A Social Story in Reverse: Talking About Autism
Anyone who lives or works with someone with ASD is probably familiar with social stories, a strategy in which you explain the important details of a situation, what to expect, and what is expected from the individual with ASD. In talking about autism with others, we can reverse the social story, telling people important details […]
Building Emotion Regulation Skills
Emotion regulation is the process by which we consciously and unconsciously strive to manage the range of emotions we may experience at any given time. The problem for some teens is that their emotions come too fast and too strong for them to effectively regulate, and instead they react impulsively, lose control, or use unhelpful […]
Mental Illness and Mass Violence: Speaking Carefully and Accurately
There has been much discussion about the connection between mental illness and violence, particularly related to mass violence and school shootings, during the past weeks and months. Unfortunately, the language used and arguments made about this connection are not always accurate and can perpetuate assumptions that may lead some to avoid talking about their struggles […]
4 Phrases Parents Can Start Saying Now to Raise Capable and Confident Kids
Most parents want their kids to grow up, move out, and be able to support themselves financially and emotionally. Why then, is it so hard for parents to raise confident kids who are competent and capable? Try incorporating the following 4 phrases into your conversations with your kids. Give them the chance to try, make […]
8 Tips for Processing a New Diagnosis
As a psychologist who mainly focuses on evaluations, I quickly become familiar with families. I have many frank discussions with parents where we talk about a child’s strengths, areas for growth, and ultimately a new diagnosis, all with the purpose of leading to better outcomes. Some welcome a diagnosis and view it as a way […]
To The Parent Who Wants to Belong
Valentine’s Day is coming up, and my daughter’s preschool will be having a valentine exchange for the students. This is one of those planned activities where everyone will receive a valentine from everyone else. Everyone will give and receive whatever sense of belonging comes with a card and piece of candy. But our sense of […]
Bored Games
Long winter breaks and snow days can leave kids feeling bored and parents a bit frazzled. As one of my friends texted last night, “there are not enough movies or wine in this house to get us through another day off of school.” While I definitely appreciate the structure and routine of school days, these […]
“Why?”: The Question That Causes So Much Trouble
“I asked him ‘why?’ and he just shrugged his shoulders and said ‘I don’t know.’” I have heard a form of this statement from countless parents lamenting the fact that they can’t get a straight answer to their “Why?” question. “Why didn’t you turn in your homework?” “Why did you leave your stuff on the […]
A Letter To My Daughter
Dear Daughters, I have a conflict. I have a strong desire, a deep longing, to protect you. To protect your bodies from harm, your hearts from pain, and your emotions from adolescent boys (among other things). But, I have a clear understanding that I will fail at this. I will not be able to keep […]
Tips to Help Dads (and Moms) Engage with Preschoolers
We are wired to want to be good at what we do, including our job as a parent, but what do we do if it doesn’t always come naturally? Some Dads love to talk with their preschoolers, while others don’t know where to start. Some Dads connect with their middle schooler, while others can’t stand […]