Journal topic

Parenting & Families

34 entries from the Haven Journal on parenting & families.

A teenage girl packs her younger brother's lunch and helps him with his backpack while their mother sits exhausted on the sofa behind them. Journal 113

Parenting & Families · June 21, 2026

When Kids Become the Caregivers: Understanding Parentification and Its Lasting Impact

Some children grow up being described as “so mature for their age.” They’re the helpers.

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A child lies on a living room floor staring at the ceiling while toys and art supplies sit unused nearby. Journal 110

Parenting & Families · May 31, 2026

When Your Child Says “I’m Bored”: Why It’s Actually a Good Thing

“I’m bored.” It’s a phrase most parents hear often—especially during weekends, school breaks, or summer months.

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A mother sits on the floor beside her upset daughter with a hand on her back, listening rather than talking. Journal 108

Parenting & Families · May 17, 2026

Why “Calm Down” Doesn’t Work (and What to Say Instead)

“Calm down.” It’s one of the most common phrases we use when someone—especially a child—is upset.

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Two siblings pull on the same stuffed toy in a bedroom while a parent arrives through the doorway. Journal 102

Parenting & Families · April 5, 2026

Navigating the Challenges of Sibling Rivalry in a Healthy Way

Sibling rivalry is a natural part of family dynamics, but when left unchecked, it can create tension and disrupt harmony at home.

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A teenage girl sits on her bed absorbed in her phone while her mother watches with concern from the doorway. Journal 100

Parenting & Families · March 22, 2026

The Impact of Social Media on Teen Self- Esteem and How to Help

In today’s digital age, social media is a powerful force in shaping the way teenagers see themselves and the world around them.

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A father crouches to speak with his young son in a living room, gesturing as he explains something calmly. Journal 98

Parenting & Families · March 8, 2026

The Importance of Setting Boundaries for a Healthy Parent-Child Relationship

Parenting is a delicate balance between nurturing your child and guiding them toward independence.

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A father stands beside his daughter at a bathroom mirror as she speaks to her reflection during a morning routine. Journal 96

Parenting & Families · February 22, 2026

The Power of Positive Affirmations for Children’s Mental Health

As parents and caregivers, we play a crucial role in shaping how children view themselves and the world around them.

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A father calmly guides two children through a conflict over a stuffed animal in a softly lit playroom. Journal 94

Parenting & Families · February 8, 2026

Teaching Kids to Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms for Stress

Stress is a natural part of life, and it doesn’t only affect adults—kids experience stress too.

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Two parents lean in on either side of their daughter at a table, helping her with homework and drawing. Journal 90

Parenting & Families · January 11, 2026

Everyday Moments That Build Emotionally Intelligent Kids

Emotional intelligence (EI) is a vital skill that helps children navigate the complexities of their emotions, build healthy relationships, and make thoughtful decisions.

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A child wearing large headphones stands in a grocery aisle while a parent crouches beside them. Journal 85

Parenting & Families · December 14, 2025

Understanding and Supporting Kids with Sensory Processing Challenges

Every child experiences the world in their own unique way. For some children, the world can feel overwhelming due to sensory processing challenges.

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A family of four talk and laugh around a dinner table set with shared bowls of food. Journal 79

Parenting & Families · November 2, 2025

The Hidden Benefits of Family Mealtime for Mental Health

In today’s fast-paced world, sitting down together for a family meal can feel like a challenge.

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A young boy sits on a bedroom rug rebuilding a wooden model that has just fallen apart, surrounded by its scattered pieces. Journal 77

Parenting & Families · October 19, 2025

Raising Resilient Kids: Teaching Problem-Solving and Adaptability

In a world that’s constantly evolving, resilience is one of the most valuable skills a child can develop.

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A teenage girl sits confidently on a campus lawn with a notebook, books, and backpack while groups of other students gather in the background. Journal 71

Parenting & Families · September 14, 2025

Helping Teens Navigate Peer Pressure and Build Confidence

The teenage years are a time of exploration, growth, and identity formation.

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A school-age boy sits at a table with his hands folded, waiting in front of a single frosted cupcake on a plate. Journal 70

Parenting & Families · September 7, 2025

Delayed Gratification vs. Immediate Gratification: Lessons from the Marshmallow Test

In a world filled with instant gratification—think online shopping, streaming services, and same-day delivery—it can be challenging to practice patience and wait for rewards.

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An older couple sits together at a dining table beside an open doorway into a quiet bedroom. Journal 68

Parenting & Families · August 24, 2025

Life After the Nest: Navigating the Emotional Journey of Empty Nesting

The transition to an empty nest, when grown children leave home to pursue college, careers, or other opportunities, is a significant life milestone for parents.

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A young adult works at a desk, writing on papers with one hand while turning a blue fidget cube in the other. Journal 66

Parenting & Families · August 10, 2025

Focus in Motion: How Fidget Toys Empower ADHD Management

For individuals with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), maintaining focus, managing restlessness, and channeling energy can be significant challenges.

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A child wearing a backpack waits at a suburban bus stop on the first morning of school while a parent stands a few steps back and the school bus approaches. Journal 65

Parenting & Families · August 3, 2025

From Summer to School: Helping Kids Transition with Confidence

The start of a new school year is an exciting time for many children, but it can also bring anxiety, stress, and adjustment challenges.

