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Archive for Conflict

Shadow’s Edge: A Mobile Game for Teens Who Struggle with Chronic Illness

Posted by Gary Yorke 
· November 30, 2018 
· No Comments

 

For young people who struggle with chronic illnesses or emotional challenge, the weight of their trauma is ever-present, yet rarely are they given the opportunity to talk about the dark or scary side of their situations, let alone have a tool to help them move through and grow from their experience.

Enter the Digging Deep Project, with the mission of empowering teens to take charge of their emotional health in fun and engaging ways.

The Project’s newest product, the recently released mobile game, Shadow’s Edge, is designed to build resilience in teens with medical or emotional challenges. Combining psychology and technology, this free app reaches teens with psycho-educational content right where they are—on their mobile devices and playing games!

Shadow’s Edge players are guided through a process of journaling and creative expression, helping these teen players come to terms with their challenges within an immersive, edgy game world.

The quest of the player is to revive Shadow’s Edge, a city that has been decimated by storm.  Through gameplay, teens learn they can rebuild their lives by trusting their feelings and finding meaning in their experience.

Teens struggling with hardship needn’t stay in an isolated or dark world—they have the power to reshape it. They can create beauty where there was once dilapidation: There can be light; There can be colour; There can be hope.

Available for free on the App Store and Google Play. For more information and blog for and by teens visit www.shadowsedge.com.  For parents and professionals, more information on www.diggingdeep.org.

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Categories : Behavior, Conflict, Depression, Feelings, Parenting, Play Therapy Games
Tags : anger, anxiety, board games, childhood stress, counseling games, family roles, feelings, games, Play Therapy, play therapy gams, teens, therapeutic games for teens, therapy games

September Play Therapy Wrap-Up

Posted by Gary Yorke 
· September 27, 2017 
· No Comments
“The activities that are the easiest, cheapest, and most fun to do – such as singing, playing games, reading, storytelling, and just talking and listening – are also the best for child development.” – Jerome Singer (professor, Yale University)

Blog

Wondering what the essential toys for a playroom are? We can help with that! In Jennifer Taylor’s post about playroom essentials, she highlights all of the staple items needed for a complete playroom. From sand tray miniatures to play therapy games, Taylor shows you what you could be missing and why it’s important to include these items in your playroom experience. View her list and links to the perfect playroom here!

Articles

We all want to praise children when they succeed, but according to new international research, how you praise your child could either motivate them to work hard, or motivate them to cheat. According to the study, published in Psychological Science, praising a child for simply being smart could actually cause them to feel pressure to perform up to high expectations, which may cause them to cheat, whereas complimenting a child’s effort will motivate them to work hard, and perform at their full potential. Read the full article here!

“The resilience of an individual depends on drawing resources from many other systems,” said University of Minnesota psychologist Ann S. Masten, PhD, who has studied the subject of child resiliency for 40 years. According to Masten, fostering resiliency in children is accomplished not only by the child’s innate ability to cope and problem-solve, but also by the relationships and support they receive outside of themselves. This article outlines all of the important factors that help a developing child boost resilience, and why you should care. Read the full article here!

Every parent contends with stress. Work stress, family stress, financial stress. It’s important not to let that stress trickle down to your children, says Katie Hurley. In this article she outlines different types of stress, how to identify your triggers, and most importantly, how to practice letting go of those things that are eating you up. When we feel stress, our children see and experience that stress with us, so it’s important to demonstrate coping skills to alleviate those tensions.  Read the full article here!

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Categories : Behavior, Child Development, Communication, Conflict, Feelings, Monthly Wrap-Up, Parenting, Play Therapy, Play Therapy books, Play Therapy Games, Play Therapy Toys, Reader Submissions, Social Issues, Wrap Up
Tags : child therapy toys, childhood stress, feelings, Play Therapy, play therapy dolls, play therapy toys, sand tray miniatures, sand tray therapy, stress, teens, therapeutic games for children, therapeutic games for teens, therapy games, therapy toys

What are the “Must Have” Toys for a New Play Therapist? By Jennifer Taylor

Posted by Gary Yorke 
· September 11, 2017 
· 1 Comment

Questions about “must have” toys get asked so many times by clinicians new to the field of play therapy.  And, the answers can vary widely.  I’ve given parents some of my favorite toys in the past.

Dr. Landreth’s “Must Have” Toy Categories:

The foundation for play therapy training for a lot of clinicians is Dr. Garry Landreth and Child Centered Play Therapy.  He advises that play therapists include several toys from each of three categories.  Note that this list does not include everything that would fit into each category (they are just examples) and also that you do need everything on any list

Real Life

  • Play kitchens and play food
  • Doctor kits and band-aids
  • Dolls and Dollhouses
  • Animals, Cars, Trucks, People
  • Cash Register and Play Money

Expressive/Creative

  • Art supplies
  • Paint
  • Play-doh
  • Dress Up
  • Puppets and Puppet Theater

Aggressive/Emotional Release

  • Toy guns 
  • Foam swords
  • Rubber knives
  • Rope
  • Soldiers
  • Aggressive puppets or figures (sharks, dinosaur, alligator, etc)

Directive Play Therapists “Must Have” Toys

When doing  more structured or directive play therapy interventions, you usually need things like:

  • Books
  • Therapeutic games
  • Traditional board games
  • UNO cards
  • Playing cards
  • Cooperative Board Games

“Must Have” Elements of a Play Therapy Space

It can be quite easy to find excellent toys everywhere you go.  And Dr. Garry Landreth reminds us all to beware of the urge to get everything.  He says in his book, The Art of the Relationship, “Toys should be selected, not collected.”  

And I created this infographic to summarize my thoughts on creating the perfect play therapy space that you might find helpful.

Reframing The Question

But, I just recently heard it explained in a wonderful way by a colleague, Dr. Jessica Stone, who responded to this very question during a discussion board about the Play Therapy Summit.   She gave me permission to share it with you:

Hi all, I like to take an approach of collecting gems along my way in this field. I am not sure I could identify the one thing my office couldn’t live without. It is complex. Is that my personal favorite thing? Or my client’s? Or the majority of my clients? What comprises a favorite thing?

I believe what we have in our offices needs to be a balance of 1) what is congruent with who we are, what we believe, what our theoretical foundation is, what our space allows comfortably, etc. and 2) what speaks our client’s language, what helps our clients speak, what speaks to our clients, what allows them to experience feeling heard, seen, important, and understood.

I like to take a gem from Maria Montessori and think of the tools in my office as a way of scaffolding within the office. There are items that fit where they are in this moment, items that help them move forward, and items that work when they need to regress a bit.

Sometimes these tools aren’t our preferred or favorite. Sometimes they are. As I look around my office in response to your question I think about the clients who use the majority of the tools in my office on any given day but I also think about that one client, the one who found the tool that meant the most to them and they used it in the most amazing way – whatever that meant for them – Jessica Stone, Ph.D., RPT-S”

As I was packing up my office to move out of the state this week, I found Dr Stone’s words especially helpful.  I usually play loud music when doing tasks like this, but this time, I held each of the toys and remembered the children that used them and how they used them.  It was a mix of joy and sadness as I reflected on all of those shared moments in this specific playroom.

Final Thoughts:

In the end, I would recommend selecting a few items from each of Dr. Garry Landreth’s categories and then considering Dr. Stone’s advice about seeing the value of all the different toys in the playroom. But, know that whatever you have is enough.  As long as you are in the room,  focusing on the relationship with the child and responding in an authentic manner

 

**The post What are the “Must Have” Toys for a New Play Therapist? appeared first on Jennifer Taylor Play Therapy.

 

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Categories : ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Art Therapy, Behavior, Books, Child Development, Communication, Conflict, Depression, Feelings, Intervention Ideas, Play Therapy, Play Therapy books, Play Therapy Toys, Reader Submissions, Sandplay/Sand Tray Therapy, Social Issues

Should Your Playroom Include Aggressive Toys Like Play Guns? by Jennifer Taylor, LCSW, RPT

Posted by Gary Yorke 
· June 6, 2017 
· No Comments

Play therapists widely regard the use of aggressive toys, including toys guns, as an essential element to the playroom. However, many parents are hesitant to allow their children to play with toy guns. Nearly all schools have banned the use of toys guns (or even pretend shooting) completely.

Over the years, I have had some toy guns (not realistic looking ones, though) and other times I have taken them out.  As a therapist, the use of toys guns is not essential, but the use of aggressive toys, is vital.

What is an Aggressive Toy?

Aggressive toys are anything that a child can use to get out pent up anger or hostility.  These toys can be used to role play fights or battles, good guy/bad guy situation, or other trauma re-enactments.

 

Examples of aggressive toys include:

  • Non-realistic toy guns

  • Rubber knives

  • Foam swords

  • “Mean” animals like sharks, dinosaurs, alligators, lions, etc.

  • Toy soldiers (two different colors)

  • Handcuffs

  • Rope (I use a jump rope with the handles removed)

  • Bop Bag

What is an Aggressive-Release Toy?

Aggressive-Release Toys are toys that are okay to destroy or break in some way. These toys help redirect actual aggression into a more acceptable alternative.

Examples of aggressive-release toys include:

  • Egg cartons (can be crushed)
  • Bubble wrap (can be popped)
  • Paper (can be ripped up)
  • Popsicle sticks (can be snapped or jabbed into clay)
  • Wet paper towels (can be thrown against wall outside or on easel)
  • Clay or Play-doh (can be pounded)

Why Are Aggressive Toys Useful In Therapy?

