Positive Behavior Strategies

One of the most important things we can do for our children is to help them develop resilience. A common misconception is that people are either resilient or not; that we’re born one way or the other. In fact, the process of building resilience is a lifelong journey of learning to cope with challenging experiences and adapt well in the face of adversity. It’s important to let our kids make mistakes and be there on the sidelines to encourage, rather than fix it for them. Learn more in our conversation today with experts from CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services, Patrice Crisostomo, PhD, Clinical Program Manager and Psychologist, and Sarah Taylor, MS, Doctoral Psychology Intern.

Today’s episode was developed in response to a request from our partners at Palo Alto Unified School District…and while it’s great for all listeners, is intended especially for teachers! Increasingly, educators are being asked to manage not just the academic and social-emotional wellbeing of their students, but also address mental health challenges and learning differences in the classroom. We know it’s not possible to do it all, but today’s podcast episode shares some structures and strategies to support struggling students and promote a safe, positive learning environment for all. In addition to tips and takeaways, CHC’s Esther B. Clark (EBC) Schools staff Krislyn Li Conklin, MA and Kaila Sugiyama, MA, LMFT, remind teachers that “recognizing your own humanity in all of this is the most important.”

We are all different, and we know that not every child fits into a specific category. Is your child struggling with learning or behavioral outbursts? Your child is not broken and you are not a bad parent. One helpful tool may be getting your child evaluated. An evaluation is not about labeling, but providing useful information and practical insights on strengths and weaknesses so your child can thrive throughout their lifespan. Listen to today’s episode featuring CHC’s Catherine T. Harvey Center for Clinical Services experts Dr. Erin Hoolihan, Licensed Psychologist and Kimberly Yu, Doctoral Psychology Intern.

Distance learning is hard, even for kids without emotional or behavioral challenges. Not to mention the strain on parents working remotely while trying to support their child’s at-home education. We sat down with behavioral expert Jody Miller, MEd, BCBA, to hear her best strategies for promoting and positively reinforcing good behavior, as well as what steps to take when your child is struggling.

Today’s podcast highlights a few favorite excerpts from some of our previous episodes, including Top 3 Mindfulness Strategies to Reduce Stress (Episode 5), Best Strategies for ADHD & Distance Learning (Episodes 8 & 9), Family Dynamics While Sheltering in Place (Episode 11) and more. We hope it brings a smile to your face and perhaps even makes you want to go back and listen to the episodes that resonate most.

We are all feeling the strain of living, working and schooling under one roof. It is a challenging time for families – if there has ever been a need for compassion, it certainly is now. We sat down with Jennifer Leydecker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Program Manager at CHC, to get her expert advice on ways to reduce stress and add compassion to your family dynamic. Spoiler alert: take care of yourself first!

Parenting a teen is filled with challenges and joys. Right now it probably feels like you are experiencing most of the challenges. Tune in to hear this podcast with Dr. Joan Baran, Clinical Director at CHC on parenting with C.A.L.M. – an adaptable technique you can use today!

How do we navigate this strange time in which we are living and come out on the other side stronger and better?