By Stacey Dewitt

Recent research shows that more kids today than ever before are seeing therapists, are depressed, and are on medications for anxiety. What are we as parents doing to contribute to this startling trend? We want so badly for our kids to succeed, but anyone who has ever succeeded at anything knows what failure feels like, and has had to accept it, learn from it, move beyond it. We must let our children experience all of life, the good and the bad. Truths like: life isn’t always fair; it is hard work; you will have to work with people you don’t like; you will lose sometimes; you will not be the best at everything; you will have your heart broken and … you will ultimately grow and learn have what you need inside of you to get by or to thrive (it is, after all, their choice).
(more…)

Guest Blog from Linda Bachmann,
Connect with Kids Mom’s Network

Yes, it’s just the beginning of August, the sun is shining brightly and today’s heat index and high humidity are frizzing my hair. But despite my yearnings for the smell of Coppertone sunscreen and lazy hours at the pool, in the Southern “neck of the woods,” the back-to-school mindset has already set in.

A friend who teaches kindergarten has already been back to her classroom, hanging the welcoming bulletin boards and colorful backgrounds that await art projects and drawings crafted by tiny hands. Television and newspaper advertising tout school supplies, outfits and sturdy (yet totally fashionable) shoes. And school registration schedules and parents’ night reminders have already arrived – in both mailboxes and e-mail inboxes.

(more…)