A lot of people try to eat healthy, but what many might not realize is that food affects our mood. Lots of nutritious foods, like fruits and veggies, have vitamins and minerals that give a total boost to your mood. Different foods have specific minerals or hormones, and some of them make you feel relaxed, [...]
Cell Phone Contract A cell phone contract is a great way to help keep your child safe, teach proper use of technology, and set limits with usage. The contract below is one the clinicians at Arkansas Family First in North Little Rock and Conway have created, and it addresses many of [...]
Summer Schedule Chart Summer can be loads of fun for kids, but parents often feel a sense of chaos. Adding some structure can help family life flow more smoothly. Check out this simple, child-friendly chart designed to help add structure and reduce tension in your home. [...]
Helping Children Manage Stress in the Aftermath of School Shootings Sadly, we've had another tragic shooting involving a school. Although we are quite a distance away, the 24/7 news coverage brings this tragedy into our immediacy. Two key principles for parents and teachers in disaster and trauma include: 1) Limit children's exposure to the television [...]
Having back to school stress is a common struggle for children, but there are some things you can do to ease the pain. Here are some tips to help reduce anxiety and have a tear-free first week of school. 1. Healthy Family Routines: The Arkansas Psychological Association reports that family plays a key role in modeling [...]
Let Ice Cream Work Its Magic By Jerilyn Swalve-Wasson July is National Ice Cream month. Can you think of a better dessert for Arkansas in July then ice cream?! Ice cream has always been extra special to me and not just because I could eat it by the gallons. Growing up, my dad and I would [...]
Cultivating Positive Relationships Oftentimes as parents, we accept the notion that siblings can not and will not get along, especially in the summer. While some sibling conflict is normal, there are also things parents can do to set a positive tone in the home. Consistent, intentional efforts to cultivate a positive relationship will help children [...]
Making the Most of Summer Part 1 - Strategies for Parents! Children cherish the summer time. They wait all year for the season when they can stay home and play with their friends. For them, summer is a time of exploring, swimming pools, sports, video games, bike riding and no home work! But for parents, [...]
