Lately, I’ve heard many parents express concern regarding their child’s choices in clothing and accessories, while their child complains that parents simply don’t understand and are being too controlling. While I certainly advocate for kids and teens to have freedom with respect to their choice of attire, I also understand that the concern many parents … Read more
I have a good rule of thumb that keeps positive energy in balance in the world of parenting. It’s as much a challenge in the world of parenting as learning the rules of grammar once was, but also just as rewarding. The I before E rule is simple: Inquire before Evaluating. In other words, take … Read more
Childhood anxiety is all too common in today’s world. Parents often ask me for concrete, practical ideas to help school-age children deal with worries. One of the tools I sometimes use in therapy with children is to create a “Worry-Eater.” To try it at home, tell your child that you have a great idea that … Read more
“They are trying to grow up too fast!” is a complaint that we often hear from parents about their young teenagers. Parents often end up in our offices because their efforts to make and enforce rules with their teens have backfired, and everyone is unhappy. While parents are generally just trying to keep their adolescents … Read more
Find it hard to say no? You’re not alone. At one time or another, we all fall victim to our own ill-defined limits. Whether it is something small, such as lending something that is not returned right away, or something more serious, such as inappropriate remarks from a peer, asserting boundaries can be tricky. That … Read more
An increasingly common topic that I am asked about by parents and school counselors is self-harming behavior among teens. This issue puzzles counselors and frightens parents. It has been estimated that as many as one in five teens have tried self-harming. There isn’t a week that goes by that self-harm does not come up in … Read more
We live in an ever-changing world. As soon as we buy a new computer or cellular phone, there is an update. Our environment, our economy, our health, our family situations are frequently in flux. Our children start new schools, get new teachers and coaches, join new social groups, and must navigate new demands from all … Read more
Ever feel like somebody’s always watching you? If you have children, then I’m assuming the answer is YES! I have heard several stories about parents talking candidly with their spouse only to later hear their child repeat the one phrase from that conversation that should never be repeated. Kids are like little sponges and they … Read more
Take a minute to remember how it felt the last time that you were told “no.” • “No tables left on the deck, but we can seat you in the corner inside.” • “No, we actually don’t have your size and aren’t getting any more in.” • “No, we have no more rooms available.” When … Read more
As the holiday season approaches, many of us begin to feel stressed, overwhelmed and exhausted. In the face of shopping lists to work through, travel itineraries to plan, and seemingly endless school functions to attend, we often lose sight of the potential for joy, celebration and re-connection with loved ones that this season is supposed … Read more
