Having the last word is a common desire for children and adults alike. For children, it’s often an effort to exert control in a situation where they feel they don’t have control. Parents, however, may see this behavior as defiance or disrespectful. Geoffrey Putt, PsyD, pediatric psychologist at Akron Children’s, reminds parents that if children […]
8 tips for a great start to the school year
After a summer of sleeping in and doing things on their own time, going back to school can be a rude awakening for your teen. Whether they’re an anxious freshman or a confident senior, heading back to school is a time of transition – from new teachers and classes to a new routine and social […]
Signs your teen is being cyberbullied and what you can do about it
It’s tough to experience the joys of childhood when a child is being bullied online. Child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Sumru Bilge-Johnson has a message for parents: “Get involved. You really need to know what your kids are doing online.”
How can dads bond with baby, too?
We often hear about the many benefits of mom and baby bonding. That intense attachment between mom and baby fosters a sense of security, promotes positive self-esteem and models a healthy relationship for baby. So much of the focus on baby bonding tends to be placed on mom, but what about dads? Are the benefits […]
Is your child obsessed with their looks?
How kids think and feel about themselves begins at a young age. It’s not easy to combat the negative effects of a media culture obsessed with beauty and body image, but parents can help by not overemphasizing looks at home. According to Dr. Crystal Cole of the Division of Adolescent Medicine at Akron Children’s parents should […]
How to talk to your children when news is scary
Recent natural disasters, mass shootings and international conflicts in the news can have a profound effect on kids. Mental health experts at Akron Children’s offer these tips to help parents handle these difficult conversations and provide reassurance.