Archive for: Parenting

Written by Teresa Salzillo, Occupational Therapist

One of the most exciting activities for a child during the warmer months is learning how to ride a bike. It can bring a sense of accomplishment and also encourages outdoor fun and physical activity. While for some children this skill might be mastered overnight, for others it might be quite challenging. In this article, we share some of the basics of biking and how you can help your child become more confident with this new skill!

What Are The Benefits of Biking?

• Child Development: Riding a bike helps children develop important skills that contribute to their strength, endurance, cognitive growth, and overall health. It also fosters confidence and a sense of independence, enabling them to master and take on new skills.  
• Social Development: Riding a bike offers children a chance to enhance their social skills. Participating in activities that others enjoy can strengthen connections, foster friendships and promote positive social interactions. 
• Mental Health: Mastering a new skill can boost your child’s confidence, focus, and independence, while also fostering a sense of accountability and responsibility. Riding a bike also helps to promote regulation as it is providing the child with vestibular (movement) input. If a child is not regulated, then learning a novel activity might be difficult as they are unable to access their higher level skills. 
• Physical Health: Biking is a great way to get outside, build stamina and improve balance and gross motor coordination. The skills learned in biking can be carried over into other sports and activities as well. 

The Skills Required for Biking

While riding a bike might look simple to some people, there are actually many different skills that are required in order to be able to ride successfully. 

Biking requires:

• core strength
• balance
• coordination
• motor planning skills
• endurance 
• hand strength
• sustained attention 
• visual awareness
• safety awareness 

When a child is learning how to ride, it is important to look at all these skills to see where a child may need more assistance. 

Six Steps to Teach Your Child How to Ride A Bike

It can be totally normal for a child to be resistant to a task that is challenging to them. 

Here are six steps to help get your child on the bike and riding:

1. Getting your child comfortable: Have your child engage in fun activities involving their bikes such as decorating their bike and helmet with stickers, pipe cleaners or colorful tape as a way to help a child be more motivated to use the bike.
2. Sitting on the bike: Just sitting on the bike helps the child to develop a sense of how heavy the bike is as well as practice swaying side to side to work on being able to right themselves. The preparation piece is a key factor in order to promote success and confidence with biking. 
3. Scooting: Scooting is when a child sits on the bike with their feet flat on the ground, pushing off one foot at a time. This activity helps children familiarize themselves with the bike and develop balance as they adjust to using their new equipment. While scooting, there are many fun games children can play such as “red light, green light,” and a scavenger hunt outside. These many games can help a child be motivated and encouraged to learn more skills with biking.
4. Gliding: Once scooting is mastered, the next step is gliding! Gliding occurs when a child pushes off with both feet and lifts their legs up, balancing for as long as it’s safe. Once gliding off two feet is mastered, we recommend gliding on one foot, having one foot on the pedal and the other foot propelling off the floor. Off they go!!
5. Steering and turning: While working on scooting and gliding, a child is also learning the dynamics of the handlebars and working on being able to maintain upright posture while turning the bike. During this phase, they learn the dynamics of using the handlebars, including how much force and the correct angles required to turn safely and efficiently. Placing cones around the driveway or park can help the child to learn how to maneuver the bike while scooting/gliding.
6. Pedaling and braking: The last step to learning how to ride a bike is pedaling and braking. Learning the motion of pedaling can be difficult for children who struggle with bilateral coordination and being able to complete two activities at once. It is important for the child to first learn where to locate their brakes (either on handlebar or foot brakes). Braking consists of timing and safety and understanding how far in advance a child needs to brake prior to coming up to an object/hazard on the sidewalk while biking. Pedaling and braking might take a few tries before the child is independently biking, continue to praise them for trying a new skill to help them feel confident and motivated!

Key Takeaways

• Biking helps to build your child’s confidence, foster positive social skills, as well as develops strength and gross motor skills. 
• Biking requires a combination of core strength, balance, coordination, visual awareness, and motor planning
• Biking consists of 6 steps: getting comfortable with the bike, sitting on the bike, scooting, gliding, steering/turning and pedaling/braking.
• Make sure your child is aware of safety rules when biking: wearing a helmet, only bike in parent approved area, bike on sidewalks.

Does your child need help riding a bike? We can help!

Here at Sasco River Center, our occupational therapists offer private biking lessons at our office in Darien, Connecticut for children of all ages to build not only the skills for biking but also the confidence needed to be a successful rider.

Resources:

Cherng, R. J., Chen, J. J., & Su, F. C. (2001). Vestibular System in Performance of Standing Balance of Children and Young Adults under Altered Sensory Conditions. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 92(3_suppl), 1167–1179. https://doi.org/10.2466/pms.2001.92.3c.1167

https://theinspiredtreehouse.com/child-development-learning-ride-bike/ 

https://www.twentyonesenses.org/2020/04/09/teaching-your-sensory-sensitive-child-to-ride-a-bike/ 

https://www.twowheelingtots.com/how-to-ride-a-balance-bike/ 

https://www.twowheelingtots.com/how-to-teach-a-child-to-ride-a-bike/ 

https://chicagooccupationaltherapy.com/articles/teaching-your-child-to-ride-a-bike-tips-from-chicago-occupational-therapy/ 

https://www.chatterblock.com/articles/321667754/at-home-bike-games-and-activities/ 

Written by Christopher Bogart, PhD

Getting your kid to clean their room, do their homework, or simply stay organized is something most every parent faces. What you want to avoid is having these moments become conflict flash points that sometimes have an unwanted lasting effect on your child.  Instead, start by understanding that these are capabilities that can be developed! Some kids develop them more quickly and more easily, and others really do have a harder time and take longer. 

