| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| 5 year old | 11/20/2009 |
Q: I'm doing a report on everything about 5 year olds. now Ive got a 5 year old cousin but i need to ...
A: ..but you can search online for what you need. See my website for good links. AND also see the ...
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| kissing kids | 11/3/2009 |
Q: my daughter is in kindegarten and told me that one of her classmates tried to kiss her on the mouth ...
A: No Jessica, this is NOT normal and yes you need to tell the teacher about it. In addition, give ...
|
| cleaning up | 10/31/2009 |
Q: My son goes from one thing to another without cleaning up after himself. I frequently stop him from ...
A: I don't know how old your son is, or how long he has had these bad habits. But one thing's for ...
|
| 4 year always changing clothes, shoes, schoolbags, etc. | 10/22/2009 |
Q: My 4 year old prefers one outfit but is willing to wear other clothes if the outfit is in the wash. ...
A: I have had this question once before in 26 years...and it was, interestingly, in the past year. ...
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| 5 yr old attention span | 9/15/2009 |
Q: My daughter is 5 yrs old. She started her kindergarten class this year. She is smart and picks up ...
A: I really really think you need to have her hearing checked, just in case this is part of the problem ...
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| Stuttering? Or thinking? | 7/30/2009 |
Q: I have a 4 year old boy who was born 2 months prematurely. He's always been small and a bit behind, ...
A: The way children become stutterers is from anxiety and resulting pressure by their parents about ...
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| unsociable daughter | 7/29/2009 |
Q: My daughter is 10 and will only play with 1 next door neighbor friend who is 1 1/2 yrs younger than ...
A: I thnk perhaps you just have not as yet found the right foundation to build on with these efforts in ...
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| Daughter eating anxiety? | 7/28/2009 |
Q: My daughter is 5 yrs. old and has always been a little chubby and couldn't explain as to a Why? ...
A: I am a parenting advice expert but not a nutritionist. if nothing unusual has been happening in her ...
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| Six year old daughter is out of control! | 7/24/2009 |
Q: I have a six year old daughter, she has finished kindergarten and is about to go into first grade. ...
A: This is very unusual for a six year old...Six's are usually more cooperative and enjoy helping out ...
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| Writing Problem with 6 year old | 7/24/2009 |
Q: I have a daughter who will turn 6 this August. I live in India where academic presures are little ...
A: Perhaps the writing assignments are not meaningful to her and seem boring or useless. What needs to ...
|
| separation with a five year old | 7/22/2009 |
Q: My five year old son has recently had a very tough time separating from me for summer camp. He has ...
A: Well one thing you might have done before camp started was to find out who, if any, of his preschool ...
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| Very Emotional Daughter | 6/20/2009 |
Q: I have a beautiful eight year old daughter who is extremely intelligent. She loves school and she ...
A: I sympathize ...but a book of any kind will not help you because they have to be written for the ...
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| Sensitive Child | 6/20/2009 |
Q: My 6.5 year old son is a very smart and loving boy, however I have some serious concerns about his ...
A: I am sorry to tell you that this is NOT normal behavior, and you need to get him some professional ...
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| 7 yr old daughter has me at a loss | 6/18/2009 |
Q: I have a 9 yr old boy and my just barely 7 yr old daughter. I've always felt I knew what I was doing ...
A: This is unusual for a seven year old...usually they are cooperative and want to be with peers in ...
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| School refusal | 5/17/2009 |
Q: My daughter, Sadie, just turned four and has been attending the same preschool since September. In ...
A: I understand how you feel, but if you are SURE that nothing is wrong at school you probably need to ...
|
| Bad Behaving Girls in Church | 4/20/2009 |
Q: ) but didn't see quite the situation I am facing. I need helpful hints regarding bad behaving little ...
A: I have been in a similar situation on an airlne with two boys behind me kicking my seat on purpose ...
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| New nanny in the home. | 4/17/2009 |
Q: I saw your answer to a new nanny who is having trouble with a five year girl. We recently hired a ...
A: I have not to my knowledge ever answered any question from a new nanny having trouble with a five ...
|
| Bad Behaving Girls in Church | 4/16/2009 |
Q: ) but didn't see quite the situation I am facing. I need helpful hints regarding bad behaving little ...
A: I totally agree with you. It is terribly disappointing to me when parents abdicate their roles and ...
|
| Sensitive 9 year old girl | 4/15/2009 |
Q: My 9 year old daughter (who happens to be gifted as well, not sure if that matters) has been coming ...
A: I think you should set up a meeting with your child's teachers and discuss this to brainstorm ...
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| 9 year old boy bad behavior | 4/13/2009 |
Q: I really need some good advice about parenting a 9 year old boy. He is from a two-parent home, does ...
A: I am so glad you are trying to do more positive things...praise him for sharing that with you and ...
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| 9 year old boy bad behavior | 4/13/2009 |
Q: I really need some good advice about parenting a 9 year old boy. He is from a two-parent home, does ...
A: Donna this behavior did not just start did it? Perhaps he has always been uncooperative and you did ...
|
| my son wonders | 3/3/2009 |
Q: me and my eight yr old son where at the doctors and i had to go to the bathroom well it being a ...
A: Your son is acting like a very normal 8 year old. At this age (starting about age 7 and on up) ...
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| 12 year old waking in fear | 2/28/2009 |
Q: My wife and I are going through a divorce. My two boys life in a home, with their mother they've ...
A: You are probably correct in thinking that this type of nightmare (and being mainly asleep even when ...
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| Childhood | 1/21/2009 |
Q: I am wondering what would be a good way to help a child enjoy their childhood as in enjoying the ...
A: This could not possibly be answered in an email You would feel more at ease with your concerns if ...
