, FL, D.C., TX

My husband and I have been part of two communities in two different states that some might say exemplify an atmosphere of "neighborhood spirit" that seems too often to be absent from communities because of today's fast-paced and hectic lifestyles. For those who wish to connect with their neighbors and become part of a "community" instead of simply being called neighbors due to proximity alone, planning an annual neighborhood party is a great way to get to know your neighbors on a personal level. This piece is divided into four sections: "Get Organized," "Get the Word Out," "Yum - Food!" and "Fun For All Ages." I suggest ideas for invitations, an "As We Grow" photo album (This is a memories scrapbook that is showcased at our parties - it's a great conversation piece!), a suggestion box and games and activities for all ages. I have photos available for this piece. A "sidebar" is included. This is a suggestion for a winter party idea (a dine-around).

Summer Fun and Training In One: CIT Programs For Teens  (Word Count: 944 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, IA, PA, NC, TN, CA, TX, FL

Many young teens consider themselves too mature to attend camp. On the other hand, their parents may believe that summer camp is still a worthwhile venture considering the alternative - just hanging out all day. There is a solution to this dilemma. Young teens can participate in a CIT (Counselor In Training) program at many camps throughout the United States. A sidebar is included with this piece (a search for accredited CIT programs - localized for your state).

Tag Sale Tips: For Families Who Want To Get Organized  (Word Count: 1220 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: IA, Canada, TX

Do you have a Fisher-Price kitchen collecting dust balls in your basement? Does your son's closet explode with a myriad of long-lost game pieces and Tonka wheels each time you open the door to put away the laundry? Maybe your garage is filled with unwanted and outgrown children's items and you can no longer park there. Guess what? It is time to plan a garage sale. This piece focuses on tips for selling children's clothing and toys. It offers advice on how to advertise and how to display and price your items. It also lists safety tips and ideas to get the kids involved. A suggested sidebar lists general tips for the tag sale enthusiast.

When Your Child Is Afraid of the Water  (Word Count: 1570)
Previously published in: D.C., CA, MI, NC, NY, CT, PA, NE, TX, FL

My son had a very difficult time learning to swim. It wasn't that he disliked being in the water. He loved to take baths and play in the swimming pool. However, he was unable to put his face in or submerge himself passed his waist. I tried a myriad of things to try to help him. Throughout my experience with my son I have spoken to many parents and swim instructors to get ideas. My article is broken up into three sections: "Prevention," "Go Slow" and "Be Positive." I believe that this piece can serve as a tool to help parents who are trying to deal with this fairly common childhood fear.

Teens / Preteens Reprint List
The following feature-length articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript. Reprints of my Lions and Tigers and Teens column are also available. Please inquire.
Living in a Material World  
(Word Count: 1490 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Our world is saturated with advertisements. It's up to parents to minimize the effects of this incessant, visual and cultural reinforcement by showing their kids that money and material possessions are not express tickets to a fulfilling life. It’s okay to enjoy nice things, but kids need to learn to have a healthy attitude about material possessions, despite the contrary message bombarding us on all fronts. I interviewed Lynne Kenney, Psy.D., a pediatric psychologist based in Scottsdale, AZ, author and founder of the social-emotional literacy program Bloom Your Room™, Arlene Silva, Ph.D., chair of the School Psychology Department at William James College in Boston, MA and Bruce Ecker, Ph.D., a licensed clinical and educational psychologist and director of the Concentration on Children and Families of Adversity and Resilience at William James College.

Don't Divorce Your Kids! The marriage may have gone awry, but your children still need their parents  
(Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Divorce can be traumatic for the children who often misinterpret events and are left feeling that they are the cause of the split. It’s imperative that parents understand what their kids are going through and how to help ease the transition and alleviate fears (e.g. loss of security, safety, control and relationships). This can be extremely difficult because the parents are experiencing their own devastation. I interviewed Marilyn Benoit, M.D., a nationally recognized psychiatrist who is senior vice president of Clinical and Professional Affairs as well as chief medical officer and chief clinical officer at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health in PA, Thomas Gagliano, M.S.W., a relationship expert, marriage counselor and author of Don’t Put Your Crap in Your Kid’s Diaper: The Clean Up Cost Can Last a Lifetime and Steve DeBenedetti-Emanuel, LMFT, a Sacramento, CA based therapist who specializes in teens and parents.

The Demise of Kindness: When and Why Bullies Rule and How to Encourage Kindness & Empathy  
(Word Count: 1546 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

All fifty states now have anti-bullying laws or policies. However, bullying is still rampant in our schools and communities. So, where are we going wrong? I interviewed Michele Borba, Ed.D., an internationally recognized expert on bullying and character development and author of UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World, Jessie Klein, Ph.D., an associate professor at Adelphi University, founder and director of Creating Compassionate Communities and author of The Bully Society: School Shootings and the Crisis of Bullying in America’s Schools, Ellen W. deLara, Ph.D., an associate professor at Syracuse University and author of Bullying Scars: The Impact on Adult Life and Relationships and Rachel Annunziato, Ph.D., a child psychologist and associate professor at Fordham University.

TV TIME: The Good, the Bad and the In-Between  
(Word Count: 1464 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

TV programming has changed immensely in the last twenty years. There are so many choices that it can make one dizzy at times. Part of the positive aspect of this change, however, is that there are plenty of quality choices available. Perhaps the quandary for parents today is not if their children should watch TV but what they should watch and how often they should tune in. I interviewed Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a licensed neuropsychologist and founder and director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C., Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center, Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, Ph.D., a New York City-based clinical psychologist and supervising psychologist for Family & Children’s Services of Nantucket, and Angela Santomero, a child development expert, TV executive producer and co-creator of the current hit, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (PBS Kids) as well as Blue’s Clues (Nick Jr.) and Super WHY! (PBS Kids).

