This is the second post in the series about strategies to help kids to calm down. If you haven’t already seen it, be sure to read the post on Belly Breathing. This second technique is more helpful if kids can already do slow, deep breaths. The second helpful technique for teaching kids (and teens and adults) to calm down is Progressive Muscle Relaxation. Although I tell kids the real name of this technique when they learn it, we usually end up calling it “Tense and Relax.” Th

No child is born knowing how to self-soothe and calm down when upset. As they grow, kids learn to calm down through being soothed by their caregivers, watching the example of others, and discovering what works for them. However, for many children (and adults) calming down when upset continues to be a difficult skill to master. This lack of mastery shows up in angry kids with explosive tempers, anxious children who can’t seem to face their fears or calm their racing thoughts,

Are you worried that your child doesn’t stand up for themselves when there is a problem? Or concerned about a kid that yells, bosses others around, or demands to get their way? Or have you wondered if there is more you can be doing to build healthy self-esteem in your child? These are common concerns that a lot of parents bring up when they bring a child to counseling. Although there are many different possible reasons for these challenges, teaching your child to be assertive

For many children, the end of summer vacation brings normal nervousness about the beginning of school. However, for some children, this anxiety can be more overwhelming and they may need some extra support from caregivers (and therapists/counselors). Remember that your goal should always be to help your child get through the situation that is causing anxiety; allowing them to avoid the anxiety trigger will only lead to greater problems later. Here are 15 strategies that may h

Parents often wonder how to know when they should seek therapy or counseling for their child. They may think that problems are not serious enough or hope that it is just a phase that their child will grow out of. Here are some common signs that your child may need some behavioral or mental health intervention: Sudden changes in appetite or hygiene Increased irritability or anger outbursts Frequent crying spells Frequent negative statements about self Increase in nightmares, p