Tragedies like the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT evoke many emotions—sadness, helplessness, anger, confusion, and anxiety. Children may wonder if their home, school, and community are safe, although they may not necessarily verbalize their concerns. Parents and caregivers can help children understand these concerns by allowing them to ask questions and […]
children
Top 10 Toys for Infants and Young Children
In the spirit of the upcoming holidays, here is a top 10 list for Infants and Young Children from the blog of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), found here. Here’s My Top 10 Toy Ideas for Infants! 1. Measuring cups and spoons to shake, rattle, and roll 2. Plastic containers to stack, […]
Helping Young Children Through Stressful Times
Authored by Pat Holmes, Family & Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension Educator Causes of stress for children come from both positive and negative experiences in their lives such as starting school or day care, a birthday party, birth of a new sibling, camping out for the first time, separation/divorce of a parent, change […]
Before You Buy Toys
Whether you plan to purchase toys for a holiday or another special occasion here are some things to consider before you buy: Age and Development of the Child Of course you want the child to enjoy the toy. Toys may be marked as to appropriate ages for that toy, but what if you are not […]
When News Frightens Children
Child development and parent educators say that news coverage of events like the mass shooting at a movie theatre in Colorado can frighten children and trigger fears about their own safety. CYFERnet Parent/Family Editorial Board offers suggestions on ways to support children dealing with their fears. The following link offers resources to help you and […]
Being a Grandparent
Being a Grandparent is a special milestone in life. The joys of sharing time and interests with grandchildren give them self assurance. The Search Institute identifies several traits that children need to be successful in life, called assets. What are assets? In short, they are the skills and values children need to overcome troubles and […]