Insights & Inspiration

Help your child calm down after tantrums using expert-recommended techniques like "staylistening" (staying present and supportive during the meltdown) and "connect and redirect" (reconnecting emotionally first, then addressing the situation). Instead of telling kids to "calm down," focus on empathy and emotional connection to help them regulate their feelings.

Your child's belief in their ability to improve (growth mindset) significantly impacts their reading success. Instead of labeling them as "struggling," focus on making reading fun, following their interests, and emphasizing that practice leads to improvement. Studies show children labeled as "struggling" by third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school, but promoting a growth mindset can help change this trajectory.

Screen time is a major parenting challenge in the digital age. Children are averaging 2-6 hours of daily screen time, far exceeding pediatric recommendations. While screens aren't inherently harmful, they can impact children's physical and mental health, potentially causing sleep issues, behavioral changes, and links to obesity and aggression. The most crucial approach is leading by example: consistently enforcing rules, communicating media values, and prioritizing personal connection with your child over digital distractions.

Executive function is a set of three critical brain skills (working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control) that affect everything from basic tasks to complex problem-solving. These "CEO skills" develop rapidly from birth to age 5, then continue fine-tuning until the mid-20s. Research shows they're better predictors of academic success than IQ. Understanding how these skills develop helps parents set appropriate expectations and support their child's growth at each stage.

When your child doesn't listen, it's rarely about hearing - it's usually about unmet needs or developmental stages. Instead of focusing on making kids obey, try active listening to understand what's really going on. Children who feel heard are more likely to listen themselves. Rather than punishing bad behavior, use positive discipline techniques that teach responsibility and empathy. The goal isn't just short-term compliance but helping your child develop the skills to make good choices on their own.

Discover practical ways to find 10 minutes in your busy day for meaningful parenting reflection. From early morning quiet time to making the most of waiting periods, these strategies help you become a more mindful parent with Era as your companion. Small time investments in observation and reflection can transform your parenting journey.