Field Notes

In an era where screens mediate much of our communication, many children are growing up more comfortable with text messages than face-to-face discussions. Yet the ability to engage in meaningful...

Emotional intelligence—the ability to identify, understand, and manage emotions—equips children with essential life skills. Yet boys often receive messages that discourage emotional awareness and expression. Helping boys develop emotional intelligence...

When children struggle to connect with peers, it affects their daily happiness and long-term development. Empty seats at lunch tables, missing birthday invitations, and solitary playground time can signal social...

In a world increasingly driven by digital interactions and individual achievement, empathy has become the unexpected advantage that sets children apart. Research shows that empathetic children don't just become nicer...

Every parent has been there: a simple "no" transforms into an emotional storm that leaves everyone feeling overwhelmed. But what if these meltdowns are more than just bad behavior? What...

Many parents describe their withdrawn children as "just shy," but social anxiety in early childhood involves more than temperamental quietness. Recognizing the difference between shyness and anxiety allows parents to...

In a world where both assertiveness and respectful listening are essential skills, parents face the delicate challenge of nurturing children who can express themselves confidently without dominating conversations. This balance—speaking...

When children transform cardboard boxes into spaceships or engage in elaborate pretend scenarios, they're doing more than just playing—they're laying crucial neural foundations for future success. Imaginative play develops cognitive...

Few parenting topics generate more concern and confusion than children's screen time. While technology offers tremendous educational opportunities, mounting research suggests it presents unique challenges to emotional development. The question...

Research indicates a concerning trend: children's creativity scores have steadily declined over recent decades. This shift has profound implications for their problem-solving abilities, emotional resilience, and future success. Understanding the...

Children who develop resilience approach challenges with confidence and recover from setbacks more quickly. This emotional skill isn't innate—it's cultivated through experience and guidance. Understanding how to foster resilience equips...