Boston Globe Sunday Magazine

Essay test

How much to help with college applications.

Happy together

A family tradition that doesn’t try too hard.

Play time

Getting prepared for harmonious musical-instrument practice.

For keeps

Mom and Dad embrace a daughter’s tattoo.

Bragging rights

How much boasting is too much?

Your home game

Establishing a toddler’s after-“school” routine.

The power of treats

Defining the rules by bending them a little.

It’s her (love) life

Their leases were up at about the same time. They had been an item for almost a year, spending all of their free time together. So they decided to consolidate and find a new apartment they would share. It was a practical move, she said.

The terrible teens

Teenagers and toddlers have a lot in common. Both need to be reminded to “use your words.” Both get mad at you for not being able to read their minds. Both can be exasperating. And while a toddler thrashes around on the floor when she’s furious and a teenager stomps to her room and slams the door, the bottom line ...

The big payback

Raising three children on my own was tough. There was all the usual teenage angst, but my daughter and I, in particular, were like prizefighters: I would try to impose my will, and she would tell me it wasn’t happening.

More than “Mom’’

A virtual world -- with real value.

Finally, job security

A full-time mom works at getting away from her corporate past.
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