Research into attachment theory shows that the type of bond a child forms with their primary caregiver has important developmental implications. Kids who are securely attached to a caregiver (beginning in infancy) have significantly better social and communication skills (including empathy, cooperation, and trust) than kids who experience insecure or avoidant attachment. As a result, they typically form stronger, healthier ...
Being a parent is extremely rewarding, but it’s also a challenging and sometimes stressful role. Even when parents realize that their children don't intend to be difficult, they often succumb to feelings of frustration and helplessness in the wake of tantrums and poor behaviour. Over time, this can create a pattern of reacting to tense situations rather than responding ...
When we think of the type of parental conflict that psychologically damages children, we envision screaming fights and physical violence. However, research shows that ongoing, poorly-resolved ongoing conflict between parents is often equally harmful. Simple everyday arguments, parents giving each other the “silent treatment,” and acts of passive aggression can significantly impact kids’ social and emotional well-being. Chronic parental conflict ...
Have you ever wondered why some kids are more prone to tantrums than others? Or why some children control their impulses with relative ease, while others struggle to restrain inappropriate comments and behaviour? How is it that two equally intelligent kids sometimes demonstrate such marked differences in their ability to plan, stay on track, and overcome frustration? Though we often ...
Every child differs in his/her developmental capacity and pace. Some children learn to speak earlier than others. Some learn ...
Sometimes classroom behavior problems signal giftedness. Brad and Karen were at their wits end. Their grade school children once again ...
As children grow older, their behaviours change dramatically. While a hysterical tantrum over something minor is completely normal at two ...
Empathizing with your child when his behaviour is frustrating can be challenging, but it’s an essential part of being a supportive, trustworthy parent. When you empathize with your child, you let him know that you respect and value his feelings, even if you don’t always agree with how he handles them. You show him that you care about ...
If your child has been through a traumatic experience, as a parent, your foremost thought is probably restoring her sense of safety and emotional security. While these instincts are correct, it’s important to also understand that the aftermath of trauma is complex and often challenging to manage. Without a solid understanding of the many ways trauma can affect children, ...
Experiencing fear is an important stage in emotional development. Normal childhood fears (e.g., being scared of the dark, monsters, etc.) teach kids how to measure and understand risk, evaluate potentially dangerous situations, and manage anxiety. Learning these skills is a necessary part of preparing for adulthood, and there’s a lot parents can do to help their kids process ...
Watching a child grieve is one of the most painful experiences in any parent’s life. If your child has gone through a difficult loss, you may be concerned that he’ll never return to his normal self. Many parents worry that their child’s grief-related nightmares, social withdrawal, apathy, and emotional issues won’t completely subside with time, but ...
