(Intro: As I’m working on the process of revamping my website, I’m beginning a new blog series: Simple Ways to Connect with Your Teen. Some, and likely – many, of the suggestions in this series will be just as doable and helpful with younger kids. But my driving focus of Read more…
These poignant words from a great 20th century philosopher have never been more true: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while… You could miss it!” – Ferris Bueller, 1986 Our lives are made up of an ongoing series of moments. How many Read more…
Sometimes, you’re just hanging on, aren’t you? Life seemed safe and easy until you took that Big Leap. Or maybe something Big came along and scared you, so you retreated to what you thought was a safe place. Or you were just enjoying life right where you were until a Read more…
Play Games Together There are so many great options available for really fun gaming experiences together as a family. Classic board games, such as Monopoly, Life, Clue, Risk, etc. have stood the test of time for a reason. So many new board games are really delightful, such as Catan, Smallworld, Read more…
Over the past three to five years, I have seen a dramatic rise in social anxiety struggles as a reason teens are coming to see me in my counseling practice. This social anxiety commonly shows up in two intertwined ways in their lives: struggles with self-doubt / negative self image Read more…
Come mothers and fathers Throughout the land And don’t criticize What you can’t understand Your sons and your daughters Are beyond your command Your old road is rapidly agin’ Please get out of the new one If you can’t lend your hand For the times they are a-changin’ – Bob Read more…
The pandemic has lingered on for months and months and months – about a year now, actually! WOW!!! To say it has brought many layers of changes to our everyday lives is an understatement. And things just haven’t “gone back to normal.” Who knows how “normal” things will ever be Read more…
How much has family life has changed since today’s parents of teens were teenagers ourselves? Ummmm…TONS! One of the huge changes I’ve really been noticing lately in my own family is how many different digital calendars and virtual spaces are represented by just the three people in my house – Read more…
Never in my years do I recall seeing and hearing such a widespread and overwhelming display of fireworks as we experienced around the globe on New Year’s Eve this year! Beginning a new year usually brings to mind a fresh start. But this year, it meant even more. Last year Read more…
As we get ready to start another school year with our families, I want to share a personal and professional encouragement with you on something that can really revolutionize your family life: exercising regularly with your teen. My son started running on the cross country team at his school two Read more…