ML Interest Tag: emotional-development

What Is the Right Age to Start Kindergarten? (According to Experts)

by Melissa Heckscher

It’s hard to believe that little one, who used to fit snugly in the crook of your arm, is finally ready for kindergarten… or are they? Maybe you should wait another year? After all, what is the right kindergarten age? Especially since the practice of “redshirting” kids—giving them an extra year before starting kindergarten (making them one of the oldest as opposed to the youngest)—has risen in popularity. But like most trends in the parenting world, it leaves parents wondering if it is a good idea. That’s why we looked at the studies and asked experts to weigh in on what is the right age to start kindergarten. Here’s what we found.

Getting Kids Started in Kindergarten

The preschool years are over and it’s time to start kindergarten. But where do parents start? Where we do with all things—online and by asking other parents. Now is the time to check out your local school’s website or find and join parent Facebook pages or other social media accounts associated with the school. Other suggestions include talking to parents with older kids and asking your preschool teacher about local schools and expectations. There are lots of resources out there for parents with inquiring minds.

Kindergarten First-Year Enrollment

Although kindergarten enrollment varies from state to state, parents can expect to encounter some similar requirements no matter where they live. Here are a few universals:

  • In most states, kids must turn five years old by a certain date, usually September 1.
  • Many schools require kids to have certain vaccinations before starting school; check with your district about specific requirements.
  • Most will ask for proof of residence. A utility bill or other piece of mail works fine.
  • You may be asked to provide a copy of your child’s birth certificate to enroll.

What Do Kids Learn in Kindergarten?

Although the curriculum varies from district to district across the country, parents can count their kindergartners learning the alphabet, sight words, phonics, and basic sentence structure as part of Language Arts. Math covers basics like number recognition, counting, addition and subtraction, measurement, and basic geometry. Additionally, hands-on activities and play-based learning help kids learn about real-world concepts like weather, plants, and animals. But many would say the most important things kids learn in kindergarten support their social-emotional growth (or soft skills) like building relationships, solving conflicts, and developing empathy and self-awareness.

What is the difference between Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Transitional to Elementary School (TES)?

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is a two-year public school program designed for kids who turn 5 between September 2 and December 2 of the school year. It provides an additional year of instruction, focused on developing social-emotional skills, language and literacy, math, and physical development, to support kids who may not be ready for kindergarten.

Transitional to Elementary School (TES) is a program offered by preschools or childcare centers to prepare children for kindergarten. It typically focuses on language and literacy, math, social-emotional development, and basic self-help skills so kids can successfully transition to the academic and social expectations of kindergarten.

Related: How to Help Your Child Transition to Kindergarten Like a Pro

Pros of Delaying Kindergarten

three kids who are kindergarten age draw at a table with markers in the classroom
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Your kid will (probably) be more willing to sit still if given an extra year.

Whether or not your five-year-old will sit still during circle time or stay on task at writing centers (or at home) may depend on their age, since younger children generally have a harder time doing both. Studies have shown that kids are often misdiagnosed with behavior problems in kindergarten when in fact, the behaviors are just a matter of being younger than classmates. And, according to this Stanford University study, children who wait a year to enroll have significantly lower levels of inattention and hyperactivity—with results continuing even at age 11.

Your kid may be misdiagnosed with ADHD if they start too early.

All those wiggles in the classroom may have some unintended consequences for kids regarding the right age to start kindergarten. A 2018 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that kids who turned five the month before starting kindergarten were more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than those who started the month that they turned six. "Our findings suggest the possibility that large numbers of kids are being overdiagnosed and overtreated for ADHD because they happen to be relatively immature compared to their older classmates in the early years of elementary school," said study author Timothy Layton, an assistant professor of health care policy at Harvard Medical School, in this article for Education Week. 

An older child will probably have an easier time saying goodbye to you.

Younger kids—especially those who haven’t attended a preschool program—may have a tougher time saying goodbye in the morning (and we all know how hard it is to leave a tearful tot at drop-off). Giving your child more time to become independent may help her let go when it’s time for the school day to start. with the in-home model of learning most schools will use this year, it may be challenging to start a drop-off situation mid-year should children resume in-class learning. 

Their fine motor skills will be more developed.

Older kids usually have an easier time with fine motor activities (holding a pencil and using scissors, for instance). Doing these things can help build confidence and make a kid more excited about their accomplishments at school.

They have more time to be kids; you have more time with them.

