This month we're building gratitude habit with a family activity: the "BOOK OF AWESOME". It's SO important to me that my children spend time in gratitude each day. Since gratitude is truly a daily practice much more than it is an attitude, I wanted to build in a new family way to find the good in every day. (Because maybe, just maybe, this will curb complaining!?) Our Family Gratitude … [Read more...]
Zentangle for Kids
Doodling builds brain connections -- it's great for you and your kids. Take doodling to the next level and try zentangles. In fact, host your own DIY zentangle camp for kids! Why Doodle? If you're a visual or kinesthetic learner, doodling helps you learn and recall information. Sunny Brown says in her TED Talk, "People who doodle when they’re exposed to verbal information retain more of that … [Read more...]
Our Daughter’s Anxiety Connected to Sensory Processing Disorder
A few years ago we wondered if AJ had sensory processing disorder, SPD, and if it related to her anxiety. Sensory Processing Disorder At the time, her anxiety was so overwhelming, she had trouble leaving the house. She'd curl up in the fetal position and cry. A lot. (It sucked.) Anxiety, if you ever have experienced it, doesn't make sense. After a miserable mountain vacation trapped in … [Read more...]
Loving Ways to Ease School Separation Anxiety
To my surprise, my seven year old clung to me all summer. These phases happen for all kids. But, for her and other kids feeling separation anxiety, back-to-school can be worrisome. So how can we ease the discomfort of starting school? Separation Anxiety Love Objects Aren't these silk hearts beautiful? I'll be giving one to JJ to carry with her at school. When she feels the silk, she can remember … [Read more...]
What Can You Do to Help Anxiety in Kids?
Stress in kids? Really? Anxiety in Kids After missing school and numerous trips to the doctor, my pediatrician kindly advised me that my kindergartner's stomach aches were mostly likely due to anxiety -- there was no physical cause. My daughter, like many kids, experience stress physically. Headaches, stomach aches, vomiting and bed wetting are all common manifestations of stress. OVERHEARD … [Read more...]