As much as we might want to, we can’t always protect children from witnessing violence and tragedy in the world, whether it’s mass shootings, terrorist attacks, or war. As parents, teachers, and other supportive adults, what we can do is comfort and communicate with children in the most healing way possible. Read more ›
Establishing a connection with your teen is the basis for effectively supporting their mental well-being and social and emotional learning. When we love someone, we are interested in them and in their thoughts and feelings. As your child grows, communication is one way of showing your love and respect for your growing child. Read more ›
Parents often talk about how tough it is to talk to teenagers, how their kids won’t say anything or listen to them. Child and adolescent psychologist, family therapist, and author Shelja Sen shares five essential strategies that can make a huge difference in building a stronger connection. Read more ›
A 2022 Pew Research Center study revealed that nearly 80% of 13-17 year-olds check at least one social media feed at least hourly, and over a third said they did so “almost constantly.” How can we develop healthy social media practices that support, not hinder, our mental health? Read more ›
We think we have to push our kids to do more, achieve more, be more. But we’re modeling the wrong traits—like rule-following and caution—and research shows it’s not working. This kind of “Striver” mindset isn’t just making kids unhappier, says Dr. Michele Borba. It’s actually the opposite of what it takes to thrive in the uncertain world ahead. Read more ›
We all know how the algorithm works—the more you look at your phone, the more it will send compelling content to keep your eyes from looking away. It’s hard to break habits of checking TikTok or Instagram and constantly refreshing to see more, but it’s important to take time away for our mental and physical health. Read more ›
Gentle parenting is about recognizing your child as an individual and responding to their needs. The tools of gentle parenting are connection, communication, and consistency. Read more ›
In our interactions with our children, each of us has the choice to respond in ways that either strengthen or weaken our relationships with them. Read more ›
Want to parent with more empathy but can’t think of what to say? Here are some no-fail sentences to get you started in any situation. Read more ›
If you need special supports or accommodations to succeed while you are in high school, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires that a well thought-out Individualized Education Program (IEP) be developed and updated yearly.
Once you graduate from high school and begin postsecondary education, you will no longer have an IEP and the IDEA will no longer apply. The laws and types of support you can get will be different. Read more ›
