Whether or not the term "executive functions" rings a bell, most parents are probably very familiar with these skills which include planning, organization, focused attention, initiation, rule acquisition, and inhibiting inappropriate actions. Throughout a child's development, caregivers are granted a front row seat to watch as these abilities unfold as the brain areas responsible for these processes mature.

She appears to be getting more uncooperative at home each and every day. Others tell you how sweet and darling your teen is, but all you get is grief at home. Does this sound familiar?

If you feel as though you have just about reached your limit with trying to figure out all of the ups and downs and what really makes your teen tick, then let me assure you that you are not alone. The more mothers of teens, guidance experts (ours from our Middle School), and teachers, I speak with confirm that many of the disturbing behaviors and emotions exhibited by our teens are simply a part of the “process” of growing up and maturing that is really quite normal.

Like adults, kids need exercise. Most children need at least an hour of physical activity every day. Regular exercise helps children

· Feel less stressed

· Feel better about themselves

· Feel more ready to learn in school

· Keep a healthy weight

· Build and keep healthy bones, muscles and joints

· Sleep better at night

As kids spend more time watching TV, they spend less time running and playing. Parents should limit TV, video game and computer time. Parents can set a good example by being active themselves. Exercising together can be fun for everyone. Competitive sports can help kids stay fit. Walking or biking to school, dancing, bowling and yoga are some other ways for kids to get exercise.

Provided by The National Institute of Health

Things are going well, and it seems to be an uneventful weekday morning. Then, amidst the typical hustle bustle which accompanies dressing, feeding, and organizing the a.m. rush, you hear one of the following (potentially tearful) exclamations: He hit me! She pushed me! He said I was stupid! She grabbed my video game! In most homes, on most days, this will likely set into action a relatively predictable sequence of events depending on which form of discipline you have adopted as well as the level of mental and physical energy you possess at that moment.