Expressing Anger

Children need a safe opportunity to express feelings of anger.  In the play therapy environment, children can use aggressive toys to play out things that are happening with people in their lives. BUT…when it is done with an animal instead of a doll person, it feels safer to the child.  It is the same feeling/movements/thoughts but it doesn’t feel as real.

Relieving Physical Tension

Also, when using aggressive release toys, children get to move their bodies in a way that helps relieve the physical tension that anger brings.  Pounding clay, stomping egg cartons, or swinging foam swords helps move the body in ways that release tension and the accompanying noise that the movement makes also helps reduce tension.

Learning Boundaries

Finally, aggressive play helps teach children boundaries.  In rough/aggressive play, children learn how hard to swing without actually hurting the therapist, or how fast to move without falling down.  They learn how to “take a break” if someone needs to rest and how to start back up again.  I have witnessed siblings learn how to set rules for “fair fights” using foam swords and how to negotiate cheating.

Sword Fighting Aggressive Play

My Kids Sword Fighting

Do Aggressive Toys Create Aggressive Children?

It depends on what research you read.  A few studies have shown that aggression may increase temporarily after playing with aggressive toys.  This DOES seem to be more true when you are talking about playing violent video games (different story there). But, long-term, there is no reliable evidence that toy guns create more aggressive kids.

In fact, the opposite holds more true.  If a child has an appropriate place to express and display anger, then they are less likely to use anger with their peers (or parents).  Telling children, “Don’t get mad” is not nearly as helpful as teaching them what to do when they are mad to diffuse it.  The use of aggressive release toys helps teach children what to do with their angry in a way that will not get them in trouble.

Children Will Find Creative Ways To Express Aggression

In fact, many therapists find that children will turn neutral toys like blocks or their fingers into guns, knives, or bombs in order to communicate their needs with whatever is available.  The expression often goes:

If a child needs a gun to represent something going on in their life, they will find something and turn it into a gun (either in shape or with the noises that they make) to communicate that need.”

What To Do If You Are Uncomfortable With Toy Guns?

  1. Set limits.  It might be that toy guns are only for target practice. “Guns are not for shooting at people.”  When I have any toy guns in my office, I NEVER shoot at children.  I have let them shoot at me, but I would not shoot back at them.  If they tell me to shoot them, I would act out thinking about it but being so worried that they would die or I would go to jail or some other bad  outcome.  A great play therapist, Lisa Dion, writes more about how to play aggressively with children in her book, Integrating Extremes: Aggression and Death in the Playroom. 
  2. Set different limits for different games.  You might say that you can not shoot at me in general, but then we make a specific limit for Nerf or laser style games where we have defined a goal or specific rules. These games typically have teams, time limits, and rules of engagement.  You discuss them in advance and determine that the shooting ends when the game ends.
  3. Make sure your guns look very fake.  Avoid anything that is at all realistic.  Guns that are bright colors, light up, or make silly noises all classify as fake guns.  Guns that shoot foam balls.
  4. Use the alternative aggressive toys.  If you are still not comfortable with toy guns, use the alternatives.  Foam swords are generally more fun than toy guns anyway.

A Side Note About Gun Safety:

Regardless of your use of toy guns, there is never a bad time to talk with children about what to do if they find a gun while playing.  Just recently, there was an incident here in Memphis where a child picked up a gun and shot his brother accidentally.

There are many factors in that case that have nothing to do with aggressive play or aggressive toys. And yet, the underlying fear is that if we let our children play with aggressive toys, things like this will happen.  So…

  1. Talk about actual gun safety.  Talk with your children about what to do if they ever encountered a gun outside of the playroom and what to do and not do about it.  You can discuss that they should never pick up a gun outside of the playroom and that they should notify an adult right away.
  2. Require gun safety from adults.  It’s okay to ask the parents of your child’s friends if they own any weapons and how/where they have them stored.  Same goes for grandparents or other relatives. Don’t just assume that they are responsible gun owners, make them prove it.  Everyone that I know that has any weapons in their home can easily tell me how they are keeping them safe.

Final Thoughts:

Recently, I polled a group of play therapists and they overwhelmingly reported that they not only had toy guns in their offices, but that they found them to be an essential component of a play therapy space. However, those that did not have toy guns felt that the same benefits were achieved through the use of other aggressive release toys (like ropes, knives and swords) without the complications.

PS.

Moreover, representing reality in the playroom is important.  The truth is that many children have parents that work with weapons (law enforcement and military) and others have been exposed to very traumatic events involving drug raids, shootings, or other community violence.

To deny access to those items or experiences seems to somehow convey that those feelings, thoughts or experiences are shameful, wrong, or not important.  The playroom is a place to overcome those feelings and any toys that facilitate that process are okay in my office.

Do you allow your children to play with toy guns?

***

Thanks to Jennifer Taylor for this great post!

To check out Jennifer’s website, click here!

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Categories : Anger, Behavior, Bullying, Communication, Conflict, Intervention Ideas, Play Therapy, Reader Submissions
Tags : aggression, anger, bop bags, development, feelings, Play Therapy, play therapy intervention, therapy toys

Aggressive Girls By Leah Davies, M.Ed.

Posted by Gary Yorke 
· March 15, 2017 
· 1 Comment

girls leaninggirl with hood2

 

Aggression or bullying can be defined as any action that inflicts physical or mental harm upon another person. Girls usually differ from boys in the type of aggressive behavior they exhibit. While boys tend to inflict bodily pain, girls most often, though not exclusively, engage in covert or relational aggression. Girls tend to value intimate relationships with girls, while boys usually form social bonds through group activities. Aggressive girls often gain power by withholding their friendship or by sabotaging the relationships of others.
Relational aggression is calculated manipulation to injure or to control another child’s ability to maintain rapport with peers. For example, a relational aggressive girl may insist that her friends ignore a particular child, exclude her from their group, form secret pacts to humiliate the child, call her names, and/or spread rumors about her.

Examples of manipulation include, “If you don’t play this game, I’ll tell Sara that you called her stupid,” or “You have to do what I say, or I won’t play with you.” Children in preschool have been observed excluding peers by saying, “Don’t let her play,” or using retaliation, “She was mean to me yesterday, so she can’t be our friend.” In older girls, the gossip can be more vicious, for example, “I saw her cheating.”

Though often subtle, nonverbal communication of an aggressive girl is unmistakable. For example, she may roll her eyes, glare, ignore, turn away, point, or pass notes to a friend concerning the rejected child.

In 1995, Crick and Grotpeter found that members of groups run by aggressive girls appeared to be caring and helpful toward each other. However, they also observed a higher level of intimacy and secret sharing in these groups. This closeness puts followers at risk because the aggressive child is privy to personal information that she can disclose. They also noted a higher level of exclusivity in groups run by relational aggressive girls. In other words, the followers usually have few other friends to turn to if they are rejected by the aggressive child, hence they continued to conform for fear of being isolated. They found a higher level of aggression within these groups.

Girls often feel pressured to be compliant and not show negative emotions. When they cannot assert their true feelings directly, resentment lingers and their anger manifests itself indirectly. Excessive relational aggressiveness can become a habit that can cause a lifetime of problematic relationships. Therefore, a girl who exhibits this behavior needs adult intervention and guidance. It should be stressed that these girls often have leadership ability, but they need assistance to channel it in a positive direction.

Relational aggression in girls has a negative affect on school climate and culture, as well as on the perpetrators and their victims. According to Crick, relational aggressive girls are disliked more than most children their age. They exhibited adjustment problems and reported higher levels of loneliness and depression. These girls often have difficulty creating and sustaining social and personal bonds. Ridiculed children have adjustment difficulties, as well. The rejection and hurt they feel can last a lifetime. They are more likely than peers to be submissive, have low grades, drop out of school, engage in delinquent behavior, experience depression, and entertain suicidal thoughts.

What can school personnel do to combat the negative impact of relational aggression on perpetrators and their targets?

    1. Increase awareness among school staff so that they understand what relational aggression is and discuss ways to combat it. Consequences for relentless covert aggression will vary depending on school discipline procedures, the action, and the age of the girls. Consequences could include a referral to a counseling group or losing privileges.
    2. Observe children in the classroom, at lunch, in the hall, on the playground, and before and after school, noting students’ nonverbal reactions to peers. Ask yourself:
      • Who is alone on the playground?
      • Who is a group leader?
      • How do her followers act toward others?
    3. Discuss relational aggression with your students to make sure they know that starting rumors, ridiculing others, and other forms of covert aggression are not acceptable.
    4. Reinforce student social interaction skills through the use of role-playing exercises, literature, writing assignments, and other means. Emphasize considering the feelings of others, developing listening skills, and exhibiting other character traits that are critical to forming lasting friendships.
    5. Help girls understand that conflicts are a natural occurrence in friendships and provide them with an opportunity to practice being supportive of one another. Encourage them to honestly resolve problems through open discussion and compromise.
    6. Believe the victim. Relational aggressive girls are skillful at concealing their bullying. Hence, many educators are blinded by the appearance of a model student who they feel would never engage in covert aggression.
    7. Understand that having at least one friend buffers a child from relationship aggression, so facilitating friendships between girls will help them cope with a relational aggressive child. Encourage girls to choose friends who are considerate and trustworthy, not exclusive or mean.
    8. Model respect and caring. Assist each girl in developing the belief that she is a capable person who has many strengths and who can stand up for herself by reinforcing these attitudes at every opportunity.
    9. Find assistance for the victim and perpetrator. Contact a parent and/or work with staff to foster their social and emotional development.

