DUTY CALLS FOR CONTACT WITH KIDS

Fairfax, VA – (Dec. 1, 2004) – Leaving to serve in the military doesn't mean saying goodbye to parenting.

Dr. Lawrence Shapiro, child psychologist and parenting expert, says, "When a parent is called to duty, sent for special training, or anytime he or she is away, it is extremely important to stay connected. Children don't always understand that going away doesn't mean that a parent wants to be going away from them.'

It happens to every military family. At some point, Mom or Dad is going to have to spend some time away. "Parents may have a mix of emotions about going. Sadness or apprehension about leaving, and anxiety or excitement about the adventure, are just some of the emotions that a child will sense,' Dr. Shapiro explains. "With Hi, Dad – Let's Write™, a parent can keep a bond with their children while they are away, and help them feel loved, comforted, and reassured. Meanwhile the parent keeps up-to-date with their child's activities.'

Hi, Dad – Let's Write (MSRP $17.95, ages 5 and up) is a postcard correspondence activity for Dads (or Moms) and children when they are apart. There are two sets of cards in Hi, Dad - Let's Write, one for Mom or Dad, and one set for the child. Each card has a "thought starter' to spark the topic and encourage frequent contact. Some cards for example, read, "You won't believe what happened in school today…' or one of the parent cards might say, "If we were together right now, we would…'

Dr. Shapiro and CTC Publishing also offer a board game called Hey, Dad – Let's Talk!™ (MSRP $29.95, ages 3 and up, 2-5 players) to help strengthen the relationship between parents and their children particularly when a parent has just returned from a tour of duty or extended training.

"Hey Dad – Let's Talk! is guaranteed to positively impact the relationship between parents and their children forever. With the game time averaging 20 minutes, it is a great way to maximize quality time,' Dr. Shapiro said.
"The game helps parents and children enjoy each other. When parents, especially Dads and kids start communicating, it makes a tremendous difference.'

According to the National Fatherhood Initiative, children with involved, loving fathers are significantly more likely to do well in school, have a healthy self-esteem, exhibit empathy, and avoid high-risk behaviors such as drug and alcohol use.

The board game and the postcard set can be purchased at www.couragetochange.com or by calling 1-800-440-4003. The products will be introduced in bookstores and gift stores for the holiday season.

ABOUT Dr. Shapiro:
Dr. Lawrence E. Shapiro is the author of dozens of books and games, including The Secret Language of Children: How To Understand What Your Kids Are Really Saying and How to Raise a Child with a High EQ: A Parents' Guide to Emotional Intelligence. He is a regular guest and authority to radio and television news programs.

ABOUT CTC Publishing:
CTC Publishing creates products which are designed to enhance family communications, address common problems, and promote healthy living. CTC Publishing is a division of the 10-year old catalog company, Courage To Change.
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