“Mom, did you know that if I play Super Mario Brothers, my brain is going to get bigger?” So begins my son’s argument about why he should get to play Wii. Noting the skepticism on my face, he pulls out his Scholastic News and points to a German study that shows that playing the video […]
Three Social Benefits of Video Games Read More »
Believe it or not, we can learn a couple of things about improving our confidence from our animal friends, especially more social species like dogs. This is Dexter. Unlike many dogs I’ve owned, he won’t come running up to you happily wagging his tail. He has social anxiety. He does one of two things when
Socially Skilled? It’s not always a dog’s life Read More »
Valentine’s Day offers a loving reminder to practice affection toward the ones we love throughout the year. Don’t let the hustle and bustle of family life be an excuse for putting your marriage on the back burner. Affection reaffirms your love for your partner in simple, small ways and creates a soft-spoken connection. Without it,
Affectionately Yours…Happy Valentine’s Day! Read More »
I used to have a co-worker who had the uncanny ability to light up a room the minute she entered. There was a positive energy in her personality that attracted people to her like hungry birds to a winter feeder. Some people just seem to have an innate ability to connect with others, feeding their
4 Secrets of a Skilled Networker Read More »
Loneliness and isolation are growing problems in this country, affecting both emotional and physical health. Who is at risk and what can you do? Who is at risk? Newcomers. Life as the newbie is lonely as you try to figure out the norms, rules and the politics of an unfamiliar environment. Deepening connections with people
The Impact of Isolation…and What You Can Do Read More »
Obviously, finding positive ways to communicate and connect goes a long way toward building a stronger family. Nevertheless, we often take our family relationships for granted and don’t always show each other the respect we deserve or actively seek out ways to build connection with each other. Here are three of my articles that hit
Connecting over Common Conflicts Read More »
Moms have plenty of choices when it comes to online forums and social networking, but most of us crave more face-to-face time with other moms. Thanks to several online initiatives, technology has helped topple the proverbial garden wall by blending virtual communities with real live interaction. Here are a three sites that are integrating the
Online Sites that Nurture Real-Life Connections Read More »
With the holiday’s bright lights and festive parties quickly dimming into sepia-toned memories, the dark winter days send many of us scurrying to warmer quarters behind closed doors. But too much time without connecting with friends can hamper an otherwise cheerful spirit. Add a little glow to a dreary day by finding ways to connect
9 Tips to Fire Up Your Social Engine Read More »
Many people approach social media with an all or nothing approach. The truth is, social media offers many benefits, but every now and then a break might be necessary. More than half of us love connecting with our friends and family through social media. It’s fun, entertaining and a great way to extend our community.
Need a Holiday from Your Online Network? Read More »
Small talk gets a bad rap as painful and a waste of time. For many of us it is the anticipation of having to engage in small talk that causes nervousness and avoidance or a past experience left a bad aftertaste. Must we talk small? Small talk can actually help us form connections in way
Small Talk Shenanigans that Kill Conversation Read More »