Holiday crowds, lights, noise, strangers, hugging, change in routine, and chaos. When your child has special needs, holidays could be a recipe for stress and sensory overload. As parents, we need to be flexible with our definition of what a holiday should look like....
Thanksgiving is a special holiday that has brought families together since Abraham Lincoln made it a national holiday to be celebrated every year on the last Thursday of November. While the times have changed, the message of a family Thanksgiving has remained the same...
In this modern age of social media, video games, TV programs, and movies dominating every waking moment of your kid’s life, it can seem tricky to spend some alone time together without having a screen between you. Cooking with your children is a great way for...
A mindful Halloween means maximizing fun and reducing stress for kids, adults, and teachers. Personalize your Halloween experience by taking a moment to consider your child’s needs. You know your child best; if they do not do well in noisy situations,...
Is going to school in the morning accompanied by tantrums and sulking from your kids? Many of us have been there, and if you are like me, it’s tough to know what to do. Realizing that my child hates school wasn’t a shocking revelation, but it was a major wake-up...
The teacher is one of your most important allies during the school year. They work incredibly hard to make sure all students achieve academic proficiency, gain crucial socio-emotional skills, and are prepared for a successful future both in and outside the classroom....
Socializing and activities outside of school are components needed to help develop your child’s social and emotional skills. Establishing relationships with kids at school and outside of school while participating in extracurricular activities help to nurture your...
Summer break is winding down, families are returning from vacation, school supplies are flying off the shelves, and teachers are back in their classrooms diligently preparing for another academic year. As the first day of school approaches, the relaxing days of...
Early learning centers were established to provide an extra helping hand in young children’s growth and teaching them skills that they need to thrive in life. But as their first teacher, it is the parents who should help children handle their feelings and emotions....
A friend of mine was recently out with his two daughters when a stranger approached and kindly complimented him for taking the time to babysit his children. He was frustrated with this well-intentioned comment because as he put it, “I’m not babysitting, I’m...
Screen time is often a part of modern childhood. Kids may enjoy playing games, chatting with friends and family, and using online educational tools. They may even have digital homework assignments. While screen time can be a normal and even healthy part of childhood,...
Music, which is loved by all age groups, has a way of bringing liveliness to as many as hear it. Strong emotions can be aroused in people when they listen to music. It has the ability to boost the natural stress tolerance level of the body and also nullify negative...
Dr. Brent Wells All kids can get wiggly sometimes. But daily restlessness can also be one sign of anxiety in children. Anxiety in kids is a real phenomenon – and a rising epidemic nowadays. Let’s go over what anxiety in children looks like and how natural...
Forget Hollywood idealistic moments of the perfect Valentine’s Day and movies that depict loneliness if you do not have a romantic partner. Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be limited to you and a partner. Share the day with your children, friends, relatives, or spend...
Every child views ghosts, goblins, costumes, and saying trick-or-treat differently. Age appropriate exposure and participation can keep the fun in Halloween and reduce stress and fear. Here are a few of my favorite ghost busting, stress reducing tips for Halloween....
by Rick Lite As the school year winds down, some parents are shifting their focus towards preparing their kids for summer camp. Whether your kids are enrolled in a day camp or sleep-away, getting kids ready for summer camp with the physical items needed is essential....
If your child is experiencing stress, anxiety or bullying at school, these issues can emerge as ‘stomach pain.’ Introducing your child to yoga poses can have a positive effect on these challenges. But there are also physical reasons why kids might have stomach pain....
by June Rousso Ph.D. As a psychologist, I have always been drawn to helping children manage anxiety and fears. I remember first mentioning my desires to an aunt in my teens, who herself was an elementary school teacher, but could not imagine what worries children...
by Kerry Wekelo Do you bring your work stress home? The American Institute of Stress states that 80% of workers feel stress on the job. Many are bringing that same stress home to their families, not realizing that children can sense when their parents are stressed....
Hiking with kids can strengthen family bonds, build self-esteem, introduce responsibility, and provide a host of relaxation moments. Kids get the exercise they need while spending quality family time. Here are tips to keep hiking with kids stress-free: The Right Trail...