Is there Life without Electronics?  
(Word Count: 1507 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, FL

Instead of taking advantage of the warm weather or creating an indoor carnival, many kids obsessively engage their cell phone, iPad, laptop, game console or watch marathon re-runs of SpongeBob SquarePants. Parents should encourage their kids to ditch the electronics on a regular basis and enjoy life the old-fashioned way. This may be easier said than done, due to the fact that life in general this millennium is a technological one; but it is doable – not to mention healthier – for your children no matter what their age. I interviewed Sue Scheff, a nationally recognized parenting advocate, author, and founder and president of Parents’ Universal Resource Experts Inc. (P.U.R.E.) and Lisa Strohman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, co-author of Unplug: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and founder of Technology Wellness Center.

A Dad's Deep Influence: Fathers are Important Role Models for Sons AND Daughters  
(Word Count: 1490 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A father’s influence lasts a lifetime. Children look to their fathers for strength, encouragement and support. Dads have just as much influence on their daughters - despite the gender difference - and daughters often grow up to be reflective images of their dads. Fathers are role models for both genders in many profound ways. Children learn about honesty, relationships, compassion and self-love from their dads. I interviewed Mark Morman, Ph.D., a professor of communication studies and director of graduate studies at Baylor University in TX, LeRoy E. Reese, Ph.D., a psychologist at Akoma Counseling and Consulting, Inc. in Decatur, GA and Stevan Lynn (a.k.a. Coach Lynn), producer and host of the award winning television program Dare 2 Dream: A Father’s Guide to Success, guest talk show host (WHCR 90.3 FM in NY) and founder of the Fatherhood Training Center in Bronx, NY.

The Link Between Family Stability and a Child's Success  
(Word Count: 1436 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

A stable environment provides nurturing caregivers, unconditional love, consistent discipline, and a dependable and safe living space. This secure and protective environment shapes a child’s perspective of himself and the world around him. It is the springboard that sets in motion a path to happiness and overall well-being. I interviewed Susan Kuczmarski, Ed.D., a family expert and author of several books including the award-winning Becoming A Happy Family: Pathways to the Family Soul and Gail Gross, Ph.D., Ed.D, a nationally recognized family and child development expert, author and educator.

Money Matters: Financial Literacy 101 for Kids  
(Word Count: 1456 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

Command of financial matters is much easier for those who were raised to understand the concept, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” From a very young age, kids can be taught to respect money, to budget, to save, and to spend wisely. I interviewed Lisa Chin Mollica, CEO and founder of KidCash, Gina McKague, president and CEO of McKague Financial in Michigan and Sheri Atwood, founder and CEO of SupportPay.

Family Communication and Connection in a Digital Age  
(Word Count: 1260 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CT, NC

Has the digital world morphed our communication skills into bits and bytes for the long haul? We know that texting is not going away. The ease, convenience and instantaneous response aspects of texting are just too enticing. No matter what you prefer – texting or real-time, verbal banter – it’s time to examine if this new form of communication is for better or for worse. I interviewed Rebecca Levey, a family tech expert, host of ParentingBytes (a CBS podcast exploring parenting in the digital age), and co-founder of KidzVuz as well as Heather Leneau Bragg, a learning specialist and author of the book Learning Decoded: Using Your Child’s Unique Learning Style to Improve Academic Performance.

Glued to the Screen: What every parent needs to know about video game addiction, violence and choice  
(Word Count: 1475 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

This piece discusses video game addiction, violence, and how parents can help their kids curb their addiction and monitor the types of video games they are playing. It’s not healthy for children or teens to always choose gaming over social activities. Therefore, monitoring the amount of time spent in front of the screen, as well as the types of games kids are hooked on, is essential.

Are You Raising a Leader? Encouraging Kids to Become Motivated and Confident Self-Starters  
(Word Count: 1499 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA, D.C., FL

This piece discusses how parents can encourage activities and behaviors that help kids to become leaders and develop the qualities that leaders possess. Key leadership qualities can be nurtured in children from a very young age. Leadership skills are important in any job market, and they are also deemed important qualities to highlight in college applications.

Time to Transfer? Important Tips for the College Transfer Student  
(Word Count: 1143 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, PA

Today, more and more students are finding a need to transfer from the college which was their original choice, and this process differs greatly from matriculating as a freshman. More students are also opting to complete their first two years at a local community college in order to save money on ever-increasing tuition costs. I interviewed two transfer admission specialists - one from the East Coast and one from the West Coast. Tips are universal to most schools. The SIDEBAR contains tips from students who actually went through the process.

Tips for Teens Traveling Solo  
(Word Count: 1064 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

This piece offers tips for teens who need to travel solo by plane, train, or car during the holiday season, for spring break, or to visit relatives. Advice from the following experts is included: Susan Kuczmarski, EdD, parenting expert, speaker and award-winner author and Jay Fitter, LMFT, a marriage and family therapist. I've also included tips from my son, who recently traveled solo to Europe at nineteen.

Time to Stand Up and Say...Yikes!: When Your Child Fears   (Word Count: 1111 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: GA, NY, NJ, CT, CA

Some kids think standing up in front of the class is a cinch. However, for many others, speaking in front of a room full of peers is worse than getting a tooth pulled without Novocaine. Some even flat out refuse to do it! The most common form of Social Phobia is public speaking anxiety. In addition to the emotional aspects of public speaking anxiety, there are often physical symptoms as well. This piece includes tips for parents so they can help their children through this common fear. A suggested sidebar with additional resources for students is included.

