By Stephanie Burstein, MS, LMFT 
Technology can drive families crazy! An avalanche of devices, apps and information is overwhelming. How do you decide what is best for your family? Instead of looking at the ‘problem of technology’, we must create a framework within the family that includes technology as a helpful tool for communication, entertainment and education.
Read more“The Family System and its Newest Member: Technology”
My most powerful “Aha! moments” have come from making gut wrenching mistakes and minor faux pas. As a child, I recall my mom saying, “Do what you think is right.” Argh! Of course, I knew it wasn’t right! Even though it was painful at times to feel complete responsibility for my own mistakes, I am now thankful for them. When children get incorrect answers on tests or quizzes, their grades suffer commensurately. Of course, no …
The holidays are here and shopping has begun. At the top of everyone’s holiday wish list are electronics. Even our littlest loved ones are enamored with the latest and greatest gadgets. Who could blame them? Our world runs on technology and our kids are part of that world. Whether they are using electronics for school or entertainment, the demand exists. And as every parent knows, finding the right balance for electronics is tricky. How do …
By Christie Caggiani, RDN, LDN, CEDRD If you’ve ever tried to have a clear and concise conversation with your child after school, you might find it a daunting and nearly impossible task. Typically, you will find their attention, energy and desire to recount the day stretched thin, and much of that is simply because their bodies have run out of fuel. If it’s been at least 3 hours since their last meal or snack, or …
With numerous activities involved in preparing for hurricane season, don’t neglect to spend a few minutes safeguarding your most important asset- your children. The “unknown” can create stress for families both before and after the storm. Taking the time to prepare you young ones for the hazardous weather can save you from unwanted meltdowns. Children who have been prepared, and whose parents handle the disaster well, have a greater ability to cope with the stress. …
Summer time! Kids can enjoy camp, playing outside, and down time.. LOTS of down time! Down time which turns into “boredom” which turns into “Can I use your phone?!” There are more than enough apps to keep kids preoccupied, however some give your children a little more than entertainment. Here is a list of some apps to download today! Super Hero Comic Book Maker (Duck Duck Moose) – Imagination and creativity are key in childhood development. …
Most people who know me, know that I am an avid reader of spiritual, psychological and health & wellness books. A book I frequently use in my work is “Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life” by Marshall Rosenberg, Ph.D. The title isn’t so appealing to most lay people, but the content is a treasure for all humans who endeavor to live life with fullness and passion. Don’t get me wrong, it is not about sex, …
“We don’t keep bread in the house.” “One serving is enough – kids don’t need seconds.” “We just have protein and veggies at dinner.” “Why is my child sneaking food and snacking all the time?!” Hmmm – at first glance, these may seem like separate, unrelated statements. There is, however, a common thread and a chain reaction that is in play throughout the scenarios…and it all starts with restriction. Carb …
More often than not, when we see someone who we have not seen in a while, it is not uncommon to make a comment about his or her shape or size. This is clearly not shocking when one considers the world we live in. However, even if body-focused comments are intended as compliments, I challenge each and every one of you to be mindful of body talk. For those struggling with an eating disorder or …
Child coaching is a therapeutic tool that can be used to supplement existing therapy or on it’s own to help children cope with minor struggles or behavioral problems. It is an economical and effective support to help children deal with school stress, disorganization, behavioral concerns and issue specific support such as loss of a loved one or a parent in recovery. Child coaching at Therapeutic Oasis is based on a therapeutic model making it an …
