Michael Vallejo, LCSW

An anger thermometer provides a simple way to track and respond to feelings of frustration or disappointment. Learn how it works.

Research shows neurofeedback boosts working memory and inhibitory control in kids with ADHD. Here’s what you need to know.

Identifying emotions is key for kids and teens. Use practical resources and tools to help young people understand their feelings more easily.

Research shows that even a 5-minute break can help children focus and solve math problems more effectively. Learn more about the findings here.

Executive function skills for kids help them develop daily routines and succeed in school. Learn what you can do to help them develop these skills.

Emotional outbursts can have a long-term negative impact on kids. Learn what causes them and what you can do to support your child.

Study shows CBT calms overactive brain regions in anxious children. Read the full study to learn how these findings can inform treatment and support for kids.

Discover how virtual reality therapy can help children manage certain mental health conditions under the guidance of a licensed professional.

Research reveals mindfulness as a helpful tool for managing ADHD symptoms in children and teens. Learn more here.

Pretend play allows children to unleash their imagination and exercise their creativity. Learn how you can support your child’s pretend play routine.

Knowing how to handle disruptive behavior in the classroom can make for a more conducive learning environment. Learn helpful strategies.

How does a parent’s trauma history affect their child with ADHD or autism? This study shares important findings.

The butterfly hug is a simple self-soothing method that can help manage trauma and anxiety. Learn how it works and how to use it.

Study finds that problem-solving is most effective for treating depression in teens and young adults when used on its own. Learn more here.

Social anxiety in teens can influence how they form and handle interpersonal relationships. Learn how to help your teen overcome social anxiety.

Research links poor teen sleep with mental health risks. Here are the findings from Sleep Science and Practice, and tips for parents.

Intermittent explosive disorder in children manifests as physical and verbal violence. Here’s how you can support your child in managing their symptoms.

How does food affect teen mental health? Research shows that mealtime routines matter as much as food choices. Read more here.

ADHD games and activities for kids are a great way to improve their focus, release pent-up energy, and enhance social skills. Here are 20 options you should know.

Explore the best children’s books about friendship to help kids build empathy, kindness, and relationship skills from toddlerhood to preteens.

A new study finds that physical activity improves mental health in children and teens. We’ll break down the key results and share tips to encourage movement.

Young children may need help expressing their feelings. Discover the best books about emotion for kids to aid in their learning process.

Learn about a study showing how MBCT-C outperforms group therapy in lowering anxiety among children and find easy strategies parents can use at home.

Understand the signs and consequences of social media addiction in teens and get expert advice to support their mental health and well-being.

Every parent wants to know: why do kids lie? Learn the reasons behind lying, how to address them, and how to use them as teaching opportunities.

A study asked 10- to 14-year-olds how they deal with stress. Here’s what researchers found, what it means for parents and caregivers.

Unlock your child’s creativity with 20 open-ended toys that inspire pretend play and learning.

What does the frontal lobe do, and how does it affect kids’ behavior, language, and emotions? This research article covers five regions of the frontal lobe.

Understanding the difference between tattling and telling helps children become better problem-solvers. Learn more in this article.

Child therapist, Michael Vallejo, describes simple tips to support a child with social anxiety at school. Explore coping strategies that help your child manage symptoms and build confidence.

Support your child's growth by encouraging flexible thinking. Learn techniques and activities that can boost adaptability and resilience in kids.

A new study links increased screen time to higher myopia risk in young people. Learn which devices are most concerning and what parents can do.

Noticing toddler behavior issues in your child? Learn what behaviors are normal and what might require professional intervention and support.

A study of 12 hospitalized children shows art therapy reduces emotional distress and helps kids feel like artists, not patients. Learn more here.

Learning how to deal with toddler tantrums can be tough. Here’s how to support your child when they experience big emotions.

Research has shown a connection between physical activity and mental health for kids. Learn 7 ways to encourage your child to be more active.

The ADHD brain vs. the normal brain functions differently and can cause learning challenges. Learn how the ADHD brain works so you can support it.

Children who attend preschool and have engaged parents perform better in school, especially in math, according to a study. Find out more.

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy employs mindfulness to reduce stress and depression. Learn how it works.

Here’s how playing sports boosts kids’ emotional health, based on a study of 4,000 children in the Generation R project.

Find 10 of the best children’s books about neurodiversity that promote empathy and inclusion.

Teaching your child to deal with failure can help build their self-esteem and resilience for the future. Learn 4 simple tips from a child therapist.

A study shows that involving kids with disabilities in goal setting is key, but professionals need more guidance and resources. Learn more here.

The anger stage of grief may be difficult to navigate, but with proper support, you can move past it. Read on to learn more about this stage of grief.

A study shows how loneliness, confidence, and social support can influence help-seeking behaviors among students.

Self-regulation strategies for kids can make them more resilient, emotionally intelligent, and better problem-solvers. Learn how to help your child develop self-regulation skills.

Self-validation can help improve a child’s self-esteem and self-confidence. Learn 4 simple strategies to support your child with self-validation.

Discover fun and effective emotional regulation activities for kids to express and manage big feelings.

Hope can protect kids from risky behaviors. Learn what research says and how to build hope.