Propelling forward

Propelling forward

The other day I observed a Mom and Dad walking with their daughter, each holding one of her hands.  They were doing the classic “one, two, three, and up you go,” swinging her up.  The child squealed with delight every time she ‘flew’...
Planting and Parenting

Planting and Parenting

An alien landing in Israel on Tu B’shvat would think that we’re nuts (appropriate for Tu B’shvat, of course). Everyone is ceremoniously planting trees in the cold and seemingly barren ground. These conditions don’t seem to be conducive to...
No audience, no show

No audience, no show

Remember that next time your kid has a tantrum.  Is it that simple?    Well, here’s some food for thought.  We would be terrified if a tiger escaped the zoo and entered our home.  But if a child disguised as a tiger sits himself...
Parenting and social skills

Parenting and social skills

I recently read an article about an amazing woman born with cerebral palsy, who was challenged with many struggles while growing up.  Yet, inspired by the determination and untiring efforts of her parents she led a normal life.      One...
Role Model 

Role Model 

“Be a role model”.    That’s one of the primary conditions for “successful parenting” which, despite being well intentioned,  leaves parents perceiving themselves as inadequate.  Instead of being encouraging to the average parent,...