 

***

leah daviesCheck out all of the Leah Davies‘ innovative and dynamic Kelly Bear materials on the Child Therapy Toys website!

Leah Davies received her Master’s Degree from the Department of Counseling and Counseling Psychology, Auburn University. She has been dedicated to the well-being of children for over 44 years as a certified teacher, counselor, prevention specialist, parent, and grandparent. Her professional experience includes teaching, counseling, consulting, instructing at Auburn University, and directing educational and prevention services at a mental health agency.

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Categories : Anger, Bullying, Conflict, Parenting, Reader Submissions, Social Issues

The Stop, Relax, and Think Board Game

Posted by Gary Yorke 
· December 12, 2016 
· No Comments

srthink

Dr. Gary has used The Stop, Relax and Think Board Game for over twenty-five years and it continues to be one of the most popular games published by Childswork/Childsplay. Now revised, this very popular board game helps active, impulsive children learn motor control, relaxation skills, how to express their feelings, and how to problem-solve. The game can be used both as a diagnostic and a treatment tool, and behaviors learned in the game can be generalized for the home and classroom.

  • Ideal game to help impulsive children think before they act
  • Useful as both a diagnostic and treatment tool
  • Up to 6 players

The game includes a game board, 50 tokens, 1 6-sided die, 1 10-sided die, 6 turtle game pieces and 2 card decks.

Suitable for children between six and 12.

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Categories : Behavior, Child Development, Conflict, Impulse Control, Product of the Month

Grounding Kids For Having Anxiety by Cristina Margolis

Posted by Gary Yorke 
· September 27, 2016 
· 1 Comment

grounding-kids

 

First thing’s first. The title is very misleading, but it got you to click on the link, didn’t it?  🙂

All parents know what grounding is. It’s what they do with their children who misbehave. Currently, my three year old is grounded from the iPad for hitting her sister. However, parents of children with anxiety may practice a different type of grounding.

Grounding techniques are used for adults and children who exhibit anxiety. Anxiety can be terrifying and make you feel like you are not in control. It is almost as if you are having an out of body experience. During an anxiety attack, you may freeze up and go into a complete panic. Not only does anxiety affect you emotionally, it can affect you physically. Your body may sweat and shake, you may have trouble breathing, your heart rate may increase, your hands and feet may tingle, and you may feel dizzy and nauseous. It is downright frightening, especially for young children. Fortunately, there are anti-anxiety attack techniques called “grounding.” They are given that name, because they keep you “grounded.” Their purpose is to help you reorientate yourself and bring you back to reality.

Children with ADHD often feel overwhelmed at times, which can bring on strong feelings of anxiety. According to a study done at the National Resource Center on ADHD, up to 30% of children with ADHD have also been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. My own daughter with ADHD has anxiety attacks every now and then. I have tried numerous techniques to help her get through her anxiety attacks (including having her look at a calm down jar and spend time in her calm down space at home), but the following technique (what I refer to as “5, 4, 3, 2, 1, Blast off”) is great, because it can be used no matter where you are.

Grounding

“5, 4, 3, 2, 1, Blast Off” – How To Help A Child Having An Anxiety Attack: 

  1. I tell her to look around and find five things she can see. I have her count them using her fingers.
  2. I then tell her to find four things she can touch. Again, I have her count them using her fingers.
  3. I tell her to find three things she can hear. Again, I have her count them using her fingers.
  4. I tell her to find two thing she can smell. Again, I have her count them using her fingers.
  5. I tell her to find one thing she can taste.
  6. Blast Off! By the end of step 5, my daughter has “blasted off” her feelings of anxiety and is calm, cool, and collected. She is then able to talk with me about her problem and we come up with a solution together.

What are some other techniques you have used for your child or yourself to get through an anxiety attack?

 

* * * * *

Thanks to Christina Margolis for this awesome submission! Check out more from Christi at mylittlevillagers.com

 

 

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Categories : Anxiety, Child Development, Communication, Conflict, Feelings, Parenting, Reader Submissions

BIBLIOTHERAPY

Posted by Gary Yorke 
· September 6, 2016 
· 1 Comment

 

Bibliotherapy is a fancy way of saying it’s OK to use books in therapy.  Bibliotherapy is the use of literature to bring about a therapeutic interaction between the adult and the child.  The term originated in 1916 in an article in The Atlantic Monthly. Samuel Crothers suggested using books in hospitals to help patients solve problems and develop insight. There is a very powerful dynamic that takes place when we sit next to a child and read a book. There are thousands of self-help books written for children.  When we sit next to the child and read them the book it becomes a catalyst to discuss their challenges, identify strategies, and then role play and practice those strategies. Books can be sent home with the child, with specific instructions to read them with the parent and bring them back next week.

 

One of the more popular and enduring series of self-help books for children are from Parenting Press. The Children’s Problem Solving Series contains titles such as “I Want It,” My Name is Not Dummy,” and “Mommy Don’t Go.”  The Dealing With Feelings Series contains titles such as I’m Frustrated,” I’m Furious,” and “I’m Scared.” A nice feature of these books is that they are interactive. Children get to pick different behaviors or strategies to challenges presented in the stories. The reader then goes to the section of the book where that strategy is tried and together, reader and child, discover how that affects the outcome.  It is recommended that therapist and child role play and practice the strategies they choose whenever possible. The child should also be asked to explain the strategy to the parent and the parent can be loaned the book to read it to the child during the week.books

 

Other books that might be useful:

A Boy and A Bear: The Children’s Relaxation Book, by Lori Lite, A CD with this and two other stories is also available: Indigo Dreams CD.  The child and parent can then listen to the stories together. This story is a nice one to read, or listen to, at night just before going to sleep. From Head to Toe, by Eric Carle, is a picture book that can be used to practice deep muscle relaxation. As you go through the book with the child, practice the stretches along with deep breathing. Don’t Feed the Worry Bug (& Wince the Worry Monster) is a nice story to read with children who have generalized anxiety.
books1

 

 

Childtherapytoys.com carries a wide selection of books for children.  Here are some of the books we carry, organized by subject.

 

About Therapy – For Kids

A Child’s First Book About Play Therapy by Marc Nemiroff, Ph.D. and Jane Annunziata, Psy.D.

My Listening Friend: A Story About the Benefits of Counseling Book by P.J. Michaels

 

Abuse, Neglect & Domestic Violence

It’s My Body: A Book to Teach Young Children How to Resist Uncomfortable Touch by Lory Freeman

Something Happened and I’m Scared to Tell: A Book for Young Victims of Abuse by Patricia Kehoe, Ph.D.

Loving Touches: A Book for Children about Positive Caring Kinds of Touching by Lory Freeman

Something Is Wrong at My House by Diane Davis

Mi Cuerpo es MIO (It’s MY Body) by Lory Freeman

Algo Paso y Me Da Miedo Decirlo (Something Happened and I’m Scared to Tell) by Patricia Kehoe, Ph.D.

El Problema con Los Secretos (The Trouble with Secrets) by Karen Johnsen

Algo Anda Mal en Mi Casa (Something Is Wrong at my House) by Diane Davis

The Trouble with Secrets by Karen Johnsen

A Terrible Thing Happened: A story for children who have witnessed violence or trauma by Margaret M. Holmes

Reena’s Bollywood Dream: A Story about Sexual Abuse by Jewel Kats

Annabelle’s Secret: A Story about Sexual Abuse by Amy Barth

I Can Play It Safe by Alison Feigh

Will the Courageous: A Story about Sexual Abuse

Hannah Without a Home by Patti Hall, LCSW, and Shelia Devine, MIM

My Body Is Mine, My Feelings Are Mine by Susan Hoke, LCSW, ACSW

 

Adolescence

ADHD: A Teenager’s Guide by James J. Crist, Ph.D.

Mad: Hot to Deal with Anger and Get Respect by James Crist, Ph.D.

How to Talk to an Autistic Kid by Daniel Stefanski

Why Are You So Scared? A Child’s Book About Parents with PTSD by Beth Andrews

When No One Understand by Brad Sachs, Ph.D.

Be the Boss of Your Pain: Self-Care for Kids by Timothy Culbert, M.D., and Rebecca Kajander C.P.N.P, M.P.H.

Be the Boss of Your Stress: Self-Care for Kids by Timothy Culbert, M.D., and Rebecca Kajander C.P.N.P, M.P.H.

How to Take the GRRRR Out of Anger by Elizabeth Verdick and Majorie Lisovskis

The Inside Story on Teen Girls: Experts Answer Teens’ Questions by Karen Zager, Alice Rubenstein

Life Lists for Teens: Tips, Steps, Hints, and How-Tos for Growing Up, Getting Along, Learning and Having Fun by Pamela Espeland

When Nothing Matters Anymore: A Survival Guide for Depressed Teens by Bev Cobain, R.N., C.

The Courage to Be Yourself: True Stories by Teens About Cliques, Conflicts, and Overcoming Peer Pressure edited by Al Desetta, M.A., and Educators for Social Responsibility

Too Stressed to Think? A Teen Guide to Staying the Same When Life Makes You Crazy by Annie Fox, M.Ed., and Ruth Kirschner

The Power to Prevent Suicide (for teens, updated edition) by Richard E. Nelson, Ph.D, and Judith C. Galas

GLBTQ: The Survival Guide for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning Teens (Revised & Updated Second Edition) by Kelly Huegel

My Anxious Mind: A Teen’s Guide to Managing Anxiety and Panic by Michael Tompkins and Katherine Martinez

The Mouse, the Monster, and Me – Assertiveness for Young People (Curb Bullying) by Pat Palmer, Ed.D.