The good news is that you can take concrete steps that help your child develop and build what is known as executive functions. Following the right path to developing these skills will be better for your relationship with your child, better for your family, and have a positive impact on your child and teen.

These brain-based abilities impact nearly every aspect of a child’s life—from school performance and friendships to basic organization and independence. And understanding how executive functions develop (and how we can support them) is a game-changer for parents and teachers alike.

What Are Executive Functions?

Executive functions (EF) are the mental processes that help us plan, focus, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks. These skills act as the brain’s “coach” or “conductor,” helping us stop and think before we act, regulate our emotions, shift between ideas, and finish what we start.

Everyone has executive functions. And we all need them to accomplish any life task. And they’re not just important for academic success—they’re essential for emotional well-being, decision-making, and the ability to thrive in everyday life.

Executive Function Skills Develop Over Time

One of the most important things to know? Executive functions don’t fully mature until late into your twenties. Yes, you read that right. These are long-game skills. In early childhood, kids begin developing basic EF skills like impulse control and emotional regulation. As they grow, they build on those foundations with abilities like:

• Task initiation and organization (elementary school)
• Time management, planning, and working memory (middle and high school)
• Goal-setting, metacognition, flexibility, and self-monitoring (high school and beyond)

That’s why it’s completely developmentally appropriate for a 10-year-old to need reminders to pack their backpack, and for a teenager to struggle with managing their time or staying focused. These skills are still under construction.

How Stress and Anxiety Hijack Executive Functions

Here’s where things get tricky. When a child is under stress—whether it’s test anxiety, social pressures, or problems at home—their “fight or flight” response kicks in. The brain floods with cortisol, which can shut down the prefrontal cortex (the part responsible for executive functions).

This makes it much harder to concentrate, plan, control impulses, or regulate emotions. A child who is anxious may look like they’re being forgetful, lazy, or oppositional—but what’s really happening is that their brain is in survival mode.

In short: kids need to feel emotionally safe in order to access their executive functions.

Supporting Executive Functions at Home and School

The good news is that executive function skills can be taught, coached, and practiced. Like any muscle, they get stronger with use. Here are some simple, powerful ways to support children’s executive functioning:

1. Create Predictable Routines

Daily structure helps reduce anxiety and frees up cognitive energy for learning. Consistent wake-up times, meal schedules, homework periods, and bedtimes provide a sense of control and safety.

2. Use Thoughtful Language

Instead of giving commands, try prompts that build metacognition:

• “What’s your plan?”
• “How will you know when you’re done?”
• “What can you say to yourself while you’re working on this?”

These encourage kids to think about their own thinking—an essential EF skill.

3. Break Tasks Into Steps

Multistep directions can overwhelm kids with EF challenges. Use visual checklists or short, step-by-step instructions to make tasks more manageable.

4. Support Emotional Regulation

Teach kids to name their feelings, take deep breaths, and use calming strategies. When emotions are in check, executive functions can kick in.

5. Encourage Sleep, Exercise, and Play

Sleep deprivation is one of the biggest enemies of EF. Kids need rest, movement, and unstructured play to recharge and build resilience.

6. Model Flexibility and Self-Control

Children learn by watching us. When we show calm in chaos, shift gears gracefully, or laugh at mistakes, we’re showing them how to do the same.

The Takeaway: Enduring Success is Built Patiently

Executive function development takes time—lots of it. It requires patience, repetition, and a long-term perspective. But with the right support, children can build the skills they need to thrive. By creating emotionally safe environments, encouraging self-reflection, and offering consistent structure, we help kids not only manage the challenges of childhood—but grow into adaptable, organized, and self-regulated adults.

Ready to Enhance Executive Functioning Skills?

At Sasco River Center, we specialize in empowering individuals to develop essential executive functioning skills—such as task initiation, organization, and time management. Our dedicated team offers personalized coaching and support for children, teens, college students, and adults facing challenges in these areas.

With convenient clinic locations in Darien, Stamford, and Wilton, Connecticut, we’re here to support your journey toward improved focus and independence. Prefer the comfort of your home? Our telehealth services ensure you can access our expertise from anywhere.​

Reviewed by Joseph Demers, PhD, Licensed Psychologist

It’s natural for children to feel a little nervous in social situations—meeting new people, speaking in front of a class, or trying a new activity can be intimidating. Many kids take time to warm up to new environments, and some are naturally more reserved than others. But when does normal shyness cross into something more concerning?

For some children, anxiety disorders (such as social anxiety disorder, selective mutism, generalized anxiety disorder, or an adjustment disorder) go beyond simple shyness. They can make everyday interactions feel overwhelming, leading to distress, avoidance, and difficulty forming relationships. Anxiety in children can be hard to recognize, especially because kids often struggle to express what they’re feeling. As a parent, understanding the signs of anxiety can help you determine when your child may need extra support.

Here are five key indicators that your child’s anxiety might be more than just shyness—and what you can do to help.

1. Extreme Fear of Social Situations

Many kids feel hesitant in unfamiliar social situations, but children with social anxiety experience an intense fear that can interfere with daily life.

You might notice your child:

• Avoids speaking in class, even when they know the answer
• Refuses to participate in group activities or social events
• Becomes overly distressed when meeting new people
• Relies on you to communicate for them 
• Expresses intense worry about being judged or embarrassed
• Ask excessive questions about upcoming social situations trying to “check” nothing will go wrong 

While shy children may feel nervous initially, they usually warm up over time. However, children with social anxiety may continue to struggle in social settings and actively avoid them whenever possible.

