Even before she knew what fostering was, Renae Heilman knew it was something she was meant to do. Inspired by the movie Annie, she didn’t play House like other kids—she played Orphanage. Her childhood Cabbage Patch dolls became a diverse family of all races, ages, and genders, each “placed” under her careful watch and nurturing spirit.

Didn’t you know, girl, with the way it began,
that being a mom comes not quietly,
but hard crashes in?

I don’t imagine you knew.
How could you, child?
Motherhood’s loud, it’s messy, not mild.

Scant minutes of sleep
with spit on your gown.
“Why” questions flow with respite unfound.

You so often feel lost
in this trick love has played.
But you’re not misplaced, you are being remade.

As we observe Alcohol Awareness Month, it is crucial to recognize the profound impact of alcohol abuse not only on individuals but also on their families and children. While Alcohol Use Disorder deeply affects the user, its repercussions extend far beyond, reaching spouses, children, and even to workplaces and extended families.

In today’s digital age, it’s no secret that screens are a constant presence in our lives. While technology can offer educational benefits and entertainment, overuse of digital media can pose serious risks to children’s health and development. From sleep disruption to behavioral problems, the effects of too much screen time are significant. Children who spend too much time in front of screens may experience sleep deprivation, obesity, and delays in learning and social skills.

For many children, learning to read can feel intimidating. The fear of making mistakes, stumbling over words, or the fear of being judged can make reading aloud a stressful experience. But what if there was a way to practice reading in a completely safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment? Enter reading to pets—a heartwarming and effective way for children to build their confidence and skills while bonding with a furry friend.

As adults, we understand the importance of a good night's sleep and the impact it has on our overall well-being. However, getting adequate sleep is even more important for children and young adults, even if they fight it with every ounce of their being.

In today’s fast-paced world, finding quality time with our children can be a challenge. Yet, one of the most enriching and heartwarming activities is as simple as opening a book and reading aloud. This cherished ritual not only builds strong bonds between parents and children but also sets the stage for a lifetime of learning and discovery.

When we think about communication, we often focus on the words we’re saying. However, how we communicate is just as important, if not more, than what we’re communicating. In fact, 93% of communication is non-verbal!

Consider these aspects of non-verbal communication, as they significantly influence the impact of our words. While our tone, volume, and cadence as aspects of speech, they are actually critical components of our non-verbal communication because they influence the emotional and relational aspects of how the message is received.

One of the most important lessons we can teach children is how to be a good friend. Building strong, inclusive friendships doesn’t just happen naturally—it takes practice, guidance, and thoughtful role modeling.