Waiting to start formal schooling gives kids more time to be kids, to enjoy a more leisurely day, and to play freely (which, studies have suggested may be more valuable than academics for young children). Delaying kindergarten also gives you one more year with your child. If you're lucky enough to be home with your kiddo, you'll be glad you got that time.

Related: What Redshirting My Son Taught Me about Time

Cons of Delaying Kindergarten

a kindergarten age boy plays with friends building with colorful blocks
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An older child may be taller than their classmates; that matters (especially in middle school).

You may not be thinking about the teen years yet, but let’s not forget: A child who is the oldest kid in kindergarten will also be the oldest in her middle school grade—and that’s no small thing, especially when puberty hits.

They may be bored (and consequently misbehave).

This study has suggested that kids who delayed kindergarten were twice as likely to drop out of high school. Researchers think this is because they reach adult age sooner, which is when kids are legally allowed to quit school on their own (most state laws require kids to stay in school until at least age 17).

That extra year may be expensive.

If you’re a working parent, delaying kindergarten means another year of paying for childcare or preschool. And, with the average cost of preschool as high as more than $10,000 per year in some states (according to this study from the Economic Policy Institute), it’s an expensive wait.

They may not find peers on their level (initially).

A year can make a big difference when you’re only still in your first decade of life. This means a calm, more introverted six-year-old may have trouble finding like-minded peers in a kindergarten class full of rowdy five-year-olds.

It may not matter in the long run.

Despite conflicting research and strong opinions on both sides, it is still unclear whether “redshirting” makes any difference in the long run. Some studies even suggest that, whether your child starts school a year early or a year late, it all levels out by the middle school years.

Related: 16 First Day of School Picture Ideas to Start the Year Off Right

So… Now What?

With all that information,  you’re probably still wondering: What is the right age to start kindergarten? The answer: Both. It depends on the kid.

“Kids should be with developmental age peers as much as possible since kindergarten builds not just academics but social skills, too,” said Deanna Lapen, a Los Angeles-based school psychologist and former kindergarten teacher. “With that being said, every child is an individual. Parents should think about why they would consider redshirting.”

Lapen said parents should talk with their child’s preschool teacher (if applicable) as well as look at the kindergarten curriculum for whatever school their child might attend. Then ask: “Is the upcoming kindergarten class a place where the child will thrive socially and academically?”

If so, don’t delay. And, as always—trust your instincts.

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14 Questions Teachers Wish You Would Ask About Your Kid

by Priscilla Blossom

Every school year, parents reach out to their children’s teachers to inquire about any number of things. Sometimes it’s over a concern over their child’s academic performance or a conflict between students. Other times, these questions for teachers can be a bit more invasive, like when a school parent demands to know why certain things are being taught, like in the recent instance of a small faction of parents getting upset over Michaelangelo’s statue of David being shown in the classroom. But for every one of these situations, there are a slew of other questions that teachers would love to hear from the parents of their students. We asked several current and former teachers what questions they would love to hear from parents, and here’s what they said.

“What are my students’ strengths in your classroom?”

Jessica Matoian, an 8th-grade social science teacher at Sequoia Middle School in the Fresno Unified School District, says she would love to hear this question from parents, along with questions about how they can help develop those strengths outside of the classroom. “I believe in a growth mindset in my classroom. If I can work with parents and guardians on developing their students’ strengths, instead of highlighting their weaknesses, I find students are willing to take ownership of their strengths and build on them on their own,” says Matoian.

“Is my child happy? What lights them up?”

Brooklyn-based Christina Soriano, who taught elementary school art, social and emotional wellness, and Kindergarten summer school from 2006 through 2022, says she never heard any parent ask this, but wishes she had. “These questions are important because they are child-centered and strengths-based. It’s sometimes second nature, or sometimes cultural, that we go straight to how to make a child ‘better’ in a subject. Of course, that is a main point of schooling and learning, but it’s equally important to know what makes a child excited and joyful during the school day,” she says.

“How can I help my child succeed in your classroom?”

Victoria Taylor, a teacher with 20 years of experience and founder of BestCaseParenting, says she appreciates when parents take an interest in their children’s work. “Simply asking about ongoing projects and assignments can be extremely helpful to students and teachers alike. I understand it’s a lot for busy parents to stay on top of everything, but small gestures such as sending in student supplies or helping their child stay organized can make a huge difference,” says Taylor.

The same goes for Christina Collura, a full-time kindergarten teacher, autism advocate, and mother of two. “I am a firm believer every child has strengths (and weaknesses), and building and teaching children based on those strengths are vital to forming and building on a successful learning path,” says Collura.

“What supplies or materials do you need restocked/refilled for the classroom?

