Spring isn’t the only thing that came early this year. Already we’re in a kind of political silly season, that time during an election year when politicians sling harsh words and accusations in an effort to defeat one another, and talk show hosts and other public figures add their nasty comments to the mix. It can be disheartening, especially when we tell our children that type of behavior is rude and unacceptable for them. It takes effort and family conversations to explain why adults behave this way. The best approach with kids is to point out that for these people it’s all a game, and in some cases, entertainment. Show them that when politicians join each other on stage and leave again, they always shake hands. That in public events these rivals can actually appear to get along. And that in the long run, there are still consequences to the behavior: Someone always loses when the public thinks they’ve gone too far in their unpleasantness.

But the fact that we parents constantly have to deal with influences on our children from the outside world is one more reason why we can benefit from the support and advice of local parenting experts, like those who write for Long Island Parent each issue. You get age-by-age advice in our Growing Years columns, tips about everything from cooking to health to items to shop for, and information about selecting a party venue and the new camp trends. Once again we’re supporting the Early Years Institute’s efforts to make parents more aware of the amount of time their families spend in front of screens during Screen-Free Week, April 30 through May 6. You can learn more at eyi.org-screenfree and visit liparentonline.com throughout that week for alternate activities to do with your kids.  

It may be silly season for politicians, but for us parents on Long Island, it’s always time to love and support our children. Let us know how we can help you; tell us what other resources and articles you’d like to see. You can reach me at publisher@liparentonline.com          

We’re proud to announce that the Parenting Media Association named us finalists this year in table of contents design, overall design and Website design.

Publisher/Editor
Liza N. Burby