Dear Readers: I just received the most recent copy of the "Monitor", a monthly publication of the American Psychological Association. Recent research indicated that children experience more stress, and more time worrying about school, friends, and doing well with their grades than their parents realize. Children may experience somatic pain as a reflection of their high levels of stress, and as a way to internalize their worries. It is recommended that parents spend more time, more "down" time with their children to give them a chance to express their worries, their concerns, their fears, and to allow them to look for support and for advise from their parents. I have written a couple of articles in the past about spending "down time" with children, and for families to share meals and more time at home as opposed to the frequent trips from one activity to another after school. Another very strong recommendation I make to parents and children is to have more meals at home instead of "picking up food from the drive-through" as busy families drive in the end of the afternoon, still on the way "from" or "to" their very busy after-school activities. If you have more meals at home, you will be more likely to have more personal and meaningful conversations with your children, and you may also provide an environment for healthier eating habits. If you have any questions or comments about this article, please, email me in this Website as I welcome feedback from readers as well as comments and questions. Happy New Year.  Vera Joffe, Ph.D.