Amanda Dexter, who has been teaching middle and high school for eight years in Missouri’s St. Joseph School District says she would like parents to inquire about supplies long after the school year has begun. “At the beginning of the year, classroom supplies are usually fully stocked, but come a few months later and we’ve run out of glue sticks, construction paper, whiteboard markers, Kleenex, disinfecting wipes, pencils, etc. You’d be amazed at how quickly a class can burn through what seems like ample supplies in the beginning,” says Dexter. “Usually it is up to the teacher to restock supplies out of their own pockets.”

“Are there any educational activities or resources you recommend?”

“Parents who ask this question are actively seeking ways to enrich their child’s learning experiences. As a teacher, I can suggest educational apps, websites, books, or hands-on activities that align with the curriculum and support their child’s interests and learning style,” says Donna Paul, a Montessori teacher turned blogger at That’s So Montessori.

“How can I help my child develop independence and life skills?”

This might not be a typical question asked by parents, but Paul, who has over 10 years of in-class Montessori elementary teaching experience, says those who do inquire about this recognize the importance of preparing their children for future success. “I can provide suggestions on age-appropriate tasks, organization strategies, and opportunities for problem-solving that empower children to become self-reliant and confident individuals,” she says.

Related: Teacher Shares ‘Secret Code’ Used When Emailing Parents about Their Kids

mom asking a teacher questions
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“How can I support my child’s learning at home?”

While supporting a child’s education in the classroom is essential, Paul feels that parents should also look into how they can extend this into their homes. “By asking this question, parents show their commitment to their child’s education and seek guidance on how to extend learning beyond the classroom. As a teacher, I can provide valuable insights, resources, and strategies for creating a supportive learning environment at home,” she adds.

“What can I do to support my child’s social and emotional well-being?”

Nowadays, more parents and teachers are learning about the importance of social-emotional learning on top of academics. “Parents who ask this question demonstrate their understanding of the vital role social and emotional development plays in a child’s overall success. By seeking advice, parents can gain insights into how to foster healthy relationships, resilience, and emotional intelligence in their child’s everyday life,” says Paul.

“Does my child behave at school (and) are they respectful?”

Julie Navitka, a former middle school teacher (from 2008 through 2022) at Robert Andrews School in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, suggests parents ask this question to gain better insight into their child’s behavior. Why? While teachers will generally inform parents when their students are crossing the line with their behavior, it’s a good idea to check in with teachers to see if there are inklings of problematic behavior that can be addressed early on.

“Does my child get their work finished (and on time?)”

Navitka, who briefly taught high school and has since started blogging at Successfully Sustainable, also recommended this question. Questions for teachers like this can not only help prevent any academic slides but also potentially detect a larger issue if the student is having a lot of difficulty staying focused and completing tasks, such as a learning disability or a cognitive disorder like ADHD.

“Does my child distract others from their learning?”

While parents should always ask questions related to helping their own students, it doesn’t hurt to inquire about how they are ensuring the success of the entire classroom. “Teaching can be extremely stressful, and even though it’s not the only (or biggest) factor, dealing with unsupportive parents plays a role in this stress,” says Navitka. Being proactive in addressing issues like these can make difficult conversations about behavior issues smoother.

“How can I help contribute to the classroom?”

While donating supplies is always helpful, Birney Elementary School teacher Robert Garcia wishes parents would ask how they can help contribute to the classroom in other ways. “It could be volunteering, donating special incentives, or just making a guest appearance,” says the 6th-grade teacher who has taught in Fresno Unified School District for 29 years.

“What skills is my child struggling with that may not be covered in class?”

Eddie Maza, an 11th and 12th-grade English teacher at The Idea School, a private school in New Jersey, says it can often be difficult for teachers to address individual students’ needs at the beginning of the school year. “As a high school English teacher, I encountered students who required assistance with fundamental grammar issues. While I would have liked to provide them with additional support, the nature of teaching a large class made it challenging to offer supplementary content. By asking the teacher about specific areas that need improvement and how to develop those skills, you can create a plan to help your child catch up with the class,” says Maza.

“How can I support my child’s work without completing it for them?

According to Maza, “Parents naturally want to assist their children with school work, but it’s important to ensure that working through challenging assignments, collaborating with peers, and communicating with teachers remains part of the learning experience. Involvement from parents is valuable, but asking this question helps ensure that your efforts to support your child’s education do not deprive them of the essential learning experience.” Alternatively, he says parents can ask, “What are the objectives of this assignment?”