2. Avoiding Eye Contact or Engaging with Others

Many young children take time to develop confidence in social interactions, but if your child consistently avoids eye contact, it could be a sign of deeper anxiety or another condition affecting their social functioning.

Children with social anxiety may:

• Look down or away when speaking to others
• Avoid interacting with teachers, peers, or unfamiliar adults
• Seem physically tense or frozen in social situations

It’s important to note that some children may also have difficulty with eye contact due to neurodevelopmental differences, such as autism. Getting to the root cause often involves at least a consultation with a provider knowledgeable in both childhood anxiety and neurodevelopmental conditioning. Even if something like autism is a factor, taking steps to reduce anxiety will still benefit your child.

3. Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

Social anxiety doesn’t just affect emotions—it can also trigger physical reactions. In fact, anxiety most often presents in children through physical ailments first, making these important symptoms to note. If your child frequently complains of feeling sick before social events or attending school, their anxiety may be manifesting physically.

Common physical symptoms include:

• Stomachaches, headaches, or nausea before school or social gatherings
• Sweating, trembling, or blushing when interacting with others
• A racing heart or shortness of breath when they feel anxious
• Complaints of feeling “frozen” or unable to speak in certain settings

These symptoms often appear before or during stressful situations and disappear once the perceived “threat” is gone. If you notice a pattern, it’s worth exploring whether anxiety is playing a role.

4. Excessive Worry About Social Performance

Children with social anxiety often have a deep fear of embarrassment or making mistakes in front of others. This can lead to excessive self-criticism and avoidance of situations where they might be judged.

Signs to watch for include:

• Frequently seeking reassurance about how they appear to others
• Worrying excessively about saying the wrong thing
• Showing reluctance to try new things due to fear of failure
• Fixating on past interactions, replaying them in their mind

While it’s normal for kids to care about what others think, persistent worry that interferes with their ability to function suggests a deeper issue. As with avoiding eye contact, these behaviors can also stem from an “insistence on sameness” that reflects a neurodevelopmental condition. Again, consulting with an experienced provider can help make the distinction. 

5. Avoiding Social Activities They Once Enjoyed

A clear sign that anxiety is impacting your child’s well-being is when they start avoiding activities they once loved. This could include:

• Refusing to attend birthday parties or playdates
• Dropping out of sports, clubs, or group activities
• Making excuses to stay home instead of going to school

As children grow more anxious over time, the prospect of these activities starts to seem more and more overwhelming and pushing through the discomfort seems more and more impossible – even as you try to remind them of fun times they had previously! While these kinds of changes in behavior can also arise with depression, if your child seems generally “keyed up” in their avoidance of these activities, anxiety might be a more likely explanation. 

How to Support a Child with Social Anxiety

If your child is showing these signs of social anxiety, early intervention can help them develop the skills they need to navigate social situations more comfortably. When avoidance becomes a pattern, it reinforces the fear, making social interactions feel even more intimidating over time. Encouraging gradual exposure to social settings, with the right support, can help children regain confidence. Here are a few ways to offer support:

1. Validate Their Feelings

Instead of dismissing their anxiety, acknowledge their feelings and let them know you understand. Phrases like, “I can see that speaking in class makes you nervous,” can help them feel heard and supported.

2. Gradual Exposure

Encouraging small steps toward social interaction can help children build confidence. Start with low-pressure situations, like talking to a familiar friend, before moving on to more challenging interactions.

3. Teach Coping Strategies

Deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk can help children manage anxiety in social situations. Practicing these skills together can make them feel more approachable and effective.

4. Seek Professional Support

If anxiety is interfering with your child’s daily life, therapy can be a valuable tool. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), including Exposure with Response Prevention (ERP), is one of the most effective approaches for anxiety in children, helping them recognize and reframe anxious thoughts.

When to Seek Professional Help

It’s important to note that occasional nervousness is normal, but if your child’s anxiety is persistent, distressing, or impacting their ability to engage in daily activities, professional support can help.

A mental health professional can:

• Assess whether your child’s anxiety is typical or part of an anxiety disorder
• Provide tools and strategies for managing anxiety
• Help parents create a supportive environment that encourages confidence

Take the Next Step in Supporting Your Child

If you’re concerned that your child is struggling with anxiety, professional guidance can make a difference. At Sasco River Center, we specialize in helping children develop confidence and coping skills to navigate social situations with greater ease.

We proudly serve families in Fairfield, Southport, Darien, and surrounding areas. If you’re ready to support your child in overcoming social anxiety, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting individuals across all age groups. While anxiety disorders in children and adolescents often go unnoticed, recognizing and addressing these mental health issues early is essential for long-term well-being. Children who receive timely and appropriate care have a better chance of managing their anxiety and thriving in school, social situations, and beyond.

In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of early intervention for GAD, the benefits of evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and why taking action now can prevent more significant challenges in the future.

What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Generalized Anxiety Disorder is characterized by persistent and excessive worry about everyday events, often without a clear reason. For children and adolescents, this anxiety can manifest as concerns about school performance, friendships, or family dynamics. Unlike occasional nervousness, GAD involves ongoing anxiety that interferes with daily life.

Common Symptoms of GAD in Children and Adolescents:

• Difficulty concentrating.
• Restlessness or feeling on edge.
• Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue.
• Avoidance of social situations or activities due to fear or worry.

When left untreated, GAD can impact academic achievement, social interactions, and overall emotional well-being. That’s why early intervention is crucial to address anxiety early and provide children with the tools they need to succeed.

