Member Articles

By Susan Newman, Ph.D.

Mowing Down the Only-Child Myths
You have to wonder why, when the U.S. Census reports that the single-child family is the fastest growing family unit, people tell you to have another…
Are You a YES-Mom? Take the Quiz
When something needs to be done, you’re the one to do it. It often feels as if you’re the only reliable person you know. The trouble is: Everyone…
Too-Great Expectations?
Families are getting smaller, and have been since the early 1960s, giving parents more time to devote to each child. As a result, parents today all seem…
Bond Your Busy Family in Five Minutes or Less
Most parents struggle against the increasingly hectic pace that sends family members in different directions at different times. Topsy-turvy schedules…
If Dads help more, will Moms have more babies?
Will equal sharing of housework and childcare reverse the trend toward smaller families? The enormous time and energy investment of mothers compared to…
Imaginary friends: Are there any in your house?
Shortly after the birth of Jonas, her second child, Lisa’s 4-year-old daughter, Hannah, mentioned her new friend Betsy. Lisa assumed Betsy was one…
Women feel the Kid Ceiling long before they see the Glass Ceiling
The kid ceiling seems to have little or no effect on Sarah Palin, but for most women who work, having a family alters their income, their ability to advance,…
Forget hopping, skipping and jumping
Will you use it? If you haven’t said it, you’ve probably thought it. And, without question, you’ve heard a friend say something to the effect…
Explaining difficult times to children
As we all wonder and worry where our economy is headed, don’t underestimate how much your children know (or think they know) and how upset they…
The dark side of siblings
Most parents who introduce their first born to a new brother or sister are well aware of, if not totally versed in, the difficulties that may arise. Parents…
Mom and Dad love(d) me best
An only child clearly has the advantage of always being Mom and Dad’s favorite. When there is more than one child in the family, favoritism seems…