From Guest Blogger Dr. Lynne Kenney
We met Dr. Lynne Kenney on Twitter where she faithfully shares her insights as a pediatric psychologist and media producer.
Dr. Kenney knows that life with an intense or challenging children is one big wild ride but she knows that most "children want to be calm and happy...Their behavior and mood signal an imbalance in their body and brain."
Here are a few of Dr. Kenney's helpful suggestions edited from the original article on the Phoenix, Arizona ABC affiliate website:
1. Know that the limbic brain is older and in the case case of intense kids, momentarily more powerful than the frontal lobes. Try to plan for melt-downs and prepare calming strategies with your child ahead of time.
Talk about the times they feel like they are going to lose it and ask them if you can help by offering some pre-planned calming solutions like taking a walk, a bath or a bike ride.
Consider calming music.
2. Know that food and nutrition matter. Remember, it is not what you eat but what your body assimilates that is important.
3. If you need more help see a developmental pediatrician, pediatric psychologist or neuropsychologist who specializes in cognitive and limbic calming strategies. Also consider meditation, yoga and brain exercises.
Click here to read Dr. Kenney's complete article or visit her site The Family Coach.
Comments
This is an excellent informative article for parents who need help. Hopefully many will read and use this helpful information.
Posted by: Cindy Springsteen | February 23, 2010 1:06 PM