Signs your child is passionate about a sport can often be seen in the number of hours they spend playing, watching or talking about it. When this passion turns into an unrealistic drive to perfect their game – throwing a no hitter every game or sticking the landing at every competition – parents should help […]
Behavioral health nurses support patients and families through mental health crises
For Stephanie Ogden, clinical coordinator of the inpatient behavioral health unit in Akron, and Sara Zingaro, staff nurse in the partial hospitalization (PHP) and intensive outpatient program in the Mahoning Valley, caring for kids in crisis is a calling. “I fell in love with adolescent behavioral health after my mental health rotation in nursing school,” […]
Why kids want the last word
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 Hospital, reminds parents that if […]
Envelop your kids in love this Valentine’s Day, and every day
Helping your child feel loved is one of the most important initiatives of parenthood. Dr. Laura Gerak, a pediatric psychologist at Akron Children’s Hospital, shared insight on how to make sure children feel secure and valued. Finding one-on-one time to spend together Dr. Gerak recommends parents reserve time each week when they can be attentive […]
Family says counseling, open communication key to strong mental health
For Cohen Pierce, it was triggered by the transition to middle school. For his younger sister Lila, it was most apparent the morning of test days. The “its” in both cases were mental health concerns. Cohen’s depression manifested as changes in his personality. He went from his normal happy-go-lucky self to feeling down and negative […]
Is it ADHD or is it remote learning?
Remote learning has brought out the best and worst in many of us this past year – I can’t focus in this house. Where’s the mute button! – as parents became teachers and kids became virtual students. At the start, there were some tears and frustration as everyone adjusted but now, a year later, some […]
