Parenting Traps - Boston.com

The season’s gifts

This year there’s less to give, but maybe more to receive.

The gifted child

Is it possible to give without promoting materialism?

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.

Your home game

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

The power of treats

Defining the rules by bending them a little.

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 ...