The Innovative Dad
A psychologist’s blog about raising and educating children through the lens innovation.
Getting Your School Routine Started in the Summer
I know that it probably seems weird to be thinking about your school routine right now. Most parents are celebrating the end of the school year and the struggle to get kids to do homework or get them out the door in time. So why should we be thinking about our school...
Summer Planning: Turn over the Bucket List to Your Kids
We love the lazy days of summer because of the relaxed atmosphere that they hopefully bring with them. Even from this place of relaxation, there are opportunities for our children to grow and become more independent. Your family's summer bucket list is a great place...
Curiosity in Parenting: What Don’t I Know about What’s Going on?
The phrase, “curiosity killed the cat,” is generally meant to discourage exploration and asking questions. The discouragement is probably meant for those about to wander off into forbidden territory because, otherwise, the statement is quite ridiculous. We want our...
New Page on Site: Mindfulness Resources
Mindfulness is our ability to be fully present and in the moment. It encourages us to be intensely aware of what we are doing, feeling, and sensing. Mindfulness practices can help us become more attentive and ease our stress. Check out this curated list of resources...
The Power, or Lack Thereof, of the Apology
How many times have you asked your child to apologize to someone else for his or her behavior? “David, please tell Sarah that you are sorry for hitting her.” “Julie, please go and apologize to Emily for being mean.” I’m sure that we could all think of a million...
Helping Kids to Listen Better
"Use your listening ears!" That's a pretty regular phrase in our house. But do we ever provide strategies to help our kids actually use those "listening ears?" Try this simple strategy to help improve listening as a way to go those ears to turn on....
New Page on Site: Anxiety Resources
Anxiety is a natural emotion, but too much of it can interfere with our ability to live our lives in a meaningful way. For children, anxiety can manifest as nervousness, fear, or even anger. Helping them manage their anxiety and learn to deal with it is an important...
Let Your Kids See Your Negative Emotions
If you are like most adults, it can be difficult to show your kids that you have negative emotions. We seem to want them to think that as adults, we are happy all the time. But does that really make any sense? What would happen if we shared more of our full range of...
Parenting Strategies to Kid Habits: Love Notes
We all like a little appreciation now and then. And, it's even better when it is unexpected. Our kids are no different. Providing them with a little bit of love in the middle of the day when they are off at school can go a long way toward building up their self-esteem...