The arrival of football season – professional, amateur, and school-based – unfortunately brings with it a rise in concussion and suspected concussion cases. But it’s not just on the gridiron that such injuries can occur: any contact sport, including hockey, soccer and lacrosse (and even baseball, wrestling and basketball), understandably sees higher incidences of concussions than non-contact sports.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines a concussion as “a type of traumatic brain injury – or TBI – caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells.”
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The statistics are sobering. According to the CDC:

• 1.6-3.8 million sports- and recreation -related concussions occur each year in the U.S.
• 10% of all contact sport athletes sustain concussions yearly
• Brain injuries cause more deaths than any other sports injury. In football, brain injuries account for 65% to 95% of all fatalities. Football injuries associated with the brain occur at the rate of one in every 5.5 games. In any given season, 10% of all college players and 20% of all high school players sustain brain injuries
• 87% of professional boxers have sustained a brain injury
• 5% of soccer players sustain brain injuries as a result of their sport
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Concussions can occur at any age; various studies estimate that as many as 1.9 million sports- and recreation-related concussions occur every year among kids 18 and younger. Last year, a Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) report estimated that girls’ chances of sustaining a concussion is 1.88 times higher than boys, with one reason being that the circumference of a female’s neck is generally about 30% smaller than a male’s.

Symptoms of a concussion can vary widely, from a nagging headache, dizziness, and difficulty maintaining balance to nausea and vomiting, convulsions and, if not properly treated, even death.

​Fortunately, concussions today are taken much more seriously than in the past; even as little as 10 years ago, it was not uncommon to hear that an athlete had “had his bell rung” when he appeared dazed – or was even unconscious – after an on-field collision. That perception was more or less eliminated during the 2010s, when the NFL instituted concussion protocols, wherein a player suspected of possibly suffering a concussion is immediately removed from the game and examined by a medical professional. If a concussion is confirmed, the player must undergo a five-step process before being allowed to return to the field.

Most sports played at high schools or in extracurricular leagues have their own concussion protocols in place. In the case of younger children, who may play in a park-and-recreation soccer league, for instance, there may not be a medical professional on hand. In such cases, the child should be removed from the game and, if symptoms persist, they should be taken to a healthcare facility. If the child has lost consciousness, it is imperative to get them to an emergency room immediately.

It should be noted that losing consciousness is not the only symptom of a concussion; over 90% of those who sustain one do not lose consciousness. Similarly, you do not necessarily have to take a blow to the head; any sudden jerking of the head, such as what happens in a whiplash injury, can also be a cause.

Preventing concussions can be complicated. Helmets in contact sports are usually mandatory, but while they can offer some protection, a severe hit can still result in a concussion. The NFL experimented with “Guardian Caps” during its preseason, a soft-shell, padded covering that goes on the outside of the regular NFL helmets. According to the NFL, wearing a Guardian Cap can result in at least a 10% reduction in severity of impact if one player is wearing it, and at least a 20% reduction in impact if two players in a collision are wearing it.

However, the NFL season is continuing without the cap and, as mentioned, the threat of a concussion remains even when wearing such equipment.

An untreated concussion can have significant effects, sometimes lifelong and even life-threatening. If you suspect that you or a family member has suffered one, I urge you to see a medical professional as soon as you can. As always, safety is the key.
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Dr. Steven Andelman is an orthopedic surgeon at White Plains Hospital Physician Associates who specializes in adult and pediatric sports medicine. For an appointment, call 914-849-7897. 
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​Figuring out when to introduce babies and children to foods that have a high potential of causing an allergic reaction can be one of the trickiest questions to consider as a parent. To help soothe parents’ anxiety and ensure they are giving their children the proper introduction to these foods, I work closely with families to update them on the latest food-allergy guidelines. Here are some tips that will help you confidently introduce these foods to your kids. 
 
What foods are the most likely to cause potential allergies?
The major food allergens include milk, egg, wheat, soy, peanut, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, and sesame. The most common food allergens for children are peanut and milk, with cow's milk the most common food allergen in early life.
 
What is the right approach for early introduction of these potential food allergens?
Fearing adverse reactions, many parents historically preferred to wait before introducing these potential food allergens to their kids. But that’s no longer the prevailing wisdom among experts. Doctors no longer believe that waiting until baby is older prevents food allergy. In fact, there is evidence that introduction to peanut in the first year of life can prevent the development of peanut allergy. Especially in infants who are at high risk of developing food allergy, the emphasis is now on early introduction of peanut and egg, rather than avoidance. 
 
Typically, in babies without eczema or any food allergy, I recommend introducing age-appropriate allergenic foods in the first year of life in accordance with family preferences and cultural practices. I suggest prioritizing the introduction of peanut and egg, which has demonstrated evidence of benefit. There are currently no specific guidelines on order of egg and peanut introduction but it should be a shared decision made between parents and the baby’s doctor. 
 
For babies with mild to moderate eczema, we recommend introducing peanut-containing foods at around 6 months of age. If your baby has severe eczema, you are concerned that he/she has an egg allergy and you have not yet introduced peanut, I recommend seeing an allergist as early as 4 to 6 months of age to determine if peanut should be introduced and, if so, the preferred method of introduction. If your baby has severe eczema and/or egg allergy, and you had already introduced peanut which he/she tolerates without any problem, please continue feeding your baby peanut to reduce the risk of peanut allergy once you start avoidance. 
 
What is the best way to introduce these foods?
Once your baby has successfully eaten other solid foods (like single-grain cereals, followed by fruits, vegetables), you can begin to introduce allergenic foods in age-appropriate forms. That doesn’t mean Eggs Benedict or a PBJ sandwich, of course! Follow these tips for easy introduction of these tricky foods:

• Start with a small amount: just a spoonful or two of any allergenic food is enough to give baby a taste of the flavor and watch for potential allergic reaction.
• For peanut, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) recommends infant-safe forms in the amount of 2 teaspoons, 3 times per week (for a total of 6 grams of peanut protein). 
• To prevent choking in infants, try thinning peanut butter with water, milk, or pureed fruit. This dilution may be necessary until children are able to safely eat foods with the consistency of peanut butter spread thin—that can be after 12 months of age or based on individual developmental abilities.
• During the initial feeding period, serving single-ingredient foods, one at a time, is recommended to observe for symptoms of allergy. Once foods are tolerated, they can be combined.
• There is no evidence guiding how long a given food must be fed before moving on to the next new food. However, generally, when offering a potential food allergen, I advise parents to give baby an age-appropriate serving size at least 3 times over 3-5 days to confirm tolerance.
  
  

What are the different types of allergic reactions in infants and toddlers—and how serious are they?
Recognizing allergic reactions in infants and toddlers can be challenging for not only parents and caregivers, but also providers, as your baby is unable to verbalize what they are feeling/experiencing when they are having an adverse food reaction. Behavior changes that may be noted during a reaction can include clinginess, fussiness, or inconsolability, but it is important to note that these behaviors alone may also be present in healthy infants not experiencing an allergic reaction. 
 
Skin, gastrointestinal, and respiratory symptoms were most frequently reported in infants and toddlers, although symptoms involving other organ systems can also occur. 

• The type of skin reaction may be “itching, rash, hives or swelling.” Please note the location of the skin reaction with respect to where the skin had contact with the allergen so we can determine if the reaction was the result of a topical contact reaction or a systemic reaction, the latter of which is more concerning. Please take pictures as they are worth a thousand words when you seek consultation with an allergist.
• The most common gastrointestinal symptom is vomiting, although diarrhea can also be considered a potential allergic symptom. 
• Belly breathing, fast breathing, nasal flaring, chest or neck “tugging,” wheezing, hoarse voice, hoarse cry, and repetitive cough are all examples of respiratory symptoms.

 
Timing of the adverse reaction relative to when your baby consumed a potential culprit food is extremely essential, as there are different types of food-induced reactions including scenarios where administration of epinephrine, the first-line treatment of anaphylaxis (a severe life-threatening allergic reaction) is indicated. Diagnostic testing and management can be very different for each type of food-induced reactions; for example, skin testing and an epinephrine auto-injector prescription likely are not appropriate for food intolerances,and concerns that certain foods may exacerbate underlying eczema would warrant a separate discussion. I recommend keeping a food diary when you start to notice these reactions in your baby, particularly if they become recurrent so that you and your allergist can have a full conversation about how to proceed. 

While introducing baby to allergenic foods can be a stressful experience, it is so important for their growth and development! The goals of early infant feeding are to introduce foods of varying flavors and textures to encourage future food preference, and to provide nutrition in a balanced and proportional manner for growth and development. Increasing the diversity of both food and food allergen intake in the first year of life is associated with a lower prevalence of food allergy—something all parents are hoping for.

Written by ​By Dr. Angela Chan, Board-Certified Pediatrician and Allergist-Immunologist, Scarsdale Medical Group in Harrison. Click to learn more or call 914-723-8100.

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Covid-19 vaccines for children 5 – 11 years old are likely to launch as early as the first week of November – pending final CDC recommendations.  Authorization will open eligibility to an estimated 28 million children in the U.S.

The vaccine regimen for children from 5 – 11 is two shots, each one-third the dose given to adults and teens and administered three weeks apart. No cases of myocarditis, or heart inflammation, were reported in the Pfizer trial.

Lindsay Neptune, a nurse practitioner and Director of Clinical Services at Open Door Family Medical Center’s Nita Lowey Center for Health in Schools, answers some commonly asked questions. 

How anxious are parents of younger children to have a vaccine for them? 
I have many parents who have been asking me when the vaccine will be available for their child under 12. I do believe that many of the parents of my patients are eager to have their younger children vaccinated. I think they see it as a step forward in preventing many of the situations that occurred as a result of large scale outbreaks, including online learning and reduction in school programs, sports, other extracurricular activities outside of school, and care for children outside of school hours.

I also think that they don't want to go backwards in a way that causes children to have to be home for extended periods of time and suffer with the struggles they've experienced with online learning. I also think that many of our parents will feel safer when their entire families are vaccinated to do things like travel and see other family members and friends who they may not have been able to see throughout these challenging months.


