Social-Emotional learning, often referred to as SEL, is the process of learning, and then being able to apply, the skills to manage emotions, be self-aware and show empathy for others. SEL is an important skill for children to develop as it helps them maintain positive relationships, builds their emotional intelligence, and decision-making skills. We are…
Starting solids is an exciting and important milestone in your baby’s development; one that exposes them to a brand new world of flavors and textures, and will also put them on the right path to growing healthy and strong. Most babies are ready to start with more solid food between 4-6 months (when their strong…
As a parent, are you comfortable allowing your children to express their big feelings? Do you rush to shut down their anger, for fear that you, or they, will lose control? Do you perceive anger to be a negative emotion? Most of us are uncomfortable with anger and haven’t been given the tools to work…
Are your kids playing ‘COVID’? Do they mask up their dolls or stuffed animals and give pretend shots? Our children learn through play and it is a normal part of their development to play out their life experiences. During stressful and fear-filled times this type of imaginary play helps children manage and cope with their…
Outgoing or shy, neither is wrong or right, especially during times like the holidays when you’re visiting with friends and family that your kids may not be as familiar with. It’s important that your child feel accepted and supported whether they are more outgoing or slower to warm up. Read more about how you can…
When a child is feeling afraid or vulnerable, they are often not able to self-regulate, especially if they’ve experienced trauma. This is one of the best visuals I’ve found that explains the steps to support a child in emotional distress, especially in a preschool/school setting: Regulate; Relate; Reason. A child cannot learn or reason if…
“Stress is part of life, and as humans we were built to face it. (It’s not necessarily) something we can avoid, but we can become better equipped to deal with it. Young children are developmentally vulnerable, and are not able to deal with things on their own (yet)…” Institute of Child Psychology How can we…
With the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines for kids ages 5 to 11, many parents have questions. Children’s Hospital of Boston is hosting a free webinar, “COVID-19 vaccines for 5- to 11-year-olds: Answers for families.” Tuesday, November 9, 2021, at 12:00 p.m. You’ll learn about: * Safety of the vaccines in this age group * How…
Did you know that the experiences we have early in life are at least as important for the biological foundations of physical and mental health as the lifestyle choices we make as adults? Read more from the Center on the Developing Child…
Food is at the center of our lives. And it’s much more than the fuel that keeps us going. It can be a source of pleasure, celebration, and—sometimes—challenges… read more.