The Science Behind Giving Thanks

November 25, 2020

This year has been particularly difficult for many families and also for many providers. However, during this time of thanksgiving we want to share the research on the benefits of giving thanks and how this can help not only you, but your patients and their families. Gratitude is the quality of being appreciative or thankful, and research has…Read More

In the Exam Room: Being Silly

November 18, 2020

It may sound silly to talk about silliness in the exam room, but there is real science that thinking in creative ways helps children to build cognitive flexibility. Making new and surprising connections allows children to develop executive function skills that they need for their overall health and wellness. Something as small as saying you…Read More

In the Exam Room – Giving Choices

November 11, 2020

Offering children choices in the exam room allows children to feel a sense of control over what is happening to them. This is essential in supporting autonomy. Offering choices also makes it more likely that children will comply with directions. For example, when you ask a child which ear you should look in first, it makes…Read More

Please Do Learn About Positive Opposites

November 4, 2020

Positive opposites are a concept you can discuss, model or praise in well-child visits. Every unwanted behavior has a positive opposite! By replacing “don’t” with “please do,” you can think of yourself as helping a child learn how to behave – not just tell them what not to do. And, you are giving them the…Read More