By: Carolina Cossio, School Psychologist, Director of Evaluations We spend a great deal of time assessing children in schools and clinical settings—but it’s just as important to reflect on how we support and understand the adults who guide them. Teachers play a powerful role in children’s lives. They influence how kids see themselves, how they
The Emotional Impact of Teachers on Children Read More »
By: Michelle Hintz, PsyD As the 2024-2025 school year began in Broward County, South Florida, parents and students alike faced new challenges with the introduction of metal detectors across 38 campuses. The heightened security measures have sparked mixed feelings among the community, with concerns about both safety and the practicality of the new protocols. Broward
When School Safety Measures Affect Student Mental Health Read More »
By: Kyara Ramirez-Guzman, LMHC, NCC & Michelle Hintz, PsyD In today’s fast-paced world, it’s not uncommon for children to have jam-packed schedules. Between school, sports, extracurricular activities, and homework, many young people are busier than ever. While engaging in a variety of activities can be beneficial, there’s a fine line between offering enriching experiences and
Making Room for Rest in Your Child’s Busy Life Read More »
By: Rebecca David-Cusani, LMHC As a child who was emotionally sensitive myself, it was hard to relate to a world that sometimes felt harsh and overwhelming. There were a lot of labels like “too sensitive,” “too emotional,” or being told to “hurry up and get over it.” While those comments were usually meant to help,
Emotional Sensitivity in Children: Understanding Big Feelings and Overwhelm Read More »
By: Michelle Hintz, PsyD One of the most common misunderstandings I encounter as a psychologist is the belief that a child who has a 504 Plan must have been diagnosed with ADHD. Sometimes parents assume it. Sometimes teachers assume it. Occasionally, even healthcare providers reviewing records make that assumption. Yet a 504 Plan, by itself,
A 504 Plan Is Not a Diagnosis Read More »
By: Rebecca David-Cusani, LMHC In the previous discussion about defiance and assertiveness, the focus was on how some behaviors can be misunderstood developmentally. This conversation expands more on what may emotionally exist underneath some oppositional or reactive behaviors, especially in children who experience shame, overwhelm, rejection sensitivity, or chronic correction. Few things activate adults faster
By: Rebecca David-Cusani, MS, RCMHI Parenting can be a real rollercoaster, especially when you’re trying to figure out if your child is just being defiant or setting boundaries. It’s a subtle distinction but understanding it can significantly impact how you guide and respond to your child’s development. Defiance is when your child flat out refuses to
Dealing with Children’s Attitude: A Discussion about Defiance and Assertiveness Read More »
By: Michelle Hintz, PsyD Many adolescents—particularly those who are highly intelligent, emotionally intense, or socially different from their peers—describe feeling profoundly misunderstood. They may say things like: “Nobody gets me.” “I care about people more than they care about me.” “I hate everyone.” “I don’t care anymore.” To adults, these statements can sound dramatic, dismissive,
When “I Hate Everyone” Isn’t Really About Everyone Read More »
By Rebecca David-Cusani, LMHC One day your child is watching cartoons about friendship and teamwork. The next day they are passionately explaining the emotional backstory of a giant blue creature from Rainbow Friends while you stand there holding your coffee wondering how everyone got here. If you are a parent feeling confused, concerned, or slightly