Doing Disney with Tweens and Teens   (Word Count: 1074)
Previously published in: IL

Many people think they've lost their "window of opportunity" to visit Disney World with their kids because their "older kids" are no longer anxious to be photographed with Mickey or to dine with Goofy. This is simply not the case, and why I wrote this piece. Disney World has a lot to offer the preteen and teen crowd. Yes, it is a different family experience, but one that is definitely worth it! This piece would fit well in a family travel guide, a winter travel issue when families plan warm weather vacations, or during the holidays when Disney is adorned with spectacular decorations and brimming with holiday festivities.

COLLEGE PREPARATION: Navigating the Labyrinth   (Word Count: 1150 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: PA, NY, CA, GA, NJ, NE, AL

Many students and their families find college preparation to be a daunting process. Admission to college can also be extremely competitive which often leaves students asking, "What on earth are they looking for?" In order to avoid a lot of frustration and disappointment, students should start planning for their future by eighth or ninth grade. This piece explores the kinds of things college admissions offices look for. A sidebar with additional resources is also included.

A Sleepover Survival Guide: The Rules of the Game  (Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, NE, VT, NC, PA, MD, Canada, WV, TX, MI, FL, LA, London

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

Summer Fun and Training In One: CIT Programs For Teens  (Word Count: 944 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, IA, PA, NC, TN, CA, TX, NY

Many young teens consider themselves too mature to attend camp. On the other hand, their parents may believe that summer camp is still a worthwhile venture considering the alternative - just hanging out all day. There is a solution to this dilemma. Young teens can participate in a CIT (Counselor In Training) program at many camps throughout the United States. A sidebar is included with this piece (a search for accredited CIT programs - localized for your state).

Party Planning
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Ghoulish Gatherings: Fun for All Ages  
(Word Count: 1028 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA

This piece discusses how to host a Halloween party for all age groups - including the parents! My family did this successfully for thirteen years. Tips for all aspects of the party are offered: costume contests, decorations, themes, food, music, getting the kids involved, etc.

A Sleepover Survival Guide: The Rules of the Game  (Word Count: 1500 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, NE, VT, NC, PA, MD, Canada, WV, TX, MI, FL, LA, London

Sleepovers can be overwhelming and exhausting. Let's face it. They can be a downright nightmare. It will take quite a bit of planning and forethought, but both the parent AND her child's friends can have a positive experience if the party is carefully planned before the first excited guest appears at the door. This article contains rules and tips for planning a stress free sleepover party. It also contains a list of tips JUST FOR KIDS offered BY KIDS from across the country - this is intended to be a sidebar (or "cut out" section). A recipe for a "sleepover theme" cake and a list of books and websites offering additional ideas is also included with the piece.

Connect With Your Neighbors: Throw An Annual Block Party  (Word Count: 1100)
Previously published in: Canada, MI, NY, FL, D.C., TX

My husband and I have been part of two communities in two different states that some might say exemplify an atmosphere of "neighborhood spirit" that seems too often to be absent from communities because of today's fast-paced and hectic lifestyles. For those who wish to connect with their neighbors and become part of a "community" instead of simply being called neighbors due to proximity alone, planning an annual neighborhood party is a great way to get to know your neighbors on a personal level. This piece is divided into four sections: "Get Organized," "Get the Word Out," "Yum - Food!" and "Fun For All Ages." I suggest ideas for invitations, an "As We Grow" photo album (This is a memories scrapbook that is showcased at our parties - it's a great conversation piece!), a suggestion box and games and activities for all ages. I have photos available for this piece. A "sidebar" is included. This is a suggestion for a winter party idea (a dine-around).

Holidays
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Ghoulish Gatherings: Fun for All Ages  
(Word Count: 1028 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, CA

This piece discusses how to host a Halloween party for all age groups - including the parents! My family did this successfully for thirteen years. Tips for all aspects of the party are offered: costume contests, decorations, themes, food, music, getting the kids involved, etc.

DON'T SPRINT TO THE HOLIDAYS: Schedule a Holiday Break Day  (Word Count: 657)
Previously published in: NC, NY, FL

This piece blends humor, reality and tips about how to take a breath during the frenzy of the holiday season. Along with the regular work day and ensuing jaunts to karate, gymnastics and clarinet lessons, most are also attending holiday concerts, holiday plays and holiday parties. Once you figure in time to shop, wrap, bake, clean and send holiday cards (oh...you're not doing that?), you have exactly two hours left in your day for sleep - brushing teeth not included! This is a great "holiday filler" piece.

Too Fickle for Resolutions? Teens Change Focus in the New Year
 (Word Count: 835 - Besides "Tips and Tales" there is an additional sidebar included)
Previously published in: This is a Lions and Tigers and Teens column reprint.

Is it more difficult for teens to keep their New Year’s promise? After all, this is the crowd that quickly ditched Facebook for Twitter and Aeropostale for Forever 21. Can parents help their teens find resolutions that are successful, or is this a pipe dream considering many parents can’t stick to their own? This article offers ways parents can help teens stick to positive resolutions.

Splitting Time, Not Headaches, at the Holidays  (Word Count: 791 - This includes "Tips and Tales" sidebar)
Previously published in: This is a Lions and Tigers and Teens column reprint.

The holidays can be stressful, and teens often feel the stress, too. On top of the typical shopping, wrapping, and baking, concerts and holiday get-togethers are likely in the mix. In the midst of this frenzied schedule, you have to also be sure that you haven’t dissed anyone by not finding time to connect. Matters can become even more complicated due to divorce or problems with in-laws. It’s best not to leave decisions for the last minute when it concerns where your teens (and you) will be spending time during the holiday season.

Teens and the Gift of Giving  (Word Count: 797 - This includes "Tips and Tales" sidebar)
Previously published in: This is a Lions and Tigers and Teens column reprint.