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| parenting a 4 yr 6 mn | 1/19/2009 |
Q: i am a single mother to a 4 year 6 month daughter, i have been having difficulties with her. She ...
A: Your child is probably fine elsewhere because in these places, especially at day care/preschool, she ...
|
| Favoring boys over girls | 1/16/2009 |
Q: Ms. Petersen, I am wondering if I can get your insight on something. My sister and her female ...
A: Gosh I would never have thought that...it is surprising. I do hope when you see your sister or the ...
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| Wetting by six-year-old | 1/13/2009 |
Q: I'm the father of three girls, ages 9, 6 1/2, and 19 months. The oldest girl was potty-trained by ...
A: I am in complete sympathy with your frustraton. You may have already done this, but if not DO get ...
|
| 7 yr old attention at school | 11/20/2008 |
Q: We just got back from teacher conferences...the out come from his report card was exceeding in areas ...
A: You do need to be concerned; this is a life skill he will need in the future, both in all the school ...
|
| My 6 year old son | 11/12/2008 |
Q: I have 7 children and I thought I have seen and done it all with them. I have a 6 year old, who I ...
A: This is very strange really...if he has been tested and if he never exhibits these things at church ...
|
| Extreme Behavior Problems | 11/7/2008 |
Q: I am writing to you today to try and get some help for my sister and my nephew. She was a young ...
A: Amanda, this poor child will not get enough help from school counseling. Urge the mom to get him ...
|
| stress | 11/5/2008 |
Q: i am at school and we are doing a work sheet on stress and one of my stresses are my brothers ...
A: You need to talk to your parents privately and explain how very very bad and stressed out you feel. ...
|
| death of a parent | 11/3/2008 |
Q: I know we all handle the news of the death of someone we love differently, but I'm not sure what to ...
A: I think you just need to give them some time to reflect and think about their feelings. Just ...
|
| death of a parent | 11/1/2008 |
Q: I know we all handle the news of the death of someone we love differently, but I'm not sure what to ...
A: I am so sorry for your loss and can see why you would be concerned and confused. But I cannot ...
|
| Crying son | 10/30/2008 |
Q: I have a 6 and a half year old son, Joe who is very, very sensitive and cries very easily. My ...
A: If only your husband could go back in time and remember what it was LIKE to be a six year old, ...
|
| 7 year old with anger and self loathing | 10/23/2008 |
Q: I have a 7-year old daughter that has recently (in the past 6 months) been losing her temper very ...
A: This is not normal for a seven year old and you seem to bedoing the right things without results. I ...
|
| Kindergarten Issues w/ my 5 year old son | 10/22/2008 |
Q: I have a 5 year old son that started Kindergarten this year. He attended preschool at ages 4 and 5. ...
A: I think you are doing all you can to resolve this but I have to tell you that the "system" they use ...
|
| 5 year old son and school | 10/21/2008 |
Q: I have a 5 year old son that started kindergarten this fall. Academically he is doing great, but ...
A: You can stay in touch more often with the teacher to see if the behavior begins to get better or ...
|
| grandson aged 5 hates kindergarten | 9/20/2008 |
Q: my grandson, who lives in calif. far from me,is really having an awful time with kindergarten. He ...
A: Your daughter needs to make an appt. with the teacher and the school counselor if there is one to ...
|
| Rock throwing | 9/15/2008 |
Q: My husband and I have two adopted sons, ages 7 and 8-1/2. My boys are Native American and they are ...
A: I think you need to turn this lemon into a lemonade. They may have talent in the areas of track and ...
|
| 6 year old who is clingy | 9/14/2008 |
Q: My 6 year old is very clingy. Well it actually stems to a bigger issue. When she was 2 months old I ...
A: I agree that she should have grown out of this stage by now...maybe for some, especially only ...
|
| 9 year old son has few friends | 9/12/2008 |
Q: We are worried about our 9 year old son. He is the middle child. His older sister is 11 and his ...
A: First you might try to see what his talents or interests are and get him into a sport or 4H or ...
|
| What he is made of | 9/10/2008 |
Q: My son is 9 years old and he has never pushed himself to know what he is made of nor is he ...
A: Please remember what you were like at age 9. He may not be ready to take these challenges yet, but ...
|
| defiant 6 yr old | 8/29/2008 |
Q: My six year old son is very strong willed. most of his problems occur at school with straight out ...
A: Instead of spanking try praise and rewards for ANY small imporvement and ANYthing he does when he ...
|
| 8 yo and friends | 8/26/2008 |
Q: Evelyn I have enjoyed your help in the past and hope you can give me some insight now. My 8 yo ...
A: We had an older daughter with that same problems...she was very bright and was a natural problem ...
|
| nine year old boy | 8/23/2008 |
Q: My son is changing. We have always been very close(still are) but I feel like he is needing to ...
A: Yes Kim he is entering what we call pre adolescence. You can get some excellent books on this at ...
|
| A 6 yr old with a tantrum problem!!!! | 8/21/2008 |
Q: My sister has a six year old daughter that throws tantrums 2 or 3 times a day sometimes 4 or 5 days ...
A: You are giving her correct advice, but apparently she is not following the "ignore her" part. Tell ...
|
| school | 8/19/2008 |
Q: I have a four year old son who can read and add and can concentrate quite well. He really enjoys ...
A: Go to the director of the International School to explain your concerns that he is not getting a ...
|
| My 8 year old doesn't follow any rules | 7/28/2008 |
Q: My 8 year old doesn't follow any rules. He goes out of his way to do what he is not supposed to. He ...
A: It's my guess that this behavior did not happen over night, right? So perhaps he hasn't had clear ...
|
| color and clothing | 7/27/2008 |
Q: My daughter is 4 years old (only child) and VERY intelligent. She is obsessed with clothing and ...
