Latest news with #families

Childhood Vaccination Rates Fall as School Exemptions Hit Record

Bloomberg

2 hours ago

Health
Bloomberg

Childhood Vaccination Rates Fall as School Exemptions Hit Record

The number of kindergarteners in the US starting school without being fully vaccinated continues to rise, as families are increasingly getting exemptions to what was once a rite of passage for students. The US Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention reported Thursday that the number children who were fully up-to-date on their immunizations when they started elementary school in 2024 fell from the prior year. The shortfall included protection against potentially deadly infections like polio and measles.

Wall Street Journal

7 hours ago

Business
Wall Street Journal

Why Pre-K Is Good for a Parent's Career

Enrolling a child in prekindergarten can have a long-term positive impact on the parents' earnings. That is the conclusion of a recent study of primarily lower-income families in New Haven, Conn., who applied to have their children attend a public, extended-hours pre-K program. Parents whose children attended the one- to two-year program, which uses a lottery-based system to select its students, earned on average $39,782 a year compared with $34,318 for parents who tried but were unable to enroll in the program. The difference equated to about $5,464 a year for each parent.

J-pop star Kenshin Kamimura's sexual assault case adjourned to Aug 13

The Standard

9 hours ago

Health
The Standard

J-pop star Kenshin Kamimura's sexual assault case adjourned to Aug 13

'If the baby could speak, she would scream': the risky measures to feed small babies in Gaza