The Importance of Early Intervention

1. Preventing Long-Term Challenges

Without early treatment, anxiety disorders in children can escalate, leading to more severe mental health conditions in adulthood. Early intervention is crucial to prevent anxiety from becoming entrenched in a child’s behavior and thought patterns.

Studies show that children who receive early mental health services are more likely to develop effective coping mechanisms, improve their self-esteem, and experience better long-term outcomes.

2. Supporting Academic and Social Development

Anxiety can significantly impact school performance and social situations. Children with GAD may struggle to focus in class, avoid participating in group activities, or feel overwhelmed by academic pressure.

By addressing anxiety early, children can learn strategies to manage their feelings and stay engaged in their education. Additionally, early treatment helps children build confidence in navigating friendships and other social interactions, setting them up for success both academically and socially.

3. Building Resilience and Coping Skills

Intervening early gives children the opportunity to develop skills that can help them manage anxiety throughout their lives. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based approach, is particularly effective in teaching children how to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, regulate their emotions, and approach challenges with confidence.

Key Benefits of CBT:

• Improved emotional regulation.
• Enhanced problem-solving skills.
• Greater ability to handle stressful or anxiety-provoking situations.

By providing these tools at a young age, early intervention empowers children to build resilience and adapt to future challenges.

Why Anxiety Often Goes Unnoticed

Despite the prevalence of childhood anxiety, it’s not uncommon for it to go unrecognized. Parents and teachers may interpret a child’s behaviors, such as avoidance or irritability, as shyness or defiance rather than symptoms of a mental health disorder.

Common Misconceptions About Childhood Anxiety:

• “They’ll grow out of it.”
• “They’re just being dramatic.”
• “They’re quiet because they’re shy.”

While some children do outgrow certain fears, anxiety disorders like GAD typically require targeted intervention. Recognizing the signs early and seeking professional support can make a world of difference.

How Early Intervention Helps the Whole Family

Early intervention doesn’t just benefit the child—it also helps the family unit. When children receive support for their anxiety, parents often feel less overwhelmed and more equipped to provide guidance. Family-focused interventions can strengthen communication and create a supportive environment where children feel safe expressing their feelings.

Parents can also learn how to reinforce the skills their child develops in therapy, creating consistency between home and clinical settings.

Steps for Early Intervention

1. Recognize the Signs

Pay attention to behaviors that may indicate anxiety, such as frequent worry, difficulty sleeping, or avoidance of certain activities.

2. Seek Professional Support

Reach out to a mental health professional with experience in anxiety disorders in children and adolescents. Mental health services, such as CBT, provide evidence-based tools to address anxiety early.

3. Create a Supportive Environment

Help your child feel understood and supported by validating their feelings and encouraging open communication.

4. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Introduce relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, to help your child manage physical symptoms of anxiety.

5. Encourage Gradual Exposure

With professional guidance, help your child face anxiety-provoking situations in small, manageable steps. This gradual exposure builds confidence and reduces avoidance behaviors.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Addressing anxiety early can significantly improve a child’s quality of life. By intervening at the right time, you can:

• Prevent anxiety from becoming a chronic issue.
• Support your child’s academic, social, and emotional development.
• Equip your child with lifelong skills for managing stress and challenges.

Early intervention is not just about addressing current struggles—it’s about laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient future.

We Can Help

At Sasco River Center, we recognize the importance of early support for those experiencing symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. With locations in Darien, Southport, and Fairfield, Connecticut, our team provides personalized, evidence-based treatment to help individuals build resilience and regain control. If you or a loved one is struggling with persistent worry or anxiety, contact us today to learn how we can help.

Reviewed by Carrie Potoff, LCSW

Social media has become an integral part of modern life, particularly for children and teens who spend countless hours scrolling, liking, and sharing on various social media platforms. While social media offers opportunities for connection, creativity, and self-expression, it also poses challenges that can significantly affect the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of young people.

As parents and caregivers, it’s essential to understand the effects of social media—both positive and negative—and to help children navigate these platforms in a way that promotes their overall health and happiness.

The Prevalence of Social Media Among Children and Teens

Research shows that children and teens are spending increasing amounts of time on social media. According to studies, teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media are more likely to experience mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety.

Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are specifically designed to capture and hold attention. For many young people, this means spending hours a day scrolling through curated feeds, often at the expense of face-to-face interactions, sleep, and physical activity.

The Positive Effects of Social Media

When used thoughtfully, social media can offer meaningful benefits for young people:

• Connection and Community: Social media allows children and teens to connect with friends, family, and peers, fostering a sense of belonging.
• Creativity and Expression: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram provide a space for creativity, self-expression, and sharing personal interests.
• Access to Resources: Children and teens can access educational content, mental health resources, and support networks through social media.

While these benefits are significant, they must be balanced against the potential downsides to ensure healthy social media use.

The Negative Effects of Social Media on Children

Excessive or unregulated social media use can lead to several negative effects on children’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

1. Poor Mental Health

Teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media are more likely to report experiencing poor mental health, including heightened feelings of loneliness, sadness, and anxiety. The constant comparison to others’ highlight reels can leave children feeling inadequate or unworthy.

2. Impact on Body Image

Social media platforms are often flooded with edited and filtered images that promote unrealistic beauty standards. For many young users, this can negatively affect their body image and self-esteem, contributing to issues like eating disorders and body dissatisfaction.

3. Reduced Face-to-Face Interactions

Excessive social media use can limit opportunities for face-to-face communication, an essential skill for building deep, meaningful relationships. Without regular in-person interaction, children may struggle with social skills and emotional connections.

