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May 16, 2002
 | | | | | | | | Dear Dr. Needlman,
My seven-year-old daughter approached me last night and said, "Mom, we are an incomplete family. There's a mommy, a sissy, and a bubba, but what about the blank space. Daddy married that other woman and now we need a man around the house. I want a step-daddy now." What do I say to her?
Dear Vixen,
You have a bright daughter. It's great that she is able to put her feelings into words so that you can deal with them directly. Children very much want their families to be "normal." The worst thing, from their point of view, is to be different, because different means "bad." So, your daughter needs to hear that your family is...
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| FEATURED TOPICS | | | | | | | |
Pets & School-Age Children
A relationship with a pet can be a source of fun and unwavering affection for a child. It also can teach him a lot about important concepts such as loyalty, responsibility, and nurturing. Find out how to make the most of this special bond.
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Choosing a Pet
Whether you're thinking about getting your first or fifth family pet, it's important to choose an animal that suits your household. Here's what to consider...
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Caring for a Pet
Although the idea of getting a pet can sound very appealing, actually living with an animal is often much different from our fantasies. Our list of what's involved in caring for a pet might serve as useful reality check.
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| |  As the parent of a school-age child, you've probably been listening to begging and pleading for some kind of pet (or more pets) for quite some time now. Even if you grew up with many creatures great and small and think you know everything about pet ownership, our articles can help you make a more informed decision about the kind of critter that might be right for your family. And once you've settled on a pet, you'll also find ideas for getting your child to help take care of her beloved companion.
| PARENTS ARE TALKING | |  | AUTHOR: mamadetres
SUBJECT: Phobia of Thunderstorms
DATE: April 24, 2002 |
My 8 y.o. daughter has recently developed a terrible fear of thunderstorms and tornadoes. Since we live in Texas we can't get away from this type of weather and it's always on radio and TV. She's constantly asking if it's going to rain and she will sneak and listen to the weather channel all the time. It's gotten to the point where she won't leave the house if she thinks for one minute that it's going to rain! It's driving my husband and I crazy. We've tried talking to her and reassuring her, but to no avail. Any suggestions?
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