14 Things Good Husbands Do Without Being Told

Yahoo

11 hours ago

General
Yahoo

14 Things Good Husbands Do Without Being Told

Being a good husband isn't about grand gestures or sweeping declarations. It's about the small, consistent actions that build a strong foundation for a loving partnership. If you're wondering how to ace this role, it's less about reading a manual and more about tuning into your partner and acting naturally. Here's a guide on things you can do regularly to make your marriage rock solid. These actions show care, respect, and love, without waiting for a nudge. 1. They Act As Partners In Decision-Making Being involved in decision-making processes shows that you value your partner's opinions and perspectives. It can be as simple as discussing weekend plans or as significant as making financial decisions. When you collaborate on choices, it reinforces your partnership and ensures that both voices are heard. This shared responsibility promotes fairness and equity in the relationship. It's about working together to create a life that satisfies both of you. Participating in decision-making also fosters communication and understanding. Open discussions about needs and preferences help to set expectations and prevent misunderstandings. It provides an opportunity to express your thoughts and negotiate compromises. This mutual involvement can lead to stronger teamwork and better problem-solving skills. By making decisions together, you demonstrate commitment and investment in your shared future. 2. They Offer Loyal Support During Tough Times Life is full of ups and downs, and being there for your partner during difficult times is vital. Support can come in many forms, whether it's offering a listening ear, providing advice, or simply being present. Being supportive shows that you're in it for the long haul and willing to weather any storm together. It's about offering strength and comfort when your partner needs it most. This unwavering support can deepen your bond and reinforce your commitment to each other. Offering support during tough times allows your partner to feel safe and understood. It creates a sense of partnership and unity, reinforcing the idea that you're a team. This support can also help alleviate stress and foster resilience, making challenges easier to navigate. By standing by your partner, you're demonstrating love and dedication. It's these moments of solidarity that can define and strengthen your relationship. 3. They Listen Intently Without Judgement Being a good listener isn't just about nodding along; it involves genuinely engaging with what your partner is saying. When you listen actively, you not only hear the words but also understand the emotions behind them. According to Dr. John Gottman, a renowned relationship researcher, couples who cultivate a habit of listening and validating each other's feelings tend to have long-lasting relationships. It's crucial to put down your phone and make eye contact to show that you value their thoughts. This small act can significantly strengthen your emotional connection. Listening actively can also help you catch subtle cues about what your partner needs or wants, allowing you to support them better. It promotes open communication, which is vital for resolving conflicts and building trust. Moreover, it shows your partner that you respect them as an equal, which is key to a healthy relationship. Listening can also act as a mirror, reflecting back your partner's feelings and showing empathy. When you make listening a priority, you're investing in your relationship's emotional bank account. 4. They Share Household Responsibilities Equally In modern relationships, household chores shouldn't be the sole responsibility of one person. Dividing tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry fosters equality and fairness. Supporting each other by sharing duties shows that you're a team and that you value each other's time. It also reduces stress for both parties, making for a more harmonious home environment. Acknowledging and appreciating each person's contributions can further strengthen your partnership. Splitting chores also allows for more quality time together, as you'll both have more free time. It lets you focus on building emotional and physical intimacy, rather than feeling bogged down by day-to-day tasks. By doing your fair share, you demonstrate respect and consideration for your partner's workload. This cooperation can help prevent resentment from building up, which can be corrosive to any relationship. Taking the initiative to manage household tasks can go a long way in showing your commitment. 5. They Encourage And Support Your Dreams Supporting your partner's ambitions is crucial in any relationship. Whether they want to change careers or start a new hobby, being their cheerleader can make all the difference. According to psychologist Dr. Terri Orbuch, couples who show support for each other's goals often have more satisfying relationships. This support can take various forms, from encouraging words to practical help. When you stand by them, you're strengthening the bond you share and showing that their happiness is important to you. Being supportive can also help your partner feel more confident in pursuing their dreams. It's essential to show that you believe in their abilities and offer help when needed, whether it's attending events or simply listening to their ideas. This encouragement fosters a sense of security and strengthens your partnership. It also allows you to grow individually and as a couple, as you both reach for your aspirations. Celebrating each other's successes can add a layer of joy and fulfillment to your relationship. 6. They Communicate Clearly, Openly, And Often Good communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship. Sharing your thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. It's about creating a safe space where both you and your partner can speak freely without fear of judgment. Honest conversations can address potential issues before they become significant problems. By being transparent, you're laying the groundwork for a stronger, more trusting relationship. Open communication allows you both to express your needs and expectations clearly, reducing the chance of resentment. It also fosters emotional intimacy, as you learn more about each other's hopes, dreams, and fears. Listening and responding thoughtfully can make your partner feel heard and understood. When communication is open, conflicts can be resolved more efficiently, keeping the relationship healthy. It's a skill that requires practice but can transform your relationship for the better. 