 

ADD/ADHD and Learning Differences

ADHD: A Teenager’s Guide by James J. Crist, Ph.D.

All Dogs Have ADHD by Kathy Hoopmann

Annie’s Plan: Taking Charge of Schoolwork and Homework by Jeanne Kraus

Cory Stories: A Kids Book About Living with ADHD by Jeanne Kraus

Ditzabled Princess: A Comical Diary by Jewel Kats

Eukee the Jumpy Elephant by Clifford L. Corman, M.D.

I Just Want to Do It My Way! My Story About Staying on Task by Julia Cook

It’s Hard To Be A Verb! (a book about focusing) by Julia Cook

Learning to Slow Down and Pay Attention by Kathleen G. Nadeau, Ph.D., and Ellen B. Dixon, Ph.D.

Max Pays Attention by Barbara Gibson-Paul, Psy.D.

Me Van A Ayudar: El TDA explicado a los niños by Marc A. Nemiroff, Ph.D., and Jane Annunziata, Psy.D.

My Mouth is a Volcano by Julia Cook

Otto Learns about His Medicine: A Story about Medication for Children with ADHD (third edition) by Matthew Galvin, M.D.

Out of This World: Hey Max… Pay Attention! The Importance of Concentration by Jon Filitti

Out of This World: Max Strives for Success! Victory through Motivation by Jon Filitti

Soda Pop Head (cool down before you fizz!) by Julia Cook

Sometimes I Drive My Mom Crazy (But I Know She’s Crazy About Me) by Lawrence E. Shapiro, Ph.D.

The Asperkid’s Launch Pad: Home Design to Empower Everyday Superheroes by Jennifer Cook O’Toole

The Don’t Give Up Kid by Jeanne Gehret

The Princess and the Ruby: An Autism Fairy Tale by Jewel Kats

The Rabbit Who Lost His Hop by Marica Shoshana Nass

The Survival Guide for Kids with ADD or ADHD by John F. Taylor, Ph.D.

This Morning Sam Went to Mars: A Book about Paying Attention by Nancy Carlson

Understanding Sam and Asperger Syndrome by Clarabelle van Niekerk and Liezl Venter

What is it Like to Be Me? A Book About a Boy with Asperger’s Syndrome by Alenka Klemenec

Can I Tell You About Dyslexia? A Guide for Friends, Family and Professionals by Alan M. Hultquist

The Survival Guide for Gifted Kids by Judy Galbraith, M.A.

How to Be Human: Diary of an Autistic Girl by Florida Frenz

Learning to Feel Good and Stay Cool: Emotional Regulation Tools for Kids with AD/HD by Judith M. Glasser, Ph.D., and Kathleen G Nadeau, Ph.D.

Attention Girls: A Guide to Learn All About Your AD/HD by Patricia O. Quinn, M.D.

 

Adoption/Foster Care

All About Adoption by Marc Nemiroff and Jane Annunziata

Finding the Right Spot: When Kids Can’t Live With Their Parents by Janice Levy

Maybe Days: A Book for Children in Foster Care by Jennifer Wilgocki, MS, and Marcia Kahn Wright, Ph.D.

Zachary’s New Home: A Story for Foster and Adopted Children by Geraldine M. Blomquisst, M.S.W. and Paul Blomquist

Kids Need to Be Safe: A Book for Children in Foster Care by Julie Nelson

Families Change: A Book for Children Experiencing Termination of Parental Rights by Julie Nelson

Billy Had to Move: A Foster Care Story by Theresa Ann Fraser, CYW, B.A.

Who is in Your Family? A Celebration in Diversity by Susan Bowman

Good for You, Grisha: Teaching Kids Ways to Cope by Karen Westhoven

 

Anger

What to Do When You’re Cranky and Blue by James J. Crist, Ph.D.

Boom the Anger Tamer: An Emotes Book About Anger by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Cloud’s Best Worst Day Ever by Amy Novesky

Cool Down and Work Through Anger by Cheri J. Meiners, M.Ed.

Every Time I Blow My Top I Lose My Head! By Laura Slap-Sheltion, Psy.D., and Lawrence E. Shapiro, Ph.D.

Everything I Do You Blame on Me! By Allyson Aborn, MSW, CSW

Frog’s Breathtaking Speech by Michael Chissick

Hands are Not for Hitting by Martine Agassi, Ph.D.

How to Take the GRRRR Out of Anger by Elizabeth Verdick and Marjorie Lisovskis

Mad: How to Deal with Anger and Get Respect by James J. Crist, Ph.D.

Out of This World: Face to Face with X-35 by Jon Filitti

Soda Pop Head (cool down before you fizz!) by Julia Cook

Sometimes I Like to Fight (But I Don’t Do It Much Anymore) by Lawrence E. Shapiro, Ph.D.

The Penguin Who Lost Her Cool by Marla Sobel

The Very Angry Day That Amy Didn’t Have by Lawerence E. Shapiro

The Very Frustrated Monster by Andi Green

What to do When Your Temper Flares by Dawn Huebner, Ph.D.

When You’re MAD and You Know It by Elizabeth Crary, M.S. and Shari Steelsmith

Zach Apologizes by William Mulcahy

Zach Get Frustrated by William Mulcahy

Cant Loses His Cool: An Emotes Book About Temper Tantrums by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Cant Pierde Su Calma: Un Libro Emotes Sobre Las Rabietas by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Boom the Anger Tamer: An Emotes Book About Anger by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Learning to Feel Good and Stay Cool: Emotional Regulation Tools for Kids With AD/HD by Judith M. Glasser, Ph.D., and Kathleen G. Nadeau, Ph.D.

I Hate Everything! By Sue Graves

 

Anxiety/Worry/Shyness

A Boy and a Bear: The Children’s Relaxation Book by Lori Lite

Be the Boss of Your Stress: Self-Care for Kids by Timothy Culbert, M.D., and Rebecca Kajander C.P.N.P., M.P.H.

Blueloon by Julia Cook

Bolsitas raras by Tiziana Bruno Rosa

Bug Makes a Splash by Amy Novesky

Caillou: Day Care by Christine L’Heureux and Gisèle Lègarè

Can I Tell You About Selective Mutism? A Guide For Friends, Family, and Professionals by Maggie Johnson and Alison Wintgens

Celia the Great: Tricks for Being a Happy Kid by Abby Jacobs

Cómo apreciarme by Pat Palmer

Cucho le dice NO al estrés by N. Barceló G. / C. Bordagorry A.

Does This Make Me Beautiful? By Harriet Morse

Don’t Blame Me! Prepare to Excel Beyond Your Wildest Dreams by Larry Cole

Don’t Feed the Worry Bug by Andi Green

Frog’s Breathtaking Speech by Michael Chissick

The Monster Who Couldn’t Decide by Andi Green

Full Mouse, Empty Mouse: A Tale of Food and Feelings by Dina Zeckhausen, Ph.D.

Get Out of Your Mind & Into Your Life for Teens by Joseph V. Ciarrochi, Ph.D., Louise Hayes, PH.D., and Ann Baily M.A.

Good for You, Grisha: Teaching Kids Ways to Cope by Karen Westhoven

How to Feel Good: 20 Things Teens Can Do by Tricia Mangan

Joi’s Cyber-Coaster Adventure: An Emotes Book About Positive Thinking by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Liking Myself (3rd Edition) by Pat Palmer, Ed.D.

Mideos y Manias by Lluís Farré

My Anxious Mind: A Teen’s Guide to Managing Anxiety and Panic by Michael Tompkins and Katherine Martinez

Nuevas téchnicas de relajación para niños y adolescents by Silvina Hopkins

Please Explain “Anxiety” to Me! : Simple Biology and Solutions for Children and Parents by Laurie Zelinger, Ph.D. and Jordan Zelinger

Pressure-True Stories by Teens About Stress edited by Al Desetta

Scary Night Visitors: A Story for Children with Bedtime Fears by Irene Wineman and Paul Marcus, Ph.D.

Sometimes I Don’t Like to Talk (But Sometimes I Can’t Keep Quiet) by Jessica Lamb-Shapiro

Sometimes I Worry Too Much (But Now I Know How To Stop) by Dawn A. Huebner, Ph.D.

Sometimes I’m Scared by Jane Annunziata, Psy.D., and Marc Nemiroff, Ph.D.

Stress Can Really Get On Your Nerves by Trevor Romain and Elizabeth Verdick

The Bear Who Lost His Sleep by Jennifer Lamb-Shapiro

The Chimp Who Lost Her Chatter by Lawrence E. Shapiro

The Dragon Who Pulled Her Scales by William Michael Davidson

The Hyena Who Lost Her Laugh by Jennifer Lamb-Shapiro

The Lion Who Lost His Roar by Marcia Shoshana Nass

The Lonely Little Monster by Andi Green

The Monster in the Bubble by Andi Green

The Mouse the Monster and Me– Assertiveness for Young People by Pat Palmer

The Nose That Didn’t Fit by Andi Green

The Panicosaurus by K.I. Al-Ghani

Think Confident, Be Confident for Teens by Marci G. Fox Ph.D. and Leslie Sokol Ph.D.

