Category: Child Therapy

As any parent can tell you, a kid who hasn’t gotten enough sleep is a kid who will soon be stirring up trouble. Children appear to have boundless energy — until they don’t. Problems arise when even the most tired of children seem determined not to go to bed. This pattern is a recipe for stress for everyone involved. But there’s more to it than just fatigue.

Everything a child does is novel. Thus, their brains need a good quantity and quality of rest and sleep to sustain their mental health. Sleep time is when their bodies balance hormones, and their brains do the essential work of storing memories and processing emotions. Let’s take a closer look.

The Critical Link Between Rest and Children’s Mental Health

As touched on above, cognitive development is a major component of their conversation. When a child gets enough sleep and rest, it enhances processes like:

• Learning and language
• Memory 
• Abilities like paying attention, staying alert, and maintaining focus 
• Mood regulation and emotional control
• Problem-solving
• Building resiliency
• Stress management

Let’s break this list into a few broad categories:

• Children getting insufficient sleep and rest are more prone to mood swings, negative emotions, and anxiety disorders. Conversely, healthy sleep habits have been found to foster more happiness in a child. 
• For children, emotions can be overwhelming. Everything feels extreme, and managing this avalanche of feelings requires sleep for certain processes to occur. 
• Your body has a natural solution to elevated stress levels. It releases more of a hormone called cortisol — particularly during sleep. A well-rested child is thus better equipped to handle life’s inevitable challenges. 

Is There a “Right” Amount of Sleep For Kids?

While every child is unique, The American Academy of Pediatrics does general guidelines (including naps):

• 4 to12 months: 12-16 hours of sleep per day
• 1 to 2 years: 11-14 hours 
• 3 to 5 years: 10-13 hours 
• 6 to12 years: 9-12 hours
• 13 to 18 years: 8-10 hours

What Happens When a Child Has Healthy Sleep Habits?

Generally speaking: 

• Children under 13 months of age develop better cognitive problem-solving skills when they sleep well for the suggested duration. Meanwhile, during the first two years of a child’s life, insufficient sleep and rest have been found to decrease development in learning and language skills. 
• For children between 5 and 11 years of age, poor quality of sleep can be linked to the incidence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), insomnia, nightmares, anxiety, separation anxiety, daytime sleepiness, and an unwillingness to attend school. 
• By the time your child becomes an adolescent or teen, low quality and duration of sleep can increase the risk of depression and suicidal ideation. 

Some Suggestions to Enhance Your Child’s Sleep Quality and Duration 

Increase Daytime Activity

Physically active people of all ages typically have a higher quality of sleep. Encourage your kid to engage in exercise, walks, sports, games, and more. Whenever possible, join them in these activities.

Be a Sleep-Friendly Family

Lead by example. When your child sees you keeping steady sleep habits, they are more likely to accept such practices as normal. Also, make your sleep environments as ideal as possible. This means temperature, noise, light levels, and more. For younger kids, designate a play area that is away from their beds to separate the mindsets. 

Pay Close Attention to Everyone’s Screen Time

Devices can wreak havoc on sleep quality. Set firm rules and be sure to adhere to them yourself. 

What if This Becomes a Tug of War?

You are not alone. If you find yourself struggling with controlling your children’s sleep issues, I invite you to reach out for a free and confidential consultation. Let’s talk about what’s going on and what you can do.

 

 

 

 

 

You know how hard change can be, especially for the little ones. Starting a new school, moving to a new neighborhood, switching daycares—these transitions can throw kids for a loop. As parents, it’s your job to help guide them through these challenging times. The good news is there are plenty of proven strategies to make adapting to change less scary and stressful. By taking an active role, you can empower your kids to take change in stride and come out stronger and more resilient on the other side.

Prepare Them for What to Expect

Talk to your child about the upcoming change in an age-appropriate way. Explain what will be different and what will stay the same. For example, let them know if they’ll still see the same friends or teachers. Answer any questions honestly but with reassurance. The more they know about what’s coming, the less uncertainty there will be.

Get Them Involved in the Planning

Give your child choices to help them feel more in control of the situation. Ask them what they want to bring to their new room or classroom. Let them pack some of their things. Making them part of the planning and preparation will build their confidence in the move.