A: Your child seems to feel more confident if she can control these many choices of clothing and ...
|
| Dealing with a child who shadows mom | 7/23/2008 |
Q: I have a daughter who will be five in October, 2008. She goes to a private sitter who takes care of ...
A: It is just possible that she has heard or seen something that made her realize that humans are ...
|
| problems with my 3 year old | 7/21/2008 |
Q: I am a mother of a 17 year old and a recent 3 year old. (he just turned 3 on July 14). Cody (the 3 ...
A: I think a good preschool experience with qualified teachers in early education will help. But if he ...
|
| My 9 year old is acting out! | 7/20/2008 |
Q: My little girl with in the last 2 Years has progressively gotten worse, i am a single mom, and her ...
A: Just talking to her is not working. You need to think about what is important to her, and then ...
|
| 6 year old, sexually acting out | 7/18/2008 |
Q: My 6 year old seems to be acting out sexually. SHe is currently in a summer day care program. It is ...
A: Just keep doing what you are doing and stay in close contact with the teacher about this. Keep a ...
|
| problems with my 3 year old | 7/18/2008 |
Q: I am a mother of a 17 year old and a recent 3 year old. (he just turned 3 on July 14). Cody (the 3 ...
A: Your child is exhibiting some of the two year old type tantrums that perhaps he did NOT have last ...
|
| June 5th Birthday Boy Starting Kindergarten? | 6/18/2008 |
Q: Our son turned five on June 5th and will attend a private school this fall with children who are ...
A: Well, since you already made the decision and paid for it you are sort of stuck. I wondered if you ...
|
| HITTING | 6/15/2008 |
Q: Hello Evelyn I have a 6 year old newphew he very smart and he is good student in school He has adhd ...
A: If I were you I would encourage the parents to talk with him and tell him how they really feel about ...
|
| First Grade Girl Bully | 6/11/2008 |
Q: My daughter is in first grade in Australia is a small semi-private Catholic school. She has a girl ...
A: Keep pushing the school to do something concrete to stop the bullying. Many schools have developed ...
|
| on track? | 6/4/2008 |
Q: What can I do to give my child a headstart for first grade? She done average or above on all K ...
A: If you start to drill her on math with flash cards, etc, or do "homework" in th summer, you may be ...
|
| 5 year old still acts like she's 2!! Help! | 5/22/2008 |
Q: I am having a problem with my 5 year old. She usually wakes up in the morning before I do and within ...
A: Well Tanya I don't know what state you live in but it is my understanding that each and every state ...
|
| 5 year old still acts like she's 2!! Help! | 5/21/2008 |
Q: I am having a problem with my 5 year old. She usually wakes up in the morning before I do and within ...
A: It sounds like part of the problem is that she does not have enough age appropriate things to do to ...
|
| Slow worker | 5/14/2008 |
Q: I have a eight years old daughter and a 2 years old son. My problem is that my daughter is a slow ...
A: You need to develop a system that will help your daughter take responsibility...start with doing ...
|
| eating | 5/7/2008 |
Q: I have 3 kids, daughters are 8 and 4 and the baby is 1. The baby is fine so far as were my ...
A: I applaud you for trying to do your best to serve interesting and nutritous meals and snacks in ...
|
| 8 yo focus | 5/6/2008 |
Q: My daughter is 8 years old. She is the oldest of 3, and has always been a sunny child. She is ...
A: I really applaud you for knowing your child so well. But I really think her approach life may be ...
|
| Sensitive 5yr old | 4/29/2008 |
Q: My 5 yr old daughter is very sweet and has a big heart. Recently, while listening to a love song on ...
A: This is completely normal and you and your spouse need to accept the tears as just one of your ...
|
| running out of patience | 4/28/2008 |
Q: i have an 8 yr old daughter and a 5 yr old boy cousin and they just can not get a long...they were ...
A: Saying out of it and letting them work it out (if there is no physical danger) is always best. You ...
|
| No intrest | 1/30/2008 |
Q: I have a 10yr old boy who seems to have no interest at anything.I have tried him in different sports ...
A: I think you need to make an appointment with his classroom teacher to see what she has observed ...
|
| Help! How Do We Get Our 7 Year Old Daughter To Listen To US?? | 1/29/2008 |
Q: Our daughter who jst turned 7 years old is an only child and we have been having alot of problems ...
A: It seems to me you have been giving, giving, and giving many privileges in the forms of toys and ...
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| kindergarten | 1/20/2008 |
Q: I am trying to find out if I have to send my daughter to school in September, or if I have the ...
A: All you need to do is call your school. Whatever school the child would be going to, just call and ...
|
| lack of effort by my 6 year old | 1/16/2008 |
Q: My 6 year old daughter is in first grade. She is doing well with her academics but her teacher is ...
A: I am sure, if you look back in time to your own school days, you will agree that nagging usually ...
|
| Sharing a room | 1/11/2008 |
Q: I have a 2 year old girl and a 6 year old boy who share a bedroom. Is that okay? Is it legal? Please ...
A: Jaime, this is certainly legal and it is in your home so it is a private matter for you to decide. ...
|
| My son doesn't like me. | 1/8/2008 |
Q: At first I thought it was just a phase that would come and go, but it's going on 2 years now. My 6 ...
A: Teresa, You need to TELL him how it makes you feel when he says he does not like you. Tell him in ...
|
| Potty training resistance and hitting from my 4 1/2 year old | 12/11/2007 |
Q: I have a 4 1/2 year old boy who is potty trained but is having frequent accidents at pre school and ...
A: Work with the teachers there on a plan to help him. It should include positive reinforcment. Also ...
|
| how can I motivate my child? | 12/10/2007 |
Q: My son is 4.5 years old. My husband & I adopted him from Russia when he was 17 months old. He is ...
