Summer can be a beautiful time for families—but it can also be emotionally intense for kids. Without the structure of the school year, many children feel unanchored, overstimulated, or anxious, and those feelings show up in big ways. In this post, I share what I’ve learned as both a psychologist and a mom about helping kids through emotional ups and downs—how to step in early, what to do when emotions peak, and how to reset after the storm. If summer's feeling a little louder than expected, this one's for you.

Family gatherings are meant for connection, but in the age of smartphones and video games, technology can feel like an unwelcome guest. Teens, drawn to their devices for social validation and entertainment, often find it hard to unplug—even during special occasions. While their behavior might seem rude, it’s often not intentional. By understanding the psychological pull of technology and setting realistic boundaries, families can foster moments of genuine connection without sacrificing the fun of being together.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a range of symptoms and abilities. ASD impacts an individual's social interaction, communication, interests, and behavior.