brain development | Sarah MacLaughlin, LSW

Time for a Parenting Upgrade {book review}

by smaclaughlin | Jun 28, 2018 | books, brain development, communication, cooperation, discipline, emotional intelligence, positive parenting, problem-solving

Three Simple Steps. Can it really be so easy? In a word: yes. First off, I LOVE that this book makes many positive assumptions about children: Your child is capable. She wants to listen and learn. He’s wired for empathy. She wants to help. He wants to feel like...

You Will Love Gentle Discipline {book review}

by smaclaughlin | Nov 11, 2017 | books, brain development, brain science, discipline

FRIENDS! I’m sorry it’s taken me so long to get you this post about a great new book I read recently! I got an advance copy of Gentle Discipline: Using Emotional Connection–Not Punishment–to Raise Confident, Capable Kids a couple months ago and...

The Myth of the ADHD Child {book excerpt}

by smaclaughlin | Aug 31, 2017 | ADHD, books, brain development, cooperation, self-regulation

I hope you enjoy this excerpt from the newly released book from Thomas Armstrong, PhD, The Myth of the ADHD Child: 101 Ways to Improve Your Child’s Behavior and Attention Span Without Drugs, Labels, or Coercion. It’s a goldmine of helpful information! Read...

I Care How You Raise Your Kids

by smaclaughlin | Jul 20, 2017 | advocacy for children, brain development, emotional intelligence, handling meltdowns, mindfulness, modeling, self-regulation

I know, I’m bossy. If I was a preschooler in 2017, I would surely be labeled with “leadership skills.” As it was, in the mid-70s I was said to have “taken charge” of the dramatic play area. So, there you have it. I guess I need those skills because I...

On Power: Some Perspective-Shifting Thoughts

by smaclaughlin | Aug 12, 2015 | brain development, discipline, power, problem-solving

“Instead of assuming a power stance, a parent can become a problem-solving facilitator.” – Janet Gonzalez-Mena I’ve written about power before, but it keeps coming up. I get calls from parents who want help with discipline, handling meltdowns, and...

Big Idea and Teeny-Tiny Tip #2: Neurodiversity

by smaclaughlin | Apr 8, 2015 | advocacy for children, brain development, communication, connection parenting

Ever get stuck thinking your kid is just like you? Or nothing like you? I’m guessing the truth lies somewhere in between. I always say that the answer to the, “Is it Nurture or Nature?” debate, is, “Both!” It is safe to assume that there...