Steps Kids Can Take on Road to Independence

You’ve read the advice more than once–kids, even young ones, can and should help around the house. Here’s what they can do:   Make It Better asked Annette B. Kulle, Head of School at Countryside Montessori School in Northbrook for a few practical chores and activities kids can accomplish that contribute to the family. “Children […]

Chores Make Better Kids

We all know the routine. Ask a child to make his bed and pick up his dirty socks.  And hours later, the blankets are still twisted up on the bed, and the smelly socks still give the room a musky perfume. Rather than nag more, I sometimes think: “It’s easier if I just do it […]

Video: Pay attention to what kids do right!

Every parent knows that raising children is sometimes a frustrating and overwhelming experience.   We want our children to do well in school, behave, be responsible—but sometimes we unknowingly reward the opposite behavior. In this short (<3 minute) video conversation, Parent Coach Beth Miller gives some practical advice how to build on our children’s strengths […]

Preschoolers: What We Wish We'd Known Then

1. Spend more time on the carpet. “I wish I had spent more time just playing with my kids. Older women told me to relax and savor every minute, because they grow up in the blink of an eye. I didn’t know how to take in their wisdom.” -Suzy Hilbrant, Winnetka 2. Take time for […]

Teaching Kids about Money

The banking industry isn’t making it easy to teach your child to be a saver. My son’s savings account earned less than a quarter in interest last year: $.20 to be exact. “Pathetic,” was his response.  And he’s right. But that started a family discussion about why we save and how to keep money safe, […]

Debbie Phelps as Role Model for North Shore Parents

Throughout the 2004 Olympics in Athens, the media constantly sought her analysis of Michael’s decisions and performances. Debbie consistently responded with unfailing praise and support, offering phrases like: “Isn’t Mike wonderful? I am so proud of him!”   No critical assessment of any kind was ever given; Debbie sat smiling and cheering in the stands […]

Teen Therapy: 4 Common Pitfalls and How to Troubleshoot Them

In an ideal world, after only a few sessions with a therapist, your child would emerge smiling and problem-free. But, of course, life rarely works that way. Though therapy can be invaluable for a troubled child, it’s not without bumps in the proverbial road. Here, we name a few common problems and suggest ways to […]