October is “Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.” With more time at home, many families would like to adopt a dog but aren’t ready for a lifetime commitment. Fostering is a great way to test the waters to see if a dog – and what type of dog – is right for your family.  ...

Parents and kids are feeling frustrated and stressed. For many, home is no longer a nurturing oasis but a breeding ground for discontentment and moody outbursts. Before the school year begins, set aside some time for a family reset. Begin with a Family Meeting. Begin...

Parenting is tough during the best of times but particularly challenging during times of health and economic uncertainty. Children and teens are feeling the stress of social distancing, health safeguards, and activity disruption. Many feel afraid and anxious about the...

We are all looking for ways to protect our families and ourselves from COVID-19. Currently, the only defense from this extremely contagious virus is prevention: wash your hands often, wear a mask, don’t touch your face, practice social distancing, avoid crowds, and...

Whether you are sheltering in place alone or with your family, the new normal of social distancing and isolation can be disconcerting and stressful. Below are a few tips that might help. Include your family as you implement these strategies. Everyone in your household...

As the weather becomes warmer, the risk of bug bites and stings increases. Although most bug bites are harmless, some can cause serious illness. The number of people who have contracted diseases from infected mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas has tripled in the past 13...

Many people think that art therapy is coloring in an adult coloring book or taking a craft workshop. While those activities have definite mental health benefits, arts and crafts projects are not the same as art therapy.   What is Art Therapy? Art therapy is a...

Every 37 seconds someone in the United States dies from cardiovascular disease. Adopting a heart healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other chronic illnesses. A heart healthy lifestyle is not a “diet.” It’s a pattern of eating and...

Has your child set a physical activity goal for 2020? Many people think that kids just naturally get enough exercise. Unfortunately, this is not true. Only about 8% of children meet exercise recommendations. Not getting enough exercise can negatively impact a child’s...

Holiday festivities, parties, and overnight guests can interfere with your child’s normal sleep routine. Many parents aren’t aware of the negative impact of an irregular bedtime on a child’s health and behavior.   5 Reasons Your Child Needs a Regular Sleep...

You may have already started planning your holiday season cooking for friends and family. But have you thought about ways to minimize harmful germs that can get into food? Poor knowledge of safe food preparation, serving, and storage can result in food borne illness....