Dr. Jennifer Gordon/ J. Gordon Psychology

08/14/2026

08/09/2026

It’s that time of year again!

Many children are starting to experience anticipatory worry and uncertainty about the upcoming school year.
We are here to help support this transition for your child.

QUICK TIPS

1. Start the Routine Early.

Gradually return to regular bedtimes, wake-up times, meals, and morning routines before school begins.

2. Talk About Their Feelings

Give your child space to share their worries without dismissing them. Listen and remind them that feeling nervous is normal and that they are not alone (e.g., they have you and their teacher to help them through).

3. Focus on What They Can Control

Help your child prepare their backpack, choose an outfit, or organize school supplies. Small choices can give them a greater sense of control.

4. Visit the School Beforehand

Walk through the school, locate their classroom, and meet their teacher. Familiarity can make the first day feel less overwhelming.

5. Practice the First Day

Role-play common situations, such as saying goodbye, asking their friend to play, or asking the teacher for help. Knowing what to expect can reduce uncertainty.

6. Keep Goodbyes Positive and Predictable

Create a short, consistent goodbye routine (e.g., a special hug or handshake sequence). A calm, reassuring farewell will also help your child feel secure without making the separation feel longer or larger than it needs to be.

7. Offer Supportive Statements

Supportive statements combine validation of your child’s feelings with your confidence in their ability to cope (e.g., “I know you feel anxious about the first day, and I’m confident that you can handle it”). These statements help to facilitate independence rather than avoidance.

8. Know When to Seek Extra Support

Some anxiety is normal, but persistent or intense worries that interfere with sleep, school attendance, or daily activities may need additional therapy or school support.

Our team at J. Gordon Psychology Group is pediatric-focused and specializes in evidence-based interventions for anxiety.

Whether you think your child would benefit from just a wellness check-in to discuss a coping plan, or if they need more extensive, wrap-around supports for anxiety management, we are here to help.

How we can Support:

- Child therapy sessions to support regulation and coping skills.

-Parent coaching to support anxiety management at home.

-Collaborating with schools to offer classroom strategies.

-Social-emotional assessments to clarify difficulties and to provide more formal school recommendations.

To inquire further or to book an appointment: [email protected]

07/20/2026

What Does an ADHD Assessment Actually Tell You? A Guide for Edmonton Parents and Caregivers

For children, teens, and adults, understanding the “why” behind attention, organization, and executive functioning challenges is often the first step toward greater confidence, improved performance, and better overall well-being.
Whether you’re seeking answers for yourself or your child, a professional ADHD assessment can provide the clarity needed to move forward with confidence and an individualized plan for success.

If you’ve been wondering whether an ADHD assessment is worth pursuing, you’re not alone. Many families and adults in Edmonton begin looking into an assessment after months-or even years-of struggling with attention, organization, emotional regulation, or school and workplace challenges. One of t...

07/13/2026

For many families, getting a child ready for school can be challenging from time to time. However, when a child consistently refuses to attend school, experiences significant distress before the school day, or regularly asks to stay home, it may be a sign of a larger issue known as school refusal.

At J. Gordon Psychology Group, we support children, teens, and families throughout Edmonton and Alberta who are struggling with anxiety, school avoidance, emotional regulation, and other mental health concerns. Through evidence-based assessment and therapy, we help families develop practical strategies that promote confidence, well-being, and long-term success.

Learn about school refusal, school anxiety, and how Edmonton parents can support their child. J. Gordon Psychology Group provides compassionate child psychology services in Edmonton.

06/29/2026

The Hidden Signs of Burnout in Parents

Burn out is often not a dramatic collapse or obvious crisis. It is quiet, insidious, and far too easy to dismiss as “just a tough season.” Parents—especially those raising young children—carry immense emotional, logistical, and mental loads. When these demands outpace our resources for too long, burnout settles in. Unfortunately, we too often normalize this and continue to try and push through, hiding the struggle behind capable smiles.

Learn the hidden signs of parent burnout, why it happens, and practical strategies to reduce stress and restore emotional well-being.

06/29/2026

Office Helper. ♥️

06/17/2026

Why Does My Child Worry So Much? Understanding Childhood Anxiety by Age

https://jgordonpsychology.com/why-does-my-child-worry-so-much-understanding-childhood-anxiety-by-age/

Is Childhood Anxiety Normal?

Anxiety is a normal human emotion that helps keep us safe. Children are constantly learning about the world around them, and with each developmental stage comes new challenges, experiences, and fears. In many cases, worries are age-appropriate and temporary. However, anxiety can become problematic when it is persistent, excessive, or begins interfering with a child’s daily life, relationships, school performance, or participation in activities.

Learn how childhood anxiety shows up at different ages and when to seek support for your child’s worries and fears.