Notes for parents
The everyday moments that puzzle you, explained in plain words.
Short, honest notes about everyday moments with young children. No jargon, no blame — just what might be going on, and what tends to help.
Why Does My Child Struggle With Dance Moves and Jump Rope?
Always a beat behind in the dance, tangled in the jump rope, and saying "I can't." Why copying moves is harder than it looks, and how to help.
Why Does My Child Laugh and Hit Me?
Not angry, not upset, just laughing, and then a smack. What research does and doesn't tell us, why it may happen, and calm ways to respond.
Why Does My Child Refuse Socks? When One Seam Can Ruin the Morning
Coat on, shoes waiting, and the sock comes off again. What may be going on with sock seams, what research does and doesn't show, and what tends to help.
Why Does My Child Keep Rocking on Their Chair and Getting Up in Class?
Reminded again and again, yet still tipping the chair and leaving the seat. Why telling off rarely works, and how to work with the teacher to help.
Why Can't My Child Sit Still or Stay on One Thing?
Up from the table, off to the next toy, gone from story time. The same restless look can have very different causes, and each needs a different kind of help.
Why Does My Child Keep Spinning and Jumping? Should I Make Them Stop?
Round and round in the living room, bouncing on the sofa, never dizzy. Here is why some children crave movement, and safe ways to give them what they need.
Why Does My Child Always Flop, Slump and Lie Down?
Sprawled on the floor for TV, slumped at the table, a bit clumsy on the move. Here is what may be going on, and playful ways to help the body feel stronger.
Why Does My Child Cover Their Ears and Panic in Loud Places?
Fine at home, but hands over ears at music time, parties or the supermarket. Here is why noise can feel so big to some children, and calm ways to help.
Why Does My Child Still Chew and Mouth Everything?
Chewed books, soggy sleeves, toys with tooth marks. Here is why some children keep exploring with their mouths, and gentle, safe ways to meet that need.
Why Does My Child Pull Off Their Socks the Minute They Arrive?
Socks off at the door, the stiff outfit swapped for soft clothes and never put back on. Here is what your child may be feeling, and practical ways to make clothes easier to live in.