Jonathan Haidt, author of The Anxious Generation contends that there is ample evidence that a causal link exists between social media and the increased levels of anxiety and depression experienced by US teenagers. In a new review of the research, Haidt cites Meta’s own internal reporting that “teens blame Instagram for an increase in the rates of anxiety and depression among teens”.

Click here to download the pdf for “Tips to Promote Social-Emotional Health Among Young Children”

These helpful “Tips to Promote Social-Emotional Health Among Young Children” were developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics for National Children’s Mental Health Day. (And, for more information about National Children’s Mental Health Day, visit: samhsa.gov)

Here’s a wonderful guide to starting challenging conversations with your teen about healthy and unhealthy relationships.

Download the “Start the Conversation” guide from One Love Foundation.

Supporting teens as they navigate relationships can feel complicated, but parents and caregivers don’t have to figure it out alone. This guide offers practical tools to help you talk with your teen about healthy and unhealthy relationships, recognize potential warning signs, and know what to do if concerns arise. From conversations about online safety and friendships to preparing for dating, you’ll find the information and strategies you need to approach these topics with confidence and care.

Disconnect 2 Reconnect is a Westchester County initiative, hosted by the Westchester Library System.

The premise behind Disconnect 2 Reconnect is to encourage play and parent-child interaction as an alternative to screen time.

The Disconnect 2 Reconnect monthly newsletter shares local information, resources and opportunities for families to explore, play, and connect. Subscribe at Disconnect 2 Reconnect

Dr Becky Kennedy is a clinical psychologist and mom of three, who realized that traditional reward-and-punishment parenting practice were often ineffective and frequently felt awful — for both kids and parents.

Dr Becky “combines attachment theory, mindfulness, emotion regulation, and internal family systems theory, and translates those ideas into a new method for working with parents.”

Check out this great interview, “Kids (And Employees) Know More Than You Think with Dr. Becky Kennedy” with leadership expert, Simon Sinek, on his podcast, A Bit of Optimism. Simon and Dr. Kennedy discuss the deep parallels between effective parenting and good workplace leadership.

We really appreciate the concept of “sturdy leadership”!

As a psychologist and father, himself, Dr Dave Anderson of Childmind Institute does a great job of exploring a wide range of topics relevant to the challenges facing parents today — from managing screen time, to promoting good behavior, addressing mental health concerns, and preparing for summer camp.

In this recording titled “Q&A: Filling Your Cup Without Guilt” Dr. Anderson has a conversation with Dr. Joanna Kiman, Associate Professor of Psychology at Arizona State University, talking about parenting stress, and why taking care of yourself is so important.

We found this article Helping Young Children Who Are Socially Anxious, by Katherine Martinelli of ChildMind.org, to be relevant for many families we are working with.

Here’s an excerpt:

“For many kids, adjusting to social situations — whether it is a birthday party or a play date — can be challenging, even if they want to be there. Big groups of kids can be intimidating for even the most outgoing child, so for those who are sensitive or prone to anxiety it can make for a rocky transition.”

Here’s the link to the full article

We hope that this article is helpful.

In 2024 the U.S. Surgeon General released “Parents Under Pressure”, an advisory on the mental health and well-being of parents.

This report highlights the stressors that impact parents and caregivers, the critical link between parental mental health and children’s long-term well-being, and the urgent need to better support parents, caregivers, and families.

You can download the report from this link:  Parents Under Pressure: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Mental Health and Well-Being of Parents