Just as for adults, it’s important that children exercise regularly. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that children and adolescents ages six and older get at least an hour a day (total) of moderate to vigorous aerobic activity. They should also participate in such bone-strengthening activities as jumping rope or running at least three days a week.

One of the topics from this month’s Family Table Time is “Sun and Heat Safety.” That’s because it’s vital to know how to protect your children during the hottest days of summer.

Like it or not, it’s in a teenager’s nature to be impulsive.

Today’s chuckle, “the most optimistic person is the mother who packs 3 books in her bag to read on summer vacation.”

“Parents beware—Omegle might just as well be called “Pedophiles R Us,” warned one reviewer on Commonsensemedia.org. “I found out by chance that my (just) 14-year-old daughter has been using this site. Her conversations involve guys asking her for sex and to meet her in hotels for sex.”

When you’re running late for school and work, and your little one doesn’t feel the urgency, what do you do?

What one single parenting activity can:

And The Summertime Balancing Act Begins

What does it mean to be part of a family? Besides the bonds of love and—typically—genetics, it can also mean contributing in an age-appropriate way to the success of the social unit. Further, it’s about fostering success for each member of the group.

Whether from long-standing cultural practices, family tradition, or a sincere belief in its effectiveness, spanking children for misbehavior is a common practice. Nearly all studies have shown it’s harmful to their long-term mental and emotional health. But some parents insist it’s sometimes necessary.