Related: 16 Things Parents Don’t Need to Worry About (According to Teachers)

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9 ‘Harmless’ Phrases That Hurt Kids More Than You Think

by Priscilla Blossom

No matter how hard you try, there will come a point in your parenting journey when you say something you assumed was harmless—but wasn’t. You might not notice it at first. It could even be something you grew up hearing in your own household. But sometimes, you’ll catch yourself and wonder if that was the right thing to say. Like when you find your child dumping their kinetic sand in the toilet and immediately respond with, “What is wrong with you?!” only to instantly see their faces turn, reminding you they’re just being kids.

Is it the worst thing to say “What is wrong with you?” to your child? Not exactly, but depending on your tone, you might end up causing them to feel shame—as if they’re a problem that needs to be fixed (which they clearly are not). So what are some other “harmless” phrases we should be looking out for day to day?

1. Anything that insinuates that expressing emotion is bad

No one likes to hear their child cry, but shedding tears is perfectly healthy. Unfortunately, we have several phrases that shame our kids out of feeling their feelings. “We are essentially teaching kids to ignore and push away feelings of sadness and anger, which are important emotions that signal our bodies to pay attention to triggers/important information,” says clinical psychologist and children’s book author Dr. Anjali Ferguson.

  • Stop crying and be a big boy/girl: Dr. Sanam Hafeez, neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind, says this phrase is harmful because it teaches children to suppress their feelings to fit into a specific gender stereotype or societal expectation of what it means to be “big.”
  • Boys don’t cry: Dr. Hafeez says this hurtful phrase reinforces toxic masculinity and can lead boys to suppress their emotions and feelings. “It’s crucial to teach boys that expressing their emotions is okay and that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.”
  • Stop being so sensitive: Vanssa Kahlon, family interventionist and founder of Kahlon Family Services, says this phrase can invalidate children’s feelings. “It sends the message that expressing emotions is something to be ashamed of or avoided, which can be harmful to a child’s emotional development.

2. ​​Eat everything on your plate.

Dr. Hafeez says that while it’s essential to encourage children to eat healthy and try new foods, this phrase can be harmful as it can lead to overeating and a negative relationship with food. “Instead, encourage children to listen to their bodies and eat until they are satisfied rather than forcing them to clean their plates,” she adds.

3. Be careful! You’re going to hurt yourself.

“While it’s natural to want to protect children from harm, this phrase can lead to unnecessary fear and anxiety. Children need opportunities to explore and take risks to learn and develop their physical and cognitive abilities,” says Dr. Hafeez. Instead of constantly warning kids to be careful, she recommends simply supervising and guiding them as they learn and grow.

Related: 6 Better Phrases to Say Instead of ‘Be Careful’ When Kids Are Taking Risks

4. Don’t talk to strangers.

It’s good to teach kids about safety, but Dr. Hafeez says this phrase can instill an unnecessary fear of people they don’t know. “Teaching children how to recognize unsafe situations, ask for help when needed, and communicate effectively with others is better,” she says.

5. That’s life.

Mendi Baron, LCSW and CEO of Moriah Behavioral Health, says adults tend to use this phrase as a catch-all for when something bad happens. This implication can cause a child to internalize that life is made up of awful things, causing unnecessary fear and worry. “We never say ‘That’s life’ to good things that happen. Explaining that certain things in life are going to happen is ok, but we tend to only generalize the negative things,” Baron says.

Related: 8 Ways to Say ‘No’ to Your Kid (Without Actually Saying It)

a mom using hurtful words without realizing it
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6. I don’t know.

Baron says it’s important to acknowledge when you truly don’t know the answer to a question, but phrasing it this way doesn’t allow room for growth. More than that, this backfires on parents as he says it’s why our kids and teens end up defaulting to “I don’t know” when they want to avoid answering questions. “It’s better to say ‘That’s a good question,’ followed by, ‘I will find out the answer or look for an answer,’” Baron says.

7. You’re so smart!

It’s so easy to utter this seemingly benign phrase whenever your kid gets a good grade or figures out a complex problem, but it’s good to think twice before using it. “This phrase may seem like a compliment, but it can actually be harmful to a child’s self-esteem in the long run,” Kahlon says. “By constantly telling a child that they’re smart, they may start to feel pressure to live up to that label and become afraid of making mistakes or taking risks.”

8. Making a promise and not following through.

We’ve all been there. You really did mean to finish that game of Monopoly with your kid tomorrow, but then work ran late, and dinner needed to be made, and suddenly it’s 9 p.m. and everyone’s got to get to bed. While this is okay once in a while, you don’t want to make it a habit. “Children thrive on routine and predictability, so inconsistency can be harmful to their sense of stability and security,” Kahlon says. “It’s important to follow through with promises and set clear expectations to help children feel safe and secure.”