4. Disruption of Physical Activity and Sleep

Spending hours a day online often comes at the expense of physical activity and quality sleep. Reduced physical activity can impact overall health, while inadequate sleep can exacerbate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

5. Increased Exposure to Harmful Content

Social media platforms can expose children to inappropriate or harmful content, including cyberbullying, hate speech, and pressure to engage in risky behaviors. Without proper supervision, these experiences can have long-lasting effects on a child’s emotional well-being.

How Social Media Affects Young Minds

Children’s brains are still developing, making them especially vulnerable to the addictive nature of social media. Dopamine, a “feel-good” chemical released when users receive likes, comments, or shares, reinforces frequent social media use. Over time, this can create a reliance on external validation for self-worth, leaving children more susceptible to emotional distress when those rewards aren’t met.

Additionally, children and teens who have accessed social media at a young age may struggle to establish boundaries, further increasing their risk of negative effects like decreased self-esteem, impulsive behavior, and social comparison.

Promoting Healthy Social Media Habits

Despite its challenges, social media doesn’t have to be harmful. Parents and caregivers can take proactive steps to encourage healthy social media use while minimizing risks:

1. Set Clear Limits

Establish boundaries for social media use, such as limiting screen time to less than two hours a day and ensuring devices are put away during meals, homework, and bedtime.

2. Encourage Balance

Help children balance online and offline activities by promoting hobbies, sports, and other forms of physical activity that reduce reliance on social media for entertainment or connection.

3. Foster a Growth Mindset

Teach children to value effort and personal growth over comparison and external validation. Emphasize that social media is not a reflection of real life—it’s a curated highlight reel.

4. Monitor Content and Interactions

Keep an eye on the platforms your child is using, who they’re interacting with, and the type of content they’re consuming. Encourage open conversations about their online experiences and any challenges they may face.

5. Promote Face-to-Face Connections

Encourage opportunities for face-to-face interactions, whether through family activities, playdates, or community events. Building real-world connections fosters stronger emotional bonds and communication skills.

6. Be a Role Model

Children often mirror their parents’ behavior. Model responsible social media use by setting your own limits, putting away devices during family time, and demonstrating healthy online habits.

When to Seek Help

If your child’s social media use is interfering with their mental health or daily life, it may be time to seek support from a professional. Signs that a child may need help include withdrawal from friends and family, persistent negative self-talk, heightened anxiety, or signs of eating disorders or depression.

We’re Here to Help

At Sasco River Center, we understand the challenges families face in today’s digital world. Serving families in Fairfield County, Connecticut, including Westport, Darien, Wilton, and surrounding areas, we provide comprehensive mental health services tailored to the needs of young people.

If your child is struggling with the impact of social media or experiencing negative effects such as anxiety, low self-esteem, or poor body image, we’re here to help. Our experienced team offers personalized therapy and guidance to help your child develop healthy habits, build resilience, and thrive both online and offline.

Contact Sasco River Center today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward supporting your child’s well-being.

Perfectionism can sometimes seem like a positive trait, especially when your child appears to be a high achiever with high standards. However, for many children, perfectionism can become a heavy burden, leading to stress, anxiety, and a relentless fear of failure. Left unchecked, perfectionism can impact a child’s mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.

If your child struggles with perfectionism, you may notice they’re overly critical of themselves, engage in negative self-talk, or hesitate to try new things for fear of making mistakes. The good news is that, with the right support, you can help your child develop a growth mindset—a perspective that values effort, learning, and resilience over unattainable perfection.

Understanding Perfectionism in Children

Perfectionism in children often stems from their desire to meet high expectations, either from themselves or others. While striving for excellence can be motivating, perfectionism crosses into unhealthy territory when children tie their self-worth to their achievements.

Signs of perfectionism in children include:

• Excessive focus on getting things “just right”
• Difficulty handling mistakes or criticism
• Avoiding tasks they believe they may not excel at
• Overreacting to small errors or setbacks
• Reluctance to seek help, believing they should handle everything themselves

These behaviors are often driven by underlying feelings of inadequacy or worry that they’re “not good enough.”

Helping Your Child Develop a Healthier Perspective

As a parent, your support can help your child shift their focus from perfectionism to a growth mindset, where they value learning and improvement over being flawless. Here are practical strategies to help your child manage their perfectionist tendencies:

1. Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome

Encourage your child to view effort and learning as more important than perfect results. Praise them for their hard work, persistence, and willingness to try, rather than solely focusing on achievements.

For example, if your child shows you a well-written essay, instead of saying, “This is perfect,” try, “I can see how much thought and effort you put into this!”

2. Normalize Mistakes as Part of Learning

Children with perfectionist tendencies often fear making mistakes because they equate errors with failure. Remind your child that mistakes are a natural and important part of growth. Share examples of your own mistakes and how you learned from them.

Phrases like “It’s okay to not get it right the first time” or “What did you learn from that?” can help your child reframe their perspective.

3. Address Negative Self-Talk

Perfectionist children often engage in negative self-talk, saying things like, “I’ll never be good at this” or “I’m a failure.” Help your child recognize these thoughts and replace them with more constructive ones.

For example, if your child says, “I’ll never figure this out,” guide them toward a problem-solving mindset by responding, “It’s challenging now, but let’s break it into smaller steps and tackle it together.”

4. Encourage Realistic Expectations

While having high standards can be motivating, perfectionist children often set unattainable goals. Help your child set realistic, achievable expectations for themselves. Teach them that doing their best is more important than being the best.

