What does the Supreme Court’s ruling on DOMA mean for local couples?

It’s 10am on Wednesday, June 26. Debra Guy and Meridith Wolnick have put their morning on hold to hover around a computer, anxiously following the SCOTUSblog as it ticks live updates from the nation’s capital. “I was surprised by my physical reaction,” said Guy, who was overcome by chills and tears when news hit that […]

Say my name: When kids get to dub the family pet

This was his first visit after being adopted from the SPCA over the weekend. He was a bit pudgy at 40 pounds—a middle-aged Beagle mix with a lazy demeanor and drooping ears. He was adorable, but with his squat legs and lumbering gait, I could never describe him as dynamic. I glanced at his chart, […]

Connecting the dots: UVA takes part in a nationwide autism study

Eight local autistic children are participating in a nationwide study that could change the way developmental disorders are perceived and treated. Most existing autism medications only treat the irritability and aggressive aspects of the disorder, and for the first time, doctors are testing a drug that could improve social interaction and communication skills. ConnectMe is […]

Enemy at the baby gate: When grandparents go bad

As a new father with no significant prior experience with small children, I worry I’ve missed something big and obvious about infant care. I’ve taken classes and read a little bit here and there, but there’s no substitute for experience. I have a gnawing suspicion there are things I should know that were not covered […]

Jolly good fellows: Meet four of Charlottesville’s best dads

We asked you to nominate the coolest dads around these parts and, boy, did you come through. We heard from wives, friends, neighbors, and coworkers, all bragging about the best dad they know. It wasn’t a contest, but we thought these next four men stood out—from a single father raising his 6-year-old while still attending […]

Space relations: Preventing sibling rivalry

The issue of personal space comes up in my household a lot. Both my 5-year-old daughter and husband have a high tolerance for physical proximity—they tend to sit close, speak close, and don’t even seem to notice when they accidentally, but quite frequently, elbow me in the ribs. Conversely, my 2-and-a-half-year-old and I have what, […]

What a pain! What’s the deal with growth spurts?

The biggest growth spurts for children occur in the first year and then again around puberty. The first year of life is an incredible time of growth in all areas—height, weight, and head circumference. The most significant growth spurts usually take place around seven to 10 days of life and again between three to six […]

Open and honest: County campaign encourages frank discussions about alcohol

Albemarle County Project Director Alex London-Gross is leading a county-wide campaign to reduce drinking and driving, and is encouraging parents to talk to their kids. “Talk to them about everything: what’s going on, who their friends are, what they’re doing after school,” she said. “One of the best preventative factors is knowing you can have […]