A: Susan, maybe he is just a late bloomer...there is a child's book about this...Leo the Late Bloomer ...
|
| Just 6 y.o Daughter who is very anxious and cries often | 12/4/2007 |
Q: My just 6 year old daughter is completing her first year of school and also did a year at pre-school ...
A: I am guessing but from you letter it seems that this behavior is new this year? I hope you have ...
|
| Son's weird behavior | 12/3/2007 |
Q: My son is 4 yrs old and goes to PreK. He is happy when I drop him off at school, but as soon as he ...
A: This sounds quite unusual for a four year old. But how is he in school? Does he have a normal and ...
|
| Anxiety in almost 7 year old | 12/1/2007 |
Q: My daughter seems to be anxious and sensitive. She is, I think, amazingly thoughtful (if given ...
A: Keep up the positive and good work...and do not let your own anxiety about this show...anxiety is ...
|
| anxiety | 11/30/2007 |
Q: I have had 4 girls in the last 2 years of this age suddenly, literally out of no where, start having ...
A: ..even younger than 11....are now under stress in our society. The statistics are alarming. But in ...
|
| Anxiety in almost 7 year old | 11/29/2007 |
Q: My daughter seems to be anxious and sensitive. She is, I think, amazingly thoughtful (if given ...
A: You have an unusual and sensitive and very bright child...You have been doing a great job with her ...
|
| 5 Year Old Whom I Nanny For Dislikes Me...HELP! | 11/29/2007 |
Q: I just recently started in a new nanny adventure with three children: ages 2 1/2, 5, and 11. The ...
A: I really think that, although you must be tactful, you should talk to the mom about the five year ...
|
| BOYS | 10/18/2007 |
Q: I am a grandmothe, living with my widowed daughter and her 10 yr old girl. Rhonda has entered ...
A: At this age keep it simple..don't go in to all the details unless she ASKS and then answer honestly ...
|
| My 6 years old girl does not play with toys. | 10/18/2007 |
Q: My daughter is six years old and she does not have any interest in toys. As matter of fact this has ...
A: I am so sorry you did not try to find help before this...she needs to learn to make friends and play ...
|
| my 5 year old hates me! | 10/12/2007 |
Q: My husband & I and our three children emigrated to Canada from UK about 3 months ago. We have a ...
A: Cathy, he does not hate you but needs for you to put into words FOR him the way he is feeling...he ...
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| imaginary friend for 11 year old girl | 10/10/2007 |
Q: I have triplets and they all are "into" Digimon characters. All are girls. One daughter recently ...
A: Imaginary friends are common between ages 3 and 5, but after real friends are made, they usually ...
|
| 5-year-old grandson | 9/25/2007 |
Q: I am the grandmother of three. I take care of the children when their parents work. It seems that ...
A: This is a follow up note....maybe someone should also actually go observe at school to see if there ...
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| I think my 7 yr old has anger issues | 9/25/2007 |
Q: I'm so close to giving up. I found out my son was just suspended from the bus tomorrow because of ...
A: Sorry Hether, but this is too servious for you to handle alone. Your conselor was not effective, ...
|
| My sons behavioral problems | 9/13/2007 |
Q: I was wanting to see if you could give me any advice about my son. He is 5 years old, and is in ...
A: I don't usually say to go and check a child for ADD but in your case I will. Your son's behaviors ...
|
| Disrespect in a toddler | 9/10/2007 |
Q: My husband and I are about to lose it. Our son, who is only 3 1/2 has become completely ...
A: Fours tend to test you, yes, (that part is normal) and are generally not a cooperative as are threes ...
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| boyfriend sleeps with 8 yr old daughter | 9/9/2007 |
Q: I have been seeing a man that has partial custody of his 8 year old daughter. He seems to be a ...
A: It is not normal and is something that child development specialists agree can lead to problems. ...
|
| Educational software | 8/24/2007 |
Q: I recently came to know about FAST FORWORD products that help children in developing their reading, ...
A: I do not know anything about these products. This does not mean they are not reliable, but I would ...
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| First week of school | 8/23/2007 |
Q: Our son started Kindergarten this week and has been a totally different kid. He used to be very ...
A: Please make an appointment immediately with the teacher and explain your concerns and ask for ...
|
| 6 yr old with a BIG attitude | 8/22/2007 |
Q: I babysit a 6 yr old neighbor girl every day before and after school. She and her brother also ...
A: You are doing the best you can and your methods seem very good to me. Try dicussing this with the ...
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| Mom Sleeping with 11 Year Old Daughter | 8/6/2007 |
Q: Is this OK? If not, why not? It is not the daughters request - daughter moved into Mom's bed when ...
A: Sleeping with parents at this preadolescent age is NOT considered appropriate and there is complete ...
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| 5 Year is Cried his way through K and looks like he set to do same in camp | 8/3/2007 |
Q: My five year old son is very bright. He scored above average in the academic areas tested in his K ...
A: Most child experts agree that five is far too young to be in a summer camp, and for your sensitive ...
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| child behavior | 7/30/2007 |
Q: I have a 4 year old who I adopted 3 years ago.He came with some emotional problems and soom strange ...
A: Take him in for a complete physical with the doctor and also check his background especially in ...
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| Drastic overnight change in 5 yr old | 7/30/2007 |
Q: About 3 weeks ago my 5 yr old daughter started telling me everything. She said that she had to tell ...
A: This behavior is so unusual for a five year old that I suspect a sudden change like this must have ...
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| 9yr old in Moms bed | 6/25/2007 |
Q: My ex-wife still has our 9yr old son sleeping in bed with her. I have raised this several times as ...
A: You are absolutely correct in all that you say in this letter. I have worked with many parents that ...