5. Promote Balance and Self-Care

Perfectionist tendencies can lead children to overwork themselves. Encourage balance by helping your child prioritize downtime, hobbies, and relaxation. Teach them that taking breaks isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s an essential part of maintaining mental and emotional well-being.

The Role of Emotional Support

As your child navigates their perfectionist tendencies, it’s important to provide a safe space where they feel heard and supported. Validate their feelings by acknowledging their frustrations or fears without judgment.

For example, if your child feels upset about making a mistake on a test, you might say, “I can see how much this upset you because you care about doing well. Let’s talk about what you learned and how we can approach it next time.”

By showing empathy and encouraging open communication, you can help your child build the emotional resilience they need to face challenges with confidence.

Why Addressing Perfectionism Matters

Unchecked perfectionism can take a toll on children’s mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and even depression. It’s important to address these tendencies early to help your child develop a healthier relationship with themselves and their achievements.

By teaching your child to embrace a growth mindset, you empower them to view challenges as opportunities to learn rather than as threats to their self-worth. This perspective helps them build resilience, take risks, and develop the problem-solving skills they’ll need to navigate life’s inevitable ups and downs.

We’re Here to Help

At Sasco River Center, we understand the unique challenges faced by young people with perfectionist tendencies. Serving families in Fairfield County, Connecticut, including Westport, Darien, Wilton, and surrounding areas, we offer personalized therapy and coaching to help children and adolescents manage their perfectionism and build healthier habits.

If your child struggles with fear of failure, negative self-talk, or the pressure to meet impossibly high standards, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can support your family.

Together, we can help your child embrace growth, balance, and confidence—one step at a time.

Reviewed by Grace DeGrado, OTD, OTR/L, and Caroline Segal, PhD

The tween years mark an exciting yet challenging transition between childhood and adolescence. This is a time in our lives where personalities take shape, independence becomes a priority, and friendships mean the world. 

As your child navigates the complex social dynamics of middle school and beyond, they will face new experiences, friendships, and potential social challenges. As a parent, one of the most valuable things you can do is foster an open line of communication and create a supportive environment where your tween feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns.

Understanding the Tween Social World

Tweens are in a unique stage of development. They are beginning to form a stronger sense of self while also seeking approval from peers. Social life becomes increasingly important, and the desire to fit in intensifies. At the same time, their brains are developing the executive functioning skills that factor into interpreting social cues, developing problem-solving skills, and managing the ups and downs of friendships.

Your tween may feel uncertain as they explore their social circle. Unlike younger children, who rely more on parental guidance, tweens want to navigate these situations independently while still benefiting from parental support. This is where your role as a trusted ally becomes essential.

Connecting With Your Tween

Rather than focusing on teaching social skills outright, prioritize building a connection with your tween. When they feel listened to, understood, and supported, they are more likely to share their thoughts, seek advice, and embrace the learning experiences that come with social interactions. Here are some ways to strengthen that connection:

1. Engage in Face-to-Face Conversations

Social media plays a significant role in modern friendships, but nothing replaces genuine face-to-face interactions.  Often, tweens will give an open-ended question a yes/no or grunted response. Try asking direct questions so that you prompt them to reflect on a certain instance in their day, such as who they sat with at lunch or how their favorite or least favorite class affected their day. Make an effort to have meaningful conversations with your tween, whether it’s during a car ride, at the dinner table, or while spending time together during an activity they enjoy.  Listening without immediately offering solutions and providing consistent positive feedback allows them to feel heard and valued. 

2. Acknowledge Their Feelings and Experiences

Navigating social dynamics can be overwhelming. If your tween opens up about friendship struggles or peer pressure, validate their feelings rather than dismissing them. Saying things like, “That sounds tough. I can see why you’d feel that way,” reassures them that their experiences matter and that you are a safe person to confide in. You can also make space for your tween to explore why a challenge in their friendship occurred, and validate that the decisions they make reflect that they are trying their best even if it feels difficult. 

3. Encourage Extracurricular Activities

A great way for tweens to develop their social skills is by participating in extracurricular activities that align with their interests. Whether it’s sports, theater, clubs, or volunteer opportunities, these activities allow them to interact with new peers, build confidence, and expand their social circle in a supportive environment. 

4. Help Them Navigate Social Media Mindfully

Social media can be both a tool for connection and a source of social challenges. Openly talk to your tween about healthy social media use, emphasizing balance and critical thinking. Share your own experiences with social media to build a connection. Reflect on how sometimes what they see online doesn’t always reflect reality, and encourage them to spend time in real-life interactions as well.

5. Model Healthy Social Interactions

Tweens learn a lot by observing how the adults in their lives interact with others. Demonstrate active listening, empathy, and problem-solving in your own relationships. You can also talk about challenges you see in TV shows or movies, even celebrities, and prompt your tween to reflect on if that person handled their challenges correctly or if they have other ideas on how to solve social challenges. This can help them internalize positive social behaviors without feeling like they’re being explicitly taught.

Supporting Their Mental Health

The teenage years bring emotional ups and downs, and social pressures can sometimes take a toll on a tween’s mental health. Pay attention to changes in their mood, behavior, or engagement in social activities. If they seem withdrawn, overly anxious about social situations, or express distress about friendships, reassure them that you are there to support them. If needed, seeking guidance from a school counselor or mental health professional can be a helpful step in ensuring they feel good emotionally and socially.