Address Their Concerns

Encourage your child to share any worries they have. Reassure them and address their concerns with empathy. You might say, “I can understand why you feel that way. Lots of kids feel nervous about changes, but I’m here to help you.” Provide extra comfort and affection during this time of transition.

Maintain Routines

To provide stability, keep up regular routines like reading books before bed or watching a favorite show. While some change is inevitable, maintaining familiar rituals can help your child feel more at ease. Sticking to a normal schedule as much as possible will make the adjustment period smoother for everyone.

Give Them Time

Remember, it takes time to adjust to new surroundings. Be patient with your child and allow them to express their emotions freely. Reassure them that feeling sad or upset is normal. With your support, the hard times will pass.

Help Them Connect

Encourage your child to interact with new people in the environment. Arrange playdates with neighborhood kids or have them join a local sports team, club, or activity where they can find like-minded friends. Forming new connections will make the transition much easier.

The move to a new place can be an adventure, especially if you go in with a positive and supportive attitude. While transitions are hard, focusing on the opportunities ahead will help your child adjust quickly. With your patience and encouragement, they’ll be thriving in their new environment before you know it. Listen to their concerns and validate their feelings. Reassure them that it’s okay to feel worried or sad. Be attentive and empathetic. At the same time, remind them of their strengths and past experiences where they overcame obstacles or adapted to change. Help them see that they have everything it takes to succeed, even when facing the unknown.

Share in their Excitement

When your child accomplishes something new, share in their excitement! Give them your full attention, smile, and cheer them on. Your enthusiasm and positivity will boost their confidence in their ability to succeed. Celebrating progress and milestones, no matter how small, is also critical to helping children thrive during transitions. Encourage them and help them see that change can be an exciting adventure. Focusing on the rewards of their hard work will give them the motivation they need to continue adapting positively.

So remember, change is inevitable, but you’ve got this. Take it one step at a time, be patient with yourself and your kids, and lean on your support systems. If you’re still struggling with this period, book a therapy session with us, and we will help you navigate through it all. Reach out today, to learn how therapy might help.

 

Published: October 28, 2025 | Posted by Mary Ellen Benz

With the start of a new school year, children and parents often experience excitement and apprehension. The transition from relaxed vacation days to structured classroom routines can be challenging for many children. While some nervousness is normal, persistent anxiety that extends beyond the first few weeks of school may warrant closer attention. It’s crucial to distinguish between typical back-to-school jitters and more serious anxiety issues that could require professional help. However, as a parent, you play a crucial role in helping ease this back-to-school anxiety.

Most children naturally feel some unease about new routines, academic challenges, or social interactions. This initial nervousness typically subsides as they adjust to their new environment. However, parents should be alert to red flags that signal more severe anxiety:

• Frequent tantrums or meltdowns when separating from parents to attend school
• Persistent difficulty in getting along with family members or friends
• Physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches that coincide with school days
• Refusal to participate in school activities or social events

If these symptoms persist or intensify over time, it may be time to consult a mental health professional.

Proven Strategies to Ease Back-to-School Anxiety

By implementing thoughtful strategies and maintaining open communication, you can support your child through this adjustment period. Here are some effective techniques to alleviate your child’s concerns, build their confidence, and ensure a smooth start to the new academic year.

Establish Routines Early

Prepare your child for the upcoming school year a week or two in advance. Gradually reintroduce school-year routines, such as setting a consistent bedtime and choosing outfits for the next day. This helps create a sense of structure and familiarity, easing the transition back to school.

Foster Social Connections

Arrange playdates with classmates before school starts. Research indicates that the presence of familiar peers during school transitions can significantly improve children’s academic performance and emotional well-being. These social interactions can help alleviate anxiety and build confidence.

Familiarize Yourself With the School Environment

If possible, visit the school prior to the first day. Allow your child to explore the playground, peek into classrooms, and practice the drop-off routine. Have them rehearse walking into class while you wait nearby. This exposure can help reduce fear of the unknown and build comfort with the school setting.

Implement Positive Reinforcement

Create a reward system to encourage your child’s independence. Offer a special prize or enjoyable activity for successfully separating from parents to attend school. This positive reinforcement can help motivate your child and create a more optimistic association with the school experience.

