Stepfamilies have a bad image. Think of Snow White’s jealous stepmother or Cinderella’s ugly sisters or at the other end of the spectrum, picture the unrealistically positive stepfamily, such as the Brady Bunch. But real life is more complicated that either of those blended family models and children have to come to […]
Respect is the key energy of any happy family, community or society and it is one of the most important things you can teach your child. But R-E-S-P-E-C-T is even more difficult to teach than to define, but I think respect is an attitude and a mindset and of course one of the […]
Ever struggled with not liking your child’s friend? I’m thrilled to be on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour today at 10 AM talking about exactly that—how parents can navigate tricky friendships without damaging trust or independence. Tune in for practical tips, real-life stories, and gentle guidance for helping your child choose friends wisely. 📻 Woman’s […]
The most important gift you can give your child is the gift of self esteem. Self-esteem is how you rate yourself deep down. It is a belief and a confidence in your own ability and value. It’s a gentle knowing that: you like yourself. you think you’re a good human being. you deserve love. […]
One of my favourite parenting stories is about a famous research scientist who made several important medical breakthroughs. He was asked by a journalist why he was so successful and he told the story of a very early lesson he learnt from his Mum when he dropped a carton of milk in the kitchen. Instead […]
Talking to Children of Different Ages About the Bombings in Iran: A Compassionate Parenting Guide When tragic events like the recent bombings in Iran dominate the news, it’s natural for children to feel confused, anxious, or even frightened. Whether they overhear adults talking, catch glimpses on social media, or hear classmates discussing it at school, […]
Following up from my live phone in on BBC WM! 📻about moody teenagers! Every month join me for our regular monthly phone-in, where I’ll be offering practical parenting advice and support—this time we’re talking about navigating your child’s first heartbreak and moody teens! Tune in and call in—let’s talk parenting! Tuesdays from 12 noon Handling […]
Happy Mother’s Day! Real Mothers don’t eat quiche; They don’t have time to make it. Real Mothers know that their kitchen utensils Are probably in the sandbox. Real Mothers often have sticky floors, Filthy ovens and happy kids. Real Mothers know that dried play dough Doesn’t come out of carpets. Real Mothers don’t want […]
I’m writing out the marketing materials for some talks I’ll be giving in London to businesses called “Lunch and Learn” bite sized talks for 45 minutes on a wide range of topics as parenting is such a vast subject isn’t it, and one of the many that I cover is, “GUILT – The “BIG […]
I am very proud to be one of the Ambassadors for Home Start because it is a remarkable charity and last night I had the privilege of being invited to attend the Home-Start Charity Carol Service in St. Bride’s Church in Fleet Street – the most delightful place of worship. It has recently been refurbished and […]
I think Christmas shopping and shopping generally with toddlers, is given a bad press! With a little bit of planning and some common sense there are many practical ways to take the stress, frustration and tension out of buying your father- in – law his annual socks and festive tie! Remember that small children […]
I was really delighted to see my tips appear on Cheryl Pasquier’s Mad House Family Review site this weekend. “A friend of mine is having trouble sorting out the arrangements over Christmas Dinner with her ex. I thought that maybe I should encourage her to refocus her priorities, by reminding her of something important. […]
This year I’ve made a lovely new friend in Georgina Durrant ( listen to our fabulous interview on my parenting podcast )who writes a wonderful blog for parents of children with Special Needs called The SEN Resources Blog It’s BURSTING with advice, learning activities and recommended toys, books and resources for children with SEN. Do head over […]
It’s fast approaching Christmas – the season of high hint dropping or even downright whining as the adverts crank up & work their marketing magic on your already stretched purses strings. On a serious note we are still in the tight grip of a cost of living crisis & it’s incredibly stressful & worrying around […]
Dear Sue I separated from my partner at the beginning of this year. We were together for 10 years and have two children aged 8 and 6. My real problem is the fact that my partner and I were originally family friends and our families are really close. We normally get together over Christmas […]
A Practical Guide
A calm, practical starter guide from Sue Atkins to help you handle smartphones, social media, gaming, sleep and online pressure — without rows or panic.
Download the free scripts and tips here.
