Explaining the Biology of Happiness

On a chemical level, our happiness basically stems from levels of four hormones (or neurotransmitters): 1) dopamine, 2) serotonin, 3) endorphin, & 4) oxytocin. Each plays a unique role in making us feel good. Dopamine drives reward-seeking behavior in our brains. If you eat something delicious or have an orgasm, & your brain releases some…

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Benefits of Music Education for Children

Learning how to play an instrument involves improving hand-to-eye coordination, ear-to-hand coordination, & the fine motor skills needed to hold a bow or play the keys. Playing a musical instrument enhances both dexterity & hand-eye coordination. When playing an instrument, a musician must be able to create the correct notes through the proper hand motions….

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Sibling Rivalry Is a Common Parental Worry

Sibling Rivalry when you are expecting a new baby Your child’s personality has a biggest effect on how they react to a new baby. Your child’s developmental stage affects how well they can share your attention. Two-year-olds have trouble getting used to a new baby, if their needs for time & attention from their parents…

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As a new mom, I was lucky: I knew babies, and I knew biology

I was showing some previously unseen pictures to my daughter the other day. One photo captured her look of complete rapture just as she was handed her newborn daughter after delivery over three years ago. Then Anne said to me, “Oh mom, look how terrified I was!” I never saw any panic on her face…

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