When to Seek Professional Help

While some back-to-school jitters are normal, persistent distress or worsening symptoms may indicate a need for professional help. If your child continues to show significant anxiety about school after the first month, it’s time to consider seeking an evaluation from a mental health expert. Watch for signs such as:

• Ongoing reluctance to attend school
• Physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches
• Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite
• Increased irritability or emotional outbursts

Benefits of Professional Intervention

Consulting a child therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist can provide valuable insights into your child’s anxiety. These professionals can help both you and your child understand the root causes of their symptoms and develop effective strategies to address them. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often recommended, as it teaches practical skills for managing anxiety.

In some cases, your child’s practitioner may suggest medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Remember, seeking help early can prevent anxiety from becoming a long-term issue and help your child thrive in their academic environment.

If you’re concerned about your child’s back-to-school anxiety, we can provide valuable guidance and support. We can help you develop strategies to address your child’s specific concerns and equip them with the tools to navigate the school year with confidence. Schedule a consultation today to learn more.

 

 

Published: August 10, 2025 | Posted by Mary Ellen Benz 

It’s estimated that about a one-fourth of children who have ADHD also deal with anxiety. As a parent or caregiver, that statistic might alarm you. One condition is enough for a little one to have to deal with, but trying to help your child navigate anxiety and ADHD at once sounds overwhelming.

Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be.

Understanding the connection between ADHD and anxiety is the first step in helping your child. When you recognize how one disorder can trigger the other and educate yourself on some of the common signs, you can take active steps to make sure your child doesn’t live a life of worry.

Let’s take a closer look at how ADHD and anxiety often go hand-in-hand in children, and what you can do to help your child work through both issues.

How ADHD Can Foster Anxiety

There’s no question that ADHD can make daily tasks more challenging and even frustrating. Things like a lack of organization, difficulty concentrating, and time management aren’t “choices” for someone dealing with ADHD. In fact, they can feel overwhelming very quickly. For a child trying to keep up and move forward with peers, that kind of pressure and frustration can quickly lead to anxiety.

That same pressure to fit in can also cause problems. All of us want to feel like we belong, and no one wants to be judged or rejected. Those feelings can be even stronger as a child trying to connect with friends.. The fear of rejection and even the fear of failure can contribute to anxious thoughts and cause further isolation.

It’s not uncommon for children with ADHD to struggle with emotional regulation. They might have a hard time fully understanding their feelings, let alone how to effectively process them. That can make it difficult for them to cope with the stress often associated with the disorder, leading to anxiety.

Can Anxiety Make ADHD Worse?

Unfortunately, the link between ADHD and anxiety works as a sort of vicious cycle. Not only can ADHD trigger anxiety, but anxiety can make ADHD symptoms worse. Anxious thoughts make it harder to concentrate and stay focused, which can cause difficulty if your child is trying to manage their ADHD symptoms.

Anxiety can also lead to avoidance behaviors. Your child might try to avoid situations that tend to trigger anxious thoughts. That can lead to regular disruptions in daily tasks and even their academic life.

Because anxiety can cause feelings of guilt or even shame, it’s not uncommon for people dealing with it to strive for perfectionism. For children with ADHD who already struggle with certain expectations, those desires to be perfect can start to feel even more overwhelming and worrisome.

Recognizing Both Conditions

As a parent, recognizing that your child could potentially have both ADHD and anxiety is essential when it comes to establishing a management plan. Make sure they receive a proper diagnosis from a trusted physician or mental health professional.

A combination of child therapy for anxiety and ADHD, as well as management techniques at home, is likely the best solution for your child and family. Therapy will help your child understand what’s causing their anxiety while giving them effective strategies to overcome worried thoughts so they can stay focused.

At home, everything from self-care practices to calming, stress-reducing exercises can help. Things like mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, and even physical exercise can help your child reduce the stress associated with anxiety and give them a better chance to stay calm and collected.

While this journey can be a challenging one, you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’re looking for help for your child, feel free to contact us for a consultation.

 

Published August 26, 2025 by Mary Ellen Benz

As the new school year approaches, children and parents often experience excitement and apprehension. The transition from relaxed vacation days to structured classroom routines can be challenging for many children. While some nervousness is normal, persistent anxiety that extends beyond the first few weeks of school may warrant closer attention. It’s crucial to distinguish between typical back-to-school jitters and more serious anxiety issues that could require professional help. However, as a parent, you play a crucial role in helping ease this back-to-school anxiety.

