Assumptions are Bad Maps: Especially in Parenting
TI missed the oldest street sign in the world. Here’s why that matters.
On a recent outing, my navigation app noted that I was near the oldest street sign in the world. Intrigued, I wandered a narrow, hand-cut stone street, scanning walls and posts for what I assumed a sign should look like—hanging overhead, mounted on a pole, marked with arrows.
My blue dot said I’d arrived.
Yet I walked past it again and again.
Only when I stopped looking for what I expected did I see it:
a small stone plaque, quietly embedded in the wall.
The Power of Visual Schedule
Getting out the door in the morning to get to school on time, getting to activities on time, and getting to bed on time are among the frequent friction points parents struggle with. At these moments, you default to reminding them repeatedly, which can feel like nagging. As you do this, it doesn't feel good to you and your child and doesn't help them to learn to manage themselves. Using tools like visual schedules and checklists can make a big difference for your child. Let's explore why these tools are necessary and how they can help you and your child.
Helpful Hints for ADHD: The Power of Body Doubling
As a parent of a child with ADHD, you know the struggles of getting them to focus and get things done. You may or may not have heard of a strategy called body doubling. Working alongside another person while doing a task can be helpful. It can make a big difference in helping them concentrate and stay motivated. Let’s dive into what body doubling is, its benefits, and some easy tips on how to use it with your child!
What is Behind the Rigidty in Your Child
It often comes to mind when I am working with parents. How do we as parents manage our child’s struggles? When is it the right time to intervene? Some children are vocal and demanding which may drive a parent to take action and to resolve the problem too quickly. However, there is often a cost in the long run in that this response can teach children the lesson that if they scream loud enough, someone else will fix it for them. This interferes with children’s efforts to figure out how to solve their own struggles and move beyond their “stuck” spots…