Wellness & Parenting Contributor
Phyllis Mackerstic is a certified holistic wellness coach, a parenting columnist, and a fierce advocate for nurturing the whole family—mind, body, and soul. At Mom Joy’s Hive, she shares expert insights and gentle guidance on topics such as child nutrition, emotional resilience, stress management, and self-care for parents. Her writing blends scientific knowledge with deep empathy, encouraging families to slow down and embrace wellness as a lifestyle, not just a goal. With a calm, thoughtful voice, Phyllis reminds parents that taking care of themselves is a vital part of taking care of their families. When not writing, Phyllis enjoys gardening, herbal teas, and long evening walks with her golden retriever, Tessa.
What Growth Really Looks Like Growth isn’t just about kids getting taller or learning to walk. Real development happens on several fronts emotional, social, and cognitive and often, it’s the quiet shifts that show the biggest changes. A toddler calming down faster after a tantrum, a preschooler starting to share toys without prompting, or a […]
Supporting Your Child’s Growth: Milestones Every Parent Should Know Read More »
The Science Behind Play Play isn’t an extra it’s essential. From birth, kids are wired to explore, imagine, and test out the world through play. It’s not just about having fun. The brain needs play to grow. Scientists have found that unstructured play sparks neural connections in early childhood, especially in areas tied to memory,
How Play Supports Child Development: What Every Parent Needs To Know Read More »
Family life can be one of the greatest sources of joy, but it’s no secret that it comes with its share of challenges. Balancing relationships, responsibilities, and personal growth while keeping a positive atmosphere at home isn’t always easy. Yet, creating a resilient and joyful family life isn’t just a dream—it’s something we can all
What You Should Know About Building a Resilient, Joyful Family Life Read More »
Parenting is one of the most rewarding yet challenging journeys we can embark on. Every stage of a child’s life brings new milestones, joys, and, let’s be honest, its fair share of hurdles. From sleepless nights with a newborn to navigating the emotional rollercoaster of teenage years, it’s a constant learning curve. I’ve found that
The Essential Parenting Tips You Should Know for Every Stage of Your Child’s Life Read More »
Health and wellness aren’t just buzzwords—they’re the foundation of a happy, thriving family. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook simple habits that can make a big difference in our well-being. As someone who’s always looking for ways to keep my loved ones healthy, I know how vital it is to stay informed. From
Top Health and Wellness Facts Every Family Should Know for a Happier, Healthier Life Read More »
As a parent, I’ve often wondered what truly helps children thrive. It’s easy to get caught up in academics, structured activities, and endless to-do lists, but one essential piece often gets overlooked—play. Play isn’t just about keeping kids entertained; it’s a crucial part of their growth and development. Through play, kids explore their creativity, build
The Importance of Play: What Every Parent Should Know for Healthy Child Development Read More »
Sleep isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity, especially for parents and children juggling busy schedules and endless responsibilities. I’ve learned that a good night’s rest can make all the difference in how we face the day ahead, yet it often feels like quality sleep is the first thing to slip through the cracks. The Importance
The Importance of Sleep: Expert Tips for Restful Nights for Parents and Children Read More »
Wellness isn’t just about individual choices—it’s a journey that can bring families closer together. I’ve found that when we prioritize health as a family, it creates a ripple effect of positivity in our daily lives. From shared meals to active weekends, building healthy habits together fosters stronger bonds and a sense of accomplishment. Understanding The
Teaching kids about health doesn’t have to feel like a chore. In fact, it can be an exciting journey filled with fun and engaging activities that spark their curiosity. I’ve found that when kids enjoy what they’re doing, they’re more likely to absorb the lessons and carry them into their daily lives. Why Teaching Kids
Teaching Kids About Health: Fun and Educational Activities for Lifelong Healthy Habits Read More »
As a parent, I know how tough it can be to juggle work, family, and staying active. Between school drop-offs, meal prep, and endless to-do lists, fitness often takes a backseat. But what if staying active became a family affair? Building a fitness routine that involves everyone not only boosts health but also strengthens family
The Parent’s Guide to Building a Fun and Effective Family Fitness Routine Read More »
Parenting is filled with moments that test us, shape us, and sometimes leave us questioning if we’re doing it right. I thought I had all the answers until one simple conversation shifted everything I believed about being a parent. It wasn’t about giving advice or fixing a problem—it was about truly listening. In that moment,
The Power of Listening: How One Conversation Transformed My Parenting Journey Forever Read More »