Tommy Starts Something Big: Giving Cuddles and Kindness by Chuck Gaidica and Kris Yankee

What to Do When You Dread Your Bed by Dawn Huebner

What to Do When You Grumble Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Negativity by Dawn Huebner

What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety by Dawn Huebner

What to Do When You’re Scared & Worried: A Guide for Kids by James J. Crist, Ph.D.

What to Do When Your Brain Gets Stuck: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming OCD by Dawn Huebner

When Lizzy Was Afraid of Trying New Things by Inger Maier, Ph.D.

When No One Understands by Brad Sachs, Ph.D.

Who Feels Scared? By Sue Graves

Why Are You So Scared? A Child’s Book About Parents with PTSD by Beth Andrews

Why Would Someone Want to Die? By Rebecca C. Schmidt

Wilma Jean the Worry Machine by Julia Cook

Some Days Are Lonely by Young-Ah Kim

Big Ernie’s New Home: A Story for Children Who Are Moving by Teresa and Whitney Martin

Jumpi Goes to Camp: An Emotes Book About Being Afraid by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Super and Perfecto: An Emotes Book About Confidence by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Good Night Giants by Heinz Janisch

New Kid, New Scene: A Guide to Moving and Switching Schools by Debbie Glassner, Ph.D., and Emily Schneck

Understanding Myself: A Kid’s Guide to Intense Emotions and Strong Feelings by Mary C. Lamia, Ph.D.

Can I tell you about OCD? A Guide for Friends, Family and Professionals by Amita Jassi

Oh No, School! By Hae-Kyung Chang

Drain and the Mystery of Sleep by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Jumpi Va a Campar: Un Libro Emotes Sobre Tener Miedo by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

A Happy Hat by Cecil Kim

School Made Easier: A Kid’s Guide to Study Strategies & Anxiety Busting Tools by Wendy L. Moss

 

Autism/PDD

All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome by Kathy Hoopmann

How to Talk to an Autistic Kid by Daniel Stefanski

I Just Want to Do It My Way! My Story About Staying on Task by Julia Cook

Keisha’s Doors: An Autism Story/Las Puerton de Keisha: Book One by Marvie Ellis

Tacos Anyone? / Alguien quiere tacos? By Marvie Ellis

The Asperkid’s Launch Pad: Home Design to Empower Everyday Superheroes by Jennifer Cook O’Toole

The Princess and the Ruby: An Autism Fairy Tale by Jewel Kats

The Survival Guide for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders (And Their Parents) by Elizabeth Verdick and Elizabeth Reeve, M.D.

Understanding Sam and Asperger Syndrome Clarabelle van Niekerk and Liezl Venter

What Is It Like to Be Me? A Book about a Boy with Asperger’s Syndrome by Alenka Klemen

How to Be Human: Diary of an Autistic Girl by Florida Frez

 

Behavior Management

Imagine That! Imagery Stories to Help Young People Learn to Improve Their Behavioral Self-Control by Janis L. Silverman, M.A.

The Survival Guide for Kids with Behavior Challenges by Tom McIntyre, Ph.D.

I Can’t Do Anything by Thierry Robberecht

 

Bullying, Teasing, Peer Conflict, Friendship

Becoming Someone’s Hero: A Book for the Bystanders of Bullying by Sandy Ragona

Browser the Moues and His Internet Adventures by Barbara C. Trolley, Ph.D., CRC, Constance Hanel, M.S.Ed, and Kinda L. Shields, M.S.Ed

Bullies Are a Pain in the Brain by Trevor Romain

But Why Can’t I? By Sue Graves

Bystander Power: Now with Anti-Bulling Action by Phyllis Kaufman Goodstein and Elizabeth Verdick

Caillou: Play With Me! By Christine L’Heureux

Cliques Just Don’t Make Cents by Julia Cook

Crow by Leo Timmers

Dare! By Erin Frankel

Don’t Squeal Unless It’s A Big Deal: A Tale of Tattletales by Jeanie Franz Ransom, M.A., and Jackie Ubanovic

Girl Grudges: Learning How to Forgive and Live by Cheryl Dellasega, Ph.D. and Shileste Overton Morris, B.A.

How Not to be a Bully Target by Terry Centrone

How To Be A Bully! …Not! By Marcia Nass, MS

How to Talk to an Autistic Kid by Daniel Stefanski

I Am Stumped by Lisa Rivard

If You’re Bothered…and you know it by Tricia Murin

It Will Get Better: Finding Your Way Through Teen Issues by Melinda Hutchings

Kicky the Mean Chick Learns Her Lesson & Other Kicky Tales by Erika Karres

Mookey the Monkey Gets Over Being Teased by Heather Lonczak

My Best Friend is Me! By Beth Ann Marcozzi

My Name is Not Dummy by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

The Lonely Little Monster by Andi Green

Not Fair, Won’t Share by Sue Graves

Out of This World: Tiglos vs Secca Ma by John Filitti

Pressure – True Stories by Teens About Stress edited by Al Desetta

Ricky Sticky Fingers by Julia Cook

The Nose that Didn’t Fit by Andi Green

Soda Pop Head (cool down before you fizz!) by Julia Cook

Tease Monster: A Book about Teasing vs. Bullying by Julia Cook

Teddy Bear Princess: A Story About Sharing and Caring by Jewel Kats

The Hero in Me by Susan Fitzsimonds

The Juice Box Bully: Empowering Kids to Stand Up for Others by Bob Sornson and Maria Dismondy

The Mouse, The Monster, and Me – Assertiveness for Young People by Pat Palmer

The Penguin Who Lost Her Cool by Marla Sobel

Tough! By Erin Frankel

Vicious – True Stories by Teens About Bullying edited by Hope Vanderberg

Weird! By Erin Frankel

Words Are Not for Hurting/Las palabras no son para lastimar by Elizabeth Verdick

Zach Apologizes by William Mulcahy

Zach Gets Frustrated by William Mulcahy

Don’t Call Me A Tattletale! By Kimberly Koskos

El Ratón, El Monstruo y Yo: Conducta asertiva para los jóvenes by Pat Palmer, Ed.D

Eli’s Lie-O-Meter by Sandra Levins

Abash and the Cyber-Bully: An Emotes Book About Bullying by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Imp and the Fib Invasion: An Emotes Book About Telling the Truth by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Joi’s Cyber-Coaster Adventure: An Emotes Book About Positive Thinking by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Circle of Three: Enough Friendship to Go Around? By Elizabeth Brokamp

Stand Up and Speak Up! By Bob Sornson

Sally Sore Loser: A Story About Winning & Losing by Frank J. Sileo

New Kid, New Scene: A Guide to Moving and Switching Schools by Debbie Glassner, Ph.D.

 

Comics/Out of This World Guidance Series

Out of This World: Hey Max…Pay Attention! The Importance of Concentration by John Filitti

Out of This World: Max Strives for Success! Victory Through Motivation by John Filitti

Out of This World: Face to Face with X-35 by John Filitti

Out of This World: Tiglos vs Secca Ma by John Filitti

 

Conflict Resolution

The Kids’ Guide to Working Out Conflicts: How to Keep Cool, Stay Safe, and Get Along by Naomi Drew, M.A.

The Courage To Be Yourself: True Stories by Teens About Cliques, Conflicts, and Overcoming Peer Pressure edited by Al Desetta

Don’t Call Me a Tattletale by Kimberly Koskos

Circle of Three: Enough Friendship to Go Around? By Elizabeth Brokamp

 

Cyber/Internet Safety

Abash and the Cyber-Bully: An Emotes Book About Bullying by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Joi’s Cyber-Coaster Adventure: An Emotes Book About Positive Thinking by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Browser the Mouse and His Internet Adventure by Constance Hanel, Ph.D., C.R.C., Linda Shields, M.S.Ed, and Barbara Trolley, M.S.Ed

 

Depression/Sadness/Negative Thinking

What to Do When You Grumble Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Negativity by Dawn Huebner

What To Do When Your Brain Gets Stuck: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming OCD by Dawn Huebner

Jenny Is Scared! When Sad Things Happen in the World by Carol Shuman

What to Do When You’re Scared & Worried: A Guide for Kids by James J. Crist, Ph.D.

When Nothing Matters Anymore: A Survival Guide for Depressed Teens by Bev Cobain, R.N., C.

What Are You So Sad? A Child’s Book About Parental Depression by Beth Andrews

Sometimes I Get Sad (But Now I Know What Makes Me Happy) by Jane Ratcliffe

What To Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety by Dawn Huebner, Ph.D.

Full Mouse, Empty Mouse: A Tale of Food and Feelings by Dina Zeckhausen, Ph.D.

The Power to Prevent Suicide (for teens, updated edition) by Richard E. Nelson, Ph.D., and Judith C. Galas

Why Would Someone Want to Die? By Rebecca C. Schmidt

Liking Myself (3rd Edition) by Pat Palmer, Ed.D.

