Anxiety Over School Shootings

Anxiety over school shootings in America has become a collective fear for children and adults alike.  The recent epidemic of school shootings and threats of school-based violence are shocking events that may prompt strong emotional reactions. When such incidents occur, it is important that parents and caregivers are equipped with information in order to appropriately respond and meet the safety and emotional needs of their children. Anxiety can be thought of as the body’s internal …

Surviving Suicide: Information for Friends & Family

We cannot truly prepare ourselves for all of life’s painful moments – especially when it comes to losing someone we love because of suicide. Coping after a devastating loss such as suicide is emotionally demanding, confusing, and life changing. Connecting with those who care about you, and those who are trained to help with this type of loss is a vital part of managing the overwhelming range of emotions. Here are some emotions and thoughts …

Hurricane Survival 101: Helping Your Kids Weather the Storm

As if preparing for a hurricane isn’t difficult enough, what about preparing your children for a storm? The “unknown” can create stress for families both before and after the storm. Taking the time to prepare your young ones for 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 utilize coping strategies.  The following are tips to help you teach, …

Turning Mistakes Into Triumph: Tips for Parents & Caregivers

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 …

More Common Than You Think: Encopresis (Childhood Soiling)

How many children do you know with Attention Deficit Disorder?  Probably several, at least.  How many children do you know who suffer from Encopresis, otherwise known as childhood soiling?  You might have observed a much smaller number of children in this latter category.  Nationally, only about 4-5% of children are known to have Attention Deficit Disorder, while up to 6% of elementary school children struggle with Encopresis. Encopresis is an unpleasant problem for the child, …

Tech Presents for Kids: Tips for Establishing Healthy Boundaries

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 …