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  • How smartphones and social media contribute to depression and anxiety in teens

    I recently celebrated my 10-year anniversary working as a therapist with the Teen Xpress program. I have now spent over a decade counseling teenagers, and in that time clothing styles, technology, politics, methods of learning, even socializing has evolved. In all the ways that the world has changed, though, it seems that nothing has rocked a teen’s world more than the invention of the smart phone and social media. 

  • How smartphones and social media contribute to depression and anxiety in teens

    Social media: Our kids have never known life without smartphones, but has the digital revolution affected their development? 

  • How to select the right mental health counselor for your family

    Counseling can help with mild, day-to-day issues as well as deep-rooted traumas. 

  • 5 Ways Families Can Kick Couch-Time to the Curb and Get Moving

    Like adults, children need regular exercise. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that kids participate in at least one hour of vigorous physical activity a day during most days of the week. Without lots of daily heart-pumping fun, children are at risk of becoming overweight or even obese, which can lead to a host of other health problems. 

  • OCSC Player Shane O’Neill: From Good Mornings to Game-Winning Goals

    Professional athletes know pregame preparation starts well before they step onto the field. From a healthy diet and sleep regimen to a balanced morning ritual, Orlando City Soccer Club player Shane O’Neill has developed some great strategies for game day. It isn’t all about hard work and self-discipline, though. For kids looking to increase their success in sports, O’Neill’s message is a simple one: Relax and enjoy the game.

  • Have You Done These 6 Things to Prepare for a Hurricane?

    Hurricane season has arrived, which means there’s a growing possibility for strong storms. As these storms can affect transportation, businesses, access to basic necessities and more, it’s vital to be prepared. By taking the time now to stock up on supplies, safeguard your home and learn basic emergency protocol, you can safeguard your family from the effects of a natural disaster in the future.

  • How to get your child into the spirit of giving this holiday season

    With the season of giving approaching rapidly, many families are eagerly gathering their children’s Christmas lists to figure out what they want under the Christmas tree. While this is an exciting time for most children, there are sadly others who worry that what they want will not find its way to their homes and many parents who share the concern that Christmas will not be what their family hoped.

  • What every parent needs to know about protecting children from the sun

    During the summer months, I am often asked by parents about sun protection. There are many products and sunscreens available, and it can often be challenging to determine what products are best for your child.

  • How long is it okay for my child to suck on a thumb or pacifier?

    As parents, you may worry about your child sucking his or her thumb or a pacifier, but it’s important to remember that sucking is one of an infant's natural reflexes that they start even in the womb. Infants and young children may also suck on their fingers or other objects because it makes them feel happy and safe, and it helps them to learn and explore their world. It also helps them feel safe during difficult periods, such as when they are separated from their parents or if they are in a new and unfamiliar environment. Sucking may also be relaxing and, for some children, can help them get to sleep. 

  • How to transition your child with a chronic illness into adulthood

    The process of transitioning from a pediatric to an adult healthcare provider is often daunting, especially for children with chronic needs. As a result, parents taking care of children with lifelong illnesses often care for that child into adulthood. Children with asthma, diabetes, or cystic fibrosis, to name of few, require strict medication adherence and consistent follow-up. It is natural for parents to assume full responsibility in managing their child's illness. However, caretakers are encouraged to learn how to empower children to eventually take charge of their own medical care.