Michael Vallejo, LCSW

A study found that classroom calming corners help students manage emotions during school transitions. Read the study and learn what it means for kids.

Major depressive disorder in children can negatively impact their relationships and daily life. Learn the ins and outs of MDD.

Learn how emotional granularity relates to teen depression and anxiety, and why teaching them to name their emotions matters.

Differentiating between ADHD vs. bipolar disorder can put you in a better position to support your child. Learn their differences and treatments.

Here are leadership games and activities for kids that build confidence, teamwork, and communication.

Can teaching forgiveness really help teens feel better? A new study shows how school-based forgiveness lessons improved students’ mental health.

Wondering what age should your child get a smartphone? Learn the pros and cons of giving your child a smartphone and how to guide them in using it wisely.

A large study finds that teachers are more accurate than parents at spotting ADHD in children. Learn what this means and how you can take action.

Twice-exceptional kids are both gifted and face developmental challenges. Learn what twice-exceptionality entails and how you can support your child.

The physiological sigh can be a helpful tool for stress reduction and relaxation. Learn how it works and some tips for using it.

This study investigates the impact of implementing a mindfulness program for students and teachers in an elementary school.

Boost your child’s confidence with printable self-esteem worksheets for kids.

How do gender and parenting style affect behavior during sports? A new study discusses what influences sportsmanship and what parents can do.

Help kids understand and manage their emotions with printable feelings worksheets. These tools support emotional growth and self-awareness.

In Kubler-Ross’s grief theory, there are five stages in coping with loss. Read on to learn about the first stage: the denial stage of grief.

A study reveals that compassion fatigue affects the majority of teachers, especially those new in their careers. Learn what this means and why it matters.

Help kids develop healthy coping strategies with emotion-focused coping examples and techniques. Teach children practical ways to manage and regulate their emotions effectively.

Can kids outgrow ADHD? Find out what may increase the chances of remission and why continued support matters.

Discover 10 inspiring books that teach kids how to think positively and handle life’s challenges.

Learn about four mindfulness activities for teens to support calming, stress reduction, and improved sleep. Mindfulness is an evidence-based technique shown to improve teen mental health.

Family grief counseling can help families overcome trauma and depression after a significant loss. Learn how the process works.

Check out this interesting research on how virtual reality and guided deep breathing helped reduce children’s stress during IV treatments.

Family trauma therapy helps families process their experiences, develop resilience, and create a healthier home environment. Learn how it works.

Can a short, 8-session therapy program really help teens with depression? A new study says yes. Learn more here.

Discover the best stim toys for kids and teens with ADHD. Learn how these tools improve focus and reduce anxiety.

Learning ways to boost child’s confidence can have long-lasting benefits. Discover 3 small strategies to help your child feel good about themselves.

Mental health awareness in children is foundational to their ability to manage emotions and engage in self-care. Learn how you can become involved.

Research shows that teaching slow, steady breathing reduces anxiety and social stress in elementary school students. Read about the study here.

Raising a happy child means understanding that mental health is just as important as physical health. Help your child take care of both.

A study reveals that improving emotional awareness in children and teens may lower their risk of developing mental health problems.

Anger coping skills for kids can help regulate emotions and prevent unwanted behaviors. Here are activities you can practice together.

DBT is an evidence-based mental health treatment for people of all ages. This article provides a brief introduction to DBT for parents interested in learning the basics about the treatment.

Boundaries for kids help them understand why rules exist and how to protect their personal space. Learn how to help your child develop good boundaries.

A 2023 study found that the butterfly hug technique significantly reduced anxiety in students living away from home. Here’s how it works.

Healing isn’t linear, and it’s normal to experience difficult emotions along the way. Learn what the healing process looks like.

A study shows why many teens delay getting their driver’s license and how parents and caregivers can offer support.

Discover the best Montessori toys for toddlers. These simple and purposeful toys support real-world skills and hands-on, screen-free learning.

Teachers play an important role in the lives of children. Self-care for teachers is vital to help prevent burnout, and recharge both body and mind.

Learn about Worden's Four Tasks of Mourning, a framework designed to help individuals cope with grief and loss. We discuss the stages of mourning and how they can help in the healing process.

Research suggests that teens who can clearly label their feelings, also known as emotion differentiation, are better equipped to cope with stress and are less prone to anxiety and depression.

I” statements for kids help them express difficult feelings in a kind and constructive way. Learn how to use them and how they can benefit your child.

Here’s how later school start times improve teen sleep, mood, focus, and safety — plus how parents and teachers benefit too.

Discover the characteristics, setbacks, and examples of permissive parenting, plus tips on providing structure for healthy development.

Star breathing for kids is a fun and effective way to teach breathwork to your child. Learn the science behind breathwork to instill calmness in your child’s day.

Discover 70 powerful mental health quotes for support, reflection, and strength. Find words that remind you that you’re not alone in your journey.

New research shows diaphragmatic breathing helps kids manage stress, anxiety, and depression. You’ll also learn simple ways for them to use it daily.

Neurodiversity in children can affect how they think and behave. Learn how to support self-awareness and confidence in your child’s growth.

Art therapy helps children express their thoughts while improving their well-being. Discover fun art therapy activities to try with kids.

Pleasant activities are therapeutic and can help kids relax and recharge. Learn about good examples, and how they can help children reduce stress and improve mental health.

Discover the 10 best children's books about autism that promote understanding, inclusion, and empathy for neurotypical kids and children with autism.