Butterfly Beginnings Counseling

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

The Role of Empathy in Parenting: Building Stronger Connections

February 24, 2025

Parenting is a journey filled with joy, challenges, and countless learning opportunities. One of the most powerful tools in a parent’s toolkit is empathy. Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, plays a crucial role in building strong, healthy connections with your children. Here’s why empathy is essential in parenting and […]

Parent-Child Boundaries: A Guide for Parents

February 17, 2025

Understanding Parent-Child Boundaries Parent-child boundaries are essential for fostering a healthy relationship between you and your child. They help define roles, responsibilities, and expectations, ensuring that both parties understand their limits and freedoms. Establishing clear boundaries can lead to a more harmonious household and aid in your child’s development. This guide for parents will help […]

Problem Solving for Kids: A Guide for Parents

February 10, 2025

In today’s fast-paced world, problem-solving skills are more important than ever. As parents, we want to equip our children with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges confidently. This blog will explore effective strategies to help your kids develop strong problem-solving skills. Why Problem Solving is Important Problem-solving is a critical life skill that […]

How to Talk to Your Kids So They Will Actually Listen

February 4, 2025

As parents, we often find ourselves repeating instructions or advice to our children, only to be met with blank stares or outright defiance. Communication with kids can be challenging, and with the right approach, you can foster a more understanding and cooperative relationship. Here are some tips to help you talk to your kids so […]

How Childhood Trauma Impacts Mental Well-being for a Lifetime

January 27, 2025

Childhood is a critical period in human development, and experiences during this time can have lasting effects on mental well-being. Understanding how childhood trauma impacts mental health is crucial for parents who wish to support their children in overcoming these challenges. Understanding Childhood Trauma Childhood trauma refers to adverse experiences that a child may encounter, […]

Title: Understanding Gen Z: How Today’s Teens Differ from the Past

January 20, 2025

In today’s rapidly evolving world, parenting can feel like navigating uncharted waters. As parents, understanding the unique characteristics of Generation Z—those born roughly between 1997 and 2012—can help bridge the generational gap and foster stronger relationships with our teens. Here’s a look at how Gen Z teens differ from those in the past: 1. Digital […]

How to Stay Calm When Your Child Throws a Tantrum

January 6, 2025

Parenting is a rewarding journey, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most trying moments for any parent is dealing with a child’s tantrum. These emotional outbursts can be overwhelming, but staying calm is crucial for both you and your child. Here are some strategies to help you maintain your […]

Eyes on the Screen: Why You Should Care About Your Child’s Viewing Habits

December 30, 2024

In today’s digital age, screens are everywhere. From TVs to tablets to smartphones, children are bombarded with visual content from a very young age. As parents, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and perhaps a little bit powerless. Should we be concerned about what our kids are watching? The short answer is: absolutely. Here’s why: So, […]

Taming the Wild Things: Understanding Your Child’s Owl, Watchdog, and Possum Brain

December 9, 2024

Robyn Gobbel, a renowned expert in child development, offers a fascinating perspective on children’s behavior. She uses the analogy of owl, watchdog, and possum brains to explain how children react in different situations. This framework can be incredibly helpful for parents navigating the ups and downs of raising kids. Let’s explore these brain states and, […]

Walking the Four-Fold Way: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Whole Humans

December 2, 2024

Parenting is a journey of incredible highs and lows, a path filled with both joy and challenge. As parents, we strive to equip our children with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of life. But where do we begin? Enter Angeles Arrien’s Four-Fold Way, a powerful framework drawn from indigenous traditions that offers […]