Understanding and Managing Toddler Meltdowns: A Compassionate Approach

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Nov 11, 2024 | Toddler, Preschooler

Picture this: You’re wrapping up a fun family weekend getaway with one last stop at a candy store before heading home. Your toddler spots a giant chocolate milkshake, and her brain gets stuck. She wants that milkshake. As you tell her she won’t be getting a...

Why Children Need Boundaries: A Guide For Parents

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Oct 28, 2024 | Toddler, Preschooler, Big Kid

It’s a typical day in your household. You’re supervising bath time, and suddenly, you catch your toddler about to take a sip of bath water. In the background, your preschooler is protesting loudly about turning off the TV, and you hear your partner telling...

Why Kids Misbehave At School But Not At Home

by Shannon Wassenaar | Apr 16, 2024 | Preschooler, Big Kid

Reason 1: Environment & Temperament InfluenceReason 2: Authority Figure InfluenceReason 3: Peer Influence3 Ways to Encourage Consistent and Positive BehaviourConclusion At home, Mason was well-behaved. He listened to his parents, did his chores, and got along with...

How To Work With Teachers On School Behaviour Challenges

by Shannon Wassenaar | Apr 16, 2024 | Toddler, Preschooler, Big Kid

Why Your Child Is MisbehavingHow to Collaborate With Teachers and School StaffCelebrate Positive Progress and GrowthKeep This in Mind  Tom is an active third-grade student. His parents would describe him as a “busybody.” He’s always exploring the outdoors, playing...

How To Handle A Child’s Angry “No”: Understanding Counterwill

by Shannon Wassenaar | Apr 10, 2024 | Toddler, Preschooler, Big Kid

What Is Counterwill?How to Respond When Your Child Angrily Says NoHow to Avoid “No!” and Boost CooperationConclusion: Shift Your Approach “Why does my kid get so angry whenever I ask them to do something!”“Why won’t he just listen!” Does this sound familiar?  It...

Understanding and Managing Anger in Highly Sensitive Children

by Shannon Wassenaar | Apr 10, 2024 | Toddler, Preschooler, Big Kid

Why Highly Sensitive Kids Are More Likely to Get Angry and AggressiveAnswers to Common QuestionsConclusion: Understanding Leads to Compassion Lauren’s highly sensitive 7-year-old daughter Jade often behaved aggressively when she was angry. Jade was getting in trouble...