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| Clingy and pleasing 6 year old girl | 6/25/2007 |
Q: My six year old is an amazingly loving and caring child. She has an amazing empathy for a child her ...
A: You have written a letter that clearly states the situation and describes the behavior and problems. ...
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| 5 year old son still fasinated with potty talk and naughty words | 6/22/2007 |
Q: .my son will be 6 in August and is still talking about boy and girl body parts as well as "bathroom" ...
A: As you know from having the other boys, he will also grow out of it. But for now, why not enlist ...
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| 7 yr old daughter clingy & craves all attention | 6/20/2007 |
Q: My 7 yr old daughter, whom I love to death has become somewhat of a nuisance and high maintenance. ...
A: You need to take a totally new approach. Buying her things to occupy her time is not working and it ...
|
| Seperation issues that stem from father's death. | 6/7/2007 |
Q: I am at a loss on what to do. My daughter who is eight now,dad died when she was two and she has ...
A: Part of the problem is that she is not yet telling you quite all of her fears. Yes, she is afraid ...
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| 6 year old trouble with friends | 6/1/2007 |
Q: My daughter usually is a happy, highly imaginative 1st grader. She has a 4 yr. old brother. My ...
A: Unfortunately little girls, especailly those in a neighborhood with a small group the same age...do ...
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| 7 years old son | 5/21/2007 |
Q: My son is 7 years old and is in Grade 2. He is smart and outgoing but doesn't listen. e.g. we tell ...
A: I have been in the hospital and am still ill and on meds and oxygen until June 1. All experts was ...
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| Whining | 5/11/2007 |
Q: I have a 5 year old boy just finishing preschool and will start kindergarten in Aug 2007 and I have ...
A: If he is still whining, maybe you have not tried quite "everytihng." The most effective way to stop ...
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| 9 year old daughter sleeping in fathers bed | 4/29/2007 |
Q: My 9 year old daughter is sleeping in her fathers bed (my ex). He seems to have no problem with it, ...
A: And you should be scared..you have every right to be scared. Since the mediator and Judge told him ...
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| Six year olds temper tantrums | 4/25/2007 |
Q: I have a six year old step-daughter who has terrible temper tantrums, and we don't know what to do. ...
A: It sounds like your therapist is not doing you any good and you need to try someone new. This is ...
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| help with friends | 4/24/2007 |
Q: I have a 5 year old girl who has a best friend in the same class and that lives across the street ...
A: This is common among girls...more so than with boys. It is simply the way things usually happen ...
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| 6 yr old still sleeps with us | 4/24/2007 |
Q: I need advise on how to start to get me 6 yr old little boy out of mine and my husbands bed. He has ...
A: Although it is useless at this point to say so, you should never never have let this get started. ...
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| My 6 year old daughter drives me to tears | 4/18/2007 |
Q: I think I am at my wits end, I have to start by saying I live for my kids, I have a 15 year old son ...
A: I think this is most unusual...most 6 year olds interrupt and want attention, but are not mean or ...
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| Child who thinks they are an adult | 4/18/2007 |
Q: We have a 5 year old whom is quick to give adivse. Any advise given to our girl is quickly given ...
A: I think your child has a "leadership" type...and sometimes bossy..."I want to be in charge" ...
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| High maintenance 8yr old daughter | 4/15/2007 |
Q: I have 2 daughters (13 and 8). DD1 is actually a very easy going child. However, I am really not ...
A: I have been in your shoes...we have a middle daughter that often made me feel just that way. It's ...
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| 4 year old with temper tantrums | 2/16/2007 |
Q: I am a single mother of a four year old daughter. 6 months ago we moved back in with my parents to ...
A: I am so glad you are moving in a month..this problem is probably due to her anxiety about the ...
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| Engaged to single mom with jealous child | 11/27/2006 |
Q: This is all kind of new to me, asking for help in this nature, but here goes... I am engaged to a ...
A: It is really a shame for two compatible and intelligent adults with a great relationship as partners ...
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| discipline for a 5 year old | 11/15/2006 |
Q: How long is long enough to ground a 5 year old boy...no TV, no play and just siiting on a bed seems ...
A: I agree, Sam, this is not appropriate for a 5 yr old at all and especially an active one. Grounding ...
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| Helping my 6 year old make friends | 11/10/2006 |
Q: I just returned from my First Graders first parent teacher conference of the year. She couldn't be ...
A: Some children are confident and outgoing and make freinds easily, some need help. Making friends is ...
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| Red light everyday! | 11/9/2006 |
Q: I am asking on behalf of my best friend. She has a 6 y/o son who is K. Almost every day in class he ...
A: Please forgive me but I think that whole system of red, yellow and green light indicators is ...
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| BEDROOMS | 10/20/2006 |
Q: MY BOYFRIEND AND I ARE EXPECTING A BABY BOY IN FEBURARY.I HAVE A 6 YEAR OLD SON AND HE HAS A 5 YEAR ...
A: First, I agree that your son, who lives with you 16 days as opposed to 8 days, should have his own ...
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| play gambling | 10/20/2006 |
Q: i'm a mother of 4 fabulous kids. my two youngest (7&10) usually play well together and do get on ...
A: I understand your concern. I don't think this is a hereditary gene that is passed on, but maybe the ...
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| 5yo daughter silently rebelling | 10/19/2006 |
Q: I asked Leslie this sameMy wife picked up our daughter from kindergarten today. Her teacher told my ...
A: Keep working with the teacher as a team, no matter what. but since you have both tried negative ...
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| school | 10/18/2006 |
Q: my son is now in first grade he cant write very well cant read other than some words that he has ...
A: Tabetha, All you can do is make an appointment with the teacher and ask for help for your son. He ...
