It is impossible to imagine a human who has not been profoundly affected by the catastrophic fires in Pacific Palisades and Altadena, California. Those who lost their houses, all their possessions, and their physical mementos holding their family memories, are overwhelmed, are in pain, and are numb. Those who did not take a direct hit are suffering, too. In writing this blog, my goal is to offer support to parents of children, young and old, in dealing with their children. Parents need to … [Read more...] about Fire Talk, Part 2. Older children, tweens, and teens
Transitions
Back to School for Toddlers to Teens
Going back to school or starting a new school...or just starting school the first time for our littlest ones...is a mixed bag for kids and for their parents. The process and the thoughts about it are seasoned with excitement as well as creeping anxiety. What's a parent to do? For First Timers to Pre School... ...The start can be more emotion filled for the parent than for the child. After all, the child doesn't really know what to expect. The most challenging part is, of course, the … [Read more...] about Back to School for Toddlers to Teens
Helping to Smooth the Transition Back-to-School
It’s mid-August… that means summer vacation is creeping to an end, depending upon your child’s first day of school. For some it starts as soon as next week. Summer time and the livin’ was easy. Going, going, gone. For some students the thought of going back to school is exciting. They can hardly wait to start. For others, just the thought of school and summer ending feels kind of sad. Different kids, different feelings. On top of that, different age kids consider school-starting … [Read more...] about Helping to Smooth the Transition Back-to-School
Re-Entry: Land the Helicopter!
Finally, our kids are emerging from a hibernation not of their choosing. Variations of in-person school are happening; sports teams are practicing; playdates with friends outside their pod have begun; kids are roaming in the village; parks are open. Finally, our kids get to stretch their wings…and fly solo. For some, school re-entry has been a challenge. Worries about friends, socializing, academic competence, and even separation surfaced. But for many, re-entry was a slam dunk. After … [Read more...] about Re-Entry: Land the Helicopter!
Smoothing the Re Entry into School
Some children are lucky enough to have already gone back to in-person school. But, sadly, many have not. Today the internet was alive with stories of more public schools soon being able to go back to in-person education. Hallelujah! While we would all love our children to run and jump headfirst into school, it may not be so easy for some. For each child and family it will be different. Age is not necessarily the determining factor. The re entry transition has more to do with your child’s … [Read more...] about Smoothing the Re Entry into School
Smooth the Start to the New School Year … for all ages
Just thinking about the start of school can be stressful for kids. New teachers, new classrooms, new friends, new expectations, new routines. On top of that, getting back into the school year swing of things-the school day routine-is not only stress producing but it can be a real challenge after the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer. Researchers believe that the brains of humans evolved to feel calmed by repetitive behavior, and that our daily routines and rituals help us to manage stress. … [Read more...] about Smooth the Start to the New School Year … for all ages