The Nature of Emotionally Based School Avoidance EBSA is characterized by patterns of behavior where children and young people avoid attending school or specific lessons due to emotional distress. This can include hiding in various locations within the school, such as toilets or corridors, rather than attending classes. The Anna Freud Centre’s guidance document has […]
Understanding Test Anxiety and Its Impact on Students Test anxiety is a prevalent issue among students, often manifesting as physical symptoms like a racing heart, sweaty palms, and stomachaches, as well as cognitive distortions such as negative self-talk and catastrophic thinking. These symptoms can significantly impair a student’s ability to perform well on exams, regardless […]
Understanding the Importance of Passion and Energy Management Matthew Head’s story highlights the crucial role that passion plays in managing energy levels. He noticed a significant increase in energy when engaged in activities he loved, such as performing in amateur dramatics. For parents, this means finding time for hobbies or interests that rejuvenate them, which […]
Introducing Meditation to Your Child Meditation can be introduced to children in a fun and engaging way. Start by explaining that meditation is like a special time to relax and focus on breathing. Encourage them to sit comfortably, whether in a chair with their feet flat on the floor or crisscross applesauce on the ground. […]
Understanding the Unique Benefits of Summer Camp for Neurodivergent Kids Summer camp offers a unique environment that can be particularly beneficial for neurodivergent children. Unlike school or sports teams, traditional camps focus on building community, friendships, and social-emotional skills. This emphasis on relationships and fun can provide a safe space for children to develop and […]
Understanding Dyscalculia: More Than Just Numbers Dyscalculia is often misunderstood as simply a difficulty with numbers, but it’s much more complex. It’s like trying to read a map in a foreign language; the directions are there, but the path is unclear. As a parent, your role is to be the guide, helping your child navigate […]
Understanding the Nature of Learning Difficulties Learning difficulties can manifest in various forms, from dyslexia and ADHD to more subtle challenges like processing speed or memory issues. It’s crucial for parents to recognize that these difficulties are not a reflection of a child’s intelligence or potential. Instead, they represent unique ways in which a child’s […]
The Myers-Briggs: A Map to Your Child’s Mind Understanding your child’s personality type isn’t just about labels; it’s about gaining insight into their natural preferences and how they recharge, process information, make decisions, and approach life. For instance, knowing whether your child is an introvert or an extrovert can help you tailor their after-school activities […]
What Is Bullying? Bullying is not just “kids being kids” or a normal rite of passage. According to the Centers for Disease Control and the Department of Education, bullying involves three essential elements: unwanted aggressive behavior, a power imbalance (real or perceived), and repetition or the potential for repetition. This power imbalance is particularly significant, […]
The Silent Screamer: Test Anxiety’s Real Reach Lori and Abby kick things off with a truth bomb: test anxiety’s everywhere, hitting kids as young as first grade. “My tummy hurts,” a third grader whimpers, while teens spiral into “I’ll never get into college” meltdowns. Lindsay, a University of Oklahoma psych grad turned SMU-trained counselor, hears […]