Which children between the ages of 5 and 12 should not get vaccinated? 
Current guidance suggests that the contraindications to vaccination include a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) after a previous dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine or to any of its components, and immediate allergic reaction of any severity to a previous dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine or any of its components, and immediate allergic reaction of any severity to polysorbate (as found in the Johnson & Johnson vaccine).

If parents have any questions about their specific child and their ability to receive a vaccine, I would encourage them to speak with their child's healthcare provider.


Once these children are vaccinated, should this relax mask wearing in schools? 
I would continue to watch the guidance from the CDC as we start to move forward with pediatric vaccinations and increasing the percentage of the population that is vaccinated. However, I believe that until a large percentage of the population of the school and the community is fully vaccinated (received both doses of the vaccine and passed the two-week post-vaccination period), mask wearing should continue in schools.

​We have to remember that mask wearing helps to prevent individuals not only from getting sick but also from spreading the virus to others.  Wearing masks has proven to keep our students and schools safe. According to CDC Director Rochelle Walensky, schools that have had masks in place were 3 1/2 times less likely to have school outbreaks requiring school closures. As we head into the winter weather months, we need to remain vigilant in protecting our school students and communities.


Are you seeing much in the way of children getting sick from Covid?
Not at present. Both the Ossining and Port Chester school districts where we are located are requiring mask wearing in schools this year as well as encouraging vaccination in all groups who are currently approved to receive the vaccine.  This seems to be very helpful in preventing infections in our school students. The school districts all follow protocols for quarantine and testing recommendations that are worked out with guidance from the NYS Department of Health and they continue to do some surveillance testing as well.


Have you seen much in the way of adverse reactions to the vaccine among children? 
In children ages 12 and older (the age range the COVID vaccine has been approved for so far) I have not seen any adverse reactions so far. I have had patients who have complained of some of the common side effects including pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache, chills, muscle pain, fever and joint pain. Very similar to side effects experienced by children following other routine vaccines, such as the flu vaccine. Typically, these symptoms improve in 1-3 days and can be symptomatically managed with over the counter medication for pain or fever. 


The Nita M. Lowey Center for Health in Schools provides primary health care services for 4600 students in elementary, middle and high schools in Port Chester and Ossining. Services are available regardless of a family’s ability to pay and there are no out-of-pocket costs.

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Let’s set the scene: your kids come home from a long day of school and activities, drop their bags at the door and *run* to the kitchen, couch, or computer for some down time. You organize dinner and before you know it, it’s 8pm and someone (let’s be honest, depending on the day, it might be you or the kids) starts freaking out about HOMEWORK. And well, I’m sure you know how the rest of the evening goes….
 
How can we help our kids learn to love homework? We probably can’t, but we can definitely make the experience more manageable and, dare I say it, even enjoyable for all. Here are my tried and true homework tips:

Organize time and space.
Kids, even the big ones, need a routine. Choose a routine that works for your family and lay out the expectations in the morning. My go-to routine is come home, have a snack (or dinner), and get started on homework. Homework gets finished before it’s time to wind down. If kids have activities in the early evening hours, try and finish homework before the activity starts.
 
In terms of space, ideally your kids have a dedicated “homework station”. This can be a desk in a shared space in your home, the dining table, or kitchen island. Use a drawer or small bin to keep necessary school supplies handy. Unless the computer is needed for HW, all tech should be away and the TV should be off. (Too quiet? Here’s my favorite research-based mind music on Spotify to listen to while doing homework!) Having kids in a space that is not their bedroom, where you can see them and limit distractions, is key to homework success. 
 

Have a system. 
Do you have visual learners in your house? Use checklists or timers for homework tasks. This supports executive functions and gives kids a sense of urgency and feelings of satisfaction. To motivate your child to do their homework, consider creating a rewards system. Keep it small to start - each task completed equals 5 minutes of screen time. As they get older, maybe a week of completed tasks means an extended curfew on Saturday night. These tools fit perfectly into your routine and will be an added motivator to help homework time go smoothly.
 

“Do the worst first.” 
I love this little saying, especially for the reluctant homework-doer. To put it to use, have your child choose whichever assignment they might find the most challenging and do it first. This way you can manage how much time they spend on it and they don’t end their evening on a sour note. 
 

Be interested, but put down the pen! 
​Kids will do better and have a sustained effort in their homework if you’re interested in it. So, talk to your kids about their homework, let them explain it to you or teach it to you. Let them ask you questions. This is a great bonding time and a way to encourage learning. But, whatever you do, don’t pick up your pen and write for them. You can answer questions, show them an example, and help them organize their work. Doing the work for them takes away their opportunity to learn and their teacher’s ability to understand exactly what they need as a learner.
 
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Stay positive, listen, and redirect. 
If you have teenagers at home, I’m sure you’ve experienced this. Your child sits down to do homework and starts venting about how much they dislike a subject or task. To ensure that our learners will remain successful throughout their educational career, we need to validate their feelings with empathy. Coming from a place of understanding and acknowledging that sometimes chemistry is really hard is great. The next step is to redirect and help them get back on track. Saying something like, “I am so proud of how hard you’re working and I know you can do this task” will help motivate them to continue and will increase their resilience and perseverance.
 

Communicate and encourage self-advocacy. 
Communication is key, right? When it comes to homework, we need to communicate with our kids about our expectations and routine. We also need to communicate with their teacher about what we’re noticing at home. 
 
Maybe one activity took your second grader 40 minutes to complete or your sixth grader was frustrated throughout their entire writing assignment. Email your child’s teacher and let them know this happened so the teacher can follow up with and support your child. If your high schooler is doing over two hours of homework a night, it’s a good idea to help them advocate for themselves by emailing the teacher and asking for help.
 
And if your child communicates with you that they’re worn out, very frustrated, or stressed by the amount of work they have, it’s a clue they need your help with time management and working on coping skills.

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Never skip a Friday! 
I think my favorite (and hardest to achieve) of all the tips is to never skip a Friday. Yes it’s the start of the weekend and we’re so excited to relax, but if you can hang on to that routine for an extra hour or two, I promise your Sunday night self will thank you!

Written by Catherine Montera with WhizKidz Tutoring. Learn more about what WhizKidz Tutoring offers at Whizkidztutoring.com.

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The dreaded transition from daylight savings is upon us (the clocks fall back on Sunday, Nov 7, 2021)!  It often feels like we just recovered from one time change, and another is approaching.  “Falling back” can be particularly challenging for parents of young children. While folks without young kids are excited about an extra hour of sleep, those of us with wee ones actually have to get up earlier; our adorable, sleeping baby who used to rise at 6:30 am now wakes at 5:30 am (and yes, they’re slightly less adorable at that hour!).  So what can we do to help our kids adjust to this change (and keep our sanity!)?

In an ideal world, we could to begin to shift our children’s schedules a week ahead of time. Every few days we’d move their sleep and mealtimes later by 15 minutes, so that when the time change hits, they’ve already adjusted.  Despite this being the “official recommendation” for a smooth transition from daylight savings, I’ve yet to meet one person to actually do it (myself included with my own kids!).  The world outside our homes doesn’t accommodate such a gentle shift; school starts when school starts and you need to get to work on time, not 15-45 minutes late. 

Never fear! Here are some tips to help your children adjust to the new time.

Expose your children to lots of sunlight during the day.  Our circadian rhythms align with the sun, so exposure to natural light helps our bodies adjust to the appropriate time.

Be sensitive to your child’s needs and mood. The clock now reads 8 pm for your child’s regular 7 pm bedtime.  If you were used to protests at bedtime, you may have an easier transition, as your children should be more tired at the “new” 7 pm.  On the flip side, you run the risk of having an overtired child if you insist on bedtime being according to the clock. Accept that bedtime may be influx for a few days and that’s ok. It generally takes about a week for our internal clocks to shift, so know that any schedule change should be temporary.  To prevent an overtired child from unraveling, about 30 min prior to bedtime, dim the lights to help the body relax and transition to nighttime.  Room darkening shades can really help with this, too.  Keep the environment calm, and quiet before bed to help children unwind and ready to sleep. 

Stick with your bedtime routine.  If you don’t have a bedtime routine already, now is a great time to start. Children thrive on routines, so having one can be incredibly helpful to give structure to the time before bed.  A quiet routine is calming to them and helps them relax and ease into bedtime. It can be as simple as pajamas on, brush teeth, read a book/sing a song, lights out.  Don’t make it overly complex. You want this to be replicable daily, and easily done by a babysitter in your absence.  

Minimize exposure to electronics at least an hour prior to bedtime. This is true all year round, but especially now when we’re trying to help kids adjust to a time change. Electronic screens emit a blue light that mimics a bright, sunny sky and tricks the body into thinking it is daytime.  The result of this is that melatonin, the hormone that helps induce sleep, is suppressed, making it more challenging to fall asleep.

If all else fails, find a big mug and fill it with coffee. I’m sure you’ll be in good company!

Lauren Lappen is a Certified Sleep Consultant and co-founder of Wee Sleep Solutions.  As a mom of daughter Ellie and twins Rebecca and Kira, Lauren recognized the importance of self-care and sought to instill healthy sleep habits in her children so that she could ensure her own rest and be at her best as a parent, wife and friend.   
 
Lauren studied under Deborah Pedrick, a pioneer in the field and founder of the Family Sleep Institute (FSI) and International Association of Child Sleep Consultants. She is thrilled to be able to educate families on the importance of sleep and to empower parents with the knowledge and ability to teach their kids to love sleep as much as her girls do!

You don’t need expensive toys to give your baby’s development a boost. 
 
Marketers do a great job at making parents feel guilty for not buying the latest baby toy, promising hours of entertainment and developmental benefits. They soon find out that a baby’s attention span is about two to three minutes per year of their age, meaning that your six-month-old is going to lose interest very quickly. In baby terms, think of “play” as simply encouraging them to move and to see, touch, and hear new things and experiences.

