Parenting is hard. It’s a simple, universal truth, but those teenage years are a whole other game. That is why we will be talking about why your teen seems crazy right now and how you can use positive parenting skills to work towards a better “normal” than whatever this is.  At the moment, your teen…

Parenting is scary, right? There is so much depending on you, and we know that now, more than ever, what you say matters. We all just want happy, confident kids that can be decent adults who contribute to society. That is why it’s essential to learn how to build confidence in kids.  It’s not as…

The legendary Mister Rogers once wrote a song called, “What Do You Do with the Mad That You Feel?” The song taught children how to identify and manage their anger — and it pertained to all emotions. Helping your emotional child cope with challenging feelings is one of the greatest gifts — and lessons —…

In today’s world, it can feel like every single day brings a new advancement in technology. As things become increasingly digital, it becomes more and more acceptable to spend time in our alternate realities. One of the most popular virtual temptations is also one of the most dangerous: social media. Social media is a wonderful way…

The inimitable Fred Rogers often stated: “Anything that is mentionable can be more manageable.” This simple sentiment on the importance of naming emotions has become an important aspect of helping children develop healthfully, productively and creatively. In fact, renowned neuropsychiatrist Dr. Dan Siegel calls it “mindsight.” What Our Children Need According to Siegel, some basic childhood needs…

Each generation is capable of heaping too many expectations upon the youth. However, it’s probably safe to say that the current way young people find themselves striving for perfection is exhausting. Across a broad spectrum of avenues and platforms, perfectionism is being, well…perfected? And the outcomes are widespread and far from positive. Perfection is a…

Plenty of teens will stress over an exam or worry about a first date. Anxiety is much more than that. It is a diagnosable mental condition that can negatively shape a teen’s life. If an over-achieving teen feels pushed or coerced into achieving at all costs, the anxiety quotient increases. There are many factors involved…

Children don’t have to be socially anxious to be considered shy. There are endless factors that can contribute to a child’s interaction comfort zone. We don’t have to force them to “change,” per se, but habitual shyness can dramatically lessen a kid’s emotional and social growth. Striking a balance when addressing a shy child’s need…

Guest contribution by Rachael Pace Parenting tips abound online about how to raise a happy child, how to be a better parent, and how to nourish a child’s mental health. And it’s no surprise, as the World Health Organization reports that issues of mental health now affect one in four people – including children. As…

Do you understand your teen? Do you get who they are… or who they want to be? Or have you chalked up their moods and tendency to take risks as a phase of random choices and hormonal drama you must endure until maturity takes hold? Daniel J. Siegel, MD, a clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA…

Teens and technology seem to be an inseparable couple. In fact, it seems nearly impossible to find a teen anywhere willing to digitally disconnect for very long. Yet, while it can be alarming to see how pervasive the internet and social media have become, the key is to look at your son or daughter’s life in…

Children are curious by nature and as parents, it’s our job to help them comprehend their environment. However, it’s not always an easy task. Some topics are easier than others to discuss. Conversations surrounding children’s mental health are transforming from taboo to acceptable, but with stigma and judgment attached to it, it can be difficult…

Adults tend to think of childhood as carefree. But even very young children worry especially in big cities like Houston. Unlike adults, children don’t have the experience to evaluate the causes of their worries or the words to talk about them. Yes, stress in children is real. Stress in Children Is Real Some kid stress…