05/19/2022
School is almost out for the Summer, and now is a great time to check-in with your kids and teens about how they are feeling, how the year went or what they need to feel supported going into the new school year!
Most people notice their moods improve when the weather improves, and that is wonderful! However, we often notice a shift in the Fall when things start getting busy again, kids go back to school and the weather cools off. It is a great idea to create a support system now, rather than wait for that time to come and therapist's are in their "busy season".
A new school year can bring about a lot of anxiety for some kids and teens (and us adults too). Therapy is not just for adults and we can do more than "talk therapy"! We offer services to kids and teenagers to help navigate anxiety, stress, school issues, peer conflict, relationships, parent/child conflict, changes in the family, behavioral & focus issues and much more! Therapy can be helpful for all ages; and we use a variety of techniques including techniques from Play Therapy in order to get on their level, and "play it out". Often times a child will not sit on a couch and "talk" about their feelings. But when offered art supplies, a sand tray, and a variety of other toys- you enter their world and it quickly all makes sense!
Take the time with your child or teen at the end of this school year to check-in! Take them out for ice-cream and really listen to what they have to say.
Here are a few questions you can start with:
* What do you think went well this year?
*What do you wish could have been different?
*What helped you feel the most supported at home?
*What do you need next school year to feel more supported?
*Can we do anything at home this Summer, or next year to help make things easier for you?
*Were you able to handle the workload and manage your time well?
*Who are your best friends?
*Did you struggle with anyone in particular at school?