I’m Not Happy by Sue Graves

Who Feels Scared by Sue Graves

Feeling Sad by Sarah Verroken

Does This Make Me Beautiful? By Harriet Morse

Don’t Blame Me! Prepare to Excel Beyond Your Wildest Dreams by Larry Cole

Growing Up with a Bucket Full of Happiness: Three Rules for a Happier Life by Carol McCloud

Have You Filled a Bucket Today? : A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids by Carol McCloud

Tommy Starts Something Big: Giving Cuddles and Kindness by Chuck Gaidica

What Color is Your Heart? By Linda Reau

Why Are You So Scared? A Book Bout Parents with PTSD by Beth Andrews

Blueloon by Julia Cook

I Am Stumped! By Lisa Rivard

Has Llenado una Cubeta Hoy? Una Gui a Diaria de Felicidad para Niños by Carol McCloud

Cloud’s Best Worst Day Ever by Amy Novesky

Get Out of Your Mind & Into Your Life for Teens by Joseph V. Ciarrochi, Ph.D., Louise Hayes, Ph.D., and Ann Bailey, M.A.

When No One Understands by Brad Sachs, Ph.D.

Hannah Without A Home by Patti Hall, LCSE, and Sheila Devine, MIM

What Does Dead Mean? A Book for Young Children to Help Explain Death & Dying by Caroline Jay and Jenni Thomas

el PEOR dia de TODA mi vida/The Worst Day of My Life EVER by Julia Cook

The Grouchies (Chase Away a Grumpy Mood) by Debbie Wagenbach

Bubba Under Pressure: An Emotes Book About Happiness by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Bubba Bajo Presion: Un Libro Emotes Sobre La Alegria y La Presion by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Joi’s Cyber Coaster Adventure: An Emotes Book About Positive Thinking by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

What to Do When It’s Not Fair by Jacqueline B. Toner, Ph.D., and Claire A. B. Freeland, Ph.D.

A Happy Hat by Cecil Kim

What to Do When You’re Cranky and Blue by James J. Crist, Ph.D.

Shy Spaghetti and Excited Eggs: A Kid’s Menu of Feelings by Marc Nemiroff and Jane Annunziata

Ick and the Emotastone: An Emotes Book About Accepting Differences by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Celia the Great: Tricks for Being a Happy Kid by Abby Jacobs

Understanding Myself: A Kid’s Guide to Intense Emotions and Strong Feelings by Mary C. Lamia, Ph.D.

 

Disabilities

The Don’t Give Up Kid by Jeanne Gehret, M.A.

Los latidos de Yago by Conchita Miranda

What Do You Use to Help Your Body? By Jewel Kats

Cinderella’s Magical Wheelchair by Jewel Kats

Ditzabled Princess: A Comical Diary by Jewel Kats

 

Divorce

Ginny Morris and Mom’s House, Dad’s House by Mary Collins Gallagher, M.A., L.P.C.

My Parents Are Divorced Too: A Book for Kids by Kids (2nd Edition) by Melanie, Annie, and Steven Ford, as told to Jan Blackstone-Ford

What Can I Do? A Book for Children of Divorce by Danielle Lowry

Was It the Chocolate Pudding? A Story for Little Kids About Divorce by Sandra Levins

Families Change: A Book for Children Experiencing Termination of Parental Rights by Julie Nelson

Divorced Together for the Sake of the Children by Kristi Schwartz

Sending Love, My Different-Functional Family by Lori Hilliard

I Have Two Homes by Marian De Smet

My Life Turned Upside Down, But I Turned It Rightside Up by Mary Blitzer Field and Hennie Shore

 

Eating Disorders

Full Mouse, Empty Mouse: A Tale of Food and Feeling by Dina Zeckhausen, Ph.D.

My Big Fat Secret: How Jenna Takes Control of Her Emotions & Eating by Lynn R. Schechter

How To Be Comfortable in Your Own Feathers by Julia Cook

 

Enuresis/Encopresis

Clouds and Clocks: A Story for Children Who Soil by Matthew Galvin, M.D.

Sammy the Elephant and Mr. Camel: A Story to Help Children Overcome Bedwetting While Discovering Self-Appreciation (2nd Edition) by Joyce C. Mills, Ph.D., and Richard Crowley, Ph.D.

Sammy el Elefante y el Senor Camello (A story to help children overcome bedwetting by Joyce C. Mills, Ph.D., and Richard Crowley, Ph.D.

 

Feelings

Abash and the Cyber-Bully: An Emotes Book About Bullying by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Abash y el Peleon-Cibernetico: Un Libro Emotes Sobre la Intimidacion de Peleones Ciberneticos by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Así me siento yo by Janan Cain

Boom the Anger Tamer: An Emotes Book About Anger by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Bubba Bajo Presion: Un Libro Emotes Sobre La Alegria y La Presion by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Bubba Under Pressure: An Emotes Book About Happiness by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Cant Loses His Cool: An Emotes Book About Temper Tantrums by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Cant Pierde Su Calma: Un Libro Emotes Sobre Las Rabietas

Como apreciarme by Pat Palmer, Ed.D.

Don’t Feed the Worry Bug by Andi Green

Double-Dip Feelings: Stories to Help Children Understand Emotions, Second Edition by Barbara Cain

Drain and the Mystery of Sleep by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Drain y el Misterio del Sueno: Un Libro Emotes Sobre Tener Habitos Saludables by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Feeling Better: A Kid’s Book About Therapy by Rachel Rashkin

Feeling Sad by Sarah Verroken

Fill a Bucket: A Guide to Daily Happiness for young Children by Carol McCloud

The Monster Who Couldn’t Decide by Andi Green

Full Mouse, Empty Mouse: A Tale of Food and Feelings by Dina Zeckhausen, Ph.D>

Growing Up with a Bucket Full of Happiness: Three Rules for a Happier Life by Carol McCloud

Have You Filled A Bucket Today? : A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids by Carol McCloud

How to Feel Good: 20 Things Teens Can Do by Tricia Mangan

I’m Excited by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

I’m Frustrated by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

I’m Furious by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

I’m Mad by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

I’m Not Happy by Sue Graves

I’m Proud by Elizabeth Crary

I’m Scared by Elizabeth Crary

Ick and The Emotastone: An Emotes Book About Accepting Differences by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Jenny Is Scared! When Sad Things Happen in the World by Carol Shuman

Joi’s Cyber-Coaster Adventure an Emotes Book about Positive Thinking by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Jumpi Goes to Camp: An Emotes Book About Being Afraid by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Jumpi Va a Campar: Un Libro Emotes Sobre Tener Miedo by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Liking Myself (3rd Edition) by Pat Palmer Ed.D.

Mixy’s Quest: An Emotes Book About Confusion by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

My Body Is Mine, My Feelings Are Mine by Susan Hoke, LCSW, ACSW

The Lonely Little Monster by Andi Green

Onionhead® Children’s A-Z Dictionary of 52 Emotions

Proud of Our Feelings by Lindsay Leghorn

The Nose That Didn’t Fit by Andi Green

The Monster in the Bubble by Andi Green

The Lion Who Lost His Roar by Marcia Shoshana Nass

The Monster Who Couldn’t Decide by Andi Green

The Penguin Who Lost Her Cool by Marla Sobel

The Very Frustrated Monster by Andi Green

The Way I Act by James Metzger

The Way I Feel by Janan Cain

Understand and Care by Cheri J. Meiners, Ed.D.

What Color is Your Heart? By Linda Reau

What to do When Your Temper Flares by Dawn Huebner, Ph.D.

When You’re HAPPY and You Know It by Elizabeth Crary, M.S., and Shari Steelsmith

When You’re MAD and You Know It by Elizabeth Crary, M.S., and Shari Steelsmith

When You’re SHY and You Know It by Elizabeth Crary, M.S., and Shari Steelsmith

When You’re SILLY and You Know It by Elizabeth Crary, M.S., and Shari Steelsmith

Who Feels Scared? by Sue Graves

Don’t Feed the WorryBug by Andi Graves

Yawni and the Perspecto-Goggles: An Emotes Book About Boredom by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Shy Spaghetti and Excited Eggs: A Kid’s Menu of Feelings by Marc Nemiroff and Jane Annunziata

My Big Fat Secrets: How Jenna Takes Control of Her Emotions & Eating by Lynn R. Schechter

Visiting Feelings by Lauren Rubenstein, J.D., Psy.D.

What to Do When It’s Not Fair by Jacqueline B. Toner, Ph.D., and Claire A.B. Freeland, Ph.D.

Some Days Are Lonely by Young-Ah Kim

A Happy Hat by Cecil Kim

Understanding Myself: A Kid’s Guide to Intense Emotions and Strong Feelings by Mary C. Lamia, Ph.D.

 

Friendship Skills

El Ratón, El Monstruo y Yo: Conducta asertiva para los jóvenes by Pat Palmer, Ed.D.

Circle of Three: Enough Friendship to Go Around by Elizabeth Brokamp

Toodles and Teeny: A Story About Friendship by Jill Neimark and Marcella Bakur Weiner

New Kid, New Scene: A Guide to Moving and Switching Schools by Debbie Glasser, Ph.D., and Emily Schenck

Loving Touches: A Book for Children About Positive, Caring Kinds of Touching by Lory Freeman

Teddy Bear Princess: A Story About Sharing and Caring by Jewel Kats

Sally Sore Loser: A Story About Winning & Losing by Frank J. Sileo

Big Ernie’s New Home: A Story for Children Who Are Moving by Teresa and Whitney Martin

A Good Friend: How to Make One, How to Be One by Ron Herron and Val J. Peter

Sometimes I Feel Like I Don’t Have Any Friends (But Not So Much Anymore) by Tracy Zimmerman and Lawrence Shapiro, Ph.D.