9. Anything relating to being “good” or “bad.”

Kahlon and Dr. Ferguson both offered examples that emphasize children’s behavior as good or bad, both of which can be harmful.

  • You’re being bad/naughty: “This type of labeling can be harmful to a child’s self-esteem and may lead them to internalize negative beliefs about themselves. Instead of labeling the behavior, try addressing it specifically and focusing on positive reinforcement for desired behavior,” Kahlon says.
  • Were you good today?: “This phrase gives the message that parental attention and/or affection is only provided when behaving well,” Dr. Ferguson says. She adds that this phrase also ignores the fact that it’s normal for moods to fluctuate and that even kids can have “tough days.” Instead, she recommends asking your child what they found challenging today, or what their wins or successes were. “For young children, you can even ask them what made them happy today and what made them sad,” she says.
  • Make sure you behave: Dr. Ferguson says that many times we say this with good intentions, hoping to promote positive behavior. “This statement can often be ineffective because it is not specific enough for what we want out of a child’s behaviors.” In the adult world, she compares it to getting a new assignment from your supervisor, who simply says “Do a good job” without offering any guidance on how to achieve that goal. “Instead, try giving 2-3 specific behaviors for children to focus on. For example, when walking into a new environment, remind your child to 1. Use walking feet, 2. Keep hands in your pockets, 3. Use an inside voice,” she says. This way, you’re setting up your child for success.
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Is Preschool Free? Here’s What You Need to Know

by Casey Clark

The answer to whether you have access to free preschool really depends on where you live and whether you qualify

When your kid approaches age 3 or 4, you may consider sending them to preschool. It probably seems like the natural way to have them enter the education system and transition to kindergarten, but it’s not that simple—and one looming question on parents’ minds is this: “Is preschool free?”

Short answer: No, preschool isn’t free.
Long answer: Preschool can be free, but not everywhere in the United States.

“The cost of preschool varies dramatically across the country, but the average tuition costs approximately $10,000 per academic year,” says Amanda Vierheller, co-founder and COO of Playgarden. “Cost is one of the most prohibitive factors in families committing to preschool.”

Although costly, parents might view this as an investment in their child’s future as research shows that preschool benefits kids socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively. However, since not every family has the means to send their kid to preschool, it’s become a hot-button topic in many states.

With that said, we understand that navigating the world of preschool for your child can be difficult and we’re here to help. To make the process easier, we spoke with education experts and families about their experiences with preschool and whether free preschool might be a possibility now or in the future.

When do kids start preschool?

Preschoolers are between the ages of 3 and 5, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but children typically start preschool between 3 and 4. By chatting with local preschools, parents can determine what each school’s expectations are for readiness (e.g., potty training) and evaluate whether their kid fits the bill.

What are the benefits of preschool?

One of the reasons many parents consider sending their children to preschool is because of the advantages they’ll receive ahead of kindergarten.

“Preschool introduces children to routine, rules, independence, socialization, early learning, and foundational skills that they use both in school and at home,” says Vierheller. “Students who attend preschool have opportunities to promote social and emotional development with peers and teachers.”

Aside from gaining independence and developing their social skills, preschool also helps to prepare kids for kindergarten. “Not only do kids learn the foundational skills needed to master elementary school topics, but they also learn how to be in school,” says Cara Delzer, head of community at Outschool. “They get to practice self-control, asking for help, and learn how to navigate a structured setting.”

Most importantly, children develop essential skills like language and communication by playing, learning, and interacting with others. “Students also build fine motor and gross motor skills with the daily practice that comes with school activities,” Vierheller adds.

How much does preschool cost in the US?

As mentioned above, Delzer says a traditional preschool usually starts around $1200 a month or $10,000 per year, but this may vary depending on the location, number of children attending, and the type of preschool chosen.

Jaime Maser Berman, a publicist and mother of four, has three of her children currently enrolled in preschool in Westfield, NJ. For the 2022-2023 school year, her kids’ tuition cost the family roughly $6,000 per month.

“Preschool is definitely not free; in fact, we joke we’re constantly hemorrhaging money. Such is life as a parent,” says Maser Berman.

A program to help cover the cost of preschool

While tuition concerns are a real problem for many families, Delzer says there is a government program that’s in place to help.

Head Start

The most well-known free preschool option is Head Start, which is available in some form in every state for children aged 3 to 5. (Sister program Early Head Start is an option for families with kids under 3.)

