Some people lack empathy permanently, others switch it off when they are tired, stressed or impatient telling a child not to bother you because you are working, for example and experience regret for their harsh words when their empathy returns.

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That might seem extreme, especially if you are not familiar with the unique challenges of disciplining a special-needs child.

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If you find that certain dietary measures help your child, and they are not unreasonable from a nutritional point of view, they may well be worth pursuing.

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If you are using a 529 plan to save for college, make sure the plan is listed under your name and not your child's, Mr. Chany says. (If necessary, you can easily change ownership of the account.) That way, you are apt to get more aid money.

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