It's not perfect. It's parenting.
2024
How to help kids adjust to new siblings
A growing family is a new experience for everyone, grown-ups and kids alike. Having a new baby around comes with lots of change, so big emotions are understandable. As a caring parent or caregiver, you can ease the transition for kids by listening, checking in and staying consistent. No change process is perfect, so it is important to go easy on yourself, too.
10 family-friendly activities to make this fall a ball!
Are you getting excited about the chilly mornings and changing leaves? Us too! If you’re looking for a fun fall outing for the whole family, we have ideas from Children’s Mercy families. Whether you prefer to get into the fall spirit at home or get out and about in the Kansas City area, keep reading for fun ideas!
How to talk with kids about cancer
Cancer is not an easy thing to talk about. It’s understandable why many parents and caregivers feel hesitant to talk with their kids about it. As uncomfortable as it may be, it’s important to be honest with young people about cancer. Talking openly helps relieve anxiety and builds trusting relationships. If someone in your child’s life is diagnosed with cancer, it will affect them. Whether that person is a close family member, a friend, someone at school or in their after-school activities, creating space to talk about cancer is beneficial for your child and for your relationship with them.
Emergency preparedness tips every family should know
Most parents don’t want to consider worst case scenarios. Thinking of your family encountering a natural disaster, fire or the like is scary, but a little preparation can ease worries and help make sure your family is ready to react quickly in a scary situation.
Teaching kids not to bully – and how to react if you find out they are
We all think the best of our kids – but that doesn’t mean at some point, they won’t exhibit bullying behaviors. Why does this happen, how can you teach your kids not to bully and most importantly…how do you react if you find out they’ve bullied a classmate or friend?
How to connect with your teen – authentically
It feels like there are a lot of tips to help you prepare for taking care of a newborn – but those newborns grow up and they turn into teenagers. It’s a different ballgame to try to connect with your teen as they are finding their own interests, likes and dislikes. If you’re looking for ways to connect with your teen but want to keep it genuine, while still respecting their boundaries and budding independence, we’ve got you covered with these 5 tips.
Tips to make your child comfortable during immunizations
Summer days by the pool are ending and the back-to-school to-do lists are being completed. In between supply shopping and meeting the teacher, make sure to schedule time for your child’s school immunizations. Whether your child is starting preschool or their senior year, shots can be nerve-wracking.! We recommend these resources to make immunizations less scary and start the school year off on a positive note.
Top 10 tips for teens transitioning to adult medical care
Most parents have a mental list of skills they want their teen to have before they become an adult: laundry lessons, money management and cooking basics, to name a few. But have you talked with your teen about how to handle their own health care? From making appointments to understanding which medications they take and why, there are key things your child needs to know as they become more independent.
Why kids hit – and what parents can do about it
It’s a scenario many parents are probably familiar with: one second your children are playing quietly together, and then all of a sudden, you hear crying and shouts of “Mom, they hit me!” When this happens the first time, parents are often at a loss. Why are my children hitting, and what the heck should I do about it? We have answers to your questions on the whys and best ways to discipline if your child hits.
6 things parents should know about opioids
In the past 20 years, illegal use of opioids has risen sharply. Many people have family members struggling with addiction or have lost loved ones to overdose. What do parents need to know to keep kids safe?