Butterfly Beginnings Counseling

Play Therapy and Counseling for children and families in Davenport, Iowa

How Play Can Help Your Child Make Friends and Build Confidence

July 21, 2025

Friendship and confidence are two pillars of a happy childhood. As parents, we often wonder how we can help our children develop these essential skills. One of the most effective ways is through play. Play is not just fun; it’s a powerful tool for learning and growth. In this blog, we’ll explore how play can help your child make friends and build confidence.

Creative Ways to Encourage Positive Behavior Through Play

July 14, 2025

Play is a universal language for children, and it can be a powerful tool for encouraging positive behavior. As parents, we often focus on correcting misbehavior, but what if we could use play to guide our children toward better choices? In this blog, we’ll explore creative ways to foster positive behavior through play.

Are You Hovering? Key Signs of Helicopter Parenting

July 7, 2025

Helicopter parenting is a term used to describe parents who are overly focused on their children. These parents typically take too much responsibility for their children’s experiences and, especially, their successes or failures. While it’s natural to want the best for your child, hovering too closely can have unintended consequences.

Nurturing Resilience: Helping Kids Develop Strong Coping Skills

June 30, 2025

Raising resilient children is one of the most valuable gifts we can give as parents. Resilience helps kids navigate life’s challenges, bounce back from setbacks, and develop confidence in their ability to handle difficult situations. Here are some practical ways to help your child build strong coping skills…

Parenting Through Crisis: Effective Ways to Support Your Child

June 23, 2025

When a crisis strikes—whether it’s a family emergency, a natural disaster, or a global event—children often feel confused, scared, and overwhelmed. As a parent or caregiver, your support is crucial in helping them navigate these challenging times. Here are some of the most productive ways to support your child during a crisis:

Empowering Teens: Strengthening Body Image During Adolescence

June 16, 2025

Adolescence is a time of rapid change—physically, emotionally, and socially. As teens navigate these transitions, their relationship with their bodies can become complicated. Developing a healthy body image during this stage is crucial for long-term self-esteem and mental well-being.

From Piggy Banks to Paychecks: Teaching Kids the Value of Money

June 4, 2025

As a parent, nothing is more heartbreaking than seeing your child struggle after experiencing or witnessing gun violence. The trauma from such events can leave lasting emotional scars, but with your love, support, and guidance, your child can begin to heal and regain a sense of safety.

Fostering Independence in Your Child: A Guide for Parents

May 26, 2025

As a parent, nothing is more heartbreaking than seeing your child struggle after experiencing or witnessing gun violence. The trauma from such events can leave lasting emotional scars, but with your love, support, and guidance, your child can begin to heal and regain a sense of safety.

How Parents Can Support Children Exposed to Gun Violence

May 19, 2025

As a parent, nothing is more heartbreaking than seeing your child struggle after experiencing or witnessing gun violence. The trauma from such events can leave lasting emotional scars, but with your love, support, and guidance, your child can begin to heal and regain a sense of safety.

Promoting Empathy in Your Child: 9 Practical Tips

May 12, 2025

As a parent, it’s natural to worry when your child refuses to eat certain foods or seems overly focused on their eating habits. You might wonder, “Is this just a phase, or could it be something more serious?” As a play therapist, I’ve worked with many families facing this very question. Let’s explore the difference between picky eating and an eating disorder—and how you can support your child.