These tried-and-true methods are very effective at boosting your child’s development. They are also free and allow you to put your toy money much better use, such as compounding in a 529 college savings account.

Here are some helpful ideas to stimulate your baby:
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• Find a colorful garden and let your baby look around for visual stimulation.
  
  
• Watch moving cars from your window – this helps with object tracking and building visual skills.
  
  
• Place baby on his or her back, and let them swat at a mobile to build their motor skills and learn to understand cause and effect
  
  
• Pull out your favorite playlist and jam to the tunes while your baby watches and listens – all genres of music are baby-friendly and helps to develop language skills (just make sure not to crank the volume too loud).
  
  
• Guide them through the motions of clapping, peddling the bike and stretching their legs to develop motor skills.
  
  
• When they are able to lift their head, place them on their tummies for 3-5 minutes, three times a day to build neck strength. Challenges can be fun too!
  
  
• Have a blast at bath time! It offers tons of different tactile, fine motor and sensory experiences.
  
  
• Also, there’s a reason peek-a-boo has been the go-to baby game for generations – it never ceases to entertain, and it teaches object permanence – understanding that things they can’t see still exist, which is a steppingstone to other milestones.
  
  
• Finally, when your infant is older and eating solids, encourage play with food of different textures and tastes – hopefully at least some of it ends up in their mouth!
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If you have a particular concern about an aspect of your baby’s development, make sure to raise the issue with your pediatrician at your baby’s next well visit. 

Written by Dr. Ellen Lestz, a board-certified pediatrician, seeing patients at White Plains Hospital Medical & Wellness in Armonk. To make an appointment, please call 914-849-7900

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The ‘lazy’ days of summer are here. While it is essential for kids to enjoy an opportunity to relax and experience unstructured days, it is important to remember that the “summer slide” is an inevitable reality. Finding a balance, by infusing learning opportunities into play, can help prevent, or at least lessen “the slide”.
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​Following are some suggestions to keep your child on track so they will be confident and ready for the fall.

• Visit your local library. This is a FREE way to beat the heat. While there, check out the opportunity to join a book club, enjoy story time and of course, pick up some new summer reading books.
  
  

• Remember to encourage your child to read something every day. Opportunities to read are all around us. Have your child read the menu at the pool snack bar or the rules at the park. They can even read comic strips, something that they never have time for during the busy school year. Of course if you are lucky enough to have a child who loves to read classic novels, too much encouragement is probably not required. Just make sure a new book is always available.
  
  

• Develop weekly summer themes. This is something you and your child can do together. Incorporate reading, writing, and math activities around these themes to keep things interesting and exciting for your child. Reading Rockets has a variety of themes and activities you can chose from.
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• How about taking a virtual field trip? Take a trip to Hershey ‘s Chocolate Factory, the Louvre, Climb Mt. Everest or go all the way to Outer Space from the comfort and convenience of your own home. Encourage your child to research the location you plan to visit and watch their field trip. They can even create their own travel guide.
  
  

• Take a family excursion. There are many fun and educational destinations in and around the tri-state are that are in driving distance. Visit a museum, a seaport or a park (check out our Indoor Fun and Outdoor Fun pages for ideas). Select a place the whole family can enjoy, regardless of age.
  
  

• Listen to audio books on the car ride there. Each child can have their own set of headphones so they can listen to age appropriate books, or find a book the entire family can enjoy, pausing for discussions or questions as you listen.
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• Taking a break with technology is something all kids enjoy. How about these apps to encourage reluctant kids to learn during their summer vacation.
  
  

• Have your child keep their writing skills sharp by sending letters to pen pals, keeping a summer journal, or creating a summer bucket list. Help them make a photo collage of a favorite activity or trip and then write captions. If your child likes to cook or bake, have then make their own recipe cards/book. Younger children can bring sidewalk chalk outside and practice writing number, letters or drawing shapes etc.
  
  
• Playing board games is a great way to have fun while learning. Monopoly, Apples to Apples, Boggle, Scattergories, Robot Turtles Game, Jenga, Telestrations and Clue are just some of the games that work on skills such as math, logic, patience, strategy, vocabulary building etc. Fractious Learning has an article that breaks down the benefits of these popular board games.
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• Create a word jar to develop vocabulary. Make it a goal to practice new words each day and incorporate them into your conversations. You can have a contest to see who uses the most “word jar” words on a daily basis.
  
  

It’s important to keep in mind, that although your child has a summer break, you may not. It is understandable that it may be difficult to find the time to work/play with your child during these months. Just remember that learning can and should happen as part of their daily routine and many of these activities can be done around your work schedule.

Your goal is to help your child to continue to lean and grow during the summer months. You want them to feel confident when they return to school in the fall. You want them to be ready to take on all the wonderful learning that awaits them from the very first day back at school. Hey, who knows….Maybe the “slide” is not inevitable after all!!!

Embrace and enjoy the summer.
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Written by Danielle Meyer, the Founder of DEM Tutoring, an Academic Tutor & Certified Teacher. 

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As COVID-19 restrictions continue to ease and more Americans (especially those of us in New York) are getting vaccinated, you might be feeling a huge sense of relief not having to worry as much about a severe case or long-term effects from COVID-19. However, while COVID-19 case numbers are dwindling, there are many other health risks to consider as we move into the warmer summer months. 
 
As a mom-led urgent care, we know that your family calendar is likely starting to fill up with vacations, beach days and BBQs – we’re so excited for these events with our families too! As you are penciling in your various plans, be mindful of these five common health concerns so you can maximize your fun summer moments.
 

1. Healthy habits for skin protection as you enjoy fun in the sun 

We’re all craving days at the beach or pool to soak up some vitamin D. How can you and your family prepare for your fun day in the sun? We recommend staying hydrated, protecting your skin with sunscreen and limiting the amount of time you spend in the sunlight, especially during the peak hours (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) when the sunshine is the strongest. 
 
To help prevent dehydration, make sure your family is drinking clear fluids consistently throughout the day. If you’re like some of the parents on our medical team, you probably love a refreshing iced coffee, but remember that caffeine is a diuretic which means an excessive amount can affect how hydrated you are.  
 
While most sunburns do go away on their own, there may be a chance that sunburns could blister or scar if severe enough. Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the day to minimize the risk of such injuries. Every two hours or so, reapply sunscreen on yourself and to your little ones, especially if they are sweating or enjoying ocean waves or some time in the pool. 
 
Lastly, you can prevent your body from overheating, which can result in possible heat stroke, by limiting the amount of time spent in the direct sun or hot weather. A fun way for families to do this is to check out a local ice cream shop or head inside for a cool afternoon movie.  
 

2. Tips and tricks for planning a safe and relaxing pool or beach day 

As many of our medical team are working moms and dads (our chief medical officer is the mom of three and our regional medical director is a dad to five), we know that now is the time when many of us take off our pool covers or head over to our local community pools, lakes or beaches. Whether your child is just learning how to swim or you have been a seasoned swimmer for many years, we want you to ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe in the water this summer.
 
Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone.
 
In an effort to avoid swimming injuries or drowning, never leave a child or someone who does not know how to swim unattended, swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards when available and maintain constant supervision of those in the water. If your children have a small kiddie pool in your yard, designate a responsible adult to supervise playtime in the water. 
 
You may see news stories or social media posts warning of “dry drowning” or “secondary drowning” — this is when a person ingests water through their nose or mouth and later experiences symptoms like difficulty breathing, fatigue or irritability. It can be successfully treated, and the earlier it’s caught, the better.  While it’s important to remember that this is fairly uncommon, it’s best to see a medical provider if your child or a loved one has spent time near the water and exhibits any symptoms related to secondary drowning. 
 

3. What to keep in mind as you dust off your grill and fire pit 

Many of us have long-waited for the end of winter to reconnect with loved ones around a campfire or in the backyard. Before you invite your family and friends over to grill or make s’mores, we suggest creating a safety plan. Your heat-related safety plan should include a checklist to ensure your grill or fire pit are a safe distance from your house, deck railings, and overhanging tree branches. We also recommend having a hose or fire extinguisher nearby.  
 
To grill up perfect hot dogs and keep your kids and guests safe, don’t leave your grill unattended while it’s on. While you likely will take care to not burn yourself in your backyard, make sure to cover any burns with a clean, dry cloth in the event of an accident. If you have any concerns, our centers in Mamaroneck, Mohegan Lake and Somers are open seven days a week to check out any concerning burns or other injuries. You can schedule a virtual visit or check-in ahead of time on our website here.
 

4. Steps to avoid food-related illnesses at your backyard BBQs  

Most of our fondest summer moments occur at our summer picnics and BBQs with family and friends. However, when the temperature gets warmer outside, foodborne germs are more common (including Norovirus and Salmonella). 
 
Before you flip a juicy burger or leave a delicious potato salad out for your child to eat once they’re done playing, we recommend following the CDC’s four steps to food safety - Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill. These steps will ensure that you and your loved ones don’t develop food poisoning or other related sickness. A general best practice is that hot foods should stay hot, and cold foods should stay cold. Leaving any food too long at ambient temperature increases the changes of bacteria growing and can make you sick. 
 
We also recommend staying vigilant when using sharp objects to cut your meats or any other items you plan on grilling. Some general guidance to avoid cooking injuries includes wearing gloves resistant to punctures, cuts, or moisture; selecting the right tool for the job; sharpening cutting tools and knives on a regular basis (dull blades require more force and may be more likely to slip, cutting the handler); and taking care to cover/store/dispose of sharp objects properly. 
 

5. Advice to help keep rashes and bug bites at bay this summer 
​
Getting outdoors after a long cold winter in quarantine is great for our physical and emotional health. If you plan on hiking, spending time in or near wooded areas, or participating in other activities where you may encounter plants or bugs, you may run across poison oak, poison ivy and sumac, or find yourself with an insect sting or bite. 
 
To avoid the unpleasant rashes caused by poison ivy, poison oak, and sumac remind children to be careful brushing up against or near any plants. While mowing the lawn or gardening, wear clothing or protective equipment to reduce the likelihood of a reaction to these plants. 
 