Most children naturally feel some unease about new routines, academic challenges, or social interactions. This initial nervousness typically subsides as they adjust to their new environment. However, parents should be alert to red flags that signal more severe anxiety:

• Frequent tantrums or meltdowns when separating from parents to attend school
• Persistent difficulty in getting along with family members or friends
• Physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches that coincide with school days
• Refusal to participate in school activities or social events

If these symptoms persist or intensify over time, it may be time to consult a mental health professional.

Proven Strategies to Ease Back-to-School Anxiety

By implementing thoughtful strategies and maintaining open communication, you can support your child through this adjustment period. Here are some effective techniques to alleviate your child’s concerns, build their confidence, and ensure a smooth start to the new academic year.

Establish Routines Early

Prepare your child for the upcoming school year a week or two in advance. Gradually reintroduce school-year routines, such as setting a consistent bedtime and choosing outfits for the next day. This helps create a sense of structure and familiarity, easing the transition back to school.

Foster Social Connections

Arrange playdates with classmates before school starts. Research indicates that the presence of familiar peers during school transitions can significantly improve children’s academic performance and emotional well-being. These social interactions can help alleviate anxiety and build confidence.

Familiarize Yourself With the School Environment

If possible, visit the school prior to the first day. Allow your child to explore the playground, peek into classrooms, and practice the drop-off routine. Have them rehearse walking into class while you wait nearby. This exposure can help reduce fear of the unknown and build comfort with the school setting.

Implement Positive Reinforcement

Create a reward system to encourage your child’s independence. Offer a special prize or enjoyable activity for successfully separating from parents to attend school. This positive reinforcement can help motivate your child and create a more optimistic association with the school experience.

When to Seek Professional Help

While some back-to-school jitters are normal, persistent distress or worsening symptoms may indicate a need for professional help. If your child continues to show significant anxiety about school after the first month, it’s time to consider seeking an evaluation from a mental health expert. Watch for signs such as:

• Ongoing reluctance to attend school
• Physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches
• Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite
• Increased irritability or emotional outbursts

Benefits of Professional Intervention

Consulting a psychologist or psychiatrist can provide valuable insights into your child’s anxiety. These professionals can help both you and your child understand the root causes of their symptoms and develop effective strategies to address them. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often recommended, as it teaches practical skills for managing anxiety.

In some cases, your child’s practitioner may suggest medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Remember, seeking help early can prevent anxiety from becoming a long-term issue and help your child thrive in their academic environment.

If you’re concerned about your child’s back-to-school anxiety, we can provide valuable guidance and support. We can help you develop strategies to address your child’s specific concerns and equip them with the tools to navigate the school year with confidence. Schedule a consultation today to learn more.

 

 

As children grow and learn how to navigate through social situations, they may start off as being a little shy. Over time, children develop social skills, which gives them more confidence. However, some children experience intense anxiety when faced with socialization.

Do not mistake anxiety for shyness. In fact, anxiety can sometimes become so severe that it affects relationships with peers, performance in school, and participation in daily activities.

What Is Social Anxiety?

Social anxiety is a persistent fear of social or performance situations where the individual fears they may be judged, embarrassed, or humiliated. In children, these fears are present at school, playdates, and even family gatherings. Unlike shyness, social anxiety can cause intense distress and lead to anxious behaviors that interfere with their development.

Signs of Social Anxiety in Children

While adults have the skills to express how they’re feeling, children may struggle to put their emotions into words. Instead, their anxiety presents in emotional or behavioral ways.

Avoidance of Social Situations

Children with social anxiety often go out of their way to avoid people, or to not be the center of attention.

• A child might refuse to attend parties or playdates.
• They may avoid group activities at school, like raising their hand in class or participating in group projects.
• They may even refuse to go to school altogether, especially if there is a presentation or group activity planned for that day.

Intense Fear of Embarrassment

Children with social anxiety often have an overwhelming fear of doing something embarrassing. They may feel:

• Fear of answering questions incorrectly in class
• Worry about being made fun of for their appearance, voice, or behavior
• Reluctance to eat in front of others, join games, or use public restrooms

This fear of embarrassment causes children to become excessively self-conscious and lowering their self-esteem.

