Nov 22, 2022

If there’s one thing parents and caregivers can all agree on, it’s simply that there is no such thing as a “one size fits all” method of child rearing. Some parents can successfully balance a busy career while raising a child, while others simply find it too difficult to manage and choose to stay at home full-time with their child. But in weighing the pros and cons of this difficult decision, remember there really is no right or wrong answer. It’s all about what works best for you—and your family.

Oct 18, 2022

Parents with young children know just how much advice lies around every corner. From the moment a new mom is pregnant, advice spills in from all directions–from child care employees, teachers, friends, family members and even total strangers. While their advice may come with the best intentions, it’s important to recognize when parenting strategies and recommendations may be outdated, or downright wrong.

Jul 20, 2022

The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) is encouraging communities statewide to join in celebrating ABC Quality’s 30th Anniversary this year.

Jul 19, 2022

Most new parents and caregivers will reach for a pacifier at some point when it comes to settling an upset baby. While pacifiers go by many names, the goal is usually the same—to satisfy a baby’s natural need to suck and offer comfort to a fussing baby. Pacifiers are safe to use from birth and have shown some benefits for children, especially in the first six months of life. Long-term pacifier use, however, can come with complications. Here’s a look at how to introduce a pacifier to your baby, when and how to use it effectively, and signs it may be time to let it go.

Jun 28, 2022

There is no doubt that—in most cases—having an involved grandparent or grandparents is highly beneficial to children. The relationship between a child and grandparent is unique and special. It provides children with an added sense of safety and familial structure and can encourage independence through overnight sleepovers and other get togethers. In general, the greater grandparental involvement in a child’s life, the greater a child’s overall wellbeing.

Jun 21, 2022

In an ideal world, parents and caregivers wouldn’t have to help their child cope with the death of a loved one at a very young age. But while we may hope the hard conversations about life, death, and grief can wait until children are older, the reality is many parents will have to face this scenario during the preschool years—often with the passing of a grandparent or older relative. The death of a close friend or family member is stressful on both kids and grownups, and the best way to face it is head on and together. Here are some tips for helping your preschooler understand and cope with the death of someone they love.