For parents

First-time fatherhood can feel overwhelming, but with preparation and understanding, you can navigate this new chapter confidently.

How Can I Prepare to Be a First-Time Father?

Question: “My girlfriend is pregnant, but I don’t know if I'm prepared. What are some tips that you have for a first-time father?”

Wondering how to discipline your 1-year-old boy? Dr. Ana Aznar explains that at this age, discipline is about safety and setting gentle limits, not punishment, using techniques like redirection and consistency to guide behavior.

How Can You Discipline a 1-Year-Old Boy?

Question: “Can you discipline a 1-year-old? He’s a boy.”

Dr. Ana Aznar explains why most children figure the truth about Santa Claus out on their own and how parents can handle it if needed.

How To Tell Your Kids Santa Isn’t Real

Question: “How should I tell my 8- and 12-year-old boys that Santa isn’t real?”

Dr. Ana’s Expert Answer

Research shows that most children start to realize Santa isn’t real around age 8. They often figure it out on their own when they notice that the story doesn’t seem physically possible.

A parent asks for help with their 3.5-year-old son who has recently started fighting with his older brother and having public meltdowns, and Dr. Ana provides strategies to manage this difficult phase.

Are social emotional learning activities necessary for teenagers? Find out when they’re beneficial and when they may not be needed.

Are Social Emotional Learning Activities Beneficial For Teenagers?

Question: “Do you think that social emotional learning activities are still beneficial for teenagers?”

Get expert advice for parents on how to handle common teenage behavior problems like lying, screaming, and sneaking out, focusing on understanding the root causes and fostering open communication.

How to Deal With Teenage Behavior Problems

Question: “Do you have tips on dealing with teenage behavior problems? He's lying, screaming, sneaking out, etc. and just turned 14.”

Building a relationship with a stepchild takes time and care. Get advice on creating a close and positive connection with a new stepdaughter, including how to foster trust and love over time.

How To Build A Strong Relationship With My Stepdaughter?

Question: “I’ve heard of family therapy activities for relationship building. Can this also work for kids and stepparents? Do you have any recommendations or ideas? I want to build the healthiest relationship I can with my new stepdaughter.”

Dr. Ana Aznar helps a reader navigate the difficult decision of ending a relationship with an abusive mother, offering guidance on managing the emotional fallout and exploring all options before making a final choice.

When a six-year-old is bullied for believing in Santa Claus, it's natural for parents to worry about bursting their child's "magic bubble" while also protecting them. Dr. Ana Aznar provides expert guidance on how to validate a child's feelings, empower them to respond to bullies, involve their teacher, and strengthen their social support system.

For parents wondering if toddlers should celebrate Ramadan through fasting, Dr. Ana Aznar explains why fasting is not recommended for young children and provides insights based on both developmental and cultural perspectives.

Should Toddlers Fast During Ramadan?

Question: “My family’s Ramadan is coming up. Should toddlers celebrate it too, as it involves fasting?”