Moms backed by proof that we can "make it all better"

A recent study done by the Proceedings of the Royal Society B-Biological Sciences proved a child's stress is greatly reduced by the reassurance of their mother's voice, as well as their physical touch or embrace.

We knew that didn't we? The study was conducted on mothers and daughters ( I have sons, but I'm going to go with it anyway!).  Girls between the ages of 7 and 12 were separated into three groups and put in stressful situations like speaking in public or doing math tests in front of an audience.  Before the event, one group had contact with their mothers to recieve vocal and physical reassurance. The second group spoke to their mothers by telephone.  The third group had no contact with their mothers at all, and were given a film to watch.

The study showed an increase in the hormone oxytocin, shown to reduce stress hormones and produce feelings of well being, in both groups of girls who had maternal contact, as opposed to higher stress hormone levels in girls without.

I appreciate the study, but it only proves what I and other mother's already know, because we see it in our kids' faces when the tears or pouts stop, and the smiles start. 

Appreciation for Foundation for Saline Area Schools

As a parent with two kids in the Saline Area School District, I am so appreciative of the work that is done by the Foundation for Saline Area Schools. Their sole purpose is to find ways to raise funds specifically designed to benefit my children, their peers and their educators. As summed up on their website, the Mission of the FSAS is:

"to generate, for distribution, financial and other resources to the schools for enrichment programs and other projects aimed at enhancing the quality of education and educational opportunities."

This Thursday, the FSAS will hold a fundraiser and recognition reception that is open to the community and an opportunity for people to see what great things are happening for their kids because of the FSAS.

The reception is Thursday, May 13 from 5-8 PM and will take place at the Stonebridge Golf Club (see map here).

Contributors and sponsors of the event are considered "Friends of the Foundation for Saline Area Schools" and will insure future support for grants and other initiatives within the district.


The FSAS is a non-profit, volunteer organization that is completely separate from the school board. Students in Saline have been benefiting from its efforts since 1987, when it was founded by Community member and parent Bruce Paxton. His son, Reid Paxton serves on the board.

Thursday night's reception is open to community members. For more information, please call FSAS President Cheryl Hoeft at 734-429-5922.