Estate planning is a topic that can be difficult for all of us. Even more difficult is approaching this topic with one’s own aging parents.  Perhaps there is a feeling that the parent will misconstrue the intent behind the conversation.  Or, maybe there are mixed feelings about whether it’s appropriate for the child to approach this topic because it signifies a role reversal in the relationship that the parents find disconcerting.  However, there are ways for adu...

Posted on April 03, 2013 at 6:00 AM by Jennifer Guimond Quigley

I’ve always sworn that I wouldn’t get a dog. My kids have begged for one every day for as long as I can remember. They make a full-time job of it. My reasons for being immune to their pleas have been many:

I don’t really like touching them because they’re – well, you know…ANIMALS.

I have spent too long cleaning up human poop. Do I really want to add animal poop to my repertoire?

I feel so emotionally attached and responsible for six ...

Posted on November 28, 2012 at 6:00 AM by Julie Cole

Grief and Loss is a complicated process and having the appropriate outlet and language, especially for children is keen in helping them work through their feelings and questions. My time as a therapist, both during internship and currently in my practice I have come to recognize the importance of helping children and providing the space for them to grieve the loss of a family member, friend, and family pets.

Letters to heaven is a great way to allow your child to have a sense of closur...

Posted on November 05, 2012 at 7:00 AM by Julia Rahn

Whether you are five years old or fifty-five years old, having your furry companion pass away is one of life's toughest moments. We all have people we love that we are scared to lose and ones whose losses we still tear up over, but a pet holds a different place in your heart. No one prepared me for what I was faced with this summer. When my pug Lola was suddenly diagnosed with the worst cancer possible and was given only a few weeks left to live, I wanted to crawl into a hole and stay ...

Posted on September 26, 2012 at 7:17 AM by Karla Issa

We’ve all heard the song. But when it comes to making the decision to leave your career and potentially become a stay-at-home parent, it may not always be as lyrical.

The NPN Discussion Forum is filled with parents grappling with work-life balance issues. Whether facing a change voluntarily or due to circumstances out of ones hands, we’ve heard lots about the benefits of staying in a career AND staying at home.

“If I go there will be trouble”

Beside...

Posted on July 16, 2012 at 7:00 AM by Melanie Schlachter

We are thrilled to introduce Dr. Julia Rahn, child psychologist and founder of Flourish Studios to our NPN Blog community.  As our children grow up, they come to us with anxieties, fears, and endless questions.  Some are easy to solve with a kiss and a hug, while others leave us stumbling over our own words.  Our "Ask Dr. Julia" blogs will give parents the tools and tips to navigate the bumpier waters.  With that said, lets jump in with a really tough one.

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Posted on October 27, 2011 at 9:00 AM by Julia Rahn