The Unraveled Parent

06/26/2026

06/17/2026

How many nights do we spend thanklessly preparing for the next day at 11:15 p.m.? What a gift it is that we teach our children that what we provide should be a “given”.

05/23/2026

During holiday breaks it is easy to slip into total free time and no routine. While it feels like we are liberating our kids, research shows this can lead to anxiety, sleep disruptions, and the loss of a MONTH of academic skills. FEAR NOT! There is no need for an hour to hour routine! Try sticking to these guidelines and remember creative free time is important too!

-Keep Wake-Up and Bedtimes set
-20-30 minutes of reading or math skills
-Engagement, limit screen time and create a “screen time allowance”. Where kids can earn minutes by engaging in outdoor play, creative play, completing weekly skill challenge, and 20-30 minutes of reading or other educational activity.

See the guidelines for screen time according to ages

05/22/2026

As we enter summer months take some time and set some intentions for managing challenging times. Here are some ideas:
Validate Emotions, Limit Behaviors: Acknowledge your child’s feelings ("I hear that you are angry") while holding a clear line on unacceptable actions ("But you cannot hit").

Prioritize "Time-Ins": Rather than isolating a dysregulated child (time-out), stay close and help them co-regulate in the presence of a calm, supportive adult.

Offer Forced Choices: Avoid power struggles by giving limited, acceptable options (e.g., "You can finish your math now or after dinner. Which do you prefer?").

Use Natural & Logical Consequences: Allow your child to experience the natural fallout of their choices when safe, or use logical, immediate consequences that are tied to the behavior.

Rebuild the Connection: Spend 10 to 15 minutes of one-on-one, child-led play daily without giving instructions or critiques. This helps fill their emotional tank and reduces attention-seeking outbursts.

05/18/2026

“The kids who need the most love will ask for it in the most unloving ways.”
– Russell Barkley