We're heading home from the science museum. It's been a busy morning. We observed, investigated, played, and learned for hours. It was also loud, crowded, and involved tons of walking. "When we get home, we're going to have some quiet time," I say, hoping this will counteract the effects of overstimulation. Rather than a cheerful "OK mom!" … [Read more...]
Supporting Your Child Through Separation Anxiety
All you want to do is run to the store. Alone. Please!? Unfortunately, your 18-month-old has other plans. Scrambling to break free of her dad's embrace, desperate to stay with you. Years later, you're confronted with the same behavior. Only now, your child is 6 and hanging on for dear life as the school bus rumbles down the street. … [Read more...]
10 Things Every Child Needs to Know About Thoughts and Feelings
Your daughter slams her backpack on the table and rustles through the fridge for a snack. You know something's not right, but when you ask, she responds with, "Nothing." Ugh. Why can't she just tell you what's going on? Unfortunately, thoughts and feelings can be complicated. They can leave your child feeling confused and overwhelmed. … [Read more...]
5 hidden messages in your intense child’s words (and how to respond)
The kicking on the back of your seat is getting more intense. “That’s enough!” you say, glancing at the grimacing face in the back seat. “You can’t make me!” she responds, kicking harder now. Your muscles tense. You hold your breath. You want to scream, “Oh, I can too make you stop. Don’t tempt me.” But you don’t. You know it will only … [Read more...]
What anxious and angry kids need to know about their brain
"Settle down," you say above the screaming. It sounds more like a threat than a caring suggestion. "I don't know how!" your child jeers back. You shake your head, sighing. How many times do you need to remind her to take a deep breath when she's upset? Obviously, something's missing here. Big Feelings. Big Confusion. Big feelings like … [Read more...]
A radically different way to respond when your child is aggressive.
The meticulously created Lego creation smashes against the wall and shatters into a hundred pieces. "That's enough!" You yell, hoping to diffuse the situation. He screams back, picking up another handful of Legos. "What has gotten into you? We don't throw toys in this house!" Your response only seems to fuel the fire. Trying a … [Read more...]
3 Tips to Help Kids Cope with Anxiety (Storms, Darkness and Spiders – Oh My!)
I'm thrilled to welcome Janine Halloran back for this guest post. If your child struggles with anxiety, stress, or anger, you need to check out her new workbook: Coping Skills for Kids, which includes 75 strategies and ideas to try at home. It's close to midnight when the storms that have been threatening all day finally arrive. The rain … [Read more...]
Does My Child or Teen Need Therapy?
Red, scratchy throat. Strep test. Squinting at the chalkboard. Time for glasses! Obsessive worry about spiders. Angry outbursts at the drop of a hat. Constant arguing with teachers. Umm... Many parents have a “feeling” that their child is struggling but don’t know how to help. Instead of hoping that things blow over or brushing it … [Read more...]
3 Ways Movement and Mindfulness Can Reduce Stress in Kids
Thanks to, Michelle Paget, LCSW, RYT, for sharing three ways you can incorporate mindfulness into your family life! In the busy and over-scheduled world we live in, it is hard to find a moment to pause and just be. It’s the feeling we get when we arrive at our destination realizing we weren’t paying attention to how we got there or the stress … [Read more...]
It’s not fair, and that’s ok. Supporting your children when a sibling is struggling.
The tantrum has been in full force for at least 20 minutes and it doesn't seem to be slowing down anytime soon. While you're doing your best to manage the situation, you glance over and see two sets of wide eyes peering at you from across the room. You're torn. Obviously, the child who is screaming needs your attention. But what about … [Read more...]