“Every state has requirements to qualify for Head Start, such as income limits,” says Delzer. “Many school districts provide free preschool with some restrictions, such as limiting it to certain age groups, only being available for part of the day, or only being available 3 days a week.”

Does your state have free preschool?

Nearly all states have free preschool available through Head Start, as long as families meet the eligibility requirements.

Some states offer free pre-K for students who are 4 years old. “Florida, Georgia, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Vermont, and Washington D.C currently offer universal pre-K programs for all children, although some are based on lottery acceptance as spaces are limited,” says Vierheller.

She adds that other states have universal pre-K policies in place for at-risk children, and some are working towards the benchmark of offering state-wide pre-K in the future. For example, California is on track to have free high-quality pre-K for all 4-year-olds by 2025.

If you’re looking for local preschool options, the Child Care Aware hotline (1-800-424-2246) is an available resource. They provide contact information for local childcare resources and referral agencies, which can provide a list of licensed preschools in your area.

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Study Finds Babies Love Concerts Just As Much As You Do

by Christina Marfice

A study found that babies enjoy live music just as much as adults—and that they respond to interactions with performers and being part of a crowd

Should we have concerts for babies? According to science, the answer might be yes. A new study found that babies enjoy live music just as much as grown-ups and that they respond to multiple different aspects of the performance, including interactions with performers and the social experience of being part of a crowd.

The study, from researchers at the University of Toronto, compared reactions from 120 infants who watched a children’s opera—61 of them in person and 59 over Zoom, with a meticulously broadcast version that was shown at the same size, distance, and volume as the live version. Still, the babies at the live performance were significantly more engaged.

“Their heart rates were speeding up and slowing down in a similar fashion to other babies watching the show,” said Laura Cirelli, assistant professor in the department of psychology at U of T Scarborough, one of the study’s co-authors. “Those babies were dealing with all these distractions in the concert hall, but still had these uninterrupted bursts of attention.”

The researchers’ findings suggest that babies feel the social effects of being in a crowd at a live performance just as much as adults do. Cirelli pointed to times during the performance when all the babies would calm at the same time, or when a change in pitch would get them all excited simultaneously.

“If there’s something happening that we collectively are engaging with, we’re also connecting with each other. It speaks to the shared experience,” she said. “The implication is that this is not necessarily specific to this one performance. If there are these moments that capture us, then we are being captured together.”

She also said this suggests that music may be more important to babies’ social and emotional development than we previously thought.

She added, “We consistently find that music can be a highly social and emotional context within which infants can foster connections to their caregivers, other family members, and even new acquaintances. This audience study shows that even in a community context, infants are engaging with the music and connecting to their fellow audience members.”

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Dad’s Cringey Gentle Parenting Tactic Is the Best Thing We’ve Seen

by Christina Marfice

This dad’s hilarious method of gentle parenting involves making his kids cringe as punishment, and we’re 100% on board

Many of today’s parents have bought into gentle parenting—a parenting style where you guide and discipline your kids with a focus on their emotional development, setting clear boundaries and explaining your reasoning and decision-making so they can understand. There’s no age limit on gentle parenting—it can start when they’re infants and continue until they leave the nest. But one TikTok dad has come up with a new method for his older kids, and it’s total genius.

The dad, who goes by Ginger Jack on TikTok, calls his innovative technique “gentle parenting with malicious intent,” and TBH, that’s exactly what it is. In his video, he has the camera facing him as he talks to his older kids about doing their chores without giving him attitude, and that’s where the cringe comes in.

@bbebard

Ultimate #dadmoves #gentleparenting #Comedy

♬ Stuck In The Middle – Tai Verdes

“New rule. Whenever one of you starts giving me attitude, I’m going to start hitting on mom,” he says, before turning to his partner and adding, “Hey there. sugar. How you doing, baby girl? How do you feel about another child? I could rub your ankles real good.”

Predictably, this has his kids absolutely screaming in the background. As he makes sexy kitten noises at their mom, the kids beg for mercy and swear up and down that they’ll do all their chores without another word of complaint.

As everyone with teens knows, this method is pretty much guaranteed to work. There’s nothing that grosses a teenager out more than the idea of their parents getting their flirt on. A look at the video’s comments confirms it.

“At that point, I’d deep clean the house, my soul and this Godforsaken world 😂😂😂” one commenter wrote. Another added, “As a 34-year-old, this would absolutely still work on me.”

So parents, there you have it. Take this method and use it responsibly (or irresponsibly, we won’t tell) and enjoy your clean house and well-behaved kids.

