I think we go into parenthood with the intention of showing love to our children and staying calm when our children are upset or misbehaving. We plan to parent in such a way that our children will only need to be told to do something once before they listen and immediately follow directions. I...
Emotions: Are They in the Way or Getting You on the Way?
“Emotions can get in the way or get you on the way.” -Mavis Mazhura So, how are you supposed to tell the difference? Are they getting in the way? Or getting you on the way? Let’s break this down. –> We have emotions that are current. –> We...
Help Your Child Build This Essential Skill
Our very own Anna Pirkl, M.A., MFT, ATR, LAADAC partnered with South Bay Families Connected to produce this short video to support parents in knowing how to support their kids in building compassion. Anna talks about specific ways to do this with your child, in your home and in your community. South Bay Families...
Children and Grief: How You Can Understand and Support Your Kids
Grieving is a natural response when someone you loved has died. It is such a tricky and challenging process to navigate and it will be a different journey for everyone. Children, in particular, will grieve their own way. But because children and even teenagers understand death differently than adults do, often times their responses...
Supporting Your Child Through Worry and Anxiety
Our very own Anna Pirkl, M.A., MFT, ATR, LAADAC partnered with South Bay Families Connected to produce this short video to support parents in knowing how to support their kids through moments of worry or anxiety. South Bay Families Connected is an incredible online resource for parents, children and teens as well as an...
Your “Shy” Teenage Daughter is Amazing, So Why Doesn’t She Have the Friendships She Deserves?
Few people see the abilities, passions, and bright spots of a teenage girl as clearly as her parents. If only everyone else could appreciate them as you do! You’ve watched her grow up and you know all the charming origins of her quirks. Maybe she’s an introvert and always liked a good amount of...
What’s Really Going on Underneath Your Child’s Misbehaviors (and How to Respond)
Children naturally have big and strong emotions. Unlike many of their adult counterparts, they are still learning. They may not know how to regulate their feelings or what to do with them when they come up. This can lead to what we, as parents, may see as “misbehaviors.” It’s important to understand what feeling...