The holidays are a great time for teens to give, not only to friends and family, but to their favorite charity. Your teen will likely get more out of the act of “giving” than the person receiving the gift. However, if mom does the purchasing, this is not the case. Teens need to do the giving themselves, even if funds are running low. This article discusses creative ways teens can offer meaningful gifts to those they care about.

Holiday Chores Your Teen Won't Grouse About  (Word Count: 781 - This includes "Tips and Tales" sidebar)
Previously published in: This is a Lions and Tigers and Teens column reprint.

In order to avoid the typical exasperated sigh which is usually accompanied by the shameful “I’m busy” response, assign chores your teen will actually enjoy doing. This article offers creative ideas to encourage your teen to get involved in the holiday preparations and lighten your load.

Happy Holidays...or are they?  (Word Count: 794 - This includes "Tips and Tales" sidebar)
Previously published in: This is a Lions and Tigers and Teens column reprint.

When our kids were young it was easy. The anticipation of rich chocolate desserts and time off from school to go sledding was all it took to keep them grounded. Once adolescence strikes, they suddenly get a severe case of ants in their pants. If there is a boyfriend or girlfriend in the picture, the inclination to spend the holidays somewhere else is probably more intense. Despite her preoccupation with friends and crushes, holiday traditions and family rituals are more important to your teen than you might think. This article offers expert advice and tips to keep your teens interested in spending time with the family.

Women Only
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Top of the Second: Column for Women 40+  (Word Count: 650 to 800)
Previously published in: D.C., MD, MS, NY

Column installments cover issues 40+. Installments include a mix of personal anecdotes (often with a humorous bent) and interviews with experts who discuss a broad variety of topics which concern women experiencing the second half of their lives. Topics include a wealth of issues specifically affecting women or with a woman’s perspective, such as heart health, relationships with grown children, sex after 50, perimenopause, stress triggers in mid-life, and much more. Editors should solicit a list of completed column installments.

Depression and Women: Getting the Help You Need  (Word Count: 1596 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY, MD, NH, MS

A huge number of our mothers, sisters, and female friends are silently suffering from depression. That's because depression is hard to talk about. Frequently, women who suffer from depression perceive their plight as a necessary part of womanhood. This is a comprehensive piece about depression - specifically in women. It contains interviews with nationally recognized psychologists who specialize in depression. Readers will find information on how to recognize the warning signs and how to get help. A sidebar is included with this piece.

SCRAPBOOKING: Anyone Can Do It!  (Word Count: 993 - Includes Sidebar)
Previously published in: NY, FL, GA

Remember those old photo albums your grandmother used to pull out on occasion? They contained black pages with photo mounting corners. The black and white photos were probably yellowed with age, and the inscription beneath might have been a "penciled in" date. For the most part, these albums were simply a collection of photographs - a series of snapshots from the past. What we now consider to be "scrapbooking" is the hobby of creatively arranging photos, various memorabilia and fanciful text on a page. This article is a "how-to" piece containing time-saving and money-saving tips. A sidebar is included which lists addtional resources for the hobbyist.

Moms Weigh In On Morning Rush Hour  (Word Count: 1360)
Previously published in: IA, CA, CT, NC, VA, VT, NY, MD, NY

It probably takes the average elementary school age child fifteen minutes to wash up and get dressed (full shower not included). However, on a typical school morning, my children are not focused. They are playing with the dog, arguing about who gets the computer first when they return home, or splashing in the sink water and staring at themselves in the mirror. This piece contains tips about how to organize stressful mornings and to motivate the kids to get out to the bus on time. Over 100 moms from twenty states participated.

Support Groups For Moms  (Word Count: 1227 - Suggested Sidebar included)
Previously published in: PA, CT, NY, TN

Nine and a half years ago, I left my teaching position at a community college to stay at home full time with my newborn son. Shortly afterward, we moved out of state. I had left my family and childhood friends to move to a state where I knew no one and had no connections. I yearned for some adult company during the day - another mom to share my joys and frustrations with. That first winter, however, the only adult conversation I had during daylight hours was with the checkout clerks at the supermarket. Most moms can feed an infant on the left and balance a toddler on the right while reading the morning paper. This does not mean that moms don't need help emotionally or physically from others. "Support Groups For Moms" lists and describes a variety of national and local support groups for mothers. This piece also includes a suggested sidebar.

The Accidental Breakfast Club  (Word Count: 753)
Previously published in: NY, TX, PA, WA, NC, Canada, CT, VT, IA, TN, CA

This essay reflects on the emotions I experienced when I sent my youngest child off to kindergarten. Most moms are surprised by the intense emotions they experience when they send their youngest to school full time. You expect to feel a sense of loss when the youngest goes off to college, but no one prepares you for the "first empty nest syndrome." This article is a perfect fit for a "back-to-school" issue, but it would also work well with a "mom's view" or similar column.

Travel
The following articles are available for reprint. Please contact me for complete manuscript.
Tips for Teens Traveling Solo  
(Word Count: 1064 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: NY

This piece offers tips for teens who need to travel solo by plane, train, or car during the holiday season, for spring break, or to visit relatives. Advice from the following experts is included: Susan Kuczmarski, EdD, parenting expert, speaker and award-winner author and Jay Fitter, LMFT, a marriage and family therapist. I've also included tips from my son, who recently traveled solo to Europe at nineteen.

Sailing the Seas WITH the Kids   (Word Count: 1371 - Sidebar included)
Previously published in: TX

Most cruise lines today offer something for everyone. While Grandma plays bingo, Mom and Dad can attend a wine tasting and the kids can go rock climbing. Even if folks have cruised before, there are some things they should familiarize themselves with before they take the kids along. This piece offers numerous tips for cruising with the entire family and would make a great addition to a travel pull-out section or to a winter issue when many are thinking of travel plans. There is a suggested sidebar included.

