What is parental phubbing, and how does it harm families?

phubbing father is ignoring young son next to him, son is trying to get his attention

No need to point fingers, because we’ve all done it: Ignoring people around us while we focus on a technological device. When we ignore or snub folks with our smartphones, it’s called “phubbing,” and since many of us carry our smartphones everywhere, phubbing has become very common. But — no surprise! — phubbing can erode … Continue reading

Evidence-based social skills activities for children and teens (with teaching tips)

diverse circle of children's happy faces

Social skills activities can help kids forge positive relationships, and better understand what other people are feeling and thinking. The key is finding games and exercises that match your child’s developmental capacities and needs. How do we help children develop social competence — the ability to read emotions, cooperate, make friends, and negotiate conflicts? Kids … Continue reading

Do babies feel empathy?

baby face, closeup, looking up with wonder and empathy at mother

Yes, babies feel empathy. They can “catch” other people’s emotions. They show sympathy, and even offer to help. But their behavior depends on how we treat them.