Back-to-school anxiety can be eased by talking with your kids

 QUESTION Dear Adele, We understand you had successful careers as a teacher and a social worker. We wondered if you had any back-to-school tips for us and our elementary school children? Many thanks. Preemptors ANSWER Dear Preemptors, How wise you are, to be cutting some problems off at the pass!

Overscheduling kids can cause a lot of stress, anxiety, and pressure.

 QUESTION Dear Adele, Our nine-year-old is an excellent athlete. This September, he wants to play hockey, be in a swim club and take karate. We also have a six-year-old who wants to take music lessons, learn to skate and be involved in cubs. Somewhere, we would like to find some “Me”

The pros and cons of dress codes for high school students

 QUESTION Dear Adele, My daughter attends an Ottawa high school where there is a dress code. I am following with interest the CTV news story regarding Ottawa students and parents who are “outraged at humiliating high school dress code blitz” at Beatrice Desloges High School. I know there are pros

How children and grandchildren push our buttons

 QUESTION Dear Adele, Our grandchildren have become great button pushers! They seem to know exactly what to do to get their way with their parents. Sometimes they beg, sometimes they yell, sometimes they pout! I cannot tell you how annoying it is to see them get their way, with some