Parenting Concerns

How to Talk to Your Little Ones About Terrorism

After September 11, 2001, lots of little kids across the nation asked some variation of the same question:

“Mommy, why did the bad guys attack us?”

Kids tend to look for patterns, especially when they’re frightened, so some kids likely took this inquiry even a step further:

“Daddy, why do the bad guys hate us?”

Building Mental Wellness in Children: What Parents Can Do

Este artículo está disponible en español.

Parents are the true experts when it comes to knowing their children, and often the first to notice any changes in their kids’ behavior:

Colin was a happy youngster.

Teaching for the Test or Teaching for Real Life?

I have never been good at standardized tests. In fact, I’m horrible.

The problem is that in standardized tests, as opposed to general knowledge or understanding of a particular problem, you need to know what the specific question is looking for. But I just don’t think that way. I overthink every question.

Let’s Talk About “Eighth Grade”

Lots of things crossed my mind as I cringed and smiled my way through Bo Burnham’s amazing new film, Eighth Grade.

First – and this particular sentiment was a near-constant refrain – I found myself swimming in gratitude that I was no longer in 8th grade myself.

Dyslexia, Part 4: Transitioning from High School to College

This blog is the fourth in a series on dyslexia. Topics previously addressed include Dyslexia 101, understanding treatment, and school accommodation options available.

Sarah was an outgoing and bright teenager in her senior year at a public high school.

Growing Up With a Sibling With a Disability

“You don’t understand, Mom!” I said.  “They were making fun of him! They were imitating his speech and laughing!”

My mom shrugged.  It would take more than a couple of small-town high school punks to get her attention.

Shrinking It Down: Our Greatest Strengths (Season 1, Episode 16)

You can also listen to this podcast on SoundCloud, Stitcher, and iTunes. 

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Did you know that Dr. Ellen Braaten has a mild form of dyslexia and had to work really hard at reading when she was a child? Did you know that Dr. Gene Beresin has always struggled with math?

We all have challenges. We all have differences.

Dyslexia, Part 3: Accommodation Options Available

This blog is the third in a series on dyslexia. Topics previously addressed include Dyslexia 101, and understanding treatment. Topics to be addressed further in include accommodation options available, and the transition of a child to life, school, etc. following diagnosis.

Shrinking It Down: Beyond High School (Season 1, Episode 15)

You can also listen to this podcast on SoundCloud, Stitcher, and iTunes.

Digital Media: For Better or Worse?

It was Patriot’s Day in Massachusetts.

I was meeting with a film maker about a possible collaboration on a documentary. We were interested in the impact of digital media on youth.