Anthony J. Shacar, Clinical Psychologist

08/18/2026

Want a healthier society? Start earlier.

Long before someone enters school, joins the workforce, or votes, their brain is growing at an incredible pace. The experiences they have in the first three years help shape their health, learning, relationships, and well-being for years to come.

When we invest in babies and the people who care for them, we're investing in our collective future.

Because healthy societies don't start in adulthood. They start in infancy. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4txHq4n

08/17/2026

08/17/2026

Can you relate? I can!

Eternally grateful to Magda Ge**er for her wisdom ✨✨✨

08/14/2026

Neural Nugget: Between 0–3 years old, a child’s brain forms over 1 million neural connections per second. This time in life is the most pivotal, and also the most vulnerable for brain development. Early experiences shape cognitive development in early childhood.

We’ve made the science of baby brain development accessible for all. The Baby Brain Map is your interactive guide to early brain science. Start exploring now and help lay the foundation for healthy growth: https://bit.ly/4w3j4jg

08/14/2026

Children learn who we are, not what we say.

✨ Mark your calendars! ✨

RIE Foundations: Theory & Observation

🗓Sept 5 – Oct 10 Saturdays with Jill Getto Lee

⏰ 9 am – 4 pm PST

💻 Online

08/14/2026

Toddlers are still learning how to communicate, so their behavior often speaks louder than their words. Between ages 1 and 3, they're learning to express emotions, test boundaries, explore their world, and become more independent. That's why it's completely normal to see:

- Frequent use of the word "no"
- Big reactions to changes in routine
- Tantrums when they're tired, overwhelmed, or can't express what they need
- Clinginess during separation or in new situations
- Defiance as they learn where the boundaries are

These behaviors aren't signs that something is wrong. They're part of healthy brain development.

Explore the Baby Brain Map, our interactive guide to the science of early brain development, and discover how everyday moments help build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and well-being: https://bit.ly/4w3j4jg

06/24/2026

Play is a biological need, not a luxury.

When we protect time for free play, we protect a child’s spirit — and their ability to think, create, and grow.

✨✨ Mark your calendars! ✨

RIE Foundations: Theory and Observation with Ruth Anne Hammond
🗓 July 10-13 (in person) plus three Wednesdays online
⏰ 9:00AM-5:00 PM PT

We’d love to welcome you - whether you’re just learning about RIE or already part of our community 🤍

06/14/2026

One day, we’ll look back and wonder
why the most important work - parenting,
was ever treated as anything less.

The future grows
in the hands of those who parent.

✨✨ Mark your calendars! ✨

1. Q&A workshop: Curious about co-op preschools? with Jocelyn Robertson
🗓 June 12 (in person) & June 16 (online)
⏰ 7:00-8:30 pm PT

2. Before Baby™ Course (Hybrid ) with Ida Reid
🗓 June 13 -15
⏰ Friday 5:30 – 7:30 pm (Online)
Saturday 3 – 7 pm (In Person Hollywood)
Sunday 10 am – 3 pm (Online)

3. Open House (in Pasadena) with Kira Solomatova
Come visit our space, meet us, and experience the environment in person.
🗓 Sunday, June 14
⏰ 3:30 – 5:00 PM

4. RIE Foundations: Theory and Observation with Ruth Anne Hammond
🗓 July 10-13 (in person) plus three Wednesdays online
⏰ 9:00 AM-5:00 PM PT

We’d love to welcome you - whether you’re just learning about RIE or already part of our community 🤍




**er

04/25/2026

Private equity companies are turning autism treatment into a multi-billion dollar industry, sold as behavior management. Many providers (myself included) believe that autism is not a behavior to manage, but a neurodivergent brain that should be appreciated, accommodated, and nurtured.