A Smooth Start

Styling by Esther Ottensoser
Photography by Sina Mizrahi

When my children were younger, I spent lots of time on the phone on hold with my kids’ pediatrician’s office, so I had ample time to listen and re-listen to the automated recording that kept playing. The good part about it was that after hearing it again and again, the important and useful information really stuck. One of the lines I remember well was: “Do not give in when your child cries and whines to stay up longer. Spending an extra few minutes tucking him in and saying good night may relax him and help him fall asleep faster.”

I feel that this concept applies to all areas of parenthood. Many children are anxious at the start of a new school year. When sending your children off to school, spend that extra bit of time to write an encouraging, funny, or loving message, or make a special supper or craft — the boost can go a long way.

Last Licks

Turn an ice cream cone into a pencil — a cute way to transition from summer mode to back-to-school mode!