Michael Vallejo, LCSW

Research shows that social media and teen self-esteem are interconnected. Learn strategies to help your child navigate the digital world.

These books about self-control provide kids with valuable lessons on managing impulses, understanding emotions, and making thoughtful decisions.

A study reveals how childhood trauma impacts gray matter in the brain, particularly in the frontal lobe. You’ll also learn tips to support emotional healing.

Play therapy for kids can do wonders for managing trauma, depression, and anxiety. Learn how it works.

Did you know that parental care influences a child’s genes and resilience? Explore the science of epigenetics in this research article.

Learning how to help a child grieve the loss of a pet is an excellent way to honor their memory. Here’s how to provide support as parents.

Working with neurodiverse kids reminds us that we all think differently. This newsletter was written as a reminder for each of us to make space for different minds.

Help kids manage emotions with these 15 printable anger management worksheets. They teach children about coping skills and self-regulation.

A study found that consistent sleep schedules help kids regulate emotions and make better choices. Learn more here.

ADHD emotional dysregulation can make individuals feel like their emotions are out of control. Explore healthy coping mechanisms that work.

Social media use is linked to loneliness in rural youth. Learn tips promote healthy online habits and build meaningful offline connections.

Supporting your children’s mental health keeps them stable, resilient, and confident. Learn how to support a child struggling with their mental health.

Parents and children can learn how to cope with cyberbullying. It starts with awareness and understanding effective coping strategies.

Explore our list of books about responsibility for kids, perfect for teaching accountability, good habits, and essential life lessons through engaging stories.

A study reveals that moderate online gaming may help individuals with ASD reduce loneliness and build friendships. Here are more insights from the study.

The circle of concern helps us reflect on our worries but can slow our progress. Learn how to manage the circle of concern.

This study discusses how problematic internet use affects teen loneliness and how strong family communication and support from others can help.

Read this article to learn more about dyspraxia in children, as well as the ways to support them at home and in school.

October is National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month. This is an excellent time for parents to talk to their child about bullying before it happens.

School refusal in kids and teens can lead to emotional, social, and educational consequences. Learn how you can address school refusal promptly and effectively.

In this research study, learn how brain activity relates to gaming addiction in teens. We’ll also explore tips for promoting healthier habits.

Growth mindset posters can encourage kids and teens to persevere through hard times. Discover 15 of our best growth mindset posters here.

A study on loneliness and post-traumatic stress in teens shows how these issues are linked. Here’s what you need to know.

Conduct disorder manifests as aggressive and antisocial behavior in children. Learn how you can help your child manage it.

Providing your child with a comprehensive feelings list can help them better identify and understand their emotions.

Here are key insights from The Girls’ Index 2023 study about the struggles U.S. girls face with confidence, stress, and social pressures.

Teen grief can be overwhelming and challenging to navigate. Learn how to help teenagers process their emotions and stressors.

Here’s how losing a parent impacts a child’s education and ways to support grieving children with our resources.

Specific learning disabilities (SLD) can be challenging for children. Learn more about the characteristics and support for individuals with SLD.

School accommodations can help students with ADHD thrive in the classroom. Talk with your child’s school counselor about Section 504 Plan classroom strategies for kids with ADHD.

Is dyslexia a learning disability? Read this article that addresses this question and explains how dyslexia affects learning.

Learn how a calm home environment and positive parenting can help young children develop strong emotional regulation skills in this research study.

The bargaining stage of grief is one of the common reactions to the loss or death of a loved one. Read this article that describes and explains this stage of grief.

Research shows the link between a growth mindset and lower school burnout in teens. Find out more about the study, plus tips caring adults can apply.

Characterized by communication and social skills deficits, autism may present challenges in learning among children. Is autism a learning disability, though? Read this article that addresses this question and more.

Hydration is a beneficial habit for both physical and mental health. Discover why hydration is important along with helpful hydration tips for kids.

Knowing how to explain death to a child can help them learn to cope and move on. Discover helpful tips for discussing death with your child.

Read this study about how web-based training for parents can help children with PTSD, plus additional tips to heal at home.

Check out the best children's books about disabilities in 2025. Promote understanding, empathy, and inclusivity with these inspiring stories.

In this research article, you will learn how TF-CBT can reduce grief symptoms in children and find tips for helping kids heal after the loss of a loved one.

The circle of influence encourages learned optimism and can help you feel more in control. Learn how it works.

Maladaptive perfectionism is one type of perfectionism that can lead to unhealthy habits, relationship issues, and mental health problems. Learn what it is and strategies to help a child overcome or avoid this type of perfectionism.

Discover the best children's books about forgiveness that teach kids the value of empathy, understanding, and making amends through captivating stories.

Learn how trust, fairness, and social skills impact teen relationships, plus tips for parents to help guide their teens through cooperation.

Learning disabilities in children can affect their comprehension and understanding. Here’s how you can provide support.

Here is a new study that focuses on the impact of school activities and civics education on high school students’ tolerance toward minorities.

Nonverbal learning disorders can impact how children process information. Learn how you can provide the appropriate support.

Naming emotions for kids is a helpful skill for their emotional development. The concept of “name it to tame it” encourages parents to support their child in identifying and labeling their emotions.

While ADHD is not a learning disability, it can affect how children learn. Discover how ADHD is linked to learning disabilities and how you can help your child.