Doing Disney with Tweens and Teens   (Word Count: 1074)
Previously published in: IL

Many people think they've lost their "window of opportunity" to visit Disney World with their kids because their "older kids" are no longer anxious to be photographed with Mickey or to dine with Goofy. This is simply not the case, and why I wrote this piece. Disney World has a lot to offer the preteen and teen crowd. Yes, it is a different family experience, but one that is definitely worth it! This piece would fit well in a family travel guide, a winter travel issue when families plan warm weather vacations, or during the holidays when Disney is adorned with spectacular decorations and brimming with holiday festivities.

Columns



Click to read samples:
What's that Thing?
Understanding Perimenopause



TOP OF THE SECOND launched in June 2015. This column addresses issues for women 40+. Installments include a mix of personal anecdotes (often with a humorous bent) and interviews with experts who discuss a broad variety of topics which concern women experiencing the second half of their lives. Topics include a wealth of issues specifically affecting women or with a woman’s perspective, such as heart health, relationships with grown children, sex after 50, perimenopause, stress triggers in mid-life, and much more.




Click to read samples:
The Lockout
The Truth, the Whole Truth...



LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS is an advice column for parents of teenagers. It blends humor and practical ideas for parents trying to survive their child's teen years. Topics address typical "issues" that parents with teens are often faced with (e.g. learning to drive, boyfriend/girlfriend issues, back talk, college search navigation, lying, privacy issues, and so much more).

This column was published in parenting magazines across the U.S. from June 2009 through September 2014.

EDITORS: Complete lists of available column installments for both Lions and Tigers and Teens and Top of the Second are available. REQUEST LIST.

Contact Writer
Please contact Myrna regarding her columns via e-mail at myrnahaskell@gmail.com
      
 
  
Feedback
READERS:

Thanks to all of the parents who sent tips in for the Lions and Tigers and Teens column since its inception in June 2009! The final Lions and Tigers and Teens column appeared in issues in September 2014. Past columns are available for reprint. Please contact Myrna if you would like to peruse the column list.

Readers: Please let Myrna know if a tip from one of her columns has helped you, or if you'd like to suggest a topic for a future feature or installment of Top of the Second (her new column).

First Name*: 
Last Name*: 
Email*: 
Town or City*: 
State*: 
Telephone: 
Advice: (250 Word Maximum)
 
 
* Required Fields
Reviews
About LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS:
Expert Advice and support for the conscientious parent just like you...

"Myrna Haskell has provided excellent tips and resources that can help parents better understand the various stages of a teenager and how to deal with the pain and anxiety that comes with raising one. Haskell has 30 chapters cleverly titled for quick reference if parents are looking for specific help. Haskell has developed a keen insight, being a parent herself, on what information would most help parents who need it. Expert opinions and advice are presented along with "Tips and Tales" from parents who share their personal experiences in regards to handling their teens pertaining to the topics listed in the chapters. There is a lot of useful information that Haskell shares, and she offers her own humorous insight on what it's like to raise a teen."

  • Kristi Bernard ~ reviewer for BookPleasures.com

Click HERE for more...

About Myrna's Appearances...

"Myrna Haskell was the guest speaker at our Taconic Region Parent Teacher Association Spring Conference held in May 2012. Myrna presented several excerpts from her recently published book, LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS, which included ways to keep in touch with your teens and middle schoolers and suggestions on how one can be involved in the PTA. The entire audience was captivated by her charismatic personality and her words of experience and wisdom. Several attendees approached me after the conference to say they really enjoyed Myrna's presentation and were interested in having her speak at their schools."

  • Linda Witherwax ~ New York State Taconic Region PTA Director

Click HERE for more...

 
About LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS: (The Syndicated Column)...

"Myrna Beth Haskell's column has been a great asset to our magazine. We receive wonderful feedback from our readers who look forward to her insightful contribution each month. Rather than giving stock answers regarding the challenges parents face when raising teens, Haskell always digs deeper. With the help of knowledgeable experts in the field, she provides real solutions parents can use."

  • Jillian Melnyk ~ editor of Genesee Valley Parent Magazine, Pittsford, NY

Click HERE for more...

General Reviews of Myrna's Work...

"In the eight years I have worked with Myrna, I could always depend on her to be thorough, professional and a notch above the rest. She is the kind of writer editors love: her columns are always completed on time, they require few edits, and they are a pleasure to read. She made my job easier!"

  • Leah Black ~ writer and former editor of Hudson Valley Parent magazine

Click HERE for more...

Book Reviews

"Lions and Tigers and Teens is a collection of enlightening and often times humorous stories about the trials and rewards of raising teens. As a mother of four, ages 9-21, I greatly appreciate the insight her stories bring. The Tips and Tales at the end of each chapter are also a wonderful addition to the book, helping parents learn from others who have faced the same issues. One of my favorite stories (and I have many) is No Jacket Required. I have faced the war of the jacket numerous times and reading this story was like reading a page from my life. I even laughed as the conversation between parent and teen sounded like my own. I applaud the author in her efforts to assist parents with the everyday challenges teens bring and for the reminder that being a parent, although difficult at times, is truly a gift. I highly recommend picking up a copy of Lions and Tigers and Teens." Click HERE for complete review.

  • Stacie Theis ~ author and reviewer at BeachBoundBooks.com

"Buy two copies of Haskell's enlightening title - one to read now and the other to give your offspring. The ground that is expertly covered over the course of 30 chapters - coupled with been there/done that tips and advice from other parents - begs only one question: when is she going to write the next one?" Click HERE for complete review.

