Surviving summer

Parents should remember that not all screen time is bad. Photo: Khosrork

It’s the home stretch of another school year, and summer is so close I can almost feel it. Our high school kids have finished already, and we have a few more weeks of elementary... Read More

Talk early on about what your parents envision for late in life. Photo: MangoStar Studio

MomSense

Caring for our parents

Balancing the needs of our families and aging relatives

By Liz Farrell

Those of us who are caring for kids at home while also looking after parents or loved ones with increasing needs are often referred to as the “sandwich generation.” According ... Read More

Understanding is a two-way street for teens and parents. PHOTO: fizkes

MomSense

What parents need

By Liz Farrell

Last month my daughter wrote in TeenTalk about what teens wish their parents knew. It was fascinating insight from a very introspective teen that sparked lots of conversation in o... Read More

MomSense

What teens wish their parents knew

Part Two: Trust and patience go a long way to securing a relationship

By Madison Farrell

Whether we want our parents to understand that social media isn’t all bad, to recognize our pressures at school, or to realize we appreciate them even if we don’t show it, her... Read More

What do families look for to keep them in San Francisco? Photo: feuers

MomSense

A parent’s wish for San Francisco

By Liz Farrell

It’s no secret that San Francisco has one of the lowest percentages of children in the country. This is not new, but what is concerning is that the trend continues to spiral dow... Read More

MomSense

Talking to your children about Internet pornography

How to have an age-appropriate talk and ensure their online safety

By Liz Farrell

As parents we talk to our children about their health, their media use, and making good choices. There are also those topics that many of us dread, particularly around sex, becaus... Read More

The device fun comes after the device rules have been agreed. By dragana991

MomSense

Tech tips for the new year

By Liz Farrell

The start of a new year is a great time to check in on your family’s media rules and reset or readjust if needed — especially if Santa left a few new devices under the tree. N... Read More

MomSense

Favorite ways to enjoy holiday festivities in San Francisco

By Liz Farrell

Each year it seems we barely have time to take a deep breath after Thanksgiving before the holiday season is upon us. This year many of our beloved holiday traditions are back aft... Read More

MomSense

Electric scooters: Easy, fun, and fast, but be sure your kids are safe and know the rules

By Liz Farrell

Retailers have already started the holiday push to highlight popular toys or gifts for this holiday season. One of the items that your children may already be begging for or have ... Read More

No matter the age, there are ways you can help kids develop this skill. Photo: spb2015

MomSense

Teaching our kids to self-advocate

Help them identify and ask for what they need

By Liz Farrell

We teach our kids from an early age how to solve problems and resolve conflicts, but another important skill for them to learn is how to advocate for themselves. Self-advocacy is ... Read More

MomSense

What teens wish their parents knew

The joys and challenges of a modern teenager, in her own words

By Madison Farrell

We are turning the tables this month and giving a teen, my daughter, Madison, a chance to give us parents some advice. I learned a lot from reading her tips, and I hope you benefi... Read More

MomSense

Helping your teen succeed in high school

Parents play a key role in helping children thrive in their new environment

By Liz Farrell

Summer seems shorter every year, and before we know it, we are talking about the upcoming school year. I will have two in high school this year, and for the first time in more tha... Read More

Help children find the time and the place to pick up a book. Photo: patat

MomSense

How to encourage summer reading

By Liz Farrell

One of the best parts of summer is getting a break from the constant nagging about homework and having to stick to a rigid nightly routine. However, research shows we can’t let ... Read More

Times of change can bring happiness and anxiety for some.. Photo: monkeybusinessimages

MomSense

Learning from transitions

How to support children making school changes

By Liz Farrell

The end of the school year comes with many emotions for both kids and parents. There is excitement for summer and a break from schoolwork, but also there can be some stress and an... Read More

Home & Garden

The world in one 55-acre garden

Learn what plants can teach us

By Joe Castrovinci

Spring has sprung and the outdoors are calling to us — even in foggy San Francisco. If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy the warmer weather, we’ve got a suggestion �... Read More

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