Parenting: The Challenge

It is recommended that children do not watch more than one or two hours of TV per day. For the most part I do agree with this. There are plenty other activities they can do besides TV. I would also advise parents not to have a TV in their childrens' rooms. On the other hand I think some TV is ok, and is great for when parents need a break. There are plenty of educational programs now and you can always pick out a movie instead of a show. Now that there are DVRs you can pick out specific programming that you find would be beneficial to your children when the time comes for TV watching. I think ...

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Once your child reaches the teen years, they will start to ask for money for activities and to purchase clothes, music and other things. It may be time to start teaching them some money management. Set up a budget for all the things your teen uses or needs that you may find is outside of what you feel they are entitled to. A weekly allowance is a good place to start giving them a set amount for chores done. If you feel that your teen is old enough and can handle a part time job while in school or just for the summer, encourage them to apply. This is a great way for them to learn how to make and ...

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School is coming to an end for the summer. How can you keep your kids occupied and keep them learning during the break? You don't need to schedule every minute of their time while school's out, they will need the break, but giving them opportunities for other activities is a great way to keep them motivated and learning. The library is a great way for them to explore books not required for school. Check out some in your area for workshops and events. Go to the zoo, kids love animals and to learn about them. Check for local clubs in the area geared toward kids, they may be able to go a few times a week which would be fun ...

More about: Keep Kids Busy During the Summer

Are you much of a risk-taker now that you have children? It's not just me anymore that I need to think about. Having a child really changes things in terms of risky behavior. I'm not a fast driver and if I've had a small amount of alcohol, I won't drive. I want to be around for along time for my child and tasking risks just isn't worth it now that he is in my life.

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You don't need to be strict about your child's weight, but you want them to lead a fit and healthy lifestyle. Have them eating healthy foods. A good way to make that work is to include them in the meal planning. Make sure they are getting exercise. Encourage them to ride a bike with a friend or play a game of tag or basketball, or join them! Limit video games or TV-watching so that they are not sitting around a lot. Instilling these habits will make a difference when they grow into adulthood.

More about: Managing Your Child’s Weight

It can wear on your last nerve, but it doesn't have to be all bad. Within all the fighting and squabbling kids can learn independence and create a mature self-esteem. Parents always want to treat their children equally, but really we should be looking at what's best for each child. When fights arise, don't step in to fix it, guide them to a suitable solution but let them figure it out. Having them left to their own devices to work it out takes you out of the middle and has them learning how to deal with their own issues.

More about: How to handle Sibling Rivalry

Accra the capital of Ghana, will be releasing a parenting magazine that will offer positive information to help parents make good decisions. In a place where there are not a lot of resources, it's great that Ms Joyce Aryee Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Chamber of Mines took on the launch of this project. She requested help from the government to make more resources for women for parenting their children. This will be a great resource for those needing advice from other parents and experts.

More about: Good Parenting Magazine

When a child leaves home for the first time it can't be a very sad experience for both parties.  It is an adjustment for all involved and for some it can be devastating. For children it means independence, responsibility and new experiences. For parents it can be a time to focus on their career, their social life or picking up a new hobby or sport. Parents need to take advantage of this time and take more time for themselves. This isn't the end of being a parent and you may even become closer with your child once they leave the house.

More about: Beat the Blues When the Kids Leave the Nest

There is a new "reality" show on VH1 involving parents and their children. I think it's awful. It's bad enough that the parents are very controlling with their children but to have them on a TV show where millions can watch it? It's sad that these parents seem to be living their dream of stardom through their kids and put a ridiculous amount of pressure on them to be a star and to win the prize. The kids don't seem to be very happy and look like the don't even want to be there. Hopefully these kids won't be emotionally ...

More about: I Know My Kid’s a Star

Divorce is tough for everyone, not just the parents. Many times children think they are the cause or can't accept "losing" a parent to the breaking up of the marriage. Things to remember if you find yourself having to go though this. Reassure your children that it's not their fault and that both parents love them no matter what. Never talk bad about the other parent, it's not fair to them or the other parent. What happens between you and them should not involve them and they should be able to maintain a healthy, loving relationship with you both.

More about: Talking Bad About the Other Parent