Physical and Emotional Health: The Best Gift for Our Children

Getting Emotionally Healthy: The Best Gift for Our Kids

Dealing with Suppressed Emotional Issues Helps Us be Better Parents

by Amy Egan

I love working with parents on their quests to better relationships with their children, more harmony within their families and more joy in parenting.  There are many aspects to reaching these goals such as feeling comfortable saying ‘no’, allowing kids to make mistakes, listening and validating kids’ feelings, realizing you as parent are not responsible for fixing their problems, loving children no matter how happy or sad they make their lives, being truly present with them, etc.  But there is another aspect that I realize I’ve not given ample focus. The aspect of getting healthy, yourself, is vital to a child’s well being. Of course, this means physical health,  but it also very much means emotional health.  A parent who has inner turmoil – issues not dealt with such as, suppressed anger, addiction or emotional scars, will parent their child from a clouded perspective.  A parent who is emotionally unhealthy  is far more likely to under react or over react to children’s issues and behaviors throughout their lives.

Drinking During Pregnancy Could Cause Birth Defects

Pregnant Woman Stomach

Expectant mothers who drink could put babies at risk for birth defects

 

Each year, nearly 40,000 babies are born with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The disorders are caused by mothers’ alcohol consumption during pregnancy and range in severity. Some infants with the most severe form of FASDs have serious physical, psychological and developmental conditions that continue into adulthood. Leigh Tenkku, associate research professor in the School of Social Work, says no amount and no type of alcohol is safe for women to drink during pregnancy.

How to Combat the Back to School Blues

Ways to Combat Back to School Blues

Ways to Combat Back to School Blues

by Dr. Jennifer A. Powell-Lunder

While for most folks, the summer symbolizes rest and relaxation, back to school time can serve as a jolt back the reality of routine life.  As the first school weeks pass, it is not uncommon to feel as if the outside world is gaining momentum, spinning fast and with more force. School season represents commitment and activity, often-increased stress because there never seems to be enough time.

How can you tell if you and/or your kids are experiencing the blues? Here is a list of some common signs: