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Family Focus
IN THIS ISSUE
December 2013
  • The truth about spanking (read)  
  • Feeling bad after childbirth? We can help (read)
  • New Mixed-Age Playgroup starts Jan. 9 (read)  
  • Parenting Tip of the Month: A parent is like a pitcher (read
  • Try This: New ways to play in the snow (read)   
  • Useful Link: Postpartum Progress blog, from a mom who's been there (read)  
Article1The Truth about Spanking
spanking Parents: Do you think spanking is a good way to discipline kids? This might make you rethink. Research by Murray Straus of the Family Research Lab at UNH shows that in addition to causing physical pain, spanking can harm kids emotionally, making them angry and leaving them feeling powerless. Meanwhile, spanking does not address the child's misbehavior and teaches children that it's okay to hit when you don't like something. Read this article for more on Dr. Straus's research.

 

Looking for alternatives to spanking that really work? You'll find lots of good strategies at Families First's parenting classes. 

Feature2Feeling Bad after Childbirth?
pouty baby Childbirth can be followed by sadness, fear, anxiety and difficulty making decisions.  One in eight new moms suffers from postpartum depression. For them, Families First offers a free, weekly postpartum support group called Mother-to-Mother Connections. Starting January 7, the group will meet at a new time: Tuesdays, 11:30-12:30. It's free, and free child care is included. If you or someone you know could use some support, please register for the next group  or call 207-439-3033 for more information.
Feature3Mixed-Age Playgroup Returns

playgroup Our Mixed Age Afternoon Playgroup starts up again on January 9th and will meet on Thursdays, 3-4:30 p.m., through May. Children ages 1-5, and their parents, are invited to come play with siblings and friends of different ages. (Infants with their older siblings are welcome too.) Join us for art projects, gross motor activities and more. Cost: $5 per family (can be waived if needed). More info 

Anchor1BParenting Tip of the Month
How a Parent is Like a Pitcher
Ask for help when you need it. Think of yourself as a pitcher of water. If you give to your spouse, your children, your work and other family members all day, you will be dry at the end of the day. Make sure you do something to keep yourself "hydrated." You will be able to parent more effectively.
Article2Try This
New Ways to Have Fun with Snow

kids in snow


Fill a squeeze bottle with water and food coloring. Let your children experiment with painting the snow! Check out a library book about animal tracks and see if you can find any in your neighborhood. When you come inside, set up a rack for children to hang their clothes. Help ease the transition with a cup of herbal tea or cocoa and story time.  

Article3Useful Link
Postpartum Progress
Lots of useful information, resources and moving first-person reflections about postpartum depression and anxiety, from a mom who's been there. PostpartumProgress.com 
 
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