Many people start feeling blue as the air turns chilly and the days get shorter. However, for some this seasonal change in mood is more serious and may require treatment. Seasonal Affective Disorder (also called SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at the same time every year, usually beginning in the fall and … Read more
For many, the holiday season is a joyous time of year full of friends, family, and laughter; however, for some, the thought of spending extended time with certain relatives can evoke feelings of dread and anxiety. Dealing with difficult people can be a challenge, especially when those difficult people are related to you by either … Read more
The medical term for bedwetting is enuresis. Enuresis refers to the “involuntary voiding of urine” after an age by which bladder control should have been established. Developmentally speaking, most children gain bladder control by the age of four or five. Most children who have enuresis have nocturnal (nighttime) type. In other words, they wet the … Read more
Many parents feel completely overwhelmed with regard to how to manage their children’s interactions with the digital world. With the advent of cell phones, Facebook, online gaming and GPS tracking, the decisions that parents need to make are numerous and often seem very complex. It doesn’t help that many parents lack knowledge and personal experience … Read more
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
Symptoms of ADHD (hyperactivity, impulsivity, and/or inattention) often lead to under-achievement in school for the child. Below you will find a list of common learning problems experienced by most children diagnosed with ADHD. Keep in mind that every child is unique and may have some, but not all of these challenges. Poor Concentration: Includes difficulty … Read more
A good night’s sleep has far-reaching benefits for both children and adults. When we are well-rested, our bodies and minds can be healthy and strong. A good night’s sleep helps us have more energy, feel happier, and perform better in all areas of our life. In order to get a good night’s sleep, we need … Read more
Empathy is one of the most important tools that parents have in helping us to connect with as well as manage our children. But it is also a tool that is frequently under-utilized and/or misunderstood. What is empathy? Empathy involves understanding another’s feelings. It is related to, but different from compassion, sympathy, and/or pity. Being … Read more
Now Woody, he’s been my pal for as long as I can remember. He’s brave, like a cowboy should be. And kind, and smart. But the thing that makes Woody special is he’ll never give up on you… ever. He’ll be there for you, no matter what. – Andy, Toy Story 3 (2010) It is … Read more
When a child is diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder it is important to understand that this disorder influences the entire family. Parents of children with ADHD often report elevated stress levels and frustrations around parenting. It is important to keep in mind that “traditional” parenting techniques are ineffective when trying to manage the behavioral problems associated … Read more
