How to Better Communicate with Your Child

"If a lion could speak, we would not understand him," said philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein. Do you ever feel like you can't understand your child, even though you speak the same language?

Parents who want to communicate better with their children don't need to learn the meaning of words like "drippy" or "wavy." Instead, they should focus on acknowledging their child's feelings through language and listening to better understand what they're going through. After all, you probably sound like a lion trying to speak to them sometimes, too.

When is My Teen Ready to Babysit?

Written by Allison Ong, M.D., Julie Belkowitz, M.D., M.P.H.,Oneith Cadiz, M.D., Lyse Deus, M.Ed., and Taylor Rosenbaum, M.D., M.A., InjuryFreeMiami.org.

As your child grows older, you may wonder when they are ready to look after younger children at home.

According to the National SAFE KIDS Campaign, it is not recommended for children to stay home alone until they are at least 12 years old. The Florida Department of Children and Families’ minimum age requirement to babysit is 14 years old. Babysitting teaches practical skills, but it also comes with risks. Here are questions to consider when judging whether your teen is home.

Water Safety a Major Concern in Summer

The start of summer is barely a month away and families are already imagining days of fun and frolicking at the beach, in lakes, or in neighborhood pools. But with their excitement, there must be caution. As much as children and youth delight in playing in the water, there is a dangerous side that can spell tragedy for parents and caretakers if they are not vigilant.

The Florida Department of Health estimates that unintentional rates of drowning for kids 0–4 and up to age 17 are among the highest in the nation. In Miami-Dade County, the situation is even worse, with drowning being the leading cause of accidental death for children aged 1–14. That’s why it is critical for parents and caregivers to ensure their children learn to swim and stay safe anytime they are near water.

Young Talent Big Dreams Wows with Finals in 15th Edition

A packed audience cheered as 21 finalists ages 8–17 showcased their skills in categories including voice, dance, musical instrument, spoken word, and original composition at the Young Talent Big Dreams (YTBD) at Actors' Playhouse at Miracle Theatre. After months of preliminary and semifinal rounds, these young performers delivered dazzling acts that wowed the judges and highlighted the incredible creative potential of Miami-Dade’s youth.

Service, Support of Children and Families Dominate Champions for Children Awards

Child advocates from across Miami-Dade County and the State of Florida gathered at Jungle Island on April 30 to celebrate at the sold-out 19th edition of The Children’s Trust Champions for Children Awards Ceremony.

Inspiration came in large doses as videos of the honorees and their speeches played before an audience of about 900 gathered to celebrate their accomplishments. “We are thrilled to come together to celebrate the remarkable individuals and organizations who are transforming the lives of children and families in Miami-Dade,” said James R. Haj, president & CEO of The Children’s Trust. “This event provides an opportunity to honor their achievements and to inspire others to continue making a difference in the lives of children in our community.”

Looking for an summer camp program for your child? Check out the More Summer Camp Choices page for hundreds of free and low-cost after-school programs

The Children’s Trust Parent Club offers FREE, countywide workshops on relevant topics about raising children that are successful, healthy, and happy. 

Do you like what you are reading in this month's Parenting Our Children Newsletter? Let us know with comments, suggestions and more at MyStories@TheChildrensTrust.org