By Dr. Tim Elmore Self-esteem for kids has been a hot topic for fifty years. In the 1960s, books were written for educators and parents about the need to affirm young people; for teens to “find themselves,” believe in themselves and express themselves. As Baby Boomers became parents, we determined we would raise our children …
By Phyllis L. Fagell. LCPC “When Maia starts sixth grade in the fall, I’m putting you on speed dial,” my friend Jackie told me over lunch. “I was the mean girl in middle school, and karma is going to bite me. Tell me the truth—just how bad will it be?” As a school counselor who …
Read More “Five Truths About Middle Schoolers and How Parents Can Make the Most of a Critical Phase”
By Jennifer Miller, M.Ed. In those last sweet days of summer, Mom Margaret wanted to do something enjoyable with both kids in addition to the typical flurry of school supply shopping. But she hesitated to propose an outing when she noticed that ten-year-old Olivia was slinking around the house seeming down. When Margaret asked her …
Read More “Children’s Growing Identity: Cultivating Self-Awareness to Inspire Confidence”
By Matthew Quinn, LCPC, CADC Today kids as young as ten years old are beginning to experiment with alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco. Because the brain is not fully developed until the mid-twenties, young people are more likely to take risks compared to adults. When the brain is still developing, addictive substances physically alter its structure …
By Kelly Killham, LCSW Parenting through divorce is difficult, to say the least, but one of many main points reiterated tirelessly from experts is that children should maintain important, independent relationships with each parent whether the household is married, single, or divorced because it fosters good judgment, character, and values. While being separated for the …
By Jennifer Miller, M.Ed. “I don’t like playing anymore, but all my friends are joining the team again,” relays my eleven-year-old son, Ethan, voicing his debate over whether to commit to another season of baseball. He has played for a number of years cultivating valuable friendships along the way. But, as he’s grown, the coaches, …
Read More “Decisions, Decisions…How Can We Prepare Our Children to Make Responsible Choices?”