Bites from mosquitos, horse flies or other bugs can also cause a reaction.  If you or your child is bitten by an insect or any kind of animal, be sure to clean the wound properly to avoid any type of potential infection. If you have any concerns about wounds like these, you can seek treatment at facilities like a PhysicianOne Urgent Care location near you.
 
Check the scalp, elbows, behind the knees and all over for ticks after being in long grass or wooded areas for ticks. If you find a tick on you, monitor for any flu-like symptoms days or weeks after being bitten by a tick or notice that the skin surrounding a tick bite is becoming more swollen with enlarging areas of redness. These symptoms can indicate Lyme disease or something more serious. Consult a doctor or visit PhysicianOne Urgent Care to have the bite, rash and any Lyme symptoms evaluated.  

From our team to your family, we hope you have a summer full of much needed fun and relaxation. PhysicianOne Urgent Care is led by moms like you who understand what it’s like keeping a family safe throughout the year – we’ve got you!

​Visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube for more health tips and to stay connected.

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Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine has just been approved for 12 to 15-year-olds – here’s what you need to know and why you should schedule a shot as soon as possible.
 
As a pediatrician and someone who is very familiar with all types of childhood vaccines, I encourage everyone to sign their tweens and young teens up for a vaccine appointment as soon as they are able to do so. As the parent of a 14-year-old (and an 18-year-old who is already vaccinated), I know I will – and here’s why:

​
1. COVID-19 cases are growing in children. 
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children now represent over 20% of all new infections. With the loosening of restrictions at school, as well as more transmissible mutations, this is a concern. While the effects in children have been reported to be less severe than adults, COVID-19 is still a serious illness that has resulted in pediatric hospitalizations and even deaths. Young children are also more likely to be asymptomatic carriers and could put our more vulnerable or unvaccinated family and community members at higher risk. 


2. It’s safe! 
Despite the false perception that this vaccine was “rushed,” the mRNA technology that is being deployed in the Pfizer vaccine has been under development for the past decade. This technology essentially “tricks” our body’s defenses into activating without the virus actually being present (it bears reminding that there are no live viruses in the vaccine). These advances were one of the reasons the vaccine was brought to market expeditiously – because we already had all the molecular-level background to begin work on a safe and effective vaccine against it. 


3. It likely works even better in kids.
While studies are still under way to prove just how much better the vaccine works in children, it makes sense this would be the case. As has been shown in some of the other routine childhood vaccines that we administer, the immune system of younger children recognizes and responds to the “appearance” of a viral infection more robustly than older children or adults. You can be confident that the vaccine is doing its job in protecting your most cherished asset and closing the door on this health pandemic.


Written by Dr. Ellen Lestz, a board-certified pediatrician, seeing patients at White Plains Hospital Medical & Wellness in Armonk. To make an appointment, please call 914-849-7900. 

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Moving can be a somewhat daunting process. It takes up a lot of time, money, and energy, and it stresses you out as nothing else can. However, moving in general is nothing compared to moving with kids. That doubles the amount of stress, anxiety, and the work you need to do, making it all even more difficult. 
 
Having said that, moving with kids doesn’t have to be all that bad. If you involve them in the process, they will make it fun and actually help you get things done. If you want to find out how you can get your kids to assist you during your move​, read on. Our tips and tricks will make the process as easy as possible. 

1.   Let Them Help With Decluttering

Moving is the perfect time to get rid of anything you might not need anymore. According to Nancy Zafrani, the general manager of New York moving company Oz Moving, the key to making your move seamless is donating everything you don’t need. 
 
Many organizations all across the city accept furniture, electronics, clothes, toys, and anything else you might think of. And the best thing about it all? You can get your kids to help you choose what goes and what you keep. 
 
Let your kids take care of their own stuff. Bring out all their old toys and clothes they can’t fit into anymore, and explain how they will be helping others by giving away some of their belongings. Donating things like this will help you have less on your plate, and it will teach your kids an important lesson on sharing and being charitable. It is a win-win situation. 

2. Decorate Your Moving Boxes

Packing is stressful enough even without kids running around you and distracting you. If you need some peace and quiet while you pack, we suggest you let them be creative. 
 
Get out some markers, sticky notes, and decorative tape and let them go to town on the moving boxes. They will have the time of their lives decorating the boxes, and you’ll get to do everything on time and the way you want. Additionally, you’ll have the fanciest and prettiest moving boxes ever!
 
This activity is also great if your kids are sad about moving and need a little pick-me-up. They’ll get to see moving as something exciting and fun, which might make them feel a bit better about the process in general. 
 
If your kids are teenagers, then they can help you pack. You can let them pack up their rooms and even help you out with the rest of the rooms. 

3. Let Them Help With Cleaning

Once everything is packed and ready to go, you will need to make your old home spotless. Though this might seem tiring and boring, you can get your kids to help you out. 
 
If your kids are smaller, let them wipe down lower cabinets or baseboards. Older kids can do even more, like vacuuming and dusting. Children generally love having their own rag and spray bottle, as well as their own tasks they need to get through. It gives them a sense of purpose and makes them feel helpful and grown-up. 
 
So, don’t hesitate to put your children to work. They will feel great about it, and they will be a great help to you at the same time. Of course, make sure you oversee them as they clean, so they stay safe at all times.
 
You might also have to clean your new place before unpacking. The same applies in such a case, too: your kids can help you, regardless of their age. 

​4. They Can Help You Unpack, Too

The pain of moving does not stop once you are out of your old home. You still need to unpack all your belongings and make the new place feel like home. Though doing it all on your own might seem like the most efficient plan, we suggest that you let your kids help, too. 
 
Letting them unpack their own rooms and toys will make the new place feel less foreign and strange. That is especially the case with younger children. Allowing them to surround themselves with their belongings the way they want to will make the process of adjusting to a new home a lot easier.
 
You can also make this process fun and exciting. Hide something (a little toy or trinket of some kind) in your kid’s boxes and let them go on a little treasure hunt to find it. If you make it seem like a game, unpacking will start looking like the most interesting thing in the world to them. 
 
Letting your teenagers unpack on their own is important, too. It will tell them that you trust them and give them a sense of independence and usefulness. Besides, they are already old enough to do it on their own and help you out a little.

​A Few Parting Words

Packing and moving with your kids around might seem like an absolute nightmare. However, with the right tips and tricks, it can become bearable and even exciting and fun. We hope that our little list helps you learn how you can involve your kids in the moving process, regardless of their age. Doing so will ensure your move is seamless and that you have some fantastic helpers on the journey. Good luck!

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Your child’s pediatrician is often attuned to subtle signs of preventable problems.  
Written by Dr. Amanda Menco, Pediatrician
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When it comes to kids’ health, the sooner you can identify a problem, the less of a big deal it may become. Sticking to regular well-visits is an opportunity for your child’s doctor to look for those less obvious signs that something may be off with their physical and mental health. It may turn out to be nothing, but sometimes it allows us to catch a condition early when it is most easily treated or can be evaluated further by a specialist. 

Here are four common conditions that pediatricians look for:

Speech Delays
A large part of your child’s development happens in early childhood, even before the age of four, and their social development is extremely important during these years. During the pandemic, many children were unable to play with other kids and were not exposed to a normal amount of language outside the home. This has led to an increase in pediatric speech delays, so much so that the State’s Early Intervention program has been inundated with scheduling evaluations, leaving many private speech therapists overwhelmed with referrals. With speech development, time is truly of the essence, so the sooner your pediatrician identifies an issue and can make an appropriate referral the better. 

Accelerated or Delayed Growth
Early adolescence is a critical time to check in with your pediatrician to monitor your child’s growth and development. It’s no secret that the pandemic caused many families to delay regular visits this past year. With this drop-off, we are suddenly picking up many cases of “precocious,” or early, puberty and advanced bone age. When a child’s skeletal and reproductive growth outpaces their chronological age, this can lead to various problems including inability to reach their full height potential. With proper imaging, we can confirm this condition and refer you to an endocrinologist who can provide various treatment options to slow down the process, so your child grows normally.

Chronic Digestive Problems
Tracking your child’s growth year-over-year also allows us to watch the trend on their growth chart more clearly. While a small drop in either their height or weight percentile usually isn’t cause for concern, seeing a significant drop in one percentile or the other, or even a subtle drop in both measures, can alert us to a possible chronic digestive issue like celiac disease or Crohn’s – even if the child doesn’t yet exhibit any gastrointestinal symptoms. 

Depression
Kids who sleep a lot more than usual, or who are always tired and bored, especially in their teenage years could be suffering from improper thyroid function…. but these symptoms could also point to depression and anxiety. Allowing us to talk with your child and check simple bloodwork can help us discover the exact cause as quickly as possible so we can make the proper referrals. The past year has been incredibly stressful on kids who are lacking social interaction, struggling for privacy with everyone working from home, and, for high school seniors, trying to make immense decisions about college with limited access and information. The amount of referrals to therapists and psychologists has been tremendous lately, so the sooner we identify the issue, the sooner we can get your child the support he or she needs.
​
Now is a great time to check in with your pediatrician to make sure your child’s health is on track and to beat the summer camp and back-to-school rush. Let us know how we can help!
​

Dr. Amanda Menco is a pediatrician with Scarsdale Medical Group, seeing patients in the Mamaroneck location. To make an appointment, please call the Pediatrics Department at (914) 989-1111. 

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The day is done. Everyone is tucked into bed and you’re finally able to sit down (with a glass of wine, or a pint of ice cream, of whatever your vice may be these days!) and then you hear it….the sound no parent wants to hear after everyone has been tucked into bed…footsteps. “Mom….I can’t sleep.” Before you resign your sacred alone time to a bedtime battle, here are some tips to keep in mind.

​Words Matter

Believe it or not, your kids ARE listening to what you say. When we speak about sleep, we want to make sure we’re using positive language. Often kids see sleep as a punishment that ends the fun of the day and not a great time to get cozy in our beds so our bodies can grow stronger and taller, and recharge so we have energy for the next day. Ask your child if they know why we sleep. I find this a fascinating question to ask kids. They often have no idea! Tell them all the great reasons why our bodies need to rest.

