Fostering a Growth Mindset
Harboring a fixed mindset
can lead to feelings of self-doubt and defeat, and it generally precludes one from even wanting to try at something unless they can envision immediate success.
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Helping Your Child to Make Friends
Helping Your Child to Make Friends It is a new school year! Hopefully the transition back to school has gone smoothly for your family. One concern that is often raised by parents at this time of year involves what to do when their child does not seem to be adjusting well socially. It can be … Read more
Quick and Easy Breathing Exercises to Calm Anxiety
Quick and Easy Breathing Exercises to Calm Anxiety Many of us experience anxiety in our daily lives, whether situational or chronic. However, there are breathing practices we can use in the moment of heightened distress or as a regular daily self-care practice to reduce stress, relax us, and promote both psychological and physical well-being. Below … Read more
Understanding and Managing Social Anxiety: Tips for Parents
Understanding and Managing Social Anxiety: Tips for Parents I have seen an increasing number of children and teens with social anxiety over the last few years. Although it is a common issue, it can be challenging to manage. Let’s talk about what social anxiety is and what you as parents can do to help. Social … Read more
Coping with Relocation
Coping with Relocation Moving to a new place is one of the most stressful life events a person can go through. Research suggests that is the third most stressful event behind the death of a loved one and divorce. Surprisingly, even when it is a desired move and what you feel will be an exciting … Read more
Managing Summer Expectations: Helping Kids (and Parents) Navigate the Season
Managing Summer Expectations: Helping Kids (and Parents) Navigate the Season The school year is over (Whew!) and our children’s excitement for summer vacation has likely hit a fever pitch. Images of endless free time, fun activities, and carefree days fill their heads. While summer can indeed be a magical time for kids, it’s important for … Read more
What’s Behind the Anger?
Anger, though it may feel intense and hard to handle in the moment, is a normal human emotion. It signals to us that something is not right, and we need to pay attention to it.
Parental Self-Regulation Helps Kids with Big Feelings
As parents, we have no doubt observed our children (of all ages) experiencing big feelings. Big feelings are bound to happen, and big feelings are tough! I have been thinking about parent mindfulness a lot these days. The act of being mindful of ourselves as caregivers and being aware of what is going on in our bodies helps us be the calm, secure presence our kids need when big feelings come up for them. It is important to know what is going on in our own bodies and care for ourselves to meet the needs of our kids.
It’s Almost Bathing Suit Season! Achieving Body Acceptance
For many years, the “body positivity” movement has been in our public discourse, as an argument against diet culture and its impact on our emotions and economy. Body positivity centers on the message that all bodies are beautiful – inclusive of all sizes, genders, ethnicities, ages, and abilities.
Practicing Radical Acceptance in Parenting
Practicing Radical Acceptance in Parenting No matter how old your child is, there are likely times when you feel a high level of distress, frustration, and/or anger at their choices and behaviors. In those moments, you may find yourself thinking things like: “why can’t he/she just do X?!” or “I did not raise him/her to … Read more