Beware the Green Eyed Monster: How Jealousy Can Impact Your Blended Family

I tiptoed up to the topic, believing that most of us are pretty sensitive about it: “Sometimes step parents feel…I don’t want to call it jealousy, but…” at which point Kelly, eight years into her step mom experience, interrupted, “Oh, you can call it jealous! I was definitely jealous!—of a six year old, no less!” We were talking about what can often become a defining dynamic between children and step parents, and consequently, a divisive issue for a biological parent and their spouse. It’s not an emotion many of us are willing to cop to, especially if the trigger is … Continue reading

Reducing the Cost of Raising a Child

If you read yesterday’s post, you know the estimated cost of raising a child. Now, I’ll take those expenses as outlined by Bankrate and go through some ways of reducing them. Let’s look at some of these expenses and general ways to cut them down. Obviously each person’s situation is different, but these are some ideas to help. Groceries: cook from scratch, use coupons, avoid convenience foods, and make your own lunches. Clothing: Take advantage of hand-me-downs, used clothing sales ad ear-end discounts. Bigger home: Bunk two children in one room, reduce the clutter in your current home to make … Continue reading

SYTYCD – Las Vegas “Don’t Give Up”

The summer’s phenomenal dance show made it back to Las Vegas last night and covered a week’s worth of grueling auditions to trim 200 dancers to 20. The experience was mentally, physically and emotionally daunting for the contestants. To those who’ve always thought it would be easy to get that far in the dance world, take note – even those who made the cut were worn out and looking forward to the month long break before the contest starts. Luckily for viewers, the month long break started a month ago, so we will be seeing the Top 20 perform next … Continue reading

Tips for Teachers: Glue

Previously, I introduced a new section that I am adding to the education topic at Families.com. This section, Tips for Teachers, will highlight some tips that I have learned from experience and veteran teachers. One thing that has taken trial and error for me over the past couple of years is the purchasing of student supplies. When teaching eighth grade, supplies were not as big of a deal. However, student supplies for kindergarten students take some creativity. The supplies need to be accessible to the students and easy to use. Students should be able to use the supplies without a … Continue reading