Tommy Starts Something Big: Giving Cuddles and Kindness by Chuck Gaidica and Kris Yankee

Cat’s Not So Perfect Sandcastle illustrations by Hanako Wakiyama

My Best Friend is Me! By Beth Ann Marcozzi

 

Grief and Bereavement

Samantha Jane’s Missing Smile: A Story about Coping with the Loss of a Parent by Julie Kaplow, Ph.D., and Donna Pincus, Ph.D

What On Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies? By Trevor Romain

Why Would Someone Want to Die? By Rebecca C. Schmidt

Good-bye Max by Diane Cantrell

Aractina Aprende a Decir Adios by M. Acuña M/ C. Bordagorry A. / N. Barceló G.

Cuerpo de nube by Ana A. de Eulate

Stella Our Star: Coping with a Loss During Pregnancy by Mandi Kowalik

Someone I Love Died by Suicide by Doreen Cammarata

Honey Bear Died by Jennifer E. Melvin

What Does Dead Mean? A Book for Young Children to Help Explain Death & Dying by Caroline Jay and Jenni Thomas

Ben’s Flying Flowers by Inger Maier

Healing Days: A Guide for Kids Who Have Experienced Trauma by Susan Farber Straus

Kate, The Ghost Dog: Coping With the Death of a Pet by Wayne L. Wilson

Goodbye, Brecken by David Lupton

 

Medical

Be the Boss of Your Pain: Self-Care for Kids by Timothy Culbert, M.D., and Rebecca Kajander C.P.N.P, M.P.H.

Be the Boss of Your Stress: Self-Care for Kids by Timothy Culbert, M.D., and Rebecca Kajander C.P.N.P, M.P.H.

You Can Call Me Willy: A Story for Children About AIDS by Joan C. Verniero

Ditzabled Princess: A Comical Diary by Jewel Kats

 

Pre-Adolescence

What to do When Your Temper Flares by Dawn Huebner, Ed.D.

What to do When Your Brain Gets Stuck: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming OCD by Dawn Huebner, Ed.D.

Be the Boss of Your Pain: Self-Care for Kids by Timothy Culbert, M.D., and Rebecca Kajander C.P.N.P, M.P.H.

How Not To Be a Bully Target by Terry Centrone

Stress Can Really Get on Your Nerves by Trevor Romain and Elizabeth Verdick

How to Do Homework Without Throwing Up by Trevor Romain

True or False? Tests Stink! By Trevor Romain and Elizabeth Verdick

The Kid’s Guide to Working Out Conflicts: How to Keep Cool, Stay Safe, and Get Along by Naomi Drew, M.A.

Feeling Better: A Kid’s Book About Therapy by Rachel Rashkin, M.S.

See My Pain! 3rd Edition by Susan Bowman, Ed.S., L.P.C., and Kaye Randall, LMSW

Girl Grudges: Learning How to Forgive and Live by Cheryl Dellasega, Ph.D., and Shileste Overton Morris, B.A.

Full Mouse, Empty Mouse: A Tale of Food and Feelings by Dina Zeckhausen, Ph.D.

The Power to Prevent Suicide (for teens, updated edition) by Richard E. Nelson, Ph.D., and Judith C. Galas

Why Would Someone Want to Die? By Rebecca C. Schmidt

What to Do When Good Enough Isn’t Good Enough: The Real Deal on Perfectionism by Thomas S. Greenspon, Ph.D.

The Mouse, The Monster, and Me – Assertiveness for Young People by Pat Palmer, Ed.D.

 

Self Injury

A Short Introduction to Understanding and Supporting Children and Young People Who Self-Harm by Carol Fitzpatrick

Stopping the Pain: A Workbook for Teens Who Cut and Self-Injure By Lawrence E Shapiro

See My Pain! 3rd Edition (Youth who self-injure) by Susan Bowman, Ed.S., L.P.C., and Kaye Randall, LMSW

 

Self-Esteem

Always Late Nate (a book about making positive choices) by Nathan Krivitzky

Como apreciarme by Pat Palmer, Ed.D.

Does This Make Me Beautiful? By Harriet Morse

Don’t Blame Me! Prepare to Excel Beyond Your Wildest Dreams by Larry Cole

Frog’s Breathtaking Speech by Michael Chissick

I Like Myself! By Karen Beaumont

It’s Hard to be A Verb! By Julia Cook

Sometimes I Don’t Like to Talk (But Sometimes I Can’t Keep Quiet) by Jessica Lamb-Shapiro

Sometimes I Drive My Mom Crazy (But I Know She’s Crazy About Me) by Lawrence E. Shapiro

Sometimes I Feel Like I Don’t Have Any Friends (But Not So Much Anymore) by Tracy Zimmerman and Lawrence Shapiro, Ph.D.

Sometimes I Get Sad (But Now I Know What Makes Me Happy) by Jane Ratcliffe

Sometimes I Like to Fight (But I Don’t Do It Much Anymore) by Lawrence E. Shapiro, Ph.D.

Sometimes I Worry Too Much (But Now I Know How to Stop) by Dawn A. Huebner, Ph.D.

Stick Up For Yourself! Every Kid’s Guide to Personal Pwer and Positive Self-Esteem (revised and updated) by Gershen Kaufman, Ph.D., Lev Raphael, Ph.D., and Pamela Espeland

The Dragon Who Pulled Her Scales by William Michael Davidson

The Hero in Me by Susan Fitzsimonds

Tommy Starts Something Big: Giving Cuddles and Kindness by Chuck Gaidica and Kris Yankee

Lola Goes to Work: A Nine-to-Five Therapy Dog by Marcia Goldman

My Big Fat Secret: How Jenna Takes Control of Her Emotions & Eating by

Don’t Call Me a Tattletale! By Kimberly Koskos

Celia the Great: Tricks for Being a Happy Kid by Abby Jacobs

How To Be Comfortable in Your Own Feathers by Julia Cook

Feel Confident! By Cheri J. Meiners

 

Separation

Mommy Don’t Go by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

I’m Lost by Elizabeth Craary, M.S.

 

Social and Emotional Competence Skills

A Boy and a Bear: The Children’s Relaxation Book by Lori Lite

Accept and Value Each Person by Cheri J. Meiners

Be the Boss of Your Stress: Self-Care for Kids by Timothy Culbert, M.D., and Rebecca Kajander C.P.N.P, M.P.H.

Becoming Someone’s Hero: A Book for the Bystanders of Bullying by Sandy Ragona, M.S.Ed.

Caillou: Day Care by Christine L’Heureux and Gisèle Lègarè

Caillou: Hurry Up! By Joceline Sanschagrin

Caillou: Play With Me! By Christine L’Heureux

Can I Tell You About Selective Mutism? A Guide for Friends, Family, and Professionals by Maggie Johnson and Alsion Wintgens

Cliques Just Don’t Make Cents by Julia Cook

Cucho le dice NO al estrés by N. Barceló G./ C. Bordagorry A.

Does This Make Me Beautiful? By Harriet Morse

Don’t Blame Me! Prepare to Excel Beyond Your Wildest Dreams by Larry Cole

Don’t Squeal Unless It’s A Big Deal: A Tale of Tattletales by Jenanie Franz Ransom, MA

el PEOR dia de TODA mi vida/The Worst Day of My Life EVER by Julia Cook

Fill a Bucket: A Guide to Daily Happiness for Young Children by Carol McCloud

Frog’s Breathtaking Speech by Michael Chissick

Good For You, Grisha: Teaching Kids Ways to Cope by Karen Westhoven

Growing Up with a Bucket Full of Happiness: Three Rules for a Happier Life by Carol McCloud

Has Llenado una Cubeta Hoy? Una Gui a Diaria de Felicidad para Niños by Carol McCloud

Have You Filled a Bucket Today? : A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids by Carol McCloud

How to Talk to an Autistic Kid by Daniel Stefanski

I Am Stumped by Lisa Rivard

I Can’t Wait by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

I Just Want to Do It My Way! My Story About Staying on Task by Julia Cook

I Want It by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

I Want to Play by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

I’m Lost by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

Ick and the Emotastone: An Emotes Book About Accepting Differences by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

If You’re Bothered… and you know it by Tricia Murin

It’s Hard to Be A Verb! By Julia Cook

Kicky the Mean Chick Learns Her Lesson & Other Kicky Tales by Erika Karres

Liking Myself (3rd Edition) by Pat Palmer, Ed.D.

Listen and Learn by Cheri J. Meiners, M.Ed.

Mad: How to Deal With Anger and Get Respect by James J. Crist, Ph.D.

Mommy Don’t Go by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

My Mouth is a Volcano by Julia Cook

My Name is Not Dummy by Elizabeth Crary, M.S.

Nobody Likes Me, Everybody Hates Me: The Top 25 Friendship Problems and How to Solve Them by Michele Borba, Ed.D.

Nuevas téchnicas de relajación para niños y adolescents by Silvina Hopkins

Out of This World: Max Strives for Success! Victory Through Motivation by John Filitti

Out of This World: Face to Face with X-35 by John Filitti

Out of This World: Tiglos vs Secca Ma by John Filitti

Pressure-True Stories by Teens About Stress edited by Al Desetta

Ricky Sticky Fingers by Julia Cook

Sometimes I Don’t Like to Talk (But Sometimes I Can’t Keep Quiet) by Jessica Lamb-Shapiro

Sometimes I Feel Like I Don’t Have Any Friends (But Not So Much Anymore) by Tracy Zimmerman and Lawrence Shapiro, Ph.D.

