Christmas: Not Always So Cheery (2)

In our last article on this topic we looked at the high expectations that so many of us have about Christmas and the festive season and why it is not only so stressful for so many of us, but why it is often a time of unhappiness rather than joy. So how can we reduce the stress that many of us feel at Christmas and defuse some of the more unpleasant family disputes that often occur at the very time we should be happy? The answer is partially contained in the last phrase of the previous paragraph. The expectations that … Continue reading

What is Age Appropriate Sexual Development in Early Childhood? The Five to Eight Year Olds.

This is the third article in the series. Click on the links to view the introduction, or, three to five-year-old articles. The five to eight-years olds are the ones who really seem to get into trouble the most, for simply enacting a normal part of their development. This is the stage where therapists are sent these children to “fix” them. So, is there increased abnormal sexual behavior in this age group? I think not. This age group is highly sociable, have started school, and have many more sets of authoritarian eyes watching their every move. The children are learning the … Continue reading

Childcare, babies and mental health

Ever wondered whether childcare for babies and infants is beneficial for a child? Or is spending time with Mom more important for a baby’s emotional development? A new study from Australia sheds some light on this intriguing issue. Debates concerning whether an infant is better off being at home in parental care versus professional long-term daycare are highly emotive and fraught with inconsistencies due to the nature of the topic. Working parents, particularly single mothers who have little choice as to whether to return to work or not, usually suffer the most in regard to this issue. While some women … Continue reading