April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and cultivating an environment where the safety and well-being of children are paramount. The issue of child abuse is formidable, but it is one we can tackle through education, awareness, and proactive measures. This month serves as a critical reminder for parents and therapists—the custodians of childhood well-being — of their roles in shielding children from harm and ensuring they grow up in nurturing environments. We'll explore practical strategies that both parents and therapists can employ to prevent child abuse ..read more

In recent years, the autism community has seen a significant shift from mere awareness to a deeper understanding and acceptance of autism. This transition is visually and symbolically represented by the change in color from blue to red, embodied in the hashtags #LightItUpBlue and # RedInstead. But why this shift, and what does it signify? ,,LightItUpBlue: A Controversial Beginning # LightItUpBlue was initiated by Autism Speaks, an organization that, despite its name, has been controversial within the autism community. The campaign was primarily focused on awareness, which is undoubtedly e ..read more

Let's discuss something important – “being with” our kids. As a mom and a play therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial this is. We’re often physically present with our kids, but are we really with them?  In those moments when they’re seeking our understanding and connection, they're ever-present at your side, especially during tough times. The spring season often brings with it ongoing challenges and exhaustion of old struggles, bringing to light the new areas of growth your family is entering as your kids continue to march up the developmental ladder. As spring comes to life, dayligh ..read more

As the first blush of spring paints the world anew, we find ourselves standing at a crossroads. The vernal equinox doesn't just herald a change in the weather; it beckons us to renew ourselves, shed the old, and embrace the new. It's a time for change, a time to try new things, to take those baby steps toward the transformation we often dream about but seldom dare to pursue.  Change, daunting as it may seem, is not just possible – it's within our grasp if we approach it with the right mindset and strategy. 1. Recognize the Power of Small Beginnings: Decisions are made by those who show u ..read more

Play therapy transcends mere play; it's a healing process that communicates with children in their primary language. Think about the sense of understanding children experience when someone connects with them in their language! Ok, let's learn more! "Play Therapy" is what exactly? Imagine a bridge, one that connects the world of children with the complex realm of mental and emotional health. Play Therapy is that bridge. It's not just an activity; it's a guided process deeply rooted in evidence and theory. It's about using play, the most natural form of expression for children, to navigate and ..read more

In the relentless production that is parenting, where the scenes unfold in rapid succession – breakfasts to be made, school runs, late-night fevers, and heart-to-hearts under the stars – there exists a rhythm, a cadence that propels us forward. It's in this relentless momentum that the story of parenting through exhaustion and the art of self-care is etched. Imagine, if you will, a Sorkin narrative, not of political intrigue or courtroom drama, but of the everyday heroism found in the corridors of family life. Here, the dialogues are not about policies or legal precedents but about balancing ..read more

In the world of parenting during the holiday season, one thing is crystal clear: children need playtime like a ship needs its compass. It's their way of decompressing, of navigating the vast sea of emotions, and of communicating in a language uniquely their own. Play is their sanctuary, their emotional release valve, and their secret laboratory where they concoct solutions to life's myriad puzzles. Their ability to play is how they know where to go and what to do next. During the holiday season, expectations and multiple events often lead families to very stressful times. Increased conflicts ..read more

We often find ourselves adrift in the delightfully unpredictable journey of life, awash with a tsunami of tweets, texts, and TikToks. Ah, but Brené Brown, that guru of gutsy grace, tossed us a lifeline: gratitude. Whether we're knee-deep in the muck of life or skipping in the sunshine, gratitude is our trusty compass to inner peace. We're all in this wacky lifeboat together, rowing through a sea of confusion, stubbed toes, and 'why me?' moments. But then, out of nowhere, comes that heart-stopping, Instagram-worthy joy that makes us go, "Wow, life's pretty awesome." That's our cue to high-five ..read more

Navigating the tangled web of labels like ADHD, Anxiety, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) for your child can be both confusing and emotionally draining. I know, I've been there too. As both a professional in child mental health and a parent, I feel your struggles deeply. Let this blog guide you, helping you gain much-needed clarity on this complex journey. We've all met that incredible child who is easily overwhelmed, emotionally expressive, and maybe even a little "spacey." The same child might struggle to form or maintain friendships because they're just a little "too much" in one way ..read more

In a society that often mischaracterizes Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as a "boys-only" affliction, we inadvertently compromise the well-being of an entire cohort: girls. We are ensnared by the stereotype that ADHD primarily manifests through hyperactivity—a symptom more frequently observed in boys. What often slips through the cracks is the subtler inattentive subtype of ADHD, which is more prevalent among girls. It's high time we shift the spotlight and dissect this unnoticed crisis, replete with its unique complexities and long-lasting ramifications. The lifelong consequen ..read more