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| 6 Year Old lacks motivation and confidence in abilities in school | 10/16/2006 |
Q: My 6 year old daughter (1st grade) is very bright and catches on to things quickly when she applies ...
A: This should be taken up with the teachers at the school. make an appointment to observe there, and ...
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| 6-Year-Old Son Experiencing Separation Anxiety for First Time | 9/22/2006 |
Q: My 6-year-old (Cade) started crying when we pull up to carpool at school about (2) weeks ago. He ...
A: You are doing all the right things and I feel sure that these deaths of people he loved or knew is ...
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| discipline for a 6 yr. old | 9/21/2006 |
Q: My 6 year old is in Kindergarten and is a wonderful student. Just the other day she was sitting on ...
A: The strange thing is that I got a similar letter about this type of public humiliation discipline ...
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| Leaving teenager home alone over night | 9/18/2006 |
Q: I have another question for you somewhat unrelated. My 16 yr. old daughter is living with her ...
A: I agree with you. 16 is too young and too hormone happy to leave alone at night especially if there ...
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| Discipline | 9/16/2006 |
Q: I have been divorced for about 1 yr. My ex is in a new relationship and living with his girlfriend ...
A: You must talk privately with your ex about this, because you are right, it is not fair, but he is ...
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| seperation anxiety | 9/15/2006 |
Q: my 6 yr old daughter started first grade last week today is day 7 the first 4 days were fine. but ...
A: If she was fine the first days of school and now is having a problem, maybe someone on the bus or in ...
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| Fall out of bed | 9/7/2006 |
Q: My 5 year old kindergartener falls out of bed once every month or so when sleeping. He's never ...
A: I think you are right; there is no real danger. Put a thick rug and/or pillows by the bed. Ask ...
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| Potty training my 4 1/2 year old son | 9/1/2006 |
Q: Iam having so much trouble getting my son who is 4 1/2 years old to use the potty. I fell I have ...
A: Since your son is 4 1/2 and is not trained, it is possible that there is a physical problem. You ...
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| My son's behavior | 8/29/2006 |
Q: My son just turned two years old this week, but for the past six months his behavior has gotten to ...
A: Your child is perfectly normal and is just going through the age of testing you with these tanturms ...
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| my 8 year olds social wellbeing | 8/29/2006 |
Q: My 8 year old daughter has great difficulty making friends. She has never had a consistent ...
A: Our oldest girl was similar and also was, though I did not know it until much later, a gifted child. ...
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| four year old behavior | 8/28/2006 |
Q: My daughter just turned four years old. She still wants to be held and sleep in my bed, falling ...
A: You have not told me very much that would help me answer this quesiton. For example are you a ...
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| My 6 yr old doesn't listen and backtalks | 7/23/2006 |
Q: My 6 yr old son backtalks, be's a smart alec argues with adults and tells them what to do. This ...
A: i am glad Daddy is home with him to see the behavior and deal with it. Perhaps this will give you ...
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| behavior and discipline | 7/21/2006 |
Q: I am a 28yo married mother of 3 boys ages 7, 5 and 4. My 5 year old has ADHD. I feel like i have ...
A: If your son has already been dianosed as ADD ADHD then you have a doctor. the doctor is not only in ...
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| 4-year old studders | 6/27/2006 |
Q: My 4 year-old son sometimes studders or stammers when he's speaking. I notice it more recently and ...
A: I could write much more but my husband is having emergency surgery or lose his vision! this is ...
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| 7 Year Old chews on everything | 6/26/2006 |
Q: My 7 year old son continues to chew on everything when he is bored or distracted, particularly soft ...
A: I do not have any expertise in this unusual area. Since he is 7 now and has done this for so long, ...
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| 8 yr old obsessed with food | 6/24/2006 |
Q: My little girl is a chronic overeater. she constantly thinks about food, and if left to her own ...
A: You should watch that TV special series on overeating that is currently on ...something called We're ...
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| 6 Yr old out of control | 6/12/2006 |
Q: My 6 yr old daughter is making me nuts. She lies to everyone, she steals their things, she colors ...
A: You did not say if this is "new" behavior or if she has been this way for years. I am guessing that ...
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| Potty Trianing Challenge | 6/9/2006 |
Q: Well, my sister is upset because 1) I got my nephews' age wrong (the yare 6, not 7), and 2) she ...
A: I have a sister...I know what you mean. We were both trying to help. But seriously, your sister ...
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| Fighting kids | 6/8/2006 |
Q: We have 2 girls ages 8 and 11. Just like other kids their ages, they fight frequently. They're not ...
A: F. Believe me, I understand your pain and frustration exactly, having been here myself. Our girls ...
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| 10 year old boy | 6/6/2006 |
Q: My grandson has lost his interest in school subjects. It seems to be getting worse the closer the ...
A: No a child cannot be "burned out" from being in day care or school programs in the past. It is not ...
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| Potty Trianing Challenge | 6/6/2006 |
Q: Evelyn, My sister has twin boys who turned seven this past January. They will be in the first ...
A: Your sister must DEMAND that the doctor refer her to a doctor who specializes in this problem. ...
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| 6 Year old | 5/30/2006 |
Q: I am desparate for some advice on how to handle my 6 year old daughter. She has always been ...
A: Our oldest was 8 when we had two more a year apart. She was also very busy and independent, but the ...
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| Neighborhood Kid Issues | 5/29/2006 |
Q: We live in a small community where there is a community pond for fishing, picnicing, etc. There are ...
A: It depends on how much of an issue you want to make of this. You could ignore it, since I figure ...
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| mommy guilt | 5/23/2006 |
Q: What can you comment on regarding mommy guilt as far as having to work? if i had my choice, i would ...
A: I know you are very frustrated and as a mom who worked when my three kids were young, I understand. ...