Clinginess or Dependence on Caregivers

Children may become overly reliant on their parents or caregivers for comfort, especially in unfamiliar situations. Children may:

• Refuse to separate from a parent at school or an event
• Insist on having a parent stay with them in social settings
• Experience tantrums or meltdowns when faced with separation from a caregiver

Difficulty Making or Keeping Friends

Social anxiety makes it hard for kids to form friendships. Even if they long for social connections, their fears often hold them back. As a result, children can:

• Struggle to initiate conversations or join in to play
• Withdraw from peer interactions, choosing to sit alone or engage in solo activities
• Feel overwhelmed in situations with multiple children, such as at recess or in sports teams

The Impact of Social Anxiety on Children

• Academic Challenges: Because of their fear of participating in class, they may avoid answering questions, doing group projects, or giving presentations. Over time, this may lead to failing grades and poor academic performance.
• Social Isolation: A fear of judgement prevents children from maintaining and making friends, leaving them feeling lonely and disconnected from their world.
• Low Self-Esteem: When a child believes they are constantly being judged or that they are not capable of handling social situations, their self-worth can plummet.

What Parents Can Do

If you start to suspect your child has social anxiety, early intervention is key.

• Encourage Gradual Exposure: Encourage your child to engage in scary situations gradually. Start with small, manageable steps, like inviting one friend over to play, then slowly build up to more challenging situations.
• Avoid Overprotection: It can be tempting to shield your child from anxiety-provoking situations, but overprotecting them can reinforce their fears. Instead, provide support while also gently encouraging your child to conquer their fears.
• Seek Professional Help: One of the best ways to help your child overcome social anxiety is to schedule them with a mental health professional. Therapists can help with the development of coping skills and allowing them to feel more confident in their social skills. Help them conquer their anxiety and schedule their first session today!

Children are incredibly resilient, able to overcome and bounce back from many life challenges. They are not, however, immune to the effects of trauma. Trauma experiences can leave deep, lasting scars on a child, and as parents or educators, it’s important to understand these effects while learning how to help children overcome trauma.

So where do we start? Follow this guide!

Understanding Trauma in Children

Trauma can manifest in various ways, depending on the child’s age, personality, and the nature of the traumatic event. Some common signs of trauma include:

• Emotional Changes: anxiety, depression, or irritability.
• Behavioral Changes: aggression, withdrawal, difficulties in school, or what is referred to as “regressive behaviors,” which could look like bed-wetting or resulting back to younger ages.
• Physical Symptoms: headaches, stomachaches, fatigue.
• Cognitive Impacts: Trouble concentrating, confusion, or memory loss.

Each child’s experience with trauma is unique. As adults, it can be difficult to understand what is really going on with a child. What may seem minor to an adult could be deeply distressing for a child, and vice versa. Therefore, understanding specific ways in which trauma affects a particular child is important before the healing process can begin.

How to Help with Overcoming Trauma

Establishing a Safe Environment

Safety is of the utmost importance when helping a child heal. Creating a safe, secure, and predictable environment helps children feel protected and reduces anxiety.

• Consistency: Try to maintain consistent routines and rules. Predictability helps children feel safe and reassured.
• Comfort: Provide physical comfort, like hugs or holding their hands, if the child is comfortable with it. Physical reassurance can be powerful, especially for younger children.
• Space: Ensure the child has a safe space of their own, where they can go when they are feeling overwhelmed.

Open Communication

Children need to know that it is okay to talk about their feelings and experiences, but they should never be forced to share before they are ready.

• Listening: Encourage the child to express their thoughts. Actively listening to them, and not responding right away, can be helpful for them to process what they have been through.
• Language: Use age-appropriate language with them when discussing their trauma. Be honest, but avoid graphic and unnecessary details.
• Validation: Validate their feelings and reassure them that it is okay to feel angry, sad, hurt, scared, etc.

Providing Emotional Support

Children who have experienced trauma often experience a range of emotions. Providing emotional support is essential for them to fully process.