When speaking with children, the specific words you say matter. I encourage parents to use the work “rest” instead of sleep. For a child who is anxious, saying “go to sleep” can actually become a stressful proposition for them; we cannot will ourselves so sleep, no matter how hard we try. In reality, the harder we try, the harder it is. When we tell our kids to “close your eyes and rest,” we’re asking them to do something they have the power to do.  


Something to Think About

Often kids will say they’re bored when trying to sleep, or they may keep thinking about worry thoughts, or scary thoughts. Help your kids brainstorm a list of things to think about when they rest in bed, and pick one each night. Topics can be as tangible as “think about the time we went to the beach” to whimsical ideas like “think about flying on a unicorn to a beach filled with cotton candy that you can build a castle with instead of sand.” Get creative! 

A fun activity to do is to come up with a list of items and locations and put each on an index card. Before bed, have your kids pick 2-3 cards from the pile and use these words to create a new story for them to think about as they rest in bed.


Counting

Counting can be a simple activity to help quiet our minds and a very useful tool for children when they can’t sleep. A young child may love the challenge of “see how high you can count while you rest in your bed.” Tell them that you can’t wait to hear what number they got to when they wake in the morning.  

A child who is struggling with worry thoughts can also benefit from counting. Counting is a benign activity that is boring enough to allow the brain to fall asleep, and concrete enough to be a distraction from our worries. Older kids can count by twos, or tell them to count backwards by twos from 200. (Please note if your child is really struggling with anxiety they should see a licensed therapist.)


Belly Breathing

Similar to counting, belly breathing helps quiet our bodies and minds. Children can put a stuffed animal on their belly and watch it go up and down while they slowly breath in and out. Counting while they breath can help ensure breathing is slow enough to promote sleep. Have your child count in for four to five seconds and out for four to five seconds (slightly longer intervals is fine too if they can handle it). This is a great tool to practice during the day time so kids know what to do, and can do it on their own in bed.

Limit Screen Time Before Bed

Screens, whether on an iPad, TV, phone or computer, can stimulate our brains and make it hard for people (yup, you too grown ups!) to fall asleep.  If your child is having a hard time falling asleep at night, set a screen time curfew at least an hour before bedtime.  


It’s OK to Rest and Not Sleep 

Its important for kids to know that sometime we all lay in bed waiting to sleep and that’s ok! Talking to your kids about your own sleep can really help.  Tell them what you do to get cozy and comfy in bed before sleep, and you can also tell them that sometimes you rest and let your mind wander before you fall asleep.  The tools listed above should help empower our children so they aren’t worried or frustrated when they can’t sleep. Instead, they have a way to quiet their minds as they rest in bed and you can regain your adult time, too! ​

Written by Lauren Lappen. She is a Certified Sleep Consultant and co-founder of Wee Sleep Solutions.  As a mom of daughter Ellie and twins Rebecca and Kira, Lauren recognized the importance of self-care and sought to instill healthy sleep habits in her children so that she could ensure her own rest and be at her best as a parent, wife and friend.   
 
Lauren studied under Deborah Pedrick, a pioneer in the field and founder of the Family Sleep Institute (FSI) and International Association of Child Sleep Consultants. She is thrilled to be able to educate families on the importance of sleep and to empower parents with the knowledge and ability to teach their kids to love sleep as much as her girls do!

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Spring is here with thoughts of daffodils, warmer days, and...spring cleaning! While this prospect can be daunting--especially for busy moms--we have some great tips on how to declutter and organize kids’ bedrooms and playrooms without the panic. 

Brave the Bedroom
The first and most simple step when tackling a child’s bedroom, whether it belongs to a wee one or a pre-teen, is to remove all trash from trash cans, as well as hidden trash from under the bed,  on closet floors, and even behind furniture. Once that’s done, the real decluttering can begin. An easy starting point is with clothing. Closets, dressers, and bureaus might be filled to the brim with clothing that your child has outgrown, or which is simply damaged or stained beyond repair.  Combine clothing by size to expedite sorting. Then, divide all clothing into three piles: Keep, Donate, and Store (for younger siblings or anyone you’d like to pass them onto). Clearly label what you’re storing, so you don’t need to dig through boxes and bins in the future, when you’re looking for items like that special holiday dress for the baby!

Next, tackle the toys. Begin the process of sorting through toys one by one, dividing them into our three categories of Keep, Donate, and Store. After toys, you can focus on a library overhaul by sorting through your child’s books. Again, keeping the trifecta of Keep, Donate, and Store in mind, you can ensure there will be space for new favorites as your child grows.

After curating and sorting what remains in the room, it is an excellent time to thoroughly clean all surfaces, especially the floors (now that you can reach under the bed and deep inside the closets). A clean bedroom provides the opportunity to implement new storage solutions. Remember, organization is much easier to maintain when everything has a home. Bins, baskets, and dresser drawer dividers will help you and your kids stay organized going forward. Don’t forget to use coordinated space-saver hangers in closets to maximize your space! With systems in place, your child can help maintain their organized space on a daily basis.


Plow Through the Playroom
The playroom can easily become the most unruly area in your home, but conversely might be the most straightforward to organize. Imaginations run wild in the playroom, but that doesn’t mean you need to live in disarray. Again, we call on our trusted trifecta to guide us through the playroom makeover journey: Keep, Donate, and Store. As children outgrow toys, it’s fairly easy to determine under which category items fall. Pro tip: do not include the kids in the toy sorting process--they’ve been known to fall in love again with long-forgotten favorites which can make organizing take infinitely longer. Once finished decluttering and purging, you can begin reorganizing the room. Miniature cubbies, baskets, and clear (or colorful) bins are the key to a neat and orderly playroom. If you don’t have clear bins, be sure to clearly label the outside of the bin with the name of its contents (or with a picture label, for younger children).  

Divide the room into activity zones: a craft area, a reading nook, a game section—and store all necessary items for the activity in their respective zone. 

When reorganizing a playroom, make sure that your children can comfortably reach whatever they need. This fosters independence and encourages participation in cleanup. Returning a toy, book, or art supply to its rightful home is much more likely to happen if it is easy to do. We call that a win-win for parents and children alike!

If you need to purchase new furniture for your playroom, be sure to look for multi-use storage solutions like tables with shelves or drawers underneath, ottomans that open for additional storage, or benches with organizing cubbies. You never need to compromise style for function.

Need assistance conquering your kids’ clutter? 123organize is here to help!
 
As the #1 Move Management company in Westchester, with more than 15 years of experience offering premium organizing, staging, and moving services in Westchester County and the surrounding areas, our team is enthusiastic about helping our clients achieve their organizing goals!
 
With our non-judgemental approach, we are dedicated to providing you with a supportive and stress-free experience every step of the way.
 
For Westchester NY Moms, this spring we’re offering a complimentary in person or virtual consultation on all of our services - organizing, staging, and move management - if you book before June 1st, 2021.  Just mention the code SPRING10 !
 
Contact us at: [email protected] or visit our website at www.123organize.com for more information.
 
We look forward to simplifying your life!​​

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​Celebrations and private affairs of all kinds were forced to a halt last year as the world faced the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that the vaccine rollout is kicking in and the warmer weather is upon us, it’s time to consider rescheduling that postponed event, throwing a birthday party for your kids, celebrating graduation, or planing a socially distant gathering.
 
We understand private events will look very different now and for the foreseeable future. Taking precautions to prevent the spread of the virus is the responsible thing to do and will continue to be on the minds of hosts and guests well into 2021 and beyond.
 
Lakeside Productions offers these tips to plan an event that’s safe AND fun:

1. Limit Your Guest List 
Depending on where you live the number of people allowed to attend a gathering will vary.  We suggest starting small and focusing on the family you’ve only been able to see on zoom over the past year and a few friends in your inner circle that you’ve been wanting to reconnect with. Anyone who has already gotten the vaccine is a plus!

2. Take it to the Great Outdoors
With the warmer weather upon us this makes lot of sense.  If you’re having an event at your house or even at a venue go for the outdoor option if you can.  It’s easier to keep your distance and nature can provide a beautiful setting for the festivities as well.  Just remember you may need shade or a tent depending on location and the forecast to keep your guests comfortable.

3. Maintain Social Distance It’s important to remember to keep your distance.  Space chairs and tables far enough apart and any games or activities should be thought out so that everyone maintains their distance

4. Practice Safety First
Require and provide facemasks, provide sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes. You can have disposable masks for anyone who needs them, or you can take it a step further by customizing face masks to commemorate the event.  Also, go for the oversized hand sanitizers and station them throughout the venue along with disinfectant wipes. ​

5. Offer an Online Streaming Option
Creating a schedule for the event and offering people who can’t be there in person to join for a part of the festivities could be a nice idea.  Joining on zoom for 20 minutes while you’re singing happy birthday, opening presents, or the cutting of the cake can be a good way for your loved ones to still feel connected to you and the occasion without being there physically.

6. Time to Eat and Be Merry 
Serve plated meals, individualized desserts (cookies or cupcakes), juice boxes, can sodas, etc.  This will make your guests feel more comfortable and limits the risk of spreading germs.  

7. Dance in Pods  Opting for no dance floor may be the better choice in some areas or venues but if you just can’t help yourself, we suggest dancing in groups with your family and keeping your distance from others.

8. Communicate the Party Guidelines in Advance  It’s a good idea to communicate the precautions you are taking and your expectations to everyone beforehand.  This will help ease any anxiety about what will most likely be the first event being attended for many since the pandemic started.  Over communicate with your venue and vendors as well.  Remember that celebrating safely and keeping everyone healthy while having fun is the key!

Keep in mind that the restrictions and guidelines will vary depending on your location.  Stay up to date by visiting the CDC website here.

Lakeside Productions is a full-service DJ Entertainment & Production Company located in the Westchester, New York Area with over twenty years of experience. 
 
Our entire team is following all of the safety protocols, providing great flexibility, and offering many tools and advice on celebrating safely.  
 