  • Christina Hamlett ~ author, screenwriter and reviewer

"Myrna Haskell has provided excellent tips and resources that can help parents better understand the various stages of a teenager and how to deal with the pain and anxiety that comes with raising one. Haskell has 30 chapters cleverly titled for quick reference if parents are looking for specific help. Haskell has developed a keen insight, being a parent herself, on what information would most help parents who need it. Expert opinions and advice are presented along with "Tips and Tales" from parents who share their personal experiences in regards to handling their teens pertaining to the topics listed in the chapters. There is a lot of useful information that Haskell shares, and she offers her own humorous insight on what it's like to raise a teen." Click HERE for complete review.

  • Kristi Bernard ~ reviewer for BookPleasures.com

"Myrna Haskell writes an essential read for parents of teens. This is a wise and wonderful book that will change the way you think about your teenager. Each chapter is packed with insightful descriptions and smart no-nonsense strategies, suggestions, and solutions."

  • Susan Kuczmarski, EdD ~ parenting expert and author of The Sacred Flight of the Teenager: A Parent's Guide to Stepping Back and Letting Go

"Are you wondering if your teen is ready to stay home alone? Myrna Beth Haskell's new book, LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS offers some excellent advice to help you decide when your teen is ready. The book is a compilation of some of Haskell's popular columns for parenting teens and includes several installments that have never been published. As a parent, I've learned a lot from reading Haskell's columns about raising teens because they are well-researched."

  • Odile Fredericks ~ web editor of Carolina Parent Magazine

"I find LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS very helpful and entertaining."

  • Beth Shugg ~ associate editor of Carolina Parent Magazine

"Another worthwhile read is LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS by Myrna Beth Haskell. Taken from her popular, syndicated column, this collection of essays is coupled with comments from her readers, real-life moms and dads. It's a good mix of humor, advice, and observation."

  • Alexandra MacAaron ~ blogger, "Lovin' the Alien"

"Myrna Haskell's book, LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS, is the answer to every parent's teen angst. With advice from top-notch experts, a friendly tone, and stories from other parents all over the country, it's a must-read for any parent with tweens or teens."

  • Sarah Burningham ~ author of How to Raise Your Parents and Boyology

Myrna's Appearances

"Myrna joined us at the Hyde Park Library as our January 2013 guest author. She led an insightful, lively and humorous discussion about navigating the wonderfully challenging world of parenting teens. The discussion focused on teens and privacy: theirs as well as yours. Myrna is an engaging guest, and I highly recommend her for library visits!"

  • Anne Jordan ~ Assistant Adult Program Coordinator, Hyde Park Free Library

"It was a pleasure having Myrna as a guest on RedPlum's Viva la Value online radio. Her enthusiasm and liveliness toward parenting was not only engaging, but also very inspiring to our listeners and the RedPlum community. Myrna has a unique ability to connect her parenting expertise with her first-hand experience as a mother, which makes Myrna not only credible but also extremely relatable to her audience."

  • Lisa Reynolds ~ RedPlum's Mom Saver-in-Chief and host of "Viva La Value," The RedPlum Radio Show

"I listened to the Viva La Value show and am confident in saying that this was by far one of our best interviews. You and Lisa Reynolds discussed a bunch of great topics that listeners can use in their everyday life, and I'm sure they appreciated it just as much as I did."

  • Nicole Shepard ~ Associate for Pan Communications, Boston, MA

"Myrna Haskell was the guest speaker at our Taconic Region Parent Teacher Association Spring Conference held in May 2012. Myrna presented several excerpts from her recently published book, LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS, which included ways to keep in touch with your teens and middle schoolers and suggestions on how one can be involved in the PTA. The entire audience was captivated by her charismatic personality and her words of experience and wisdom. Several attendees approached me after the conference to say they really enjoyed Myrna's presentation and were interested in having her speak at their schools."

  • Linda Witherwax ~ New York State Taconic Region PTA Director

I am available for speaking engagements, seminars, and book signings.
Please e-mail me for more information at: myrnahaskell@hvc.rr.com
Column Reviews

"STIC Magazine is honored to have Myrna Haskell share her educational tips on teenagers. From texting to safe driving tips, these are all important topics that are shared in a lighthearted way - a personal touch, but also a matter of fact style that could change lives."

  • Stephanie Harris Dixon ~ publisher of STIC Magazine, Raleigh, NC

"Myrna Beth Haskell's insightful columns on teenage life (and our parental response to it) give a leg up to all those struggling with the often-nonsensical behavior of adolescents. Her wise and reasoned advice covers the gamut from small (their refusing to wear a coat outside in cold weather) to large issues (driving safely) and offers a welcome patch of sanity to parents.

  • Abigail Gary ~ editor of About Our Children, Teaneck, NJ

"Baby and child development articles are abundant in most of the parenting magazines, but advice about teens is more limited. Enter, "Lions, Tigers and Teens," a column by Myrna Beth Haskell. One story in particular was very helpful: "No More Cooties! When Your Teen is Attracted to the Opposite Sex". Haskell is very insightful with her observations of teens and also how to help parents be parents and not best friends. There is always a balance of humor and respect as she gives advice to parents."

  • Maria Hoskins ~ Public Information Officer, Dutchess BOCES (Boards of Cooperative Educational Services for New York State)

"Myrna Haskell offers invaluable advice with wit and wisdom. It may seem simple or impossible when Haskell suggests, "listen to your teens," while inside you are screaming, "What? Oh no!" Haskell will help you become calm and focused because she is a good listener and adviser for anyone who has teenage children or who works with them."

  • Mary Leonard ~ associate of the Institute for Writing and Thinking (Bard College), literacy specialist, and author of The Sweet and Low Down (a collection of poetry).