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6 Seriously Fun Ways to Get Your Toddler Talking

By Leanne Sherred

Wondering how to get your toddler talking? Theses games and strategies will move them beyond babbling in no time

Your child may not have any words yet, but they find ways to get their point across. While furious sobbing or tossing a bowl of applesauce may not be your preferred form of communication, trust me, these are good signs! When your child cries, gestures, or uses a facial expression, they’re expressing something: hunger, discomfort, frustration. They’re using nonverbal language, and that’s a stepping stone to speech.

Even before saying their first word, children make connections between their actions and getting their needs met. When your child cries and points to a toy, then you hand it to them, they’re figuring out these relationships so they can more easily communicate their needs later.

So never fear—at some point, your child will be able to express their wants more clearly than with screeching or tears. And as their caregiver, there’s a lot you can do to help that process along. Nurturing your child’s language development is time well spent. Not only does it help your child communicate, but it also supports literacy and comprehension, ultimately improving their academic success along with their emotional development.

Now for the best news: To help your toddler develop their language skills, the name of the game is play. Here are six fun and interactive playtime ideas to try at home. None of these is hard to build into your routine—and chances are, you’re doing some of them already.

1. Turn your home into a zoo—a noisy one.

Who doesn’t love animal sounds? They’re a perfect way to help your kiddo become more verbal. That’s because imitating sounds is a stepping stone to imitating words, and most kids get a kick out of meowing and mooing. To practice, gather up any toy animals you have. Or you can cut out pictures of animals from magazines or find some online to print out. Take turns showing these toys or pictures to your child and either making the sounds yourself or having your child mimic them.

If you’re feeling really creative, act out the animals as well. You can turn your hands into claws and “meow” like a cat or get on all fours and say “baaah” like a sheep. Encourage your child to copy you! One reason imitation is so important is that it teaches your baby the back-and-forth of communication, which is a foundation for early conversational skills.

Related: 7 Phrases to Avoid Saying to Your Toddler

2. Sing lots of songs (actual musical talent not required).

“Old MacDonald Had a Farm,” “Itsy, Bitsy Spider,” and “The Wheels on the Bus” are classics for a reason. Children love singing simple songs and nursery rhymes. Not only do they provide some great bonding time, but songs can also build vocabulary and help children learn and recognize the natural rhythm of speech.

There are lots of opportunities throughout the day to liven things up with music: Think car rides, chore time, bathtime, or waiting in line. And nursery rhymes that include hand gestures are another great way to teach your child imitation.

3. Get theatrical with a puppet show.

Inject some drama into your day with good old-fashioned puppets. Whether you’re using socks, brown lunch bags, or stuffed animals, it’s a great way to strike up a mock conversation between two lovable characters. Make sure your puppet asks your child’s puppet all sorts of questions (using silly and imaginative voices, of course).

4. Play a game of telephone.

And we don’t mean scrolling social media. For this, you can use a toy telephone, create one out of LEGOs or cardboard, or even use an old cellphone if you have one. Pretend that the phone is ringing and have your child “answer.” Whether they’re babbling into the receiver or using simple words like “hi” and “bye,” this activity helps set the stage for early conversation skills.

5. Make time for storytime.

You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s hard to overstate the importance of reading, even with babies and toddlers. Children start building the foundation for reading and writing in infancy. So when you establish a reading routine, you’re creating a good habit that will last a lifetime. Make storytime fun by choosing books that stimulate the imagination.

As you read, make sure to point to and label the pictures. If the page shows, say, a firetruck, you can engage your toddler by asking, “What sound does a firetruck make?” This will improve your child’s comprehension and expand their vocabulary.

Related: 40 of the Very Best Books for Toddlers

6. Turn “I Spy” into “I Hear.”

Choose a few everyday items that your child is familiar with—a toy, a banana, a cup, a spoon—and place them on the table. Next, say to your child, “I spy something that starts with ‘bbbbb.’” Really exaggerate your sounds and give your child enough time to find the correct item—in this case, a banana.

Provide encouragement and a little assistance if needed, and if your child gets it right, pour on the praise! This game expands your child’s vocabulary and helps them make associations between sounds, words, and objects.

What if your child’s language doesn’t seem to develop at the rate you expect? Consider speaking with a speech-language pathologist. These communication experts can work with you and your child to evaluate, diagnose, and treat a potential language disorder or other communication challenge.

The earlier these issues are recognized and treated, the more progress your child will make. Make sure, too, that your speech therapist gives you additional language-building exercises to use at home with your child. When it comes down to it, you are your child’s best communication model.

