by Marcia | Aug 25, 2015 | Living Well
Throughout history, games have offered people relief from the stresses of the everyday world. Play lets you fool around and have fun in a make-believe universe where risks and consequences aren’t a problem. Good games also have some not-so-obvious benefits....
by Marcia | Mar 17, 2015 | Relationship Skills
Apologies are a sticky wicket for many of us. We often disown responsibility when other people’s feelings are hurt. But apologies have an amazing power to restore relationships and strengthen social ties. Most of us would rather not be wrong. It feels ever so much...
by Marcia | Mar 13, 2015 | Childrearing
Most of what I know about children I have learned by observing them. What children say is only a small part of the story. How they look, act, and respond to their immediate environment—as well as to you and me—is far more important. The longer you look, and the more...
by Marcia | Mar 10, 2015 | Childrearing
Some children struggle to make and keep friends. You can use this list of pointers to help your child develop social skills. The conversation can also be a springboard for discussion of the many ways of enjoying other people’s company. Let someone know you’d like to...
by Marcia | Jan 20, 2015 | Love & Marriage, Relationship Skills
How can people connect more easily with each other, casually or when they are looking for love? Are there magic tricks that help transform strangers into friends and friends into lovers and partners? Recent research offers some clues. Companies often use a simple...
by Marcia | Jan 13, 2015 | Love & Marriage, Relationship Skills
Sometimes the people we most want to attract are not ready for friendship or for a romantic relationship. Sometimes it seems as if the other person runs away the minute you reach out. Going after him or her almost feels like the child’s game of peekaboo: now you see...
by Marcia | Oct 21, 2014 | Relationship Skills
You have found this great guy or gal. This person is good-looking, and the sparks fly between you. Your relationship, shiny and new, is off and running. You both have stars in your eyes. Nevertheless, if you are hoping for a long-term commitment you will want to watch...
by Marcia | Jul 19, 2012 | Relationship Skills, Social Skills
What communication and conflict resolution skills do you need for interpersonal relationships? The checklist below lets you take stock of your strengths and weaknesses and set goals for growth and development. Talk about each item with one or more people who know you...
by Marcia | Jun 24, 2012 | Relationship Skills
Do you feel shy and uncomfortable meeting new people for the first time? Is it hard to start a conversation? If shyness is a problem for you, maybe you think Everybody’s looking at me. They’ll see I’m not like everyone else. People will think what I...