Communication
THIS IS WHAT IT’S LIKE . . . Part 1
All. My. Life. I’ve been a people-pleaser. The person who constantly considers context and intentions, who gives the benefit of the doubt, who hates to see anyone feel embarrassed or…
Read MoreScreening Questions When Seeking an Adoption-Competent Therapist
Adoption is beyond complex – the language, the losses, the expectations, the norms, the family dynamics, the feelings…the list is long, in-depth, and specific. When you’re searching for an adoption-competent…
Read More11 Reasons to Reconsider Adoption #flipthescript
It’s National Adoption Month. Oftentimes, this is a month of celebrating adoption and encouraging individuals to consider adopting a child. It is a month when we see smiling family photos,…
Read MoreWhy Do Kids Lie?
You know your teenager came home after curfew, your daughter spilled nail polish on the carpet, and your son ate cookies before dinner – so why do they lie about…
Read MoreA Lesson in Self-Care from Our Children
As we move into mid-summer and kids are home throughout the day, you might notice that your stress level rises, but your child’s stress level seems to remain pretty stable.…
Read MoreTips for Parenting Trauma-Reactive Kids
While I could write for days on the topic of trauma in adoption and foster care kiddos, I’m writing this blog with the assumption that many parents already understand quite…
Read MoreHow to Help a Friend Who is Experiencing Abuse
Whether you are an adult with a friend who is involved in an abusive romantic relationship, or a child or teen who has a friend who is experiencing abuse at…
Read MoreWhy Giving Your Child Choices Helps with Discipline
It may sound contradictory: In order to get your child to follow through on your specific directions, you offer options for them to choose from. In some ways, yes, it…
Read MoreUnderstanding How to Use Natural Consequences vs. Logical Consequences vs. Punishment
There are thousands of parenting books out there, and sometimes it seems like they each coin their own terms just for the sake of being unique and trendy. But do…
Read MoreStop Bad Behavior Before It Starts
The most effective way to stop anything negative is to prevent it from starting in the first place. This is especially true of your child’s behavior. Once poor choices and…
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