3 Expert Tips — Little Otter

3 Expert Tips — Little Otter

3 Expert Tips — Little Otter

Here are three expert tips for how to respond to school avoidance. Step 1: Try to Understand Why Your Child Doesn’t Want to Go to School As with most parenting challenges, it helps to approach your child with empathy, and attempt to understand their viewpoint.  Depending on your child’s age, they may be able to … Read more

Exploring the Role of Nature in Childhood Development and Mental Health

Exploring the Role of Nature in Childhood Development and Mental Health

The importance of nature in children’s development and mental health is a topic that is increasingly gaining attention in contemporary research (McAdams et al., 2023). From improving cognitive functions to reducing symptoms of stress – studies in renowned journals like JCPP Advances and CAMH suggest that regular nature experiences not only enhance the well-being of … Read more

How to Help a Child Develop Social Skills for School — Little Otter

How to Help a Child Develop Social Skills for School — Little Otter

One of the most common questions parents ask is, “How can we help our children develop the social skills they need for school?” Building social skills is crucial for children’s overall development and can ease the transition into a classroom setting. The best way to help children build the social skills they’ll need in school … Read more

3 Back to School Mental Health Tips for Families — Little Otter

3 Back to School Mental Health Tips for Families — Little Otter

It’s back-to-school season! And while many families look forward to this transition time, for others, it can be a time of stress. If you’re worried about navigating this season, we’re here for you. With that in mind, here are 3 mental health tips for the Back to School season! Let’s jump right in! Be patient … Read more

Separation Anxiety During Back-to-School Season — Little Otter

Separation Anxiety During Back-to-School Season — Little Otter

As summer winds down and the new school year approaches, children tend to experience a range of feelings. Some are excited to see their friends and teachers, some are eager to learn new topics. For some children, however, the prospect of separating from their caregivers as they head back to the classroom can trigger intense … Read more

Social Anxiety and Back-to-School Season — Little Otter

Social Anxiety and Back-to-School Season — Little Otter

Many children and caregivers experience a mix of emotions at the start of a new school year: excitement, nervousness, anticipation. And for some kids, this transition results in more than just typical back-to-school butterflies. Social anxiety is a condition that’s characterized by an overwhelming fear of social interactions, and children who struggle with social anxiety … Read more

Free 7 Day Healthy Meal Plan (Sept 23-29)

Free 7 Day Healthy Meal Plan (Sept 23-29)

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy. A free 7-day, flexible weight loss meal plan including breakfast, lunch and dinner ideas and a shopping list. All recipes include macros and Weight Watchers points. Free 7 Day Healthy Meal Plan (Sept 23-29) Shout out to all my football fans! (Honestly I am not a big fan but I do love a good … Read more

School Refusal — Little Otter

School Refusal — Little Otter

School refusal is more than just the back-to-school jitters. While many children may grumble about returning to the classroom after summer break, approximately 1% of elementary and middle school students experience a level of anxiety and resistance that goes beyond typical nerves. This phenomenon, known as school refusal, can significantly impact a child’s social, emotional, … Read more

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy. This cozy, creamy chicken and mushroom soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. It’s light yet hearty and ready in 30 minutes! Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup This is a variation of my meatless Creamy Mushroom Soup, which we all love in my … Read more