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Showing posts from June, 2025

Father's Day: A Salute to Dads Who Show Up and Step Up

  Let me pause with you for a moment on this Father's Day. Not just to toss out a quick 'thanks, Dad!' and get back to the cookout. But to truly honor what it means to be a father—to step into a role that, while often thankless in the moment, may be the single most influential position in a child's life. Let's be clear: not every dad starts out strong; not every dad gets it right at the start. But the mark of a good father isn't perfection. It's in the choice to show up, to lead when it's hard, to keep trying to do better, to model steadiness when chaos swirls, and to love, even when it's not being reciprocated. Gratitude for the Quiet Strength of Fathers Many of us had dads who didn't say much. They may not have attended every game or offered emotional pep talks over heartbreak, but they were there . They worked long hours, fixed what was broken, and handled what needed handling. Their love wasn't always spoken, but it was steady. So, for th...

Meltdowns and Tantrums: How to Train for Calm Before Taking the Show on the Road

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  We’ve all been there. You’re at the checkout line, tired and distracted, and suddenly—it happens. Your child launches into a full-scale emotional protest because you dared say no to a bag of gummies or a toy shaped like a flamingo. For many parents, these public meltdowns bring a special brand of embarrassment and helplessness. It’s not just the screaming—it’s the silent judgment you imagine from every adult within earshot. But here’s the truth: If you’re trying to fix tantrums in aisle seven, you’re already too late. Practice First. Public Later. Dealing with meltdowns in public settings is like trying to win a championship without ever going to practice. If you haven’t established a calm, consistent game plan at home , the odds of success in a busy store, restaurant, or family event are non-existent.   Why? Because emotional regulation isn’t a light switch. It’s a skill. And like all skills—riding a bike, tying shoes, playing piano—it requires repetition, consistenc...