7. They Make Time To Be With You Spending quality time together is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship. Life can get hectic, and it's easy to let dates and special moments slip by. A study by the University of Virginia suggests that couples who regularly spend time together are generally happier and more satisfied in their relationships. Whether it's a date night, a walk in the park, or simply watching a movie together, these moments reinforce your connection. Making time for each other shows that you prioritize your relationship amid life's chaos. Quality time doesn't have to be extravagant; it's about being fully present with each other. It allows you to relax, enjoy each other's company, and focus on nurturing your relationship. These moments create memories and strengthen your emotional bond. When you regularly dedicate time to each other, it becomes easier to weather the challenges that life throws your way. Prioritize these moments, and your relationship will be all the better for it. 8. They Tell You How Much They Appreciate You Expressing appreciation can go a long way in strengthening your relationship. It's important to acknowledge the big and small things your partner does for you. A simple thank you or an unexpected compliment can make your partner feel valued and loved. When you show appreciation, you reinforce positive behavior, making your partner more likely to reciprocate. This mutual recognition creates a positive cycle of gratitude and contentment. Appreciation can also enhance intimacy, as it makes your partner feel seen and accepted for who they are. It's a way of saying, 'I notice you and I'm grateful for you,' which can deepen your emotional connection. Over time, this practice can boost relationship satisfaction and help you both feel more secure in your partnership. Appreciating your partner becomes a habit that fosters goodwill and cooperation. It's a simple yet powerful way to show your love and commitment. 7. They Respect Your Space And Need For Alone Time Respecting personal space is crucial in any relationship. Everyone needs time to themselves to relax and recharge, and it's essential to honor that need. Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a clinical psychologist, emphasizes the importance of boundaries in maintaining healthy relationships. Giving your partner space to pursue their interests or spend time alone shows understanding and respect. It's about finding the right balance between togetherness and individuality. Respecting space also prevents feelings of suffocation, which can strain a relationship. When you allow each other room to breathe, you're nurturing a more resilient partnership. It fosters personal growth and development, which can enrich your relationship in the long run. By trusting your partner to manage their time, you're showing faith in their independence and strength. This mutual respect enhances the overall quality of your relationship. 8. They Stay Calm And Objective During Conflict Disagreements are inevitable, but how you handle them can make or break your relationship. The key is to approach conflicts with a mindset focused on resolution rather than blame. It's essential to remain calm, listen to your partner's perspective, and express your feelings without resorting to accusations. Constructive conflict resolution involves finding common ground and compromising when necessary. This approach not only resolves issues but also strengthens your bond. When conflicts are handled constructively, they can be opportunities for growth and understanding. It allows you both to express your needs and work towards finding solutions that satisfy both parties. This practice builds trust and helps to prevent resentment from festering. By tackling problems together, you reinforce your partnership and commitment to each other. It's not about winning or losing, but about fostering a healthy, balanced relationship. 9. They Shower You With Affection Affection is a crucial element of any romantic relationship. Small gestures like holding hands, hugging, or a simple kiss can go a long way in expressing love and connection. Physical touch can help maintain intimacy and strengthen emotional bonds. It acts as a constant reminder of your love and commitment. These moments of affection don't just feel good; they contribute to a more satisfying and fulfilling relationship. Being affectionate also signals to your partner that you're emotionally available and open. It creates a sense of security and warmth, deepening your connection. Regular displays of affection can reduce stress and increase feelings of happiness and contentment. It's an ongoing dialogue of love that enhances your relationship's emotional health. When affection becomes a habit, it nurtures a loving and harmonious environment. 12. They Are Your Biggest Cheerleader Encouragement is a powerful tool for fostering a supportive and nurturing relationship. Whether it's about pursuing a new goal or overcoming a challenge, your encouragement can inspire your partner to stretch beyond their comfort zone. It's about believing in each other's potential and offering motivation when needed. Encouragement fosters confidence and helps build a positive, growth-oriented environment. It shows that you're invested in each other's happiness and success. Encouraging your partner also strengthens your emotional connection. When you support their aspirations, you're promoting their personal growth and fulfillment. This encouragement enhances trust and communication, creating a more satisfying relationship. It also helps to create a dynamic where both partners feel valued and motivated. By encouraging each other, you're cultivating a relationship that thrives on mutual support and shared ambitions. 13. They Lavish Sweet Surprises On You Surprises can add a touch of excitement and spontaneity to your relationship. They don't have to be grand gestures; simple acts like bringing home their favorite treat or planning a spontaneous outing can be delightful. Surprises show that you're thinking of your partner and willing to put in the effort to make them smile. They break the monotony of daily routines and create joyful memories. This act of thoughtfulness can reignite the spark in your relationship. When you surprise your partner, it shows that you're paying attention to their likes and interests. It communicates that you care and value their happiness. Surprises can also foster a sense of adventure and playfulness, enriching your relationship. These moments of unexpected joy can strengthen your emotional bond and create lasting impressions. Embrace the element of surprise, and watch your relationship flourish. 14. They Keep The Romance Alive Romance doesn't have to fade as the years go by; it's about keeping that initial spark alive. Little things like candlelit dinners, handwritten notes, or spontaneous getaways can infuse romance into your relationship. Romance shows that you're still as committed and passionate as you were in the beginning. It keeps the connection vibrant and adds layers of depth to your love. Remember, it's the thought and effort that count, not the extravagance. Keeping the romance alive requires intention and creativity. It's about finding ways to continually woo your partner and make them feel special. These romantic gestures serve as reminders of the love and attraction you share. They contribute to a sense of intimacy and excitement, preventing complacency from creeping in. Make romance a priority, and your relationship will thrive as a result. Solve the daily Crossword

College applications open Friday. Here's what to know.

Washington Post