Dr. Jennifer Gordon/ J. Gordon Psychology

01/02/2026

“Who started it?” never fixes the problem. But “What do you need right now?” just might.

Teach kids to name feelings, describe what happened, and ask for what they actually want-without the blame. That’s how emotional intelligence sounds in real life. And it starts with an “I.”

01/02/2026

Some have had issue with this image using hard candy. Our take: Nothing is a steadfast "rule" when it comes to regulation. Switch out the items that don't work for you or your kids, students, team, family, etc. Replace with something else. Or skip it all together. Here are more ideas for calming strategies: https://www.theottoolbox.com/calm-down-corner/

01/01/2026

12/01/2025

Comment CALM for the link

When students know how to calm their minds, everything gets easier—learning, transitions, even group work.

This Calm Kids Activity Book helps them practice those skills with over 100 pages of mindful, hands-on activities.

Parents say it’s their favorite portable calm resource, too.

Just comment CALM and I’ll DM you the link!

11/13/2025

Chores are a good way to work on executive functioning skills https://www.theottoolbox.com/chores-and-executive-functioning-skills/

10/31/2025

Learn how declarative language builds thinking, problem-solving, and cooperation skills in children—and why it’s vital for caregivers.

10/10/2025

Discover how Synergetic Play Therapy helps your child calm big feelings, build resilience, and repattern their nervous system.

09/22/2025

Teens spend over 7 hours a day on screens. Learn the impacts on mental health, sleep, and focus, plus healthy strategies for balance.

08/26/2025

The back to school transition is a difficult one for more anxious kids. If you need support, we’re happy to help. We work with children directly to support a coping plan, as well as connect with and provide strategies to parents and teachers. 

Jgordonpsychology.com

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08/24/2025

We are trilled to have Ashley Driedger now supporting our team! Ashley is a seasoned Registered Psychologist with advanced training in play therapy. She offers child/teen therapy (ages 4+) and formal assessments, including adult ADHD assessments.

https://jgordonpsychology.com/about/team/ashley-driedger/

07/20/2025

Boredom can spark creativity

Giving space and unstructured time gives kids the freedom to explore their own ideas, opening the door to imagination, creativity, and self-discovery.

Promotes autonomy and initiative

When parents step back and resist orchestrating every moment for their child, children learn to fill time themselves and develop their own personal interests.

Supports long-term development

Rather than being a “time waster,” boredom teaches resourcefulness. Children who figure out how to stay engaged on their own acquire valuable life skills.

Practical tips for Parents

Sit down with your child and together brainstorm some ideas that they can engage in during unstructured times of the day (e.g., reading, crafts, playing outside etc).

Offer choice, not pressure; if they eventually become bored again, let that teach them to move on thoughtfully.

To learn more visit: https://jgordonpsychology.com/why-boredom-isnt-a-bad-thing/