Final Thoughts

Helping your tween thrive socially isn’t about instructing them on what to do in every situation—it’s about building a relationship where they feel comfortable enough to come to you for support and advice. At this stage of the game, it can be helpful to adopt a “learner’s permit” model of parenting – your child is practicing driving the car on their own, but you are in the passenger’s seat available to guide them when necessary! By having an open line of communication, encouraging trying new things, and validating their experiences, you are laying the foundation for their ability to navigate the social world confidently in middle school and beyond. As they develop into their teenage years, your role as a steady presence in their life will be one of the most supportive ways to help them flourish.

We’re Here for You

At Sasco River Center, our team of specialists offers support to help tweens–and all young people– learn and practice the skills they need to build meaningful connections and thrive in social situations.

Contact us today to learn more about our programs and services designed to nurture your child’s growth and confidence. 

Register now for our free parent webinar on March 11: FROM AWKWARD TO EMPOWERED: Helping Your Tween Thrive Socially

Reviewed by David Porrino, PsyD, Neuropsychologist, Director of Diagnostic Testing Services, Sasco River Center

Dyslexia is one of the most common specific learning disabilities, affecting a child’s ability to develop reading skills, written language, and in more severe or untreated cases, reading comprehension and vocabulary. Dyslexia absolutely does not reflect a lack of intelligence or effort. Numerous successful individuals from many industries have dyslexia: Stephen Spielberg, Keira Knightley, Richard Branson, and Whoopi Goldberg, to name a few. However, dyslexia can create challenges in the classroom and beyond if left undiagnosed and unsupported.

Early identification is key. When a child struggles with word reading, decoding (i.e., sounding out) new words, reading fluency (i.e., balancing speed and accuracy in reading), or reading comprehension, a thorough evaluation is needed to determine if the profile is consistent with dyslexia (or a different learning disability) and which interventions may be most effective. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes, helping children develop essential literacy skills, develop confidence with reading, and help bridge literacy gaps before demands get too extensive.

This article overviews how dyslexia is evaluated, the role of pediatric neuropsychologists and clinical psychologists, and the steps parents and educators can take to ensure children get the support they need.

Understanding Dyslexia and Its Impact on Learning

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that primarily affects the foundational aspects of reading, which include recognizing printed words, decoding new words, and overlearning spelling rules. The majority of cases are rooted in difficulties with phonological awareness, or the ability to access and manipulate the sounds in words. Many cases of dyslexia also involve deficits in rapid naming, or the ability to access overlearned symbols. Rapid naming involves the language and long-term memory systems, which affects orthographic awareness, or the ability to recognize written words and recalling various reading rules and sequences that make up the words we read. When individuals have both deficits in phonological awareness and rapid naming, this is often called a double deficit dyslexia or mixed dyslexia, which requires more intensive forms of specialized reading instruction.

Challenges with the above skills often lead to struggles with word reading, decoding, the ability to “crack the code” for reading, and reading fluency. Not all children with dyslexia struggle with reading comprehension, but reading is still taxing, slow, and effortful for them. Children with dyslexia may exhibit signs such as:

• Difficulty sounding out words or recognizing common words
• Difficulty retaining words or specific reading and spelling rules
• Struggles with reading fluency, often reading slowly or with many mistakes
• Trouble understanding what they’ve read (reading comprehension difficulties, though these may be a trickle down effect of foundational reading deficits)
• Difficulty with spelling and writing
• Avoidance of activities that require reading aloud (read aloud hesitancy)
• Early childhood: difficulty with rhyming or remembering specific sequences (e.g., the ABCs)

While no person was ever born with the ability to read, slowness in learning to read and persistent reading problems often require an evaluation of literacy development including a comprehensive test of phonological processes.

The Evaluation Process: How Dyslexia is Diagnosed

A formal evaluation is essential to clinically diagnose dyslexia and develop a targeted intervention plan. In the clinic setting, this is typically performed by a pediatric neuropsychologist, clinical psychologist, and at times with involvement from a speech-language pathologist. The assessment process is designed to measure multiple aspects of a child’s language abilities, including phonological processing skills, that underlie their reading skills.

Key components of a dyslexia evaluation include:

1. Phonological Awareness Testing

Phonological awareness is the ability to identify and manipulate the sounds in words. Tests of phonological processing assess a child’s ability to break down words into smaller sound units, an essential skill for reading development.

2. Rapid Naming or Rapid Automatic Naming (RAN) Tests

Children with dyslexia often struggle with rapid naming or rapid automatic naming tasks, which measure how quickly they can name familiar objects, letters, or numbers. Delays in RAN can indicate difficulty in developing fluent reading skills.

3. Reading and Spelling Assessments

These assessments evaluate word reading, decoding abilities, and spelling skills. They help determine whether a child’s reading problems stem from phonological deficits.

4. Oral Language and Listening Comprehension Evaluation

Because reading and spoken language are closely linked, a pediatric neuropsychologist, clinical psychologist, or speech-language pathologist may assess oral language abilities to determine if difficulties with language processing contribute to reading struggles.

5. Reading Comprehension and Fluency Tests

These tests evaluate a child’s ability to understand what they read and their ability to read smoothly and accurately. Reading fluency issues often accompany dyslexia and can impact overall learning.

6. Cognitive and Academic Achievement Testing

Standardized tests compare a child’s abilities to their peers, helping determine if dyslexia or another specific learning disability is present. Additionally, broad based assessment of neuropsychological abilities, such as working memory, processing speed, problem-solving skills, vocabulary, learning and memory, visual-spatial abilities, and motor functions is important to obtain the whole picture of the individual’s profile,

The Importance of Early Intervention

Research consistently shows that early intervention is critical in helping children with dyslexia develop effective reading strategies. The sooner a child is tested for dyslexia and receives appropriate support, the greater their chances of overcoming reading problems and building strong literacy skills. 