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| Lonely 5 yr old | 5/12/2006 |
Q: My daughter slept with my husband and me from the time she was born until she was fourteen months ...
A: You have been doing your best all along and should be commended. It is wise of you to have her in ...
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| school anxiety | 5/2/2006 |
Q: My son is 6 yrs. old and he is in kindergarten. He has always liked going on the bus and going to ...
A: You really need to find out what has suddenly caused this problem...I do not think it is "school ...
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| Six year old hitting | 4/28/2006 |
Q: My six year old son has suddenly had more and more trouble controlling himself. He's become ...
A: This aggressive behavior is not normal at all for a six year old...and a child who hits and elder ...
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| 8 yr old suddenly "clingy" | 3/9/2006 |
Q: My 8 yr. old daughter has suddenly become clingy when it comes time to go to school. She has a ...
A: I agree that this is a serious problem if it is putting her at risk. Have you called to say you were ...
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| discipline | 3/7/2006 |
Q: My daughter called needing my help about my 10 year old grandson. His parents put him in band this ...
A: My husband taught at the famous Interlochen Center for the Arts for 33 years. Our kids had ...
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| my daughters first friend | 3/4/2006 |
Q: this may sound stupid, however i am not sure how to deal with a situation...my 5 year old daughter ...
A: I would feel the same concern about letting my child play at another child's home without meeting ...
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| Gifted or ADD | 2/16/2006 |
Q: My second grade boy is very bright and is always the first one to complete his work during classroom ...
A: I think you should also have the opportunity to visit/observe your son in the classroom and take ...
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| 12 yr old boy discipline for rudeness | 12/14/2005 |
Q: Very bright, active boy. Has had discipline problems in school for years . . . usually just fooling ...
A: Since you all get along well as parents and step parents, you share the problem. It would be great ...
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| anger/impulse control..hitting | 12/6/2005 |
Q: . I am the mother of two boys ages 7 & 8. My youngest makes friends easily and loves school. He is ...
A: I think you have been doing the right things...keep up the family therapy and be sure to report this ...
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| My sister | 10/24/2005 |
Q: I have a 10 year old sister who is in fourth grade. She is in 4th grade. She is reading on a 2nd ...
A: Meaghan, Why are you writing to me about this instead of your parents writing to me? Your sister ...
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| Anxiety in 11 year old son | 10/18/2005 |
Q: This is my 11 year old son's first year in middle school. Recently I started working at home ...
A: I wonder if you have talked to the teacher about this. Perhaps you could have more insight if you ...
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| 10 yr olds behavior at school | 10/12/2005 |
Q: My ten year old son is constantly in trouble at school, he's rude to his teachers, disobediant and ...
A: In recent months many schools have been trying to deal with the "bullying" problem by developing ...
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| Seasonal Family Crises | 10/7/2005 |
Q: Transition from end of school year to summer: Is it true that family crises reach a peak at this ...
A: To my knowlege, there is no specific season or time of year in which family crises have bee proven ...
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| My 9 year old won't try sports | 9/27/2005 |
Q: My son is 9 years old. He has ADHD and is taking medication for it. Since the medication, he has ...
A: It appears that another expert has already answered your question. My computer died and I was not ...
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| Separation Issues | 9/15/2005 |
Q: I have a highly gifted son who just turned 7 and is in the 2nd grade. He is an only child and a ...
A: I wondered if your child had ever attended a preschool or play group of some kind before regular ...
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| Blanket security | 9/7/2005 |
Q: I have a 6 1/2 year old that will not give up his "blankey". He has had this blanket for the last 5 ...
A: If it is that important to him, you need to perhaps you need to structure when he can and can not ...
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| My 6 year old son! | 8/17/2005 |
Q: My son "Derek" is normal a good kid around me. When i speak he listens and does what i ask him ...
A: I don't understand how your son could be going to kindergarten now, as it is still August and school ...
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| Jealous Child | 7/25/2005 |
Q: Petersen, I don't know if you could help me with this question. I have been dating a widow for ...
A: Much depends on how long this child has been without her dad and what her relationship was like with ...
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| What is the most appropriate discipline for this situation? | 5/11/2005 |
Q: I came across your website while searching for the appropriate action to take in a situation that I ...
A: I am amazed that this incident or others like it happened in a PREschool! I am assuming that your ...
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| 8 year old son | 3/21/2005 |
Q: I have an 8 year old son with some behavioral problems. Lately, it seems that he is showing signs ...
A: This does not sound like normal eight year old behavior to me. I think your concern is warrented, ...
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| Behaviour | 3/10/2005 |
Q: My husband and I have been married for 12 years. We have two children, 8 year old boy and 5 year ...
A: You are doing the right thing by getting counseling. Since you all really love each other, hang in ...
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| 9 year old boy being left alone | 3/9/2005 |
Q: I have a nine year old boy and a two year old daughter. Recently my nine year old does not want to ...
A: There are 3 points to consider. 1. First, you know him best. You need to know if he understands ...
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| discipline | 2/24/2005 |
Q: I am a 25 yr. old mother of a six year old, Nicholas, pregnant with my second child. I married my ...
A: You say Nicholas and his dad (your husband) get along wonderfully, so I am surprised that you feel ...
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| Kids like sleeping together | 1/15/2005 |
Q: I really appreciate you answereing this for me. My kids, daughter 6 and son 4, like to sleep ...
A: What is normal for these ages is to want to learn more about their own and others' bodies. Kids are ...
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| bullies | 1/12/2005 |
Q: My 3rd grade daughter is being bullied at school. Boys kick her, girls make fun of her or completely ...
A: I am sorry your child has a teacher who does not see that self esteem and feeling secure are not ...
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| childhood behavior | 1/10/2005 |
Q: My daughter, an only child, is 10 years old. She is in the 4th grade this year, and it has been the ...