For more information on socially distant events, our availability, the precautions we are taking, and how we can celebrate safely together please email us at [email protected] or visit lakesideproductions.com.
 
Written by: Dan Pearson
Lakeside Productions, LLC
[email protected]
Phone: 516-993-9446

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It is wonderful to see your kids graduate from high school. Your teen has just reached a huge milestone and you are so proud of them. As wonderful as it is to watch your child graduate, it’s also painful to have them leave home and go off to college. Here’s how you can deal with the ups and downs of getting your teen off to college.

The first thing you can do is support your child and let them know how proud you are of them. Tell them how much you love them and how you admire your teen completing high school. Ask them how they feel about graduating. Are they excited? Nervous? Give your teen the feedback they need to feel good about their upcoming transition. You can even share stories about what it was like for you to leave home. How did you feel, and what was college like for you? Your child will appreciate your support and advice.

You can also prepare them for moving out of the house by helping them set goals. What are five things your teen wants to be able to do before they leave home? Do they struggle with cooking or keeping things tidy? Is it difficult for them to keep a schedule? Help them learn how to accomplish these tasks. Brainstorm solutions to these issues with your teen, and write out a timetable for when to tackle each problem. Encourage your teen to stay on track with these goals. You can even work out a reward system with them. Keeping their room tidy for a week means you both go out for ice cream. If your teen cooks for two weeks, then you take them out to dinner. Rewards will help them be excited about their goals and help them succeed. 

After that, you can let yourself acknowledge how hard this is for you. Let yourself feel sad about this new, difficult life change. You can express to your teen how much you will miss them. But for emotional support, reach out to a good friend or a professional. Your teen has a lot going on at this time, and you don’t want to stress them out too much. A friend or therapist is much better equipped to help you deal with your emotions. And you’ll feel grateful for another adult’s perspective on this issue. 

You may be worried about dealing with graduation in the middle of a pandemic. COVID-19 has made everything in our lives more difficult. With social distancing and mandatory mask wearing, staying connected with loved ones is proving to be a huge challenge. Your teen may be concerned about leaving home during a pandemic, or you may have trouble finding someone to talk to about your own struggles. Thankfully, modern technology can help alleviate some of these issues. You can your teen can reach out to their prospective schools and find out what they are doing to help slow the spread of the virus and make housing safe for students. If you need someone to talk with, you can always reach out to loved ones via social media. Instagram, Facebook, and similar platforms are also an effective way to stay in touch with your graduate once they leave home.

Finally, you should celebrate your teen’s graduation by sending out announcements. Not only will it be fun for your graduate to take grad photos and personalize announcements, it’s a great way to keep in touch with people during COVID. Get pictures of them in their graduation robe, either by hiring a professional photographer, or just using your phone. Your teen can choose the photos they like best to go on their announcements. If you don’t know where to order the cards, try Basic Invite. All of their designs are customizable, so your teen can make sure their custom graduation invites look perfect. I love their graduation invitation designs, be sure to check them out.

Despite the heartache of seeing your teen move on to new things, I hope you are also excited for them. Celebrate this new life change by sending out grad announcements, helping your child set goals, and telling them how proud you are. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a friend and talk about your struggles through this as well. You’ll feel better after talking things through. Remember to cherish every moment right now, while you can. Congratulations to you and your grad!

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Congratulations! You’re pregnant! Have you talked with a genetic counselor yet? At one time, talking with a counselor and pursing genetic screening was something reserved only for older moms, typically those over 35 year of age. But today, leading maternal-fetal medicine experts are recommending that women of all ages should be offered genetic screening.

So, who are genetic counselors and what do they do? These licensed professionals work closely with your OBGYN to identify and recommend screening for potential genetic abnormalities that could affect your baby’s health. While age does raise the chances of certain risks, your birthdate is not the only factor you should consider. 
 
The first step is having sit-down meeting, usually informal to start, so the counselor can get to know more about you. They will speak with you to get more information about any inherited diseases and ask questions about your medical history.
 
“Genetic counseling can add so much to the experience of being pregnant,” says Dr. Caroline Stella, Director of Maternal Fetal Medicine at White Plains Hospital. “Even if you aren’t interested in having a genetic screening, it always helps to sit down with a counselor and hear about various options.”
 
Not all counseling sessions lead to testing. Sometimes just talking it through and getting the facts can help to set your mind at ease or help you make a decision about next steps. But if you are at least 10 weeks along, you may be offered non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS). You’ll be asked to give a blood sample that looks for small fragments of DNA circulating in your blood, as well as undergo an ultrasound to try to spot any physical signs of abnormality.  
 
The conditions doctors are specifically looking for include:  

• Down syndrome (presence of an extra chromosome 21)
• Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome – the presence of an extra chromosome 13)

• Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome – the presence of an extra chromosome 18)

  

Of course, this test is also a great opportunity to learn your baby’s gender. Sex chromosomes XX means your baby is a girl while an XY combo reveals that a son is on the way!

Should the screen come back positive or any of the abnormal conditions, further testing will be used to definitively confirm or rule out a condition. Genetic testing can also be customized based on family history or specific concerns, and additional tests include cystic fibrosis and spinal muscular atrophy, among others.

“It’s not just about getting excellent maternal-fetal care, it’s about supporting the expectant parents’ emotional aspect during this exciting time of life, and all the worry and hopes that go along with it,” says Dr. Stella. “Genetic counseling is one important part of that. We want to make sure our patients have the most comprehensive experience possible, including access to various diagnostic testing options should they be needed, depending on what the results of the screenings determine.”
​
To find an OBGYN at White Plains Hospital, call (914) 681-MyMD.

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2020 was quite a year.  But it is now behind us (ahhh... big sigh of relief). A new year feels like a fresh start. A clean slate. And now more than ever that feels GOOD! 

Many of us enjoy making New Year's resolutions as a way to look forward, establish better habits, improve areas of our life that we want to work on, focus on our health, and jump start our ambitions. New year, new you, right?!

Over the course of this pandemic I immersed myself in the world of self-help books to find some inspiration, motivation, entertainment and guidance to make life feel a little more opportunistic. A little more in control. A little less overwhelming. Reading stories about others overcoming obstacles, having life altering experiences and finding love can be so inspiring. 

I discovered four books that really filled me up. They taught me a lot. Made me laugh. Made me cry. Gave me epiphanies. Helped me let go of past disappointments. Uncovered ways to be the best mom I can be. Motivated me to start taking care of ME. Gave me the courage to accept that there are things I do not like and have the power to change... NOW. Perhaps they will bring the same comfort and inspiration to you. And give you the tools and guidance to build your own resolutions for a transformational 2021.

I'm sure many of the moms out there struggle to find the time to read. I struggle with that too. So I found a way to combine exercise and books by listening to them while walking or jogging. You can also listen to them in the car or at home if you find that convenient. 

Check out these four books to get you inspired to develop your New Year's resolutions, start making positive changes and pave the way for— what might just be— the best year of your life.

Wishing all of our readers a happy and healthy 2021! You got this.

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It feels like the phrase "Why didn't anyone tell me this was going to be so hard?!" comes out of our mouths five times a day as parents. When it comes to feeding our little ones, we think about it for every meal. Yes, we all know that nutrition is critical for our children’s healthy development— but between trying to find fresh, nutrient-dense meals to figuring out how to get our kids to actually eat their food, all on top of our daily to-dos, the anxiety can really start to kick in. 

Little Spoon was started because of these exact pain points, so when we say we’ve been there, we’ve really been there. We created Little Spoon to make parents’ lives easier, with all of our products delivered right to your door and our community just a click, call, or message away. We know how crucial nutrition is during the first few years of life, and how difficult it can be to get your little to eat what’s good for them, so we do the heavy lifting for you. Our Babyblends and toddler & kid's meals, Plates, are made with recipes that keep nutrition and development top of mind, using only the freshest ingredients and free of preservatives, GMOs, additives, and added sugar. 

Here are eight reasons Little Spoon is the ultimate parenting hack:

1. Delivered right to your door
   Put down the kitchenware. Little Spoon delivers fresh, nutrient-dense Babyblends and big kid meals right to your door. We make sure that all your littles, from baby to big kid, are covered at mealtime so you don’t have to. 
   
   
2. Nutrient-dense, balanced recipes
   Little Spoon works alongside renowned pediatricians and nutritionists to create nutrient-dense, balanced recipes for your little one. We use fresh and diverse ingredients to expose your mini to critical vitamins, minerals, and key nutrients that they need at every step of development. Whether you’re looking for an immunity-boosting Babyblend like our Carrot Apple Ginger blend or veggie-packed Plate like our Broccoli Bites, we’ve got you.
   
   
3. Clean, preservative-free ingredients 
   Most grocery store kids products have preservatives, added sugars, and other things you can't pronounce. At Little Spoon, making the safest, highest quality food for your little is our priority. That’s why we have a zero-tolerance policy for preservatives, fillers, additives, and heat-processing. Our Babyblends are made using 100% organic, non-GMO ingredients while our Plates include antibiotic and hormone-free protein, non-GMO fruits and veggies, and organic ingredients where it matters most. 
   
   
4. Meals for babies AND big kids 
   Little Spoon is there to cover everything from first bites to big appetites, making it easy for your mini to transition from Babyblends to Plates. Both menus incorporate a wide variety of recipes made for all developmental stages, so that your mini can eat right every step of the way.
   
   
5. Say goodbye to picky eaters
   From babyhood to big kid and every phase in between, Little Spoon is here to help your kiddo develop a diverse palate. Even from your babe’s very first bites, it’s vital to expose them to a robust array of flavors, textures, and foods. Our Babyblends are carefully crafted with over 100 ingredients, with options for every type of eater. Starting with our single-ingredient blends such as Pear or Zucchini will help prime your babe for the more complex blends that incorporate flavors like mint, spirulina, and hemp like our ever-popular Sweet Potato Apple Blueberry Flax blend. Introducing complex flavors helps expand your little’s palate until they’re ready to dive into our veggie-packed toddler meals. Our Plates menu offers everything from kid classics like Chicken Super Nuggets to adventurous toddler meals like Cheesy Black Bean Pupusas, packed with veggies and superfoods in every bite.
   
