Latest Stories

Most recently published stories in Families.

Revelation
It came to me in a dream, like a labyrinth of unmistakable waves. Hours prior I had received the worst news a young child of thirteen years of age could adhere. Something so unfathomable, and something so unrealistic in a young and naive mind. "I'm sorry I have to be the one to tell you this," my eldest brother spoke, panicked over the phone, "but Mom just passed away."
By Crysta Miracle8 years ago in Families
Children on the Spectrum
After my son Caleb was born, at about four months old I knew something was a bit "off" with him. He made no eye contact and didn't smile much. I had a nurse that would make weekly visits to my home (from the nurse and family partnership program) and when she made a milestone check-up on Caleb, she confirmed my suspicion. She said she would monitor Caleb more because she suspects he might be autistic. Sure enough by the time he was six months old, my nurse referred him to early intervention and Caleb was evaluated. For the next few months, he was seen by therapists and evaluated thoroughly for any physical delays, occupational delays, and cognitive delays, as well as speech delays. I didn't know much about autism so I wasn't devastated by the time he was officially diagnosed when he turned two. I did however feel guilt for a while. Maybe if I didn't work so hard while I was pregnant. Maybe if I had a better diet. Maybe if I slept a bit more. Guilt was what I felt. I started learning more about autism and tried to understand my son. Little things that I didn't know would matter, actually mattered. For example, one of the psychiatrist took a toy away from Caleb's hand during an evaluation to see how he would react. In return Caleb tried to take the toy back. I thought he did good but the psychiatrist said Caleb never once made eye contact with him. Usually a child would study a person's face to see what the expression was like. Caleb just focused on getting the toy back. It was like there wasn't even a person in front of him at all. After trying for a few seconds, Caleb gave up and just took another toy. Apparently any other child would've tried a bit more to retrieve the toy or even cry. When calling Caleb's name he would never react or look at whomever was calling him. You had to physically go to him, grab his face and have him look at you. This was also unusual in a child at that age apparently. He didn't acknowledge people or his surroundings.
By Cindy Del Villar8 years ago in Families
Experts vs. Parents
Let me preface this article by explaining that the views here on behalf of "Parents" is my own and not meant to represent anyone else personally. Any reference to "The Experts" will appropriately have citations of the websites I have used. This is not meant as a target for the "bashers" out there, but as a place to express views. I certainly understand that every parent is different in their views on raising their children and some listen vehemently to the advice provided by experts in various fields. I appreciate comments expressing your opinion on any topic listed here or any other child topics, however request that you keep your comments and opinions neutral without bashing each other for their views.
By Melissa C.8 years ago in Families
Raising Capable Children. Top Story - September 2017.
We have become so focused on producing enlightened children that we have forgotten the fundamentals. The goal as a parent isn't to have your child wear the most eco-friendly clothing while munching on kale wrapped asparagus or whatever healthy concoction has dominated their young lives. Our goal as parents is to produce capable adults.
By Amy Jourdan8 years ago in Families
Allowance?
When I was coming up, people—children—did chores to earn their allowance. Chores consisted of cleaning anything in the house outside of your bedroom.
By Melissa C.8 years ago in Families
The Element of Grief
"If you would not be forgotten, as soon as you are dead and rotten, either write things worth reading, or do things worth the writing." —Benjamin Franklin
By Nina Mataz8 years ago in Families
Developing an Addiction
The singing August sun beat down on the walkway as I held my father's hand firmly, hesitant to release it. We had quite recently gotten off the T and the sweat was at that point pouring down our brows. Everybody around us was in a distraught surge, all heading off to their own goals and not recognizing any other individual's quality. Individuals moved toward each path, faceless in an ocean of dim and dark suits. My dad and I were sore thumbs in the blend; my spic and span brilliant red pullover that had my most loved players name on the back, Nomar Garciapara, and his red cap made us the run of the mill sightseers to the region. I was overpowered with interest; the city was a place we didn't wander regularly.
By Zoriah8 years ago in Families
Redefining Family
Family can be fucked up. Or, if you're me, incredibly fucked up. All of my life I have hated family because of my experiences. I never understood how other people were so in love with their family. I didn't understand how people formed healthy relationships with parents. It was beyond my understanding because all I had been exposed to was toxicity. And so in my reality, family became something that in truth, it is not. I still don't know the proper definition, and it's questionable if I ever will, but this is my reality.
By AM8 years ago in Families
Be Thankful for What You've Got
Sometimes, in this crazy, fast-moving world, we can forget to be grateful. Sure, life is stressful, and it can be easy to wish things were different, but we should always try to take the time to be grateful for what we have, and not sit pondering on what we don't have.
By Billi Keogh8 years ago in Families
How To Lose a Mom, Be Abused, and Still Stand Tall
I am 19 years, 2 months, and 6 days old. I've been thinking of ideas for my first, second, and third tattoos. When I'm not writing or playing the Sims 4, I snuggle with my dog Ben-G and watch as many Golden Girl episodes as I can. If you asked me my favorite food, I'd probably pause, laugh, and confess that I would love anything with cheese on it, despite my lactose intolerance. My favorite color is cerulean. You might be thinking, why am I telling you all of this? Well, I'll tell you — eventually.
By Klyde Khalil Walker8 years ago in Families
Irish Twins
I've always said that I only wanted to get pregnant only twice. I wanted a son and a daughter, preferably with my son being the oldest. When my husband and I got married, I became a mom to his son. I didn't think I needed a son after that because technically, I now had one. I must have wished one too many times about having my own son first. Somehow, I got exactly what I had wished for, with a special way of delivery included.
By Mishka Upchurch8 years ago in Families
Letter to My Sons
Dear Sons, I wish I could grab you back into the comforts of my womb and protect you from the world, but that's impossible. I wish I could tell you that the world is going to see your Greatness, your loving heart and embrace you with open, gentle arms. Some will, but there are others, plenty of others, that won't.
By Kimberly Denesse8 years ago in Families