A: I think it's a bit young for puberty...but I suppose it is possible she is starting preadolescence. ...
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| Potting training for almost 4 year old boy | 1/10/2005 |
Q: I have an almost 4 year old boy (he will be 4 in March 05) who is healthy and intelligent. He can ...
A: If your son is a sensitive type, you may be pushing too much. Boys take longer to train than girls, ...
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| 9 year old's attitude | 1/3/2005 |
Q: I have a nine year old girl who has, over the past couple of years, gotten extremely mouthy and has ...
A: YES do something now, or this will just get lots worse. Your idea for a contract is fine, but it ...
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| What's a single dad to do | 1/2/2005 |
Q: I'm 42 been raising my daughters age 11 and 9 since 1997 my youngest was in diapers. My oldest ...
A: I really know nothing about sports and such, and you know your daughters better than anyone else! ...
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| Water table/ Sand tables in classrooms | 11/28/2004 |
Q: I am hoping you may be able to inform me of any risks that are associated with sand tables/ and ...
A: This is a strange question for a parent to ask, but as an early childhood educator and trainer, here ...
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| Why is my son doing this? | 11/22/2004 |
Q: Honestly, I don't think that my son Ricky sees violence from family members or friends of us, and he ...
A: Yes he could be fantasizing and he could certainly get ideas from the cartoons we see nowadays. ...
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| Why is my son doing this? | 11/20/2004 |
Q: My only son Ricky is 5 years old. I saw him playing with his big pillow the other day, he was like ...
A: You did the right thing by not over reacting and redirecting the activity. Your son is 5 but even ...
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| Quiet Child | 11/2/2004 |
Q: My name is Nicole and im 16 years old. I just recently started mentoring a young asian girl at a ...
A: Good for you! Being a mentor or big sister is a great idea. But do remember that there are many ...
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| separation | 11/2/2004 |
Q: I appreciate any help. I have a 11 yr old boy. He is my first born and we are quite close. I do ...
A: If this is new behavior for him, maybe something is going on at home or school that is upsetting ...
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| 6 year old (temper concerns) | 11/1/2004 |
Q: Our 6 year boy seems to get frustrated easily if things don't go his way. Examples are putting on ...
A: Usually six year olds are in need of as much attention as twos. They may be in "real" school now, ...
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| Use of Telephone | 10/4/2004 |
Q: My daughter just turned 12. She was given a time limit of use of the telephone -- no social calls ...
A: You are absolutely correct in doing what you did. Explain that the phone is an appliance for the ...
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| My wife and I have a 3 year... | 9/20/2004 |
Q: My wife and I have a 3 year old, who when called by her name, says that it is not her name and ...
A: I agree with your doctor; this is a very normal type of behavior for three's who are beginning to ...
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| What father son affection is appropriate | 7/26/2004 |
Q: I am wondering what level of physical affection is appropriate between a father and a son. My own ...
A: Your son is just 10 and soon he will be going through pre adolescence and puberty. At that point it ...
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| Defiant And Disrespectful Children | 7/26/2004 |
Q: We are at our wits ends. Today I am calling an Employee Assistance program for help. We have been ...
A: I am appalled at this situation with children that young behaving so badly. It seems possible to me ...
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| Birds and the Bees | 7/7/2004 |
Q: Our 6-year old daughter is now at the stage where she wants to know "how babies are made." She is a ...
A: The mainstream view is to be totally honest, not avoid the subject, but keep it simple when you ...
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| Kindergarten | 7/4/2004 |
Q: My four-year-old son will be starting Kindergarten in the Fall of 2005. I have heard various reports ...
A: Sorry this took so long for me to answer...very busy here in MI on the few days it did not rain! I, ...
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| separation | 6/5/2004 |
Q: I have an almost 3 yr old son.I had a daughter recently[she is almost 6 months now].For the birth ...
A: It will be sad for you and the family when they leave, but three year olds actually don't understand ...
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| bed wetting | 5/10/2004 |
Q: I have a five and three quarter year old daughter that wears pull ups to bed for the last 10 months ...
A: Try to go back and figure out what event may have caused the bed wetting to begin 10 months ago. ...
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| neglect (?) | 4/27/2004 |
Q: There is a family I know that loves their daughter very much, but seem to neglect her at times.She ...
A: You and I have the same idea of what neglect is, and it's the absence of parenting. Too many of ...
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| 9 yo head banger | 4/18/2004 |
Q: My son is 9yo, and has been banging his head since he could raise it. The doctor's have said it was ...
A: Our youngest of the four, a girl, banged her head and hummed a three note tune to go with it! She ...
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| Sassiness | 3/12/2004 |
Q: Please help....my 6 almost 7 year old daughter has developed a very "smart" mouth. She is being ...
A: Do you have other children? I wonder if there are some sibling dynamics going on...or any changes ...
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| Family pet must stay behind | 3/11/2004 |
Q: We are moving cross country and our family pet,a dog, isn't coming along(because she's a barker and ...
A: Your 8 and 10 year olds can rationalize and understand your reasons for finding this pet a new home. ...
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| Angry Child | 3/9/2004 |
Q: My 3rd daughter is in 4th grade now, she is always repulsive, fighting with her siblings and talking ...
A: I sent you an email with some questions to help me understand your actual situation better. I have ...
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| grade advancement | 2/25/2004 |
Q: I have a ten year old son who is showing some signs of being educationally gifted. His teacher has ...
A: I would be concerned too. The best way to handle this is have the child be with his own age group ...
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| Stealing | 11/23/2003 |
Q: My 9-year-old son took $200 from my ex-wife's wallet and used it to buy yu-gi-oh cards. He said he ...
A: You are right...you must talk to him firmly and at length to explain why you are upset...this is a ...
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