How to Parent without Power Struggles

How to Parent without Power Struggles

In my practice I often see power struggles between parents and children. Parents typically want to raise a child to be a responsible and productive member of society. Sometimes, as parents, we lose focus of the end goal- we focus more on our child complying with what we want.  However, we want to raise kids to become adults who are able to problem solve and, at times, question things in an appropriate way. My solution on how to parent without power struggles and raise children who can think independently, is using Natural and Logical Consequences.  This method is appropriate for children of any age.  Kids tend to learn the lesson in a way that is easily understood.  This should ideally make our job as a parent much easier, right?

Read More

6 Things Transgender Teens Wish Parents Knew

6 Things Transgender Teens  Wish Parents Knew

My exposure to the concept of transgender in graduate school probably consisted of a paragraph in my human sexuality book.  In 2001, the topic was not really discussed in the news as frequently as it is today.  Although my college experience was not super helpful on the subject, I have had the privilege to learn from a handful of courageous teens that remain very close to my heart.  Witnessing their struggles has compelled me to write a blog to give them a voice in an environment where they feel they have none.

Read More

5 ways to calm a worried child and feel like a boss

5 ways to calm a worried child  and feel like a boss

Parents see anxiety in their children more intensely than anyone else. Our children are with us the majority of the time and they look to parents to help them feel better. Sometimes worries are so big that loving words and hugs aren’t enough. If you are among the many parents who feel helpless and frustrated, then you can benefit from my top tips on how to calm a worried child.

Read More

4 Tips to Avoid Overstimulation this Holiday

4 Tips to Avoid Overstimulation this Holiday

Overstimulation occurs when there are too many sights, sounds, or activities going on in the environment for a person to handle. The typical holiday season creates changes in routine and diet that when added to the excitement of the season causes overstimulation for both parents and kids. Recognizing the cues for what happens before you or your child becomes overstimulated is the first step to better coping through the holidays.

Read More

1 in 9 School Age Children are Diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder- Here’s What you May Not Know

1 in 9 School Age Children are Diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder- Here’s What you May Not Know

As of 2011 11% of 4-17 year olds were reportedly diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). That’s about 1 of every 9 school age children. Here’s the surprising part: it’s likely that the estimate is low. This is because historically, referral for diagnosis and treatment has been directed to the overtly hyperactive child and often missed the less noticeable inattentive or easily distracted child.

Read More