Chores often fall off the bottom of modern kids' to-do lists, but they are actually hugely beneficial for kids and families.

The most important factor in determining health and happiness over the lifespan is relationships. And what is the one essential quality that binds and holds relationships together? It is empathy.

The most important factor in determining health and happiness over the lifespan is relationships. And what is the one essential quality that binds and holds relationships together? It is empathy.

Empathy – the quality that binds and holds relationships together - is "caught, not taught." It's never too early to start!

Kids feel better, learn more, and are more cooperative when they feel both secure that you are there to help, and that they have some say in their own lives. Finding the right balance of parental authority and child autonomy is an ongoing practice of attunement and communication.

Your child isn't going to click with every teacher, coach, or administrator. But they can learn important social skills about how to navigate a system and deal with authority figures.

All relationships experience ebbs and flows in connections, and at times, emotionally distressing conflicts or ruptures. Practice relationship repair with your kiddo, to keep your connection in great shape.

Figuring out how to relate to peers and find a comfortable place in a social group is one of the most important jobs of the school years.

Figuring out how to relate to peers and find a comfortable place in a social group takes center stage during the adolescent years.

If your child has siblings, these relationships are their first experience with peers. Sibling relationships are very special, and usually incorporate aspects of deep companionship and understanding, as well as rivalry, jealousy, competition, and other hard feelings.

The stories you tell – about yourself, your family history, and your kiddo's earlier years – have some amazing super powers over and above other stories.

Young children experience frustration and other big emotions they don't yet have skills to manage. As their parent, you are their whole world, and the one who will often bear the brunt of a tantrum.