Delaying smartphone use can support healthier child development by reducing screen-related risks and promoting social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Learn why waiting to introduce smartphones can help kids build better coping skills, improve focus, and develop stronger real-world connections.

As kids move through the early to middle school years, parents often face decisions about allowing them to stay over at friend’s houses. While sleepovers can help them practice social skills and have fun creating lasting memories and stronger friendships, concerns about safety have led many parents to reconsider the traditional sleepover experience.

As parents and caregivers, it’s essential to guide our children in developing skills to navigate the online world responsibly. Before we can empower our kids to make smart decisions online, we must understand the digital world they are engaging with. Social media platforms, gaming communities, educational forums, and streaming services are just a few of the spaces where children learn and interact. These platforms can foster creativity and connections, as well as cyberbullying and misinformation.

Research from Dr. John Gottman, a renowned psychologist and relationship expert, shows us that positive parenting techniques can have a profound impact on your relationship with your child.  Dr. Gottman’s 5:1 ratio means that for every negative interaction, like a correction or  complaint, there should be at least five positive ones, like praise or quality time.

It can feel like an impossible task getting your kids to help out with household chores, but it’s extremely beneficial. A long-standing Harvard study found a strong connection between doing chores as a kid and professional success and happiness later on in life. It not only keeps your home organized but also instills lifelong habits of accountability and teamwork. Here are eight effective tips to help make chores manageable for kids. 

Mealtimes can feel stressful for parents, especially for those with picky eaters. While we know developing a healthy relationship with food is essential for kids’ growth and well-being, getting them to try new foods or sit at the dinner table can be challenging! Try out these tips to make mealtimes more manageable at home.

Battles with kids about getting dressed in the morning leaves many parents and kids frustrated before the day even begins. If you are one of these parents, know that you can put an end to this daily struggle with a little preparation and cooperation.

Creating a structured daily routine can be a game-changer for parents and kids. A thoughtful routine can foster independence, reduce stress, and add some peace and balance to your home. 

Raising kids who are mentally strong is more important than ever in an ever-changing world. Mental strength is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, handle stress, and face life’s challenges with resilience. As parents and educators, we play a crucial role in helping our children develop this

When we spoke with parents, we heard one thing loud and clear: parents need tools that are quick, easy to use, and seamlessly fit into your busy lives. Parenting is challenging enough without the added complexity of managing another app, so we’ve taken this feedback to make HeyKiddo an even better sidekick for the parenting journey.

Discussing politics with kids can seem daunting and difficult. You may be thinking…“How do I explain complex things like differing political views and transitioning to a new administration to my child simply?” 

It’s a valid question, and it’s possible! Whether it’s about the differences in opinions between family members, a new president taking office, or the political messages on social media, it is possible to teach kids to understand political topics in an age-appropriate way. 

Learn how to talk to your kids about California wildfires and natural disasters. Use age-appropriate communication, answer their questions honestly, and help them manage emotions while creating an emergency plan as a family.

Parenting can often feel like a marathon, especially when your child seems to be in constant motion. If you find yourself wondering, Why does my child never stop talking or moving?, you’re not alone. Many parents share this experience, and while it can be exhausting, it’s also a natural part of childhood development.

If you’ve ever had the thought as a parent, “Why does my teenager prefer their friends over me?” you’re not alone. Parents have lamented over this for ages. This shift from family to friends can feel like a loss for many parents. 

Improving focus isn’t merely for academic purposes, it’s also a crucial life skill; it promotes mindfulness, problem-solving, and the ability to resist distractions. Structured routines and school strategies can pave the way to better concentration and engagement.

Anxiety in kids is more common than many people realize. As an anxious parent, it can be challenging to see your child struggling to handle anxious thoughts and feelings. 

However, anxiety doesn’t have to take over their life—or yours! You can help your child develop skills to manage it. Here are five practical strategies to support them.

Social awareness enables kids to build strong relationships, navigate social environments, and thrive in their personal and professional lives. It builds empathy, understanding, and an appreciation for differences. Building this skill in your kiddos will help them immensely as they navigate their various relationships throughout life.

All kids talk back to their parents at some point or another. Whether it’s a sassy comeback or a refusal to cooperate, it can be frustrating and hurtful. But these moments can offer a chance to teach respect and patience, while modeling good communication skills. 

Kids’ use ChatGPT for various reasons: about 34% use it to find answers for fun, 29% use it to create images, 22% turn to it for help with school assignments, and 13% use it to make videos. As AI apps like ChatGPT, Gemini, Meta AI, and Snapchat’s My AI grow in popularity, parents can help guide their use to ensure a safe, balanced experience.

The first steps in managing stress are becoming aware of your stress signs and understanding what is causing them. Maybe it's the morning rush, homework battles, or financial worries. If it’s the morning rush for you, try prepping for it the night before to cut back on the amount of things that need to get done. When you can identify what stresses you out, you can better anticipate and plan for these things in the future.