Check out our highlights to see how we’re helping shape conversations about mental health and well-being!

Today’s Parent

Clingy Kid? Here’s How To Deal by Courtney Leiva

Clinginess in young children is a normal developmental phase often rooted in emotional needs, anxiety, or big life changes. Experts recommend establishing consistent routines, setting gentle boundaries, and offering emotional reassurance to help children feel secure and gradually build independence. With patience and support, clinginess typically diminishes as children develop stronger self-regulation skills and trust in their caregivers.

Parents

7 Tips to Make Earlier Wake-Up Times Earlier by Wendy Wisner

Transitioning from a relaxed summer schedule to the demands of the school year can be challenging for older children. Experts recommend establishing consistent morning and evening routines, preparing the night before, and maintaining regular wake-up and bedtime schedules - even on weekends - to support the body's internal clock. Additional strategies include addressing back-to-school anxiety, using visual checklists to build routine familiarity, and integrating practices like gratitude journaling to ease nighttime stress. Experts stress the importance of patience and realistic expectations, recognizing that adjustment can take several weeks. If challenges persist, involving a pediatrician or child psychologist may be beneficial.

Parade

7 Things ‘Emotionally Strong’ Grandparents Do Differently, According to Child Psychologists by Casey Clark

Emotionally strong grandparents foster deep connections by practicing patience, active listening, and offering support without judgment. They avoid overindulgence, encourage resilience by refraining from fixing every problem, and let go of past mistakes to maintain a positive relationship. By setting healthy boundaries and modeling emotional regulation, they create a nurturing environment that strengthens intergenerational bonds.

Crunchy Tales

I Blamed Menopause, But It Was Undiagnosed ADHD by Michela Di Carlo

Many women entering perimenopause or menopause experience intensified ADHD symptoms—such as brain fog, forgetfulness, and emotional overwhelm - that are often mistaken for hormonal changes. Experts explain that declining estrogen levels can disrupt dopamine regulation, exacerbating core ADHD symptoms like focus and emotional control. This overlap leads to late-life ADHD diagnoses in women who previously went undiagnosed, highlighting the need for greater awareness and accurate assessment during midlife transitions.

Good

Hospital buys $20,000 toy to calm child patients. Doctors say it’s worth every penny. By Erik Barnes

Grantham District Hospital in the UK introduced a £15,000 ($20,000) “Kitten Scanner,” a child-sized MRI machine that allows young patients to scan their toys before undergoing their own MRI procedures. This innovative approach has significantly reduced the need for sedation, leading to cost savings of over £150,000 ($160,000) since its implementation. Child psychologists praise the initiative, noting that familiarizing children with medical procedures through play can alleviate fear and promote smoother healthcare experiences.

Hola!

The Truth About Kids’ Screen Time: What Experts Really Want Parents To Know by Shirley Gomez

Experts emphasize that early and excessive screen time can hinder children's development, affecting attention, emotional regulation, and social skills. Recommendations include avoiding screens for children under 18 months, limiting screen time to one hour daily for ages 2 to 5, and ensuring content is age-appropriate and of high quality. It's crucial to balance screen use with real-world interactions and to model healthy screen habits as a family.