Intervention programs for children with dyslexia often include:

• Structured Literacy Instruction: A research-based approach that explicitly teaches phonics, decoding, and spelling rules. Often this is implemented for a minimum of 45 minutes daily in a child’s academic program.
• Multisensory Teaching Methods: Engaging multiple senses (visual, auditory, and kinesthetic) to strengthen learning.
• Speech-Language Therapy: Working with a speech-language pathologist to support oral language development and improve language processing.
• Reading Fluency Practice: Guided read-aloud sessions and fluency-building exercises.

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), children diagnosed with dyslexia who meet classification criteria may qualify for specialized educational services. Schools can develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to and embed crucial literacy programming to structured support as well as reasonable accommodations for children with dyslexia.

Next Steps: How to Seek a Dyslexia Evaluation

If you suspect your child may have dyslexia, seeking a formal evaluation is the best first step. A comprehensive evaluation can provide clarity and guidance on how to support your child’s literacy development.

Key steps to take include:

1. Talk to Your Child’s Teacher and Team of Educators– Share your concerns and ask about their observations regarding reading skills, literacy development, and written language development.
2. Seek a comprehensive evaluation – This can be done within the public school system, though it is a different process than obtaining private testing with a clinician such as a pediatric neuropsychologist, clinical psychologist, or literacy specialist. A private assessment from a specialist in dyslexia can provide an in-depth evaluation that covers a broader range of cognitive processing areas, a more tailored evaluation process, and personalized recommendations.
3. Develop an Intervention Plan – Once dyslexia is diagnosed, you can work with professionals to create a targeted support plan that addresses your child’s specific needs.

We’re Here to Help

At Sasco River Center, we specialize in dyslexia evaluations and comprehensive neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults in Fairfield County, Connecticut, including Westport, Darien, Wilton, Fairfield, Greenwich, and surrounding areas such as Westchester County. Our team of experienced professionals provide thorough testing to identify dyslexia and other learning differences.

If your child is struggling with reading fluency, word reading, decoding, or reading comprehension, don’t wait—early intervention can make all the difference and increasing your understanding of your child’s profile is immensely helpful. 

Based on a presentation delivered by Dr. Christopher Bogart

Introduction: Play as a Foundation for Learning

Play is often viewed as an enjoyable pastime, a break from the serious work of learning. However, research has repeatedly shown that play is the foundation of childhood development. As Fred Rogers famously said, “Play is serious learning.” Through play, children develop crucial cognitive skills, build executive functions, and learn to navigate social interactions. It is not simply an activity; it is a vital component of brain development that sets the stage for future success in life.

The Cognitive Benefits of Play: Supporting Executive Function Development

One of the most significant cognitive benefits of play is its role in supporting executive function development. Executive functions—such as self-regulation, goal-setting, problem-solving, and planning—are essential for learning and adapting to new challenges. Studies using fMRI scans have shown that engaging in novel and interactive play strengthens neural pathways, reinforcing cognitive flexibility and critical thinking skills. Children who engage in diverse, imaginative, and self-directed play demonstrate improved memory, language development, and attention span, all of which are crucial for academic and social success.

Play as a Tool for Social Development: Fostering Social Problem-Solving Skills

In addition to its impact on executive functions, play is essential for fostering social problem-solving skills. Through play, children learn to take turns, negotiate, and resolve conflicts. Whether they are engaged in imaginative scenarios or structured games with rules, they develop the ability to understand different perspectives, regulate their emotions, and practice empathy. Play provides a safe environment for children to experiment with social roles, express their feelings, and develop resilience when faced with challenges.

The Decline of Free Play: Changes in Playtime Over the Decades

Despite the well-documented benefits of play, children’s playtime has changed dramatically since the early 1900s. Historically, children had vast amounts of unstructured, outdoor play that encouraged creativity and independence. However, over the past century, shifts in education, safety concerns, and the rise of digital entertainment have led to a decline in free play. By the 1980s and beyond, scheduled activities and screen time began replacing spontaneous, child-led play. Research suggests that these changes may be linked to increasing difficulties in children’s executive function development, as modern play lacks the open-ended, imaginative engagement that strengthens these skills.

The Role of Parents in Supporting Play: Encouraging a Balance of Structured and Free Play

Given these changes, it is essential for parents to actively support their children’s play. Encouraging both structured and free play is key. Parents can provide imaginative toys without fixed rules, such as building blocks, art supplies, and outdoor play equipment, which encourage creativity and independent thinking. Additionally, playing board games with children helps teach turn-taking, frustration tolerance, and rule-following. Most importantly, parents should engage with their children during play—modeling cooperation, avoiding excessive corrections, and allowing space for self-expression. By fostering a balance of physical, imaginative, and social play, parents can help ensure their children develop the cognitive and emotional skills necessary for success.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Play for Lifelong Success

Ultimately, play is not just about fun—it is a fundamental driver of growth. By prioritizing play in children’s daily lives, parents and educators can provide the foundation for lifelong learning, creativity, and well-being. As Fred Rogers wisely noted, “It’s the things we play with and the people who help us play that make the greatest difference in our lives.”

We’re Here For You

At Sasco River Center, we understand the importance of play in child development. Serving families in Fairfield County, Connecticut, and surrounding areas, our team of specialists offers support to help children learn and practice the skills they need to build meaningful connections and thrive in social situations.

Contact us today to learn more about our programs and services designed to nurture your child’s growth and confidence.