Leanne Sherred, CCC-SLP, President and Co-Founder of Expressable, is acutely aware that communication is fundamentally human and vital to how we connect with others and express our feelings. Leanne champions parent-focused intervention and has developed a unique clinical model that is core to Expressable's product offering and value proposition.

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‘What’s Sweeter’ Is the Latest Book Giving Both Parents & Kids a Moment of Pause

by Jodi Cohen
Partner Content

As parents, moving through the day at a mile-a-minute can easily become our norm. We often mislabel multitasking as a badge of honor when in reality it can be quite detrimental to our memory, and our ability to fully be in the moment with our loved ones. Introduce after-school activities, homework, birthday parties, media-time and our kids wind up on the same loop of go-go-go that we do.

Looking for an easy moment of pause? We’ve got you.

Something as simple as a daily reading routine with your kids can slow your pace and allow for your family to become present. Cracking a book, connecting over a story, delighting in the imagery on the page and in your imagination…these are the moments, it seems, we work so hard to capture. And these are the moments debut author-illustrator June Tate provides for parents, caretakers, teachers and the children in their lives with her book “What’s Sweeter.”

While tackling the everyday grind can model resilience, we love the opportunity that “What’s Sweeter” provides in modeling self-awareness, self-confidence and emotionality.

Peppered with delightful stencil drawings, this book is just as beneficial for our kids as it is for us.

Pass this book to the sweetest around you.

The Story

is there anything sweeter / than cracking open a stiff new book to take a big whiff / and finding a list of all sweet moments that are tiny and powerful and everyday.

We follow a diverse cast of charmingly sketched characters as they reflect in wonder at everyday delights. Whether it’s landing a new skateboard trick or picking a big bowl of oranges by yourself, this book naturally inspires kids to recognize and relish the little moments in their daily lives.

Learning how to take these moments of pause and reflection is a lifelong practice your kids can begin to replicate outside of story-hour, and carry with them throughout their lives.

What Others Are Saying About What’s Sweeter:

'A soothing bedtime read. A quiet book that will help readers experience and reflect on the rich sensations of life.' — Kirkus Reviews

'Those who read it will find themselves enthralled. An endearing book for caregivers to share with children.' — School Library Journal

'Tate’s whimsical musing ends with a twist that brings this beguiling, even sweet, interlude close to the reader.' — Publishers Weekly

Perfect for a holiday gift, or any occasion, this book highlights the charm and joy in every day’s seemingly simple occurrences. Order your copy today.

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Snoop Dogg’s New Kids Series Will Teach Social & Emotional Skills

by Karly Wood

You can already catch episodes on YouTube and YouTube Kids

Snoop Dogg is delving into a brand new kind of entertainment: kids programming! Together with Claude Brooks and October London, the trio has announced the launch of a new animated kids series, Doggyland- Kids Songs & Nursery Rhymes.

The show combines award-winning creators whipping up original songs focusing on positive social and emotional development for kids from toddler age up to eight years old. Themes will cover everything from letters and numbers to diversity and inclusion with bright colors and lovable characters.

But let’s be honest––we’re all here for the Snoop.

 

“As a father, grandfather and longtime youth football coach, it’s always been important to me to build positive and educational environments for all children. We wanted to bring our show to YouTube and YouTube Kids which provides free access to everyone, so all the kids can enjoy it,” said Snoop Dogg, Co-Creator, Doggyland – Kids Songs & Nursery Rhymes. “I’ve always wanted to create a kid friendly series that lets kids be kids and is truly representative of the Culture with everything from the music to the characters. When I started to build my team, it was only right to partner with Claude, who created the iconic series, Hip Hop Harry, which built the blueprint to diverse kids programming, and October London, a talented singer and writer.”

snoop dog kids show youtube

The bright cast of characters include Bow Wizzle (Snoop Dogg), a character acting as an adult mentor, Wags (October London), Yap Yap, Chow Wow, and Barks-A-Locks. There are already four episodes available to watch, with new content dropping on Tuesdays.

In addition to the show which is streaming on YouTube and YouTube Kids, fans can also grab the accompanying album! Doggyland – Kids Songs & Nursery Rhymes is streaming on multiple platforms and is completely free.

“Working with Snoop, you know our music has to be top notch and make all the kids and families get out of your seat and dance,” said October London, singer and songwriter. “While the Doggyland – Kids Songs & Nursery Rhymes show is created with kids as the priority, the whole family will want to watch it and bump it!”

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