10 Effective Tips For Better Communication With Your Child

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Apr 21, 2019 | Toddler, Big Kid, Preschooler

1. Use “I feel” Statements 2. Define Expectations BEFORE Behaviour Happens3. Use a Calm Voice4. Show You’re Listening With Nonverbal Communication5. Show You’re Listening With Verbal Communication6. Model the Desired Communication Style7. Talk About Things...

Triggered By Your Baby’s Crying? 4 Strategies To Help You Cope

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Mar 18, 2019 | Parent

4 Steps to Take When You Feel Triggered by Your Baby’s Crying1. Take a Deep Breath2. Take a Sensory Break3. Check Your NESTS4. Give Yourself GraceYou Are Not Alone  I cannot tell you how often I hear from moms in my office that their baby crying is a trigger for anger...

Building a Strong Bond: Secure Attachment Without Harsh Parenting

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Nov 21, 2018 | Baby, Big Kid, Preschooler, Toddler

When I had to wean my baby on to a bottle, I was told it would impact our attachment. I was told that we wouldn’t bond as easily. When I sleep trained my baby, I was told that my baby would become less attached to me. I was told that I would be ruining her ability to...

5 Effective Strategies To Stop Yelling At Your Kids

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Nov 6, 2018 | Parent

1. Deal with the cause of your knee-jerk reactions2. Address the payoffs of reacting3. Learn how to breathe to manage your physical stress symptoms4. When overwhelmed ground yourself in the present moment5. Practise mindfulness Help me stop yelling at my kids, help me...

Overcoming Parental Exhaustion: The Power Of Self-Compassion

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Oct 29, 2018 | Parent

1. You won’t feel so isolated.2. You will likely take better care of yourself.3. You will be less self-critical.4. It will reduce your negative thoughts and feelings. It’s often said that you don’t know true exhaustion until you become a parent. For many,...