Co-written by Jessica Wein MSW, LSW In order to change or eliminate a behavior, such as fecal smearing, it is important to first understand the function of the behavior. There is a reason your child is engaging in this behavior, so understanding the motivation behind it will best inform the type of intervention/s to employ. […]
Why is Routine Important? Children benefit from routines. Routines provide structure, a sense of security and help children develop self-discipline. Like all of us, children manage change best if it is anticipated and materializes in the context of a common routine. Routines help us appropriately self-regulate and control our environments. Schedules help parents maintain consistency […]
Early trauma can leave a lasting impact on a child’s brain. The younger a child is, the more vulnerable their brain may be to the impact of trauma. Childhood trauma can include any negative experience that causes major stress. Having healthy relationships with caring adults can help children who have experienced early trauma. When children […]
The beginning of the school year is a great time for parents and guardians to talk with kids about bullying. Bullying is a problem which affects millions of children and teenagers. It takes place in many forms: physical, verbal, psychological/social and through means of social media. Read on for several tips for talking to kids […]
The teenage years are marked with new experiences. Teenagers want to be independent and are drawn to exciting, new opportunities. During this time period, chemical changes in the brain also motivate teens to seek out risky behavior. What can parents do, then, to help their teens learn to exercise good judgment despite the internal and […]
Preschool children experience anxiety for a variety of reasons including transitions, changes to their routines or disruptions in the home. Some children simply have a higher ‘set’ anxiety level than others. If your preschooler is experiencing anxiety, try these tips to get him feeling happy and calm. Tips to Decrease Anxiety Levels in Preschoolers: Model […]
Parents often ask when they should start teaching babies the word “no.” In answering this question, it is important to consider things from the baby’s point of view. Babies from 6 months to 2 years like to chew on things, bang things, take things apart, touch things, and put things in their mouths. Babies and […]
As girls grow and develop, their overall sense of self-worth and confidence grows and changes. Sadly, in adolescence, a girl’s confidence and sense of self-worth often plummets. This is due to the fact that beginning in the preteen years, body image becomes the barometer by which many girls measure their self-worth. Confidence becomes one with […]
One-on-one time you spend with your child is priceless. It says to your child, “You are special.” It symbolizes your unconditional love for your child. There is nothing that can replace your undivided attention. Special time works best when several guidelines are followed. Guidelines for One-On-One Time with Your Child: Call the reserved time a […]
Fears are common during early childhood; they can last for a period of just a few days or up to a few months. Things that had never bothered your child may become scary all of a sudden. As old fears are resolved, new fears may arise as your child moves through the developmental stages. Although […]