"Myrna Beth Haskell's column has been a great asset to our magazine. We receive wonderful feedback from our readers who look forward to her insightful contribution each month. Rather than giving stock answers regarding the challenges parents face when raising teens, Haskell always digs deeper. With the help of knowledgeable experts in the field, she provides real solutions parents can use."

  • Jillian Melnyk ~ editor of Genesee Valley Parent Magazine, Pittsford, NY

"Myrna Haskell's "Lions and Tigers and Teens" column gives just the kind of help and advice that parents need when dealing with the problems of teen-age children. Using the findings of noted psychologists, Haskell gives common-sense answers to the questions that any parent of a teen-ager might ask. She writes in a breezy, cheerful, and easy-to-understand manner that makes her a favorite among readers."

  • Eugene Mirabelli, Ph.D. ~ author of The Goddess in Love with a Horse and other novels, co-founder and former treasurer of Alternative Literary Programs in the Schools (ALPS), and professor emeritus.

"Myrna Haskell's articles are a big hit with our readers! They provide detailed information in a comfortable way that allows our readers to enjoy them and not just be informed. I highly recommend her for any newspaper, magazine, web blog or book."

  • Andrew P. Reynolds ~ owner of The People's Press, Wallingford, CT

"As a high school counselor, I loved your article in the May edition of our local parenting magazine, "Sprint to the Finish". I loved it so much that I would like to add it to my school web page for parents to read. Many thanks for your words!"

  • Ryan P. Teeter, M.S. Ed. ~ school counselor, Rush-Henrietta Senior High School, Rochester area, NY

General Reviews

"In the eight years I have worked with Myrna, I could always depend on her to be thorough, professional and a notch above the rest. She is the kind of writer editors love: her columns are always completed on time, they require few edits, and they are a pleasure to read. She made my job easier!"

  • Leah Black ~ writer and former editor of Hudson Valley Parent magazine

"I recently did an interview with a very cool journalist, Myrna Haskell, who has a parenting column that runs in 10 different states. Myrna was wonderful to work with - smart, clear questions, professional manner and timing. So rarely do I get any follow up, but she actually let me know when the article was up."

  • Sarah Burningham ~ author of Boyology: A Teen Girl's Crash Course in All Things Boy and How to Raise Your Parents: A Teen Girl's Survival Guide

"Myrna is a conscientious writer who provides timely and on-time information to help parents of teens and tweens. She covers topics that are of concern to parents in a light and lively manner, incorporating interviews and information from experts."

  • Crickett Gibbons ~ editor of Carolina Parent Magazine, Durham, NC

"Myrna Beth Haskell is one of my favorite interviewers because she not only accurately reports the advice I give to parents, but she places my words in an engaging and entertaining format. She is a true professional."

  • Mary Ann LoFrumento, MD, FAAP ~ pediatrician and author of the Simply Parenting childcare series

"Your writing is just wonderful! The depression and women piece is a great article and certainly an important subject."

  • Deborah Serani, Psy.D. ~ author of the award winning blog, "Dr. Deb" and technical advisor for the NBC television show Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

Book
 
LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS:
Expert advice and support for the conscientious parent just like you
 
(Publisher: Unlimited Publishing LLC - http://www.unlimitedpublishing.com)
 

"I applaud the author in her efforts to assist parents with the everyday challenges teens bring and for the reminder that being a parent, although difficult at times, is truly a gift. I highly recommend picking up a copy of Lions and Tigers and Teens."

~ Stacie Theis, reviewer at BeachBoundBooks.com

"Myrna Haskell has provided excellent tips and resources that can help parents better understand the various stages of a teenager and how to deal with the pain and anxiety that comes with raising one."

~ Kristi Bernard, reviewer for BookPleasures.com

"This is a wise and wonderful book that will change the way you think about your teenager."

~ Susan Kuczmarski, EdD, parenting expert and author of The Sacred Flight of the Teenager

   BUY THE BOOK: Click HERE
   IN THE MEDIA: Click HERE
   AUTHOR APPEARANCES: Click HERE
 
ABOUT THE BOOK

This book is a compilation of the best installments of Myrna's popular, syndicated column, Lions and Tigers and Teens. It is a great read for parents of teens, teachers, siblings, grandparents... or anyone who interacts with today's youth. Included are several installments that have never before been published.

Readers will explore a lighthearted journey through the ups and downs of raising teenagers and will garner serious, practical advice, brimming with tips from dozens of experts in the field. In addition, real-life lessons from more than 100 everyday parents and teens are shared, illustrating what works in practice, as well as theory.

The book covers a wide range of universal topics that parents of teenagers face, such as how to handle a teen's first time behind the wheel, how to deal with lying, setting and enforcing curfews, and many more issues commonly faced by teens and those who care for them.

 
AUTHOR APPEARANCES
 
LIVE AUTHOR APPEARANCES: Upcoming Locations & Dates
At this time, there are no upcoming events scheduled.
 
WEB TV & RADIO APPEARANCES:
May 8, 2017 - Motherhood TV
"Time Management for Busy Moms" LISTEN

Host: Dr. Christina Hibbert
January 30, 2017 - Motherhood Radio
"Parenting Teens" LISTEN

Host: Dr. Christina Hibbert
November 6, 2012 - KFUN/KLVF, 1230 AM, New Mexico
"Writer's Block" LISTEN

Host: Sharon Vander Meer
October 17 & 18, 2012 - WNBNetworkWest.com: Online Radio & TV
"The Authors Show"" LISTEN

Host: Don McCauley
August 22, 2012 - BlogTalk Radio
"Viva la Value" (The RedPlum Radio Show) LISTEN

