Teaching respect to a neurotypical child through threats and force creates a defiant and disrespectful child. Teaching respect is one of the most important jobs a parent has. It’s also one of the most difficult. Many parents try to teach respectful behavior by using threats or force, but this often backfires and results in more…
Time for mother-daughter adventures can disappear when life is busy, and it is that time of the year when every mom thinks, “What can I get my daughter that will not be thrown on the floor or lost?” Give the gift of adventure. From a “Girl’s Yes Day” to swinging from a trapeze, challenge yourselves…
One of the most important skills for children to learn is self-regulation. This means being able to control their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. It’s essential for academic success, social interaction, and overall well-being. Unfortunately, kids do not come wired with this skill from the get-go. In middle school, it can feel like you are starting…
When a parent discovers that their child is cutting, they are often shocked and panicked. It’s tragically common, but how parents react can affect their adolescent children’s healing. Middle and high school self-harm is hidden, misunderstood, and shameful. Self-harmers usually have challenging emotions and concerns to deal with. They cut themselves to cope with extreme…
This is a letter written to a mom from a teen daughter’s perspective. (TW: Self-Harm) Dear Mom, I am sorry. I am so sorry. It hurts. I push the pain down, just like when you push a ball underwater in the pool. I hold it there, but it pushes back, and I can’t hold it…
Many students find middle school is a time of change for them, but with the right tools and support from parents and teachers, they can thrive. Between cognitive changes, physical changes, social drama, and a newfound sense of independence, it’s a lot for our growing kids to handle.: Parents need to take a deep breath…
It can be tough being the parent of a teenager. One minute they seem like they’re still your little kid, and the next they’re pushing you away and insisting that they’re an adult. As a parent, it’s important to find ways to connect with your daughter and strengthen your relationship. In this blog post, we…
“A mother is the first mirror in which a daughter sees herself.” ~Nik Bowers As a mother, it is important to promote a positive body image for your daughter. You are the first reflection in which she sees herself. This means teaching her how to love and appreciate her body, no matter what size or…
If you’re like most parents, talking to your teen can be a challenge. You want to maintain a positive relationship with them, but it seems like they’re always pushing you away. It’s hard not to take their attitude personally and start lecturing them or nagging them about their behavior. But that’s the last thing you…