Playing to Build Social Skills in Young Children

Even for toddlers and preschool children, friendships are key. Research suggests that early social development and peer relationships are critical for later academic success, social adjustment, and the ability to handle challenges and adversity. Friendships in early childhood also provide opportunities for children to develop the skills that they will need for social interactions in … Read more

Helping Your Teenager Build Strong Relationships

Adolescence is a time of change, changes in one’s body, in one’s mood, and in one’s relationships.  Helping teenagers form and maintain healthy relationships, especially with peers, is critically important because research has shown that teens who do not have good peer relationships tend to do worse in school and are at risk for behavior … Read more

Healthy Families and the Coming Out of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth

Within the past month, there has been an increase in the amount of attention given to the issues surrounding Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender (GLBT) youth, especially the effects of peer bullying. As I have touched upon bullying in previous blogs, I would like this blog to focus on the importance of family support, particularly … Read more

Helping Your Child with Bullying

In recent years, there has been an increase in media and community awareness surrounding the topic of bullying, which has resulted in many schools adopting a zero-tolerance policy with respect to bullying behaviors.  However, even with the increased awareness and school interventions in place, there is a high likelihood that your child will encounter some … Read more