Parental Projective Identification: Understanding and Supporting Your Child’s Emotional World

Hi there, wonderful parents! I’m so glad you’re here. Today, I want to talk about something that might sound a little technical—“parental projective identification”—but I promise, it’s a concept that can make a big difference in how we connect with our kids. As a play therapist, I see this dynamic pop up in families all the time, and understanding it can help us nurture our children’s emotional health (and our own!).

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Are You Hovering? Key Signs of Helicopter Parenting

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.

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Nurturing Resilience: Helping Kids Develop Strong Coping Skills

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…

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Parenting Through Crisis: Effective Ways to Support Your Child

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:

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Empowering Teens: Strengthening Body Image During Adolescence

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.

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

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.

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Fostering Independence in Your Child: A Guide for Parents

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.

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How Parents Can Support Children Exposed to Gun Violence

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.

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Promoting Empathy in Your Child: 9 Practical Tips

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.

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