The Things We Do For Our Kids

I’m openly tactile defensive. Even though my tolerance of certain things on my hands have improved, I don’t actively seek to get my hands dirty regularly. That is, until my bestie and fellow blog writer suggests we go to the SlooMoo Institute for a playdate (enter cringe mode).

Here’s the thing: Even though going to an immersive slime exhibit isn’t something I’d want to do, I knew my 5-year-old would enjoy it. Why miss a new experience for him because I can’t handle a little slime on my hands…or clothes. Agh, I digress.

This post isn’t about me or my dislikes, but rather how many parents do things we avoid, fear, or loathe for the sake of our kids. It’s very common that some parents don’t want their kids to inherit their own phobias, and they especially don’t want their kids to miss out. Whatever the reason, we know that we play a large role in our children’s learning and growing experiences.

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Mary’s New Year’s Resolutions: 2023

Wow, Child(ish) Advice is now three years old. Thank you for all your continued support and trusting us to provide meaningful content as we begin the new year.

For me, if 2022 was all about laying the groundwork for personal and professional development, then 2023 is about reinforcing and refining these goals, trimming deadweight, and being more efficient and purposeful in my actions. So what do I plan to accomplish during this trip around the sun?

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Mary’s Favorite Posts: 2022

My, we have covered a lot of material this past year that it’s difficult for me to pick which one is my favorite post from 2022. But if I had to choose one, it would be From Only to First: Siblings.

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Holiday Gift Guide 2022: Things Mary Would Love

Has anyone ever asked you if there is anything you’d like for Christmas and you genuinely go blank?

As a parent around Christmas, I find myself making lists and pre-ordering. It’s a big job discreetly getting wish lists and picking gifts that my family NEEDS, not just WANTS. So when I get asked, it almost looks like a hodge podge of stuff that has been rattling around in my head for months. Well, no shame in that…

Here are some great gifts I would genuinely love to receive:


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