Whenever possible, take the time to lean into your child’s questions. Instead of simply giving them an answer, ask them their thoughts about the information you’ve provided. Rather than asking them questions that could be answered with a simple yes or no, prompt them with open- ended ones that will strengthen their reasoning skills and prompt them to consider a topic more deeply. SMALL STRUGGLES MAKE STRONGER MINDS. As parents, we want to answer our children’s questions and find solutions to all their problems. While some situations will always require our intervention (such as a medical emergency), it’s sometimes best to allow kids to find their own path to solving dilemmas or discovering answers. Board games, puzzles, building blocks, and even role-playing games with friends can foster stronger thinking skills, so allow your children plenty of time to engage in activities that expand their minds while they’re having fun. When you see your child struggle to figure out how to complete a playtime task, pause before jumping in to help. Giving them room to sort out the issue instead of immediately coming to their aid will help them think and problem-solve more independently. When we practice patience and give children space to explore the world in their own way, we nurture curious, confident thinkers who are ready for whatever life brings.
In a culture overwhelmed by algorithms and conflicting media sources, critical thinking is more important than ever. This is especially true of young children, many of whom will become our future CEOs, writers, and world leaders. Here are two simple ways parents can help their little ones develop the thinking skills they’ll need to thrive through life’s challenges. QUESTIONS KINDLE THOUGHTFUL TRUTHS. Whether you’re raising a young child for the first time or are a veteran grandparent who’s done it all, you can surely recall moments when a little one hit you with a barrage of questions that tested your patience. Few people would fault you for rushing through your answers to satisfy your tiny inquisitor when stressed, but regularly questioning things is a sign of a critical thinker. P uzzles and P atience KEYS TO RAISING CRITICAL THINKERS
W hat H appens if P robate D eadlines A re M issed ? PROBATE EXPLAINED
There is often a lot of confusion regarding the probate process. Most people have never experienced it before, and the fact that they have to navigate a maze during a time when they should be grieving can make things even more difficult. If you’re the executor, you may worry about filing the will on time or informing heirs and beneficiaries. Those on the outside looking in may wonder when they need to contest the will. While there is no set deadline for filing a will and starting the probate process, it is best practice to begin as soon as reasonably possible. Ideally, this should be within a few weeks or months after the death. Failing to file promptly can put the executor in an impossible situation. The probate court could fine or imprison the person withholding the will, and heirs could sue for items or assets they should have gained ownership over.
The next step in the process is informing those who have a need to know. Once probate is opened, the executor needs to inform heirs, beneficiaries, and creditors. Failing to do so can lead to potential lawsuits against the estate or the executor, especially if creditors were not informed or didn’t receive a timely notice that they were entitled to a payment. Those who intend to contest a will need to be aware of which type of probate is involved. Common form probate is the most used and occurs when the will is fairly straightforward, and the potential for disputes is minimal. In common form probate, the heirs are not notified, but they have up to four years after the will is admitted to probate to file a caveat and challenge the will.
underway. Those who want to challenge the will have 30 days after receiving the notice to file a will contest petition with the probate court. If you miss your opportunity and the deadline passes, there is little you can do going forward. The probate court will proceed with the distribution of assets according to the will. Please call us today if you have any questions about executor responsibilities, meeting deadlines, or anything else related to the probate process!
The other type is solemn form probate, and in these instances, every heir is notified that probate is
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