Sometimes I Get Sad (But Now I Know What Makes Me Happy) by Jane Ratcliffe

Sometimes I Like to Fight (But I Don’t Do It Much Anymore) by Lawrence E. Shapiro, Ph.D.

Stick Up For Yourself~ Every Kid’s Guide to Personal Power and Positive Self-Esteem (revised and updated) by Gershen Kaufman, Ph.D., Lev Raphael, Ph.D., and Pamela Espeland

Teamwork Isn’t My Thing, and I Don’t Like to Share! By Julia Cook

Tease Monster: A Book about Teasing vs. Bullying by Julia Cook

Teddy Bear Princess: A Story About Sharing and Caring by Jewel Kats

The Courage to Be Yourself: True Stories by Teens About Cliques, Conflicts, and Overcoming Peer Pressure edited by Al Desetta, M.A., and Educators for Social Responsibility

The Hero in Me by Susan Fitzsimonds

The Mouse, the Monster, and Me – Assertiveness for Young People (Curb Bullying) by Pat Palmer, Ed.D.

The Princess and the Ruby: An Autism Fairy Tale by Jewel Kats

The Rabbit Who Lost His Hop by Marica Shoshana Nass

The Way I Act by James Metzger

Tommy Starts Something Big: Giving Cuddles and Kindness by Chuck Gaidica and Kris Yankee

Try and Stick with It by Cheri J. Meiners, M.Ed.

Understand and Care by Cheri J. Meiners, M.Ed.

Understanding Sam and Asperger Syndrome by Clarabelle van Niekerk and Liezl Venter

What Color is Your Heart? By Linda Reau

What Do You Use to Help Your Body? By Jewel Kats

What to Do When Good Enough Isn’t Good Enough: The Real Deal on Perfectionism by Thomas S. Greenspon, Ph.D.

What to do When Your Temper Flares by Dawn Huebner, Ph.D.

When You’re HAPPY and You Know It by Elizabeth Crary, M.S., and Shari Steelsmith

When You’re MAD and You Know It by Elizabeth Crary, M.S., and Shari Steelsmith

When You’re SHY and You Know It by Elizabeth Crary, M.S., and Shari Steelsmith

When You’re SILLY and You Know It by Elizabeth Crary, M.S., and Shari Steelsmith

Who is in Your Family? A Celebration in Diversity by Susan Bowman

Words Are Not for Hurting/Las palabras no son para lastimar by Elizabeth Verdick

Yawni and the Perspecto-Goggles: An Emotes Book About Boredom by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Zach Apologizes by William Mulcahy

Zach Get Frustrated by William Mulcahy

No, No, No! by Marie-Isabelle Callier

Ick and the Emotastone: An Emotes Book About Accepting Differences by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

El Ratón, El Monstruo y Yo: Conducta asertiva para los jóvenes by Pat Palmer, Ed.D

The Grouchies (Chase Away a Grumpy Mood) by Debbie Wagenbach

Abash and the Cyber-Bully: An Emotes Book About Bulying by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Super and Perfecto: An Emotes Book About Confidence by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Cant Loses His Cool: An Emotes Book About Temper Tantrums by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Mixy’s Quest: An Emotes Book about Confusion by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

A Happy Hat by Cecil Kim

What to Do When You’re Cranky and Blue by James J. Crist, Ph.D.

How to Be Human: Diary of an Autistic Girl by Florida Franz

Visiting Feelings by Lauren Rubenstein, J.D., Psy.D.

What to Do When It’s Not Fair by Jacqueline B. Toner, Ph.D., and Claire A.B. Freeland, Ph.D.

The Survival Guide for Kids with Behavior Challenges by Tom McIntyre, Ph.D.

Lola Goes to Work: A Nine-to-Five Therapy Dog by Maria Goldman

Boom the Anger Tamer: An Emotes Book About Anger by Matt Casper and Ted Dorsey

Joi’s Cyber-Coaster Adventure: An Emotes Book About Positive Thinking

Healing Days: A Guide for Kids Who Have Experienced Trauma by Susan Farber Straus

Eli’s Lie-O-Meter by Sandra Levins

Goodbye, Brecken by David Lupton

Some Days Are Lonely by Young-Ah Kim

I Can’t Do Anything by Thierry Robberecht

New Kid, New Scene: A Guide to Moving and Switching Schools by Debbie Glassner, Ph.D., and Emily Schneck

Understanding Myself: A Kid’s Guide to Intense Emotions and Strong Feelings by Mary C. Lamia, Ph.D.

 

Trauma

Something Happened and I’m Scared to Tell: A Book for Young Victims of Abuse by Patricia Kehoe, Ph.D.

Algo Paso y Me Da Miedo Decirlo (Something Happened and I’m Scared to Tell) by Patricia Kehoe, Ph.D.

A Terrible Thing Happened: A story for children who have witnessed violence or trauma by Margaret M. Holmes

Jenny Is Scared! When Sad Things Happen in the World by Carol Shuman

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Categories : ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Behavior, Bibliotherapy, Books, Bullying, Child Development, Communication, Conflict, Divorce, Feelings, Play Therapy books, Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse, Social and Emotional Competence, Trauma and Grief

Parents Should Talk to Kids About the Violence in the World

Posted by Gary Yorke 
· August 11, 2016 
· 1 Comment

As child clinicians we are expected to have answers for our clients and their parents when challenging events happen. However, in the last few weeks the news has been overwhelmingly horrifying with the attacks in Orlando and Nice, the deaths of police officers in Dallas and Baton Rouge, the rebellion in Turkey, and black men dying at the hands of police. If we’re honest, we may be just as confused and overwhelmed as our young clients. Our own feelings of vulnerability, our anxieties and confusion, and our pessimism may be taking center stage in our consciousness. It is worth remembering that, even in this state, we have learned and developed some very useful tools that we can share with our clients and their parents.

scared
First, parents need to avoid the temptation to stay away from difficult topics. As clinicians we can model listening and empathy. Encourage parents to find out what their kids are feeling and thinking. What does the child know? Encourage parents to express their own feelings, as long as it is done in a way that is informative and age appropriate. Encourage parents to tell the truth; again in language that is developmentally appropriate.
The immediacy of our media, as it delivers the news through our electronic devices, sometimes makes us feel as if danger and crime is lurking around every corner. As parents listen to their children they may be able to offer a balanced perspective about the actual risks and dangers in the neighborhood where they live. Of course, if they do live in a dangerous community, or are confronted with specific challenges because of race or gender, parents can not only share in the anger and frustration, but process and develop adaptive responses. As humans we are problem solving animals. We want to be able to do something. Parents can help their children understand that it is possible to respond with kindness and empathy, and thereby experience much greater satisfaction than if we respond with aggression.


At the end of any conversation parents need to offer reassurance. Let the child know what is being done by the community and parents to keep them safe, and moving forward parents should monitor where and how the child is getting their news. Parents should make sure to set aside time to engage in fun family activities and take a break from routine chores and tasks.

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Categories : Anxiety, Child Development, Conflict, Feelings, Parenting

Dating Violence Among Teens

Posted by Gary Yorke 
· May 16, 2016 
· No Comments

Statistics from the CDC suggest that dating violence among teens is at epidemic levels. A 2013 survey of violence among teens found that approximately 10% of high school students reported physical victimization and 10% reported sexual victimization from a dating partner in the 12 months before they were surveyed. A survey completed in 2011 found that 23% of females and 14% of males who ever experienced rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner, first experienced some form of partner violence between 11 and 17 years of age. The CDC defines teen dating violence as “the physical, sexual, psychological, or emotional violence within a dating relationship, including stalking. It can occur in person or electronically and might occur between a current or former dating partner.” Other terms used to describe dating violence include relationship abuse, intimate partner violence, relationship violence, dating abuse, domestic abuse, and domestic violence. Sadly, as most mental health professionals know, many teens do not report dating violence to their friends or family out of fear. We also know that dating violence is more widespread than most people (including parents) believe and has serious long-term and short-term effects. Teens subjected to dating violence may experience depression and anxiety, begin engaging in unhealthy behaviors such as tobacco, drug, or alcohol use, become involved in antisocial activities, and have thoughts of suicide. And, as noted above, victims of teen violence are at higher risk in the future for victimization.
It is important for parents, teachers, counselors, and others to teach adolescents to protect themselves against dating violence as much as possible. Teens need to learn to appropriately communicate uncomfortable emotions like anger and jealousy. Teens need to be encouraged to treat others with respect and expect the same for themselves. Adults should be alert for risk factors associated with dating violence. These include a belief that dating violence is acceptable, the presence of anxiety, depression, or a history of trauma, aggressive behavior, use of illegal drugs, early sexual activity and jerkyjohnnymultiple sexual partners, having a friend involved in dating violence, conflicts with a partner, and being a witness or experiencing violence in the home.

We have recently discovered an excellent resource that will contribute to the education of girls at risk for dating violence – a card game titled Jerky Johnny. Jerky Johnny teaches girls to recognize the signs of a dangerous person and to teaches them that they have a voice. This wonderful card game may be played by girls 12 and older. It can be used by girls alone, and by parents, teachers, counselors, and mental health professionals. It was designed by a mother, Dara Connolly, who is also a professional self-defense instructor. Jerky Johnny is an excellent tool for promoting conversation, awareness, and assertiveness. After reviewing the cards, It seems to me that this might also be an excellent resource for building awareness among boys, and is a great conversation starter.

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Categories : Conflict, Play Therapy Games, Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse, Social Issues
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