#MomLife

When young children feel emotions, it can be strong, and it can feel physically uncomfortable and even scary, further amplifying that emotion and creating a cycle ending in a full-blown tantrum. Labeling their feelings as they happen can help give them the security of knowing what is happening.

As a mother and preschool teacher, I've brought in many ideas to support children’s emotional development and independence in handling these emotions. I found resources that were in line with my teaching and parenting philosophy. And they also all aligned with “gentle parenting.” So what is “gentle parenting” and what does it entail?

You know something is off these days when a parent breathes a sigh of relief and says, “Oh thank goodness, it’s just croup.” But this not-so-old-fashioned viral infection is still around these days. Largely treatable at home, here's what you need to know to get your little ones through it. 

One thing first-time moms don’t often get warned about? Breastfeeding is hard. Very hard. But once you get the hang of it (and you will!), consuming nutrient-rich foods to help replenish your body, satisfy your hunger, and support your body’s milk production is essential. Here are 5 breastfeeding superfoods to stock up on the next time you’re at the grocery store.

Potty training your little one? Trying to get your toddler to at least take one bite of a carrot? Or struggling with endless sibling bickering? Any of the above will make you lose your temper once in a while – you’re only human. Experts say getting upset is a physical response as much as it is an emotional one, and these frustrations may also be felt by your kids. Here are 5 exercises to keep in mind so that when tempers begin to flare, as they often do in parenthood, you have an outlet to help soothe the body and mind of you and your child. 

There’s really no way to know what your pregnancy will truly be like. There are countless resources for expecting mothers – websites, books, classes – but all the preparation in the world won’t dissipate those wonderful, and perhaps not-so-wonderful, stages of a pregnancy. So what about all the things they don’t tell you?

‘Tis the season: lights & garland; trees & stockings throw pillows & décor. But sometimes with little ones toddling about, it’s not so easy to make your home fit for the holiday issue of Magnolia Journal. What items can come out of storage? Where do these decorations go? How can we balance safety, decor and sanity? Here are some tips that can help keep your little ones, and your décor, safe this season.

The holidays are coming, and as much as large family gatherings are exciting and special (and will never again be taken for granted), they can be stressful. And as stressful as they may be for adults, children can be really thrown off by this joyous time. Here are some tips on how to prepare your little ones (and yourself) for the gatherings ahead so that you can truly appreciate this time together. 

Fall is my favorite season. I love all-things pumpkin, strolling through orchards, checking out farm animals, and the air as crisp as the leaves at my feet. But November comes, I begin to wonder what on earth should be done with the remaining apples, leftover pumkins-turned-jack-o’-lanterns, and Halloween candy?