• Empathy: Show empathy by acknowledging their pain and offering comfort. Let them know that you understand that they are hurting.
• Patience: Healing from trauma takes time. Be patient with the child, and try not to put pressure on them to “get over it”.
• Affection: Offer unconditional love and affection. Reassure them that they are loved, no matter what.

Building Resilience

Helping a child overcome trauma isn’t just about addressing the past. It’s also about preparing them for the future.

• Problem-Solving Skills: Teach skills that empower children to handle challenges confidently.
• Self-Esteem: Foster a sense of self-worth by recognizing and celebrating the child’s strengths and achievements.
• Positive Relationships: Encourage positive relationships with other peers and adults. Healthy relationships are a crucial part of the healing process.

Seeking Professional Help

While all the above strategies can be helpful, professional intervention is often necessary.

• Therapy: Child psychologists or counselors specializing in trauma can provide the necessary tools and coping strategies.
• Support Groups: Peer support groups can be beneficial, as they allow children to connect with others who have experienced similar situations.
• Family Therapy: In some cases, family therapy can be helpful to address dynamics that may be contributing to the child’s trauma.

There are ways to help a child overcome trauma. Seek help from a professional, and schedule a session today!

In today’s world of multi-media platforms, streaming services, gaming consoles, and mobile devices, it can be nearly impossible to keep an eye on your children’s media use. While this technology can provide a source of learning and entertainment, there are also risks involved that present challenges for parents. One of the most pressing questions you may be asking yourself is, should I be monitoring what my kids are watching? The answer is not a simple yes or no; it’s an issue that requires a balance between trust, protection, and education.

The Importance of Monitoring

Parental tools are helpful for ensuring that children are not exposed to inappropriate content. The internet is vast, and often unfiltered, offering both educational recourses and material that is far from child-friendly. For younger children, it’s helpful to monitor their online activity to prevent exposure to violence, sexual content, or other older, adult themes.

Protecting Against Harmful Content

Children are naturally curious, and without proper guidance or education, they can easily stumble upon content that is not age appropriate. Monitoring what your kids watch can help you prevent them from being exposed to harmful content. Guide them towards exploring child-friendly websites, education resources, and fun entertainment.

Preventing Online Dangers

The internet is a dangerous place, and if children are not careful, they may find themselves in harmful situations. We never fully know who we are talking to online. Just because someone says they are who they say they are, we can never be really sure. Monitoring helps parents ensure that their children are not communicating with strangers who may have malicious intentions.

Managing Screen Time

Excessive screen time can be a concern with children’s development. They lose track of time, disengage with family, and struggle with focus. Nowadays, most media platforms have parental controls for parents to set limits for internet use. By controlling your child’s consumption of media, you can encourage other activities like outdoor play, reading, game nights, or family time.

The Downside of Over-Monitoring

There are many benefits to monitoring what your children watch, however, there are also significant drawbacks to consider. Over-monitoring can strain the parent-child relationship and limit the development of certain life skills.

Trust

If children believe they are constantly being watched, they may start to think you don’t trust them. Ultimately, children will give into this mistrust and start rebelling, doing the things parents don’t want them to do just because. They may even feel resentment towards their caregivers. Having trust in your children is important for them to learn responsibility.

Independence

Children need space to make mistakes, learn, and explore. By over-monitoring, parents can cause their children to feel nervous about making decisions. As they grow older, children need the freedom to make their own choices and learn from potential consequences. It allows them to develop critical thinking skills and the ability to determine good content versus bad.

Privacy

Children, especially teenagers, value their privacy. Constant monitoring can feel like an invasion, leading to strained parental relationships. As parents, it’s important to find a balance of ensuring safety and not crossing boundaries.

Finding a Balance

We weighed the pros and cons of parental monitoring, and the question remains the same. Should parents be monitoring their children’s media content? The answer: it’s all about balance.

• Age-Appropriate Monitoring: Younger children often require more insight than teenagers. Allow them a certain amount of freedom based on their age and maturity level.
• Education: When children are young, teach them about safety. Educate them on what’s appropriate or not, how to stay safe and make good choices, and what is allowed and what isn’t.
• Stay Involved: Involvement does not mean surveillance. Ask questions about their internet use, vocalize your concerns, and share expectations. Try not to dictate what they watch, but encourage.

If you find yourself struggling with your child’s media use, reach out and seek help from a mental health professional!