Let’s talk about extremism. Not very many things scare me, but extremism in every form does. We hear a lot about the extremism of radicalized Islamic groups, and yes, those groups are worrisome. But the instant that fearmongerers equate those …
I’m Done With Thoughts, Prayers, and “Looking for the Helpers”
Thoughts and prayers. Lone wolf. Mental health. “Look for the helpers.” You know what? NO. I am a person of faith, but I am done with our first and only response to mass shootings being to think about and pray for …
It’s Not a Gun Problem—Americans Are Just Super Extra Evil, Crazy, and Stupid
A gun is an inanimate object. It can’t do anything on its own. Like any other tool, the person using it determines its use. Therefore—obviously—our huge number of guns and loose/inconsistent gun laws are not to blame for America’s 33,000 …
Help Shy Kids Become “Includers” With Just Four Words
Our family is heading to a family camp that we attend every year. Our kids love it. It’s like a second home to them. They have friends that attend every year also, which is awesome—for the most part. Though it’s …
Take Heart—These Are Merely the Death Throes of a Dying Order
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about my mother-in-law’s death. Judy was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer almost three years ago. She passed away eight weeks later. When we knew there was no hope left, the wonderful hospice care folks told …
Rethinking Competition: Keeping Sports Sane for Kids (and Parents)
Our youngest child recently told us he wants to play baseball. Since our older two have never shown interest in playing sports, this is new territory for us. On the one hand, we’re thrilled. There’s no question that sports offer numerous …
Dear Meghann Foye—Here’s Why Your “Meternity” Leave Idea Irked Moms
Hi Meghann, By now I’m sure you’ve seen the scores of scathing responses to your NY Post article, “I Want All the Perks of a Maternity Leave—Without Having Kids.” A good percentage of my mom writer friends have had a heyday …
What Parents of Teens Need to Know About Tinder
The story of Nicole Madison Lovell, the 13-year-old Virginia girl who was murdered by people she met on social media, renewed many parents’ fears of raising kids in the technological age. We hope that our kids will be smart, we educate them about …