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A child sits on the floor looking at a tablet while books, blocks, and art supplies remain untouched around them. Journal 64

Parenting & Families · July 27, 2025

Breaking the Cycle: Understanding Boredom Proneness in Kids

In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, it’s no surprise that kids are experiencing boredom in new and troubling ways.

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A girl at a table looks unhappily at her own drawing, one hand hovering over the paper as she decides whether to start again. Journal 63

Parenting & Families · July 20, 2025

Progress Over Perfection: Supporting Children Who Struggle with High Expectations

Perfectionism in children can be a double-edged sword. While striving for excellence is admirable, an intense fear of failure or the need to always be perfect can lead to

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A child tapes a cardboard moving box in a partly packed bedroom while a parent watches from the doorway. Journal 61

Parenting & Families · July 6, 2025

Preparing Kids for Change: Moving, New Schools, and Major Life Transitions

Change is an inevitable part of life, but for children, transitions such as moving to a new home, starting a new school, or navigating major life events can feel overwhelming.

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A caregiver kneels beside a distressed child on a coastal path, offering a steady hand and quiet reassurance. Journal 59

Parenting & Families · June 22, 2025

Raising Emotionally Resilient Kids: A Guide to Building Regulation Skills

Emotional regulation—the ability to manage and respond to emotions in a healthy way—is a cornerstone of a child’s emotional and social development.

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A father carrying a rolled exercise mat walks hand in hand with a child along a park path at sunset. Journal 57

Parenting & Families · June 15, 2025

Celebrating Fathers: Strength, Support, and Self-Care

Father’s Day is a time to honor the incredible role that fathers and father figures play in our lives.

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Two parents sit at a kitchen table talking with their preteen daughter, who rests her chin on her hand. Journal 55

Parenting & Families · June 8, 2025

Parenting During the Challenging Preteen Years

Parenting is a rewarding yet complex journey, and the preteen years often come with their own set of challenges.

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A teenager listens to music through large over-ear headphones while relaxing in a chair at home. Journal 53

Parenting & Families · June 1, 2025

Finding Their Rhythm: How Music Helps Kids and Teens Regulate Emotions

Music has an incredible ability to evoke, express, and process emotions, making it a powerful tool for kids and teens to navigate the complexities of growing up.

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Five children run, stretch and balance together on a sunlit path beside a playground. Journal 48

Parenting & Families · May 14, 2025

The Link Between Physical Activity and Mental Health in Kids

In today’s digital age, children are spending more time on screens and less time being active.

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A middle-aged mother rests one hand over her heart in a flower-filled garden, pausing with a peaceful expression in warm daylight. Journal 47

Parenting & Families · May 11, 2025

Honoring Mothers: A Tribute to Love, Resilience, and Self-Care

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the extraordinary role that mothers play in our lives.

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A multigenerational group of adults from varied backgrounds share a warm outdoor conversation in a coastal garden. Journal 43

Parenting & Families · May 1, 2025

Mental Health Awareness Month: Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and fostering understanding about mental health issues.

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A mother gives her son a thumbs up as he writes in a notebook at the kitchen table. Journal 41

Parenting & Families · April 27, 2025

The Power of Praising Efforts in Children

As parents and caregivers, we all want to encourage and motivate children to reach their full potential.

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A father relaxes on a flower-filled porch while another caregiver and two children spend time together nearby in the evening light. Journal 36

Parenting & Families · April 9, 2025

Bringing Families Together: Tips for a Harmonious Blended Household

Blended families, also known as stepfamilies, bring unique opportunities for love and connection, but they can also present challenges as new relationships form and old dynamics shift.

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A clinician sits at a desk in a sunlit office making a serious phone call. Journal 31

Parenting & Families · March 23, 2025

Protecting Vulnerable Lives: The Critical Role of Mandated Reporters

Therapists play a critical role in supporting the mental health and well-being of their clients.

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An elderly mother and her adult daughter sit closely together on a sofa, smiling and sharing a warm moment. Journal 27

Parenting & Families · March 9, 2025

Balancing Care and Self: Navigating Caregiving for Aging Parents

Caring for aging parents is a deeply meaningful responsibility, but it often comes with significant emotional and mental health challenges.

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A parent works on a laptop at the kitchen table while her child draws beside her in the same shared space. Journal 23

Parenting & Families · February 23, 2025

Balancing Work and Parenting – A Guide to Finding Harmony

At Haven Psychology Group, we understand the challenges of wearing multiple hats as a working parent.

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A father guides two children as they work through a disagreement over a stuffed toy in a softly lit playroom. Journal 15

Parenting & Families · January 26, 2025

Decoding Birth Order: How Family Roles Shape Who We Are

Does your birth order influence who you are? Whether you’re the responsible firstborn, the adaptable middle child, the free-spirited youngest, or the self-sufficient only

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A tired young soccer player kneels on the field beside a ball and water bottle during practice. Journal 11

Parenting & Families · January 8, 2025

The Impact of Overscheduling Children: Finding Balance in a Busy World

Today’s children and teens are busier than ever, juggling school, sports, music lessons, tutoring, and other extracurricular activities.

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