   
6. Clean line of vitamins and natural remedies 
   From iron deficiency to cold prevention and constipation, Little Spoon’s line of clean vitamins and natural remedies was created to give your kiddo that extra boost. Sneak our easy-to-use powder formulas into your mini’s Babyblends, breast milk, water, you name it; say hello to your new superpower. 
   
   
7. Online community of mamas who like to get real 
   Ever find yourself asking one of your mom friends “but seriously...is this normal?” You’re not alone, that’s why Little Spoon created Is This Normal a parenting portal and online community of parents who like to have candid conversations about the ins and outs of parenting. 
   
   
8. Here for you, 24/7
   We know that being a mama means absolutely no days off. That’s why Little Spoon’s Care Team, an epic group of mamas who just get it, are here to help you with any questions or concerns you have, day or night. Whether you have a question about your order or need a little help introducing your babe to a new ingredient, we’re here for you.

Ready to give Little Spoon a try? Head over to littlespoon.com to get started and use code WMBLENDS75 for $75 off Little Spoon Babyblends or code WMPLATES75 to save $75 on Plates!

By Little Spoon,  Originally published on Is This Normal.

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As many of our reader's know, I am a big fan of Amy McCready's Positive Parenting. She has taught me tons of tips and tricks to help me enjoy these long pandemic days with my children. Better behavior means a better time for all, more laughing, more fun, more enjoyment. After discovering her common sense, easy-to-implement, research-based tools, I learned how to: 

• Easily get kids to listen – the FIRST time. No yelling or reminding...not even once! 
• Put an end to daily power struggles. Bedtime became a breeze, and all the dawdling, chore wars, sibling rivalry, and mealtime meltdowns disappeared.
• Reduce backtalk by HALF! It’s simple once you know the secrets of these two ‘buckets.’
• Say goodbye to punishments that DON’T work. There’s a 5-step formula that works WAYYY better than time-outs.  
• Feel amazing, confident, and empowered as a parent, every day. I NEVER go to bed feeling guilty anymore! (Okay, well maybe sometimes…’mom guilt’ is still a thing.)

​

Check out these 5 positive parenting tips for better behavior for a happier, stress-free household.
​

1. Model Good Behavior

Little eyes and ears are watching! So why not be the example you want your kids to see. Believe it or not, the behavior we see in our children is a direct reflection of the behavior they see in us as parents.  

Tip: use the same respect and tone of voice with your child as you would use with friends and co-workers. ​Your children hear much more from your tone than from the words themselves. Do you raise your voice? Have you been complaining, negotiating, melting down? Lead by example. If you don't want to hear backtalk from your kids then don't talk back to them.

As a first step, try smiling more and using a calm voice. Doing so will help you relax in times of stress, and your kids will notice and keep their behavior more positive, too.

Don't fall in the trap of arguing with your kids. You can avoid escalating a situation by simply walking away (or hiding in the bathroom). This ensure you don't lose your cool and start raising your voice. Take a breath and calm down. If necessary, count to ten before responding. Don't fight fire with fire. Keep calm and carry on.

​2. Ignore Bad Behavior

This may come as a pleasant surprise, sometimes the best thing you can do is just ignore it. When annoying habits like nose picking, hair twirling, talking back, and the like occur, don't pay attention. The less attention you give to the bad behavior, the less likely your child will keep doing it (because it's your attention that they really want).

Tip: just ignore it, it is never helpful or effective to scold or nag a child about behavior that’s not harming anyone. The last thing you want to do is reward any bad habit by paying attention to it. 

​Of course this approach won't be instant since established habits can be hard to break, but once the attention disappears, the behavior will usually too. Try focusing instead on positive behaviors and encouraging those.

Another time to ignore bad behavior is sibling fighting. While this sounds counter-intuitive and goes against every parental instinct you have, stay out of your kids fights. Tip: ignoring sibling fights removes the payoff, which is to get the parent’s attention. If it’s a simple case of name-calling or a toy dispute, avoid playing referee–instead, simply walk to another room. By doing this, you’ll remove any attention pay-off your children are seeking, and give them an opportunity to resolve the conflict on their own. Of course if the fight escalates or becomes physical, you will need to step in. But try giving them a chance first, not only will it help them learn to resolve their own conflicts, it will relieve you of having to step in every time. 

3. Give Them More Choices

Just like adults, children want to feel in control. Kids don't have a ton of choices on a daily basis and that can be frustrating. A great way to stop over-parenting is by allowing your kids to make their own choices as much as possible. This will empower them, build their sense of significance and teach them critical decision making skills. Plus, when your child has a couple options to consider, it focuses them on the decision itself rather than any objections they may have.

​Tip: provide your child with two choices for positive behaviors so that your child feels empowered and in control. Offering choices instead of making demands can be very effective. Letting them choose little things can have a huge impact. For younger kids you may want to provide them with two options. For example, you might say would you rather do your reading homework in your room or at the table? Or would you rather use the Batman toothbrush or the Spiderman toothbrush tonight? Older children can handle open ended questions like, what sport would you like to do this spring? Or what colleges would you like to visit?

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4. Spend Quality Time Together

How much uninterrupted time do you spend with your child(ren) doing what they like do every day? I'm not sure about you but my phone is often getting more attention than my kids. 

​One foundational belief of Positive Parenting is that kids have an innate need to feel significant. This means they need to be reminded of their self-worth, capabilities, and the value they bring to the family. Now more than ever, our kids need these reassurances.

Tip: to feel truly valued, kids need daily one-on-one time with us where we engage in something they want to do. Carve out 10 minutes of special time for each child, every day, where you do whatever they choose (within reason) and there are no distractions (no phones). This consistent quality time has been proven to reduce negative attention-seeking behaviors.

This special time will offset the ordering, correcting, and directing parents do, help build emotional bonds and fill your children's attention buckets. Plus, it's fun.

​5. Encourage

Encouraging good behavior and effort can make a world of difference. Phrases that inspire a child to find his inner courage can help him develop the skills so he can realize his full potential. Although this may sound easy, the key is to focus on internal motivation and not praise. It doesn’t matter that you think your child is smart. They need to know they can work hard and take specific actions to achieve the results they want.

Tip: focus your words on the positive action, behavior, or improvement you’d like to promote, rather than on the result. 

For instance, when you see your child struggling to control her emotions, perhaps say, “I can tell you are working hard to stay calm.”

It can also help reinforce better choices. “I appreciate you not getting upset when your brother took your truck. That must feel so good!”

It may be hard to get into the habit, but give it some time. I promise, the more encouraging phrases you use with your child, the more naturally they will come.

Hope you found these tips helpful. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and want serious help for parenting during this pandemic and beyond, try Amy McCready's free online class. ​Amy’s class will work for you, no matter how old your kids are! Cheers to a happy home and enjoying life with your kids.

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Has parenting these last few months been a hardcore struggle for you, like it has been for me? If so, you may be interested to learn about  the most magical, the most miraculous, the most life-changing parenting resource, EVER. 

It's a FREE, one hour, no fluff online class. It seriously rescued me from the abyss of pandemic parenting. And if you can relate to my stay-at-home story of stress and too many unhappy days, then I promise —  it’s going to save you too.

The class, taught by parenting expert Amy McCready (whom you might have seen on The TODAY Show), provides practical, research-based tools to:

• Easily get kids to listen – the FIRST time. No need to yell or remind...not even once! 
• Put an end to daily power struggles. Bedtime will become a breeze, and all the dawdling, chore wars, sibling rivalry, and mealtime meltdowns will disappear.
• Reduce backtalk by HALF! It’s simple once you know the secrets of these two ‘buckets.’
• Say goodbye to punishments that DON’T work. There’s a 5-step formula that works WAYYY better than time-outs.  
• Feel amazing, confident, and empowered as a parent, every day. I NEVER go to bed feeling guilty anymore! (Okay, well maybe sometimes…’mom guilt’ is still a thing.)

After days (and days) of lockdown and lots (and lots) of togetherness, I felt like I had lost all control of my kids. They just weren’t listening. Not even after I reminded and nagged 100 times over. Honestly, even I was tired of hearing my own voice. Yet, I allowed it to get even LOUDER. But yelling didn’t work either. My demands were falling on deaf ears… I felt completely invisible. Even though I was busting my bee-hind to be the best parent possible. I was trying to work from home while trying to homeschool my kids while trying to be a loving partner while trying to manage my already long list of daily to-dos… Why wasn’t anyone calling me SuperMom?! Probably because the ‘S’ on my cape really stood for STRESSED TO THE MAX. My sanity was sinking fast, and I was drowning without any floaties to save me. 

I knew something had to change, but I just didn’t know HOW to rebalance the power dynamics in our family. I didn’t know how to channel my frustration from punishment into more POSITIVE parenting techniques. I didn’t know how to go to bed without feeling like a bad parent.

Then I found Amy’s class. 

Her practical, profound, empowering, transformative class. Just days after watching it, our household began to heal. It’s now (for the most part) filled with joy, peace, and happiness. Yeah, there are still BIG feelings (which is normal), but there’s hardly any drama or chaos when they happen.

I now know how to empower my kids to make good choices – without having to yell or nag. There’s no:

• Blame, shame, pain, or guilt
• Heated sibling rivalry
• Backtalk, tantrums, or daily power struggles
• Punishments that don’t work

Now, I feel confident that I can continue to be ‘The Best Mom Ever’ on a daily basis.

Try the FREE class - You have nothing to lose...except for maybe the rest of your sanity. (PS- no commitment required).

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​Now that Governor Cuomo has given the green light for in-person school, many of us are thinking about how we can prepare ourselves and our children for back-to-school. Whether it will be in-person at school, virtual, or at-home teaching, we all have a lot of questions. 

These upcoming free webinars can help prepare you and your children for the upcoming school year and the uncertainty ahead in the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. They feature experts in parenting, education and psychology to help you navigate through the back-to-school season.

