The effects of stress on the developing brain

Stress is a normal part of child development. However, toxic stress can increase a child’s risk of developing serious emotional, behavioural, and cognitive difficulties. It can also trigger illness. Let’s take a look at exactly how stress can affect the brain of a child.  What is the brain’s role in managing stress?  The brain is […]

How to help your child cope with divorce

Going through a divorce or separation is difficult for the whole family. But it is often the children that struggle the most to cope with the loss as well as the new changes. Let’s take an in-depth look at the best ways of helping your child cope with divorce, while still being realistic about the situation: […]

What to say to a shy child

The language we use with a shy child becomes their inner voice

In today’s video blog I wanted to chat about the language we use around our children when they are not feeling confident.  I see it happen so often.  A child may be in a public space when her parents and unexpectedly she is confronted with an unfamiliar person, or even someone she knows but hasn’t […]

Secondary Trauma and how it affects children

Secondary trauma can be a hidden trauma and therefore more dangerous

In last week’s video blog we discussed Childhood Trauma and the effects it has on children.  Both in terms of physical and mental health.  This week I wanted to chat to you about Secondary Trauma. What is Secondary Trauma? Let’s perhaps start by first defining primary trauma.  Primary trauma is what happens when children directly […]

Childhood Trauma and it’s effects

MRI studies show that childhood trauma physically alters the brain

Most of us logically and intuitively understand that when children experience trauma, it is likely going to affect them.  But it is not until recently that neurological studies have helped us understand just how devastating and long lasting the impact of childhood trauma can be.   What is childhood trauma? Childhood trauma is defined as […]

How to raise an emotionally intelligent child

Raise an emotionally intelligent child by following these steps

An emotionally intelligent child is far more likely to achieve success in life than a child who struggles to manage his emotions.  Here are some tips on how you can help your child develop his emotional intelligence.   Hear and feel it Acknowledge your child’s feelings and empathise with them, even if you can’t do anything […]

IQ vs. EQ: Which One Is More Important?

The IQ vs EQ debate has been raging in popular media for a while now.  Most of us understand the theory. “Book smarts” and “people smarts” might weigh in differently when it comes to determining success in life, right?  We’ve heard supporters in the EQ corner shout that understanding emotions is way more important that […]

Early Childhood Development and why it is SO important

Early childhood is the ideal time to set your child up for success

Early childhood represents a period of great opportunity.  Probably the greatest throughout the life span.  It’s like being handed a raw diamond and knowing that you can shape it into almost anything. During this time children will develop emotionally, socially, cognitively and physically.  And this will shape the adults that they become. Investing in young […]

Separation Anxiety

How should you deal with separation anxiety? Although it can make life rather difficult for parents, separation anxiety is a normal stage of your child’s development.  It is an indication that your child has formed a secure attachment to you and feels happy and safe when they’re with you. Being separated from you for short […]

5 negative emotions your child needs to experience

Boredom is one of the negative emotions your child needs to experience

Everybody loves the positive emotions, right?! Bring on happiness, joy, pride and love by the truck full.  But negative emotions make us feel uncomfortable and often, we do our utter best to avoid them. Yet, negative emotions are important. We probably all agree that people who are able to control their emotions navigate the difficulties […]