Family Matters
In Shortcuts: One Mom’s Secrets, former health editor at Better Homes and Gardens magazine and mother-of-two Martha Miller Johnson shares her best strategies for getting it done with competence, humor and style.
Shortcuts: One Mom's Secrets this month
Family Time

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and reconnect with family; it’s easier than you think.


Past articles
Secrets of a Sane Holiday Season
A few easy steps can take the stress out of the season.
Morning Sunshine
Try these helpful tips for putting a calm spin on your morning rush.
Am I a Mom or a Referee?
Turn sibling rivalry into a win-win for everyone.
Say No to Pinocchio
A gentle, but firm approach is best when confronting a child about lying. For more tips, read on.
Chicken, Again?
When it’s dinnertime again and there’s nothing to fix—rely on these meal-planning secrets.
Babysitter-Free Romance
Make the most of after-bedtime hours and plan a few of these activities for you and your partner.
Clean your child’s room—for good!
Make a resolution you can keep. Mom extraordinaire Martha Miller Johnson starts every year off right with the urge to purge clutter.
Have your holiday—and enjoy it too!
Our parenting pro has mastered a strategy for staying sane this season. Check out her seven pointers for keeping joy in your life during this busy time of year.
Organizing the family ‘taxi’
Whether you’re running errands with kids in tow or taking a family road trip, our expert mom’s tips will help you keep your vehicle organized.
Slow Cooker = Time for Me
This timesaving kitchen appliance is a busy mom’s best friend. Make the most of yours by following one clever mom’s advice.