Host: Lisa Reynolds, Vice President of Consumer Engagement
 
PAST CONFERENCES, SEMINARS, BOOK SIGNINGS:
Arthur S. May E.S. PTA - Guest Speaker & Book Signing
F.D. Roosevelt H.S. Freshman Orientation - Book Signing/Meet & Greet
Haviland Middle School - Guest Speaker & Book Signing
Hyde Park Free Library - Bullying Seminar
Junior League of Central Westchester - Leadership Seminar - R.E.A.L. Girls Academy
National Charity League - Leadership Seminar & Book Signing
Pleasant Valley Free Library - Book Signing
Taconic Region PTA Annual Conference - Keynote Speaker
For more information about Myrna's seminars, book signings, and other speaking engagements, click HERE
 
BUY THE BOOK
 
TO BUY A COPY OF LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS:

To reserve a signed copy and for more information, please send an e-mail:  myrnahaskell@hvc.rr.com

To order a copy directly from the publisher's printer, please click HERE

To order a copy from Amazon.com, please click HERE

 
IN THE MEDIA
 
Web TV
Motherhood TV: "Time Management for Busy Moms with Dr. Christina Hibbert"
 
On The Radio
Motherhood Radio: "Parenting Teens with Dr. Christina Hibbert"
Online Radio: "The Author's Show"
KFUN/KLVF, New Mexico: "Writer's Block"
RedPlum Radio Show: "Viva la Value"
 
In Print: About My Book
Poughkeepsie Journal: December 16, 2012
FAMILY Magazine New Jersey: October 2012
UAlbany Magazine ("Authors & Editors"): Fall 2012
Carolina Parent Magazine: September 2012
The Lincoln Eagle: XXXV June/July 2012
 
Online Interviews and Reviews
February 9, 2017 - JOURNALIST SPOTLIGHT:  "PR Newswire": by Maria Perez
August 6, 2013 - BOOK REVIEW:  "BeachBoundBooks": by Stacie Theis
June 14, 2013 - AUTHOR INTERVIEW:  "One Writer's Journey": by Penny Lockwood Ehrenkranz
May 27, 2013 - AUTHOR INTERVIEW:  "Beach Bound Books": by Stacie Theis
March 29, 2013 - FEATURED IN BLOG POST:  "Sue Scheff's Blog": Books, Websites, Resources and More!
February 20, 2013 - AUTHOR INTERVIEW:  "Author Spotlight": by Morgen Bailey
January 17, 2013 - AUTHOR INTERVIEW:  "Conversations with Today's Authors": by Christina Hamlett
September 21, 2012 - AUTHOR INTERVIEW:  "Sylvia Browder's Blog for Women Entrepreneurs"
September 16, 2012 - FEATURED AUTHOR:  "The Neophyte Writer": Kristi Bernard's Blog
September 2, 2012 - BOOK REVIEW:  "Book Pleasures": Reviewer, Kristi Bernard
July 16, 2012 - AUTHOR INTERVIEW:  "A Place for Writers": Blog by Julie Jordan
June 21, 2012 - BOOK REVIEW:  "Lovin' the Alien": Blog by Alexandra MacAaron
 
Quoted as Parenting Expert Elsewhere
Salem Gazette: December 2013
Rockford Parent: September 2013
 
Column Reprints

LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS debuted in June 2009. The final installment appeared in magazines in September 2014. At its peak, it ran in 20 states and had a circulation of approximately 500,000. Reprints of Lions and Tigers and Teens are being sold for a reduced fee. All installments have been updated and contain current information.

Editors should inquire about reprints at: myrnahaskell@hvc.rr.com.

 
A FEW SELECTED COLUMNS (For a complete list, please send an email.):
 
MAY 2011: "Sprint to the Finish" View Entire Text
*Topic: Helping your teen stay focused at the end of the school year
APRIL 2011: "Teen Esteem" View Entire Text
*Topic: Helping your teen develop a positive self image
OCTOBER 2010: "The Truth, the Whole Truth...Well, sort of" View Entire Text
*Topic: What to tell your teens about your past.
SEPTEMBER 2010: "College Search Navigation: Don't Get Bogged Down in the Mire" View Entire Text
*Topic: How to begin and organize the tedious process of college searches.
AUGUST 2010: "Say Whaat?" View Entire Text
*Topic: Teens and back talk - what to do.
JULY 2010: "The Permit" View Entire Text
*Topic: Driving with your teen for the first time.
NOVEMBER 2009: "Talk to the Friends" View Entire Text
*Topic: What to do when you don't care for the new friend/set of friends your teen has.
OCTOBER 2009: "The Lockout" View Entire Text
*Topic: Staying involved in your teen's school when he doesn't want you around anymore.
Awards
 

Bronze Award: News Feature (Parenting Media Association, 2018)

Bronze Award for "Cursive Comeback" published in Manhattan Family and Brooklyn Family (New York Parenting Media) - "News Feature" category at the PMA Annual Design and Editorial Competition. The University of Missouri's School of Journalism oversaw the judging. PMA publications are located throughout the United States, Canada and Australia.

 

50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading: Contest Winner (The Authors Show, 2013)

Lions and Tigers and Teens: Expert advice and support for the conscientious parent just like you (Unlimited Publishing LLC) won a reader choice award and was featured in the 2013-2014 edition of 50 Great Writers You Should be Reading (TheAuthorsShow.com).

Leadership and Community Service Award (Hyde Park Central Schools, 2013)

A service award presented by Hyde Park Central School District - Hyde Park, NY

 

NYS Taconic Region Leadership Award (NYS Taconic Region PTA, 2009)

A leadership award presented by the Taconic Region PTA for outstanding leadership as Haviland Middle School PTA President.

 

Vermont State Service Award (USA Gymnastics, 1998)

A service award presented by USA Gymnastics for outstanding service in the sport of gymnastics - State of Vermont.