AJ_Watt/E+/Getty Images If using the public restroom with your kid always causes a full-blown meltdown — thanks, extra loud hand dryers and violently flushing toilets — then you’re probably familiar with overstimulation. That tearful, shut-down, get-me-out-of-here state can look a little different for every child, but regardless of how it presents, you should know what to do when your child is overstimulated. The good news is that all kids can learn to cope, and there are ways to lessen the impact of overstimulation for neurodiverse kids who could benefit from a little extra support. What does overstimulation look like in...
Redditors Share The Worst Children's Books They've Ever Read
aldomurillo/E+/Getty Images Before I had kids, there were some things I was so excited to share with them. Family hikes, museums, theater, and, of course, books. Before they were even born, I stocked their little shelves with plenty of Mo Willems, Sandra Boynton, Anna Dewdney, Dr. Seuss, and Beatrix Potter. As soon as they were old enough to write their name we went to the library to get cards and, to this day, go at least once a week to bring home a fresh haul. But just because books in general are amazing, magical things does not mean that there...
In Defense Of The Needy Friend
Hinterhaus Productions/DigitalVision/Getty Images A few years ago, a friend of mine was going through a really hard time. She was a single mother with two young kids and was struggling financially. Then, she went through a bad breakup with her boyfriend. There were mornings when she’d call me before six crying. She had a hard time keeping her mind off things, and couldn’t stand down time. She had to be constantly busy, and would call me constantly, even if I didn’t pick up. It got to be too much and I told her I needed space from the friendship. Looking...
I Make Things As Easy As Possible For My Husband When I'm Out Of Town
Giselleflissak/E+/Getty Images My to-do lists before leaving for a trip — even when my three kids and husband aren’t going — are always overwhelming. There are usually a few things like “buy travel deodorant” or “order dress from Old Navy,” but it’s the list of tasks that will make things easier for everyone while I’m gone that really get me. You know, the things like “put girls’ soccer socks and jerseys together” and “make sure hair ties are with hair brush” and “place grocery order for school snacks and yogurt.” No, I’m not leaving my kids with a nanny who doesn’t...