Teens and Boundaries

One of the most difficult challenges parents face with their adolescents is knowing when and how to draw the line regarding typical teenage issues.   There are several factors to consider when negotiating the most appropriate boundaries for your teenager.  Each of the following factors will be discussed in a separate article: Understanding  Boundaries – Article … [Read more…]

Does Your Child Have Separation Anxiety?

  Does Your Child Have SEPARATION ANXIETY? Common Indicators of Separation Anxiety (SAD): School Refusal School Tardiness Somatic Complaints (headaches, stomach aches, nausea. . .) with no medical cause Irritability and Restlessness Refusal to Eat at School Excessive need for Reassurance Symptoms are alleviated by phone calls home or by leaving school Parents can Help! … [Read more…]

Family Stress, Anger, and Emotional Burdening

Family Stress, Anger, and Emotional Burdening     Other than having a psychiatric or medical condition that contributes to poor impulse control, anger in a child is often consequent from emotional hurt and overburdening.    Children act out with anger for many reasons.  They may have feelings of powerlessness- not enough control over their own lives … [Read more…]

Tweens and Technology- Quick Takes

Tweens and Technology- Quick Takes The adolescent brain is a work in progress.  The pre-frontal cortex is under construction until the early twenties ( The National Institutes of Health). It is responsible for impulse control, emotional regulation, cause and effect thinking, and is the rational, calming “Director” of the brain.  Tweens do not have the brain … [Read more…]

Primary Greatness

What does “Primary Greatness” mean to you? In his book, The Leader in Me, Stephen R. Covey coined the terms,  Primary Greatness and Secondary Greatness.  After reading the book, I was inspired to reflect on my own beliefs about greatness. To me, Primary Greatness is the highest good for humans. Our culture tells us that Primary Greatness is … [Read more…]

Quotes from Julie’s favorite theorists

  “Life is not the way it’s supposed to be.  It’s the way it is.  The way you cope with it is what makes the difference.” —Virginia Satir (Experiential) “Radical Acceptance rests on letting go of the illusion of control and  a willingness to notice and accept things as they are right now, without judging.” —Marsha … [Read more…]