Michael Vallejo, LCSW

Discover 10 books about friendship for preschoolers, which feature stories that teach kindness, sharing, and the joy of connections.

Guided journaling can promote better mental health and enhance well-being. In this article, over 100 journal prompts for kids are provided, addressing different domains.

In this study, learn how exercise in teens promotes long-term health. You’ll also find tips for parents to support physical activity from an early age.

Though worrying is normal, it may be time to intervene if anxious habits interfere with your child’s life. Learn what to do when your child worries too much.

Discover 10 children's books about kindness, filled with heartwarming stories that teach empathy, compassion, and the power of caring actions.

Ongoing childhood problems without the appropriate support can negatively impact a child throughout their lives. Learn how child therapy works and how it can help them cope.

Can mindfulness reduce test anxiety in students? Learn insights from a pilot study with sixth graders and get tips for parents to support mindfulness at home.

The Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS) is a self-report tool for assessing the intensity of emotions. Read this article to learn how it can be used.

Are you looking for ways to help kids manage anxiety and depression? Learn from this study that focuses on a CBT-based program.

Persistent depression can cause dysthymia in children. Learn about its causes, symptoms, and how to manage it.

In this study, we examine how neighborhood characteristics and psychosocial risks can impact mental health in teens. We also discuss tips to support them.

Finding balance is the key to a fulfilling life. Learn how walking the middle path can help avoid black-and-white thinking.

In this study, learn how children’s prosocial behaviors, such as sharing, helping, and comforting, vary by gender and the perspective of parents and teachers.

ADHD can hinder your ability to be productive, but implementing the Pomodoro technique for ADHD can turn your work ethic around!

Behaviors can be confusing, but conducting a behavior chain analysis can help put your actions into perspective. Learn how it works.

This research links obesity treatment to reduced depression and eating disorder symptoms, while also stressing the need for mental health support.

Discover helpful grief activities for kids that provide comfort and support. These activities can guide children in processing their emotions in a healthy way.

This study reveals how frequent social media use in young teens may alter their brains and sensitivity to social cues. We also discuss practical tips.

Discover the top 10 stress relief toys for kids and teens that can help them relax and unwind. These toys are fun, engaging, and perfect for relieving stress and anxiety.

Self-control makes for a socially and academically successful child. Discover ten impulse control activities for kids that can help hone this skill.

Could simple screen-free routines improve your child’s sleep and behavior? Learn from this new study published in JAMA Pediatrics.

Explore our curated list of 60 mental health books for teens to help them navigate and understand their mental well-being.

Let’s take a look at a study published in JAMA Network that examines the impact of tablet media on toddlers’ social interactions and language development.

Looking for anxiety books for kids? These 10 books can help children handle their feelings and build emotional strength in a fun, engaging way.

Learn how to tolerate difficult circumstances and face triggers with our printable DBT mindfulness worksheets and handouts!

This study reveals how cannabis use can lead to lower grades, higher dropout rates, and missed opportunities. Learn more here.

Learn the differences between solo and single parenting, challenges they face, and helpful tips for raising children.

Here’s insightful research on how strong parent-child relationships boost gratitude in children and tips to nurture it at home.

Discover heartfelt grief books for children that discuss loss and death. These stories guide young readers in coping with their feelings and honoring loved ones.

What can you expect from your child at their age? Learn executive function skills by age and how you can help improve them.

A recent study reveals that a positive outlook can enhance young people's health, such as reduced substance use and the risk of chronic diseases. Learn more.

Impulse control in children takes time to develop. Learn how to adapt parenting strategies to help your child cope better.

This study shows that young children display more empathy and prosocial behavior in high-distress situations and offers tips for honing these important skills.

Life can be overwhelming, but DBT modules can improve your coping mechanisms. Learn more about the five DBT modules.

Learn more about how sand tray therapy can help individuals explore and express their inner world.

Research shows CBT's long-term effectiveness for youth with anxiety disorders. Learn more in this paper exploring the "Kids Beating Anxiety (KibA)" trial.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy that is used to treat a range of mental health conditions. This comprehensive guide explains the principles and techniques of DBT.

Here’s how emotional intelligence influences academic motivation in children, according to a study in Frontiers in Education.

Help your kids and teens learn how to self-soothe with these 10 effective techniques.

Discover the concept of "The Power of Yet" which can help kids develop a growth mindset. Learn how to implement this powerful tool in nurturing positive attitudes and fostering resilience in children.

In this research paper, you will learn how early parent-child interactions, mindfulness, and community support help with emotional regulation and strong bonds.

Learn about the key differences between dysthymia and depression to better understand these mood disorders.

Learn about the impact of media violence — involving television, video games, and music — on children and adolescents in our latest research summary.

Overcome any challenging situation by implementing ACCEPTS skills. Learn how to use this DBT skill in the face of distress.

Learn more about the principles and techniques of Positive Discipline as well as how to implement it effectively.

This review article examines factors influencing stress in children with SLDs and advocates for viewing these disabilities through a neurodiversity lens.

Research shows that a single effective coping technique can boost the quality of life for siblings of children with chronic health conditions. Learn more here.

Learn about executive dysfunction in ADHD, including signs, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Learn more about the characteristics and effects of uninvolved parenting and how it can affect your children.