Donna Donald
ISU Extension Family Life Specialist

641-446-4723
ddonald@iastate.edu

Articles by this author:

When the kids start clamoring for a kitten or a dog or a hamster, how should parents respond? During April, family life specialists Donna Donald and Lori Hayungs talk about when and whether children should have pets in the Science of Parenting blog from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

Parents often greet a new baby with stuffed animals, dolls and other toys, all given in anticipation of the play that is to come. During March, learn about the power of play for children of all ages in the Science of Parenting blog from Iowa State UniversityExtension and Outreach.

Sometimes life is not fair — and that really can make a child mad. But adults can help children learn how to cope with their anger in positive ways. Get tips in the Science of Parenting blog from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
 

Parents have choices about ways to guide and discipline their children. In March, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is sponsoring a free, interactive webinar for parents and grandparents with tips on using love and limits to teach children to be respectful and responsible.

Should parents spank their children? In January, family life specialists Donna Donald and Lori Hayungs talk about spanking and other ways to discipline children in the Science of Parenting blog from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
 

Research shows that children who get everything they want grow up to be greedy, self-centered adults. However, parents can raise their children to focus instead on goals such as learning and helping others. In December, ISU Extension and Outreach specialists offer tips for parents on how to avoid overindulging children in the Science of Parenting blog.
 

Teach children manners and they’re more likely to grow up to be respectful and develop empathy for others. In November, family life specialists offer tips for parents on helping children learn manners and the connection to respect and empathy in the Science of Parenting blog from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
 

Roughly a third of Iowa’s population provides care for older adults. During National Family Caregivers Month in November and throughout the year, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach programs help empower family caregivers of older adults to take better care of themselves.

Parents can help children develop the skills they need to make and keep friends. In October, family life specialists offer skill-building tips for parents and share ideas on unraveling the complex world of children’s friendships in the Science of Parenting blog from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

Children of all ages are more likely to be motivated in school when parents stay positive about school and homework. In September learn how to make homework a positive part of children’s school experience in the Science of Parenting blog from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.