#parentingfail

The Elf on the Shelf as a Parenting Tool: Yes or No?

The Elf on the Shelf as a Parenting Tool: Yes or No?

A parent member of our online parenting support asked:

We are doing the Elf on the Shelf this year for my daughter (4-years-old). I think that the elf watching for good behavior is a good incentive. Any thought or experiences?

Sometimes I Want to Give up on Parenting

Sometimes I Want to Give up on Parenting

The wind is blowing my hat towards my cheek, and I can hear my children laughing with their daddy.  It is an absolutely breathtaking day on Miami Beach, and I feel like crying. My mind is flooded with negative thoughts:  I'm a bad mom because I won't play with them in the water and my children's memories of fun times will always include mom on the sideline watching them looking serious.  It is always painful to sit in a happy place full of remorse and regret.  I know this is universal for most of us as parents.