In many ways the more you talk about trauma, they can become just words. It is when you see the pictures that the memories can overwhelm you.

I would consider myself a minimalist and to be honest, I find clutter stressful. I think this stems from a few things. The house where we grew up in Canada was big, but that was typical in North America.

Alison Curtis on finding the perfect show to bond with her daughter

Alison Curtis asks if she can be a better parent to her daughter, Joan

As long as our kids are loved, we are doing a great job. 

It is upon us now. The kids are due to go back to school in a matter of days and a whole range of emotions are being felt by kids, parents and our educators alike.

My daughter, Joan, is a chatterbox. She chats with us at a home, on play dates, and in restaurants.  She is always talking. There are times that it drives me and my husband nuts.

The tween years can be difficult, but by changing her approach and adapting new skills Alison Curtis is learning to negotiate the new normal.