1. NAMI (National Alliances of Mental Illness) Westchester is offering "Your Child's Mental Health and School Reopening."

The virtual presentation will focus on how to prepare you and your child for returning to school in the “new normal.” Speakers include local experts including Andrew Ecker, Ed.D., Coordinator, Guidance & Child Study Center, Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES, Marion Walsh, Esq., Special Education Dept. for Littman Krooks and Marie Considine, MPA, Director of Development for NAMI Westchester and parent of school-age children.

Date: Tuesday, August 18, 7pm-8pm
Registration: Pre-registration is required, free
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2. HUFFPOST is hosting "Navigating Kids' Back-To-School Anxiety"

In this virtual forum, Kate Auletta, HuffPost’s senior culture and parenting editor, and Rebecca Kennedy, a New York-based psychologist and mom of three will talk about what to expect, what to say and how to deal with all the ways heading back to school will be hard on children. They will discuss the emotional and mental health aspects of kids’ return to school ― whatever that might look like. The ways in which parents prepare their children for uncertainty and talk about what’s happening are paramount to how children will remember this unique time.

​Date: Wednesday, August 19, 8pm-9pm
​Registration: Secure your ticket now, free for members, $10 for non members
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3. Positive Parenting guru Amy McCready presents  "Get Kids to Listen the Right Way"

If you haven’t yet tried Positive Parenting (or aren’t even sure what it is), a time of heightened chaos and uncertainty is the perfect time to start. You’re already reinventing schoolwork, working from home, and creating a new temporary lifestyle. You don’t exactly have a lot of time, yet you have more time at home than ever to implement something new. Parenting, even in the best of circumstances, is hard. So, if you’re questioning your sanity right about now, a few Positive Parenting strategies will help you and your family survive–and maximize–the upcoming school year. Are you interested in learning how you can use Positive Parenting during a pandemic (and why you should)?

Date & Registration: Various, click to select the one most convenient for you, free
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Parenting is hard. Last fall I ran out of patience. My children were pushing me and my husband to the limit. They were unappreciative, constantly fighting, talking back, you name it.

It all came to a head on my daughter's 9th birthday when her grandparents joined us to celebrate. What should have been a happy, celebratory moment turned dark. The candles were lit, the cake was out, and we started to sing. Instead of smiles and joy, a fight broke out. The girls started pushing each other and it got heated quickly. Suddenly the birthday girl was crying, yelling, angry. The little one was obviously jealous, but this was over the line! We had it. It was anything but a happy birthday and we knew it was time for a change. Things were out of control.

We began researching classes, child psychologists, books, articles, Pinterest boards, the works. We came upon a recommendation from a local child psychiatrist that changed our life. It was an online class that focused on positive parenting. We were intrigued. 

They were offering a free webinar to learn how to get kids to listen. Why not, I figured, I have nothing to lose. In less than an hour I learned a new parenting "tool" that helped me manage my kids' screen time and calmly got them to put their iPad down when their time was up... without having a fit! A miracle? Perhaps this was the "secret sauce" we were looking for. We were in!

Now that I have completed the class I wanted to share my experience with other parents who may be feeling like we were-- totally fed up and overwhelmed. I figured if it worked for us, maybe it will work for you too. Here are a few things I learned.

I learned that there are positive, simple ways you can transform you child's behavior that does not include punishments, time outs, counting or nagging.

I learned the root cause of why my children were acting in such unpleasant ways and what to do about it.

I learned that encouragement leads to confidence and resilience. And that saying "that sounds like something you can do" is huge.

I learned that relevant consequences are important and that revealing them in advance, with a few other tricks, can really make a difference.

I learned that sometimes you just need to ignore bad behavior... and sometimes you absolutely shouldn't. And which is which.

I learned that family contributions are the foundation to raising unentitled kids. And that rewards don't really do what you think they do.

I learned that "I'm sorry" is not the same as making things right.

I learned that there are positive ways to give my children power and attention and that rescuing them doesn't do them any favors.

I learned so much more than these lessons. In fact I learned over 30 tools that are simple, straightforward and life changing. And I did it all on my own time from home.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and want serious help for parenting during this pandemic and beyond, you can try the same free class online I did. 

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Cognitive and Behavioral Consultants (CBC) has announced openings in their ongoing intensive program for young adults and their families. SAGE, The System for Adult Growth and Emergence, formerly known as the STEPS program, is available to clients using a state-of-the-art virtual platform.
 
Admission is now open for SAGE which utilizes both CBT and DBT strategies and is designed for young adults with a primary diagnosis of a mood or anxiety disorder who have difficulty regulating emotions and behaviors and present with multiple problems. The program, which will be conducted virtually, is for young adults whose lives may have been further disrupted by school closings, loss of part-time employment, difficulties transitioning from college to full-time jobs, and enforced social isolation. Parents, who also attend virtually, may particularly benefit from learning validation and conflict resolution skills at a time when more young adults are living at home, and families are spending many hours together.
 
“Our group and individual virtual therapy sessions are designed to support young adults whose lives may have been further disrupted by school closings, loss of part-time employment, difficulties transitioning from college to full-time jobs, and enforced social isolation,” says Dr. Lata K. McGinn, co-founder of CBC. “Parents may also benefit from the coordinating parent program, learning validation, and conflict resolution skills at a time when more young adults are living at home, and families are spending so many hours together.” Accepted participants are generally high school graduates aged 18 to 26, with a primary diagnosis of mood or anxiety disorder.
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SAGE for Young Adults is a 2-part program with a Coordinating Parent program.
 
In Sage 1, Young Adults, typically between the ages of 18-26, attend groups between 10 am-12:30 pm four mornings per week for six weeks. New members join each Monday.
 
Sage 2 is for young adults who have completed SAGE 1 and is aimed at increasing skills generalization and improving executive functioning skills, as well as learning new skills. Clients attend two groups per week for a minimum of six weeks and work on specific, measurable goals. After six weeks, as goals are met, clients may attend one group session a week.
 
CBC also provides a coordinating Parent Program to help parents learn skills to communicate effectively to their young adults and to regulate their emotional responses.
 
Young adults are required to be in ongoing individual therapy in addition to the SAGE program, which may be provided by one of our therapists. Parent management training, couples therapy, or individual therapy for parents may be recommended on a case-by-case basis. 
 
Interested participants should contact Dr. Michelle Greenberg at (914) 385 x 1150 to schedule an intake assessment with Dr. Suzanne Davino or another SAGE team member. Visit the CBC website to learn more about the SAGE program at this link: SAGE Program for Young Adults.
 
Cognitive and Behavioral Consultants (CBC) is an evidence-based clinical and training center comprised of internationally recognized mental health professionals who have researched, pioneered, and are highly experienced in delivering cutting edge treatments that help adults, adolescents, and children live more fulfilled lives. Founded in 2004 by Dr. Lata K. McGinn and Dr. Alec L. Miller, leaders in the fields of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, the CBC team provides a large array of Clinical and Wellness services to the public, provides Custom Designed Programs for schools, agencies, and businesses, and Continuing Education for Professionals in the field of psychology. More information can be found at www.cbc-psychology.com  or by calling 914-385-1150.
 
 
SUMMER GROUPS ANNOUNCED 
Social Anxiety Summer Virtual Groups:
www.cbc-psychology.com/events/social-anxiety-group-for-high-schoolers-and-young-adults
These groups are for teens and young adults who would benefit from learning skills to reduce anxiety in social situations. Participants will learn strategies to challenge worry thoughts experienced in social situations, enhance conversational and assertiveness skills, and practice these skills in different real-life activities through exposures.
Interested participants should contact Dr. Michelle Greenberg at (914) 385-1150 x 1 or email [email protected]
 
DBT Summer Virtual Groups:
www.cbc-psychology.com/events/summer-dbt-skills-groups-for-young-adults
Designed to support a successful transition into young adulthood, this group is for young adults (18-26 years old) who would benefit from learning skills to regulate their emotions, tolerate distress, improve their interpersonal relationships, and increase their self-awareness and focus.
To attend this group, participants must meet regularly with a therapist or psychiatrist (who may be outside of CBC).  Interested participants should contact Dr. Michelle Greenberg at (914) 385-1150 x 1 or email [email protected]
 
CBC offers comprehensive Neuropsychological Evaluations to help identify problems in cognitive, motor, behavioral, linguistic, and executive functioning in children, adolescents, and adults. We also offer both individual and group coaching for individuals who present with executive functioning difficulties. 
 
Autism Diagnostic Evaluations - The range of presentations in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders can make these patients difficult to diagnose. Our evaluations include an ADOS-2, as well as other tools to evaluate cognition, social skills, language pragmatics, and behavior. Significant components of the evaluation process include a thorough clinical history and comprehensive treatment planning.
 
CBC also offers the Parent Child Interactive Program. The PCIT program is an evidence-based treatment for young children between the ages of 2-7 who display emotional and/or behavioral difficulties. It teaches parents specialized, therapeutic parenting strategies to use with children who have these difficulties. 
 
If you are interested in additional virtual programs for your child or yourself, please contact us. 914-385-1150, option 1.

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If you’re like most parents, you’re still struggling to figure it all out...

Working and teaching kids at home is no easy feat especially when combined with the stress of COVID-19. After several weeks, the novelty of being home has worn off. Kids are getting bored and complacent. Parents, getting low on patience and ideas. 
​

WhizKidz Tutoring and Everyday Parenting are pleased to bring you the complimentary series, Effective Strategies for Educating at Home.

Start right now with Homeschool Hack#1: Start of School Day for tips on tackling each day realistically...how to jumpstart mornings, change activities, deal with screen-time, and much more.

Then at your own pace as your family needs extra help, check back for MORE Homeschool Hacks, like how to:

• Avoid stress and burn out...creating schedules, building your child's autonomy and independence
• Retain balance and master the mindset of "good enough" parenting
• Leave room for unexpected joys and learning fun

In bite-sized pieces, get Effective Strategies for Educating at Home that you can easily tailor to fit your child's learning needs, age and attention span. Learn More:
​

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