It is never a happy place to be when dealing with infertility. In fact, many marriages suffer tremendously or end as the result of the inability to conceive a child. The moment you notice that your marriage is being threatened by these events, it is time to make some changes. The most common thing to happen when infertility is present is for everyone to want to blame someone.
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April 24, 2014
by Christie Hunter
People are confused about what autism spectrum disorder is at a time when the rate of diagnosis is increasing 30 percent every two years. This indicates the need for an in depth conversation that defines autism, explains its symptoms and raises awareness of its growing presence in North America. Autism is a multifaceted diagnosis with many categories. After all, it is a spectrum disorder meaning the term itself encompasses a range of behaviors, cognitive abilities and social skills.
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April 18, 2014
by Casey Truffo, LMFT
The time when your teenager moves toward adulthood is an important time; however, it can be among the most difficult for a child AND their parents. Books, music, and movies many times refer to the theme of coming of age and relay the challenges associated in the transition. For families, this is a most emotional time because parents often are faced with disappointment and broken hearts as they feel their child no longer needs them, while their teenager is separating from them and developing new social circles. And although most teenagers are excited about this time in their lives, some are saddened or miss the safety that they had in their childhoods.
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Many of the symptoms that seemed so problematic in childhood (school and peer relations) are easier to manage (for some). But, with the advent of adulthood comes new responsibilities, physical changes and competing expectations. This often requires new skills and abilities that are not in our repertoire. It is during the initial transition to adulthood that many young people with ADHD get lost on their journey.
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While there are many precautions that should be considered when it comes to children/teens and social media, we have come to a time when facing it with a positive attitude may be the key to helping children use these mediums appropriately. Some curiosity, exploration and healthy discussion with your children can go a long way. So, the next time you see your child giggling at something on their phone, engage them in a conversation. Learn their language so you can speak their language.
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March 23, 2014
by Christie Hunter
Despite the fact that children spend a large portion of their time at school and other activities, their foremost role models for food, health, and weight will always be their parents.Children mirror parental behaviors. The quality of those behaviors is more important than ever in light of the current Obesity crisis. Although many factors have contributed to the increase in American Obesity, the foremost important behaviors in the provision of a healthy food environment are to A) Eat at home, and B) Eat in Moderation.
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March 17, 2014
by LuAnn Pierce, LCSW
Grief is inevitable for those of us who choose to love. As difficult as the death of a loved one may be, our ability to cope with emotional distress can lessen the burden. As parents, one of your jobs is to help kids learn to cope, and how to think.
FB- Children don't naturally understand loss, difficult life situations, or the grieving that accompanies them. LuAnn Pierce, LCSW, explains the ways you can help your child cope during these times.
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March 8, 2014
by Christie Hunter
It is a day that you have worked toward for years - the day you send your child off to college. You have prepared for this moment their whole life, saving up for their education and teaching them the skills they will need to be a successful adult. Yet while your child is suddenly immersed in the wild chaos of college, your home is deafeningly quiet. How do you endure having an empty nest?
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Resilience is a protective factor in coping with normal adversities. But in situations where children (or adults) feel a loss of control – powerless to protect themselves or to get the protection they need – trauma may result.
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February 25, 2014
by Casey Truffo, LMFT
Although jealousy between siblings is not uncommon, if you're the parent of a jealous older child you may feel clueless as to how to best manage the situation. You’ll probably receive your fair share of unsolicited advice from people who feel they know best, but keep in mind that each family is different and each child is unique in how they may deal with jealousy over a new baby brother or sister.
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