Friendship

Do your playdates dissolve into nasty battles over every toy in the room? Then it's time for you to teach your child this important life lesson.

Good pals can do great things for your child. Give her the tools to build her social network.

During the preschool years, children begin to develop the social skills that are necessary to form friendships, says Nancy Hertzog, PhD, author of Ready for Preschool. Here's how to forge the first friendships your child chooses without butting in too much.

Find out what skills you can expect your child to master at 2, 3, and 4 years old.

Toddlers don't always play well together. But with just a little planning, you can keep the peace.

By now, your child's personality has begun to emerge. Experts use nine different components to categorize behavior, and figuring out where your little one falls within each element can help you understand what makes her tick.

Whether your kid is shy or (ahem) spirited, there are ways to manage his quirks and develop his positive qualities.

We cut to the chase and tell you what you really need to know to have a well-behaved kid.

One mom asks for expert advice on how to help her shy toddler play with other children.

Kids like to hang out with their pals. Parents need a break. Hello, playdates! If things go well, they can be a blast for everyone. They're also one of the key ways your child learns how to get along with others. For both hosts and guests, get your protocol down pat.

If you're like me, the notion of "risk-taking" kids conjures up images of broken bones -- or even worse. Yet whether it's a baby tasting a spoonful of strained spinach, a toddler taking her first steps, or a preschooler telling the truth about a mess he's made, all kids need a courageous spirit to adjust to the surefire changes that come along with growing up.

If you know your child's play personality, you can help her get along with her pals -- and always get invited back during playdates.

Surround your children with love, happiness, and encouragement so they have the confidence to reach goals.

Toddlers exhibit many fears, and it can be tough to know how to reassure them of their safety. We talked to Dr. Ayelet Talmi, associate director of child development and infant health at The Children's Hospital in Denver, about the most common toddler fears and what you can do to help your child through his insecurities. Plus, she has tips on raising a child capable of managing fear.

One mother offers an intimate and personal look into her day-to-day life of raising a son with autism.

Kids fight over everything from the TV to who gets to sit next to Daddy at dinner. Short of locking each child up in a separate room, what's a parent to do?

At 12, girls often become self-conscious about their body. Here's how to find out if these concerns are normal or signs of a potential eating disorder.

Even the youngest kids forge bonds and share interests.

Preschoolers' imaginary pals may be invisible, but experts say they have some clear benefits.

Even if it takes a few reminders, encourage your child to be more mindful of some basic etiquette.

A pediatrician explains why spanking doesn't work.

Your child's not too young to start making friends but may need a little help from you.

If you're introducing a new sibling, help your older child or firstborn adjust to the idea of an addition to the family.

Toss out the junk food and start making snack time fun again! Check out these 20 kid-friendly ingredients that make great snacks, plus an easy recipe for each one.

Guilt doesn't do you (or your child) any good -- especially when it comes to discipline. Find out how to let it go with these practical and simple expert tips.