Kids Need Boundaries

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By Audrey Angermeier, MSW, LSW – September 24, 2025 –

As any parent or guardian knows, setting boundaries with children can be challenging, especially when it comes to following through. Let’s face it, it would be so much easier to give your child what they want or let them do whatever they please all the time. There would probably be fewer arguments, less eyerolling, and fewer tantrums or meltdowns, which always seem to happen at the worst possible times.

If kids are getting what they want, there shouldn’t be any pushback from them, right? Wrong! Children crave and thrive on consistency. The ironic part is that most of them don’t even know it. However, the facts clearly show that if we are not consistent in setting boundaries with children at an early age, they are more likely to struggle with self-discipline, behavior management, and healthy social interactions with peers. The likelihood of the child becoming manipulative also increases. 

Setting boundaries and sticking to them is very important for your child’s development. According to Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore, implementing age-appropriate boundaries at different developmental stages in a child’s life while maintaining a safe environment will help them develop their independence. While setting boundaries for children, it is important to remember the four C’s recommended by psychotherapist Elizabeth Beiderman ­— Communication, Clarity, Conviction, and Consistency.

Communication may seem obvious, but while relaying the set boundaries to the child, everyone involved in the child’s life must be notified of those boundaries as well.

This ties in with the fourth C, Consistency. Having consistency in every environment the child may be in will help them understand expectations and respect for others.

Clarity is crucial when explaining a child’s boundaries to them. Speaking clearly, breaking down why the child has this boundary (and what the consequences are if they break this boundary) will help them understand their set expectations.

That brings us to the remaining C, Conviction. It’s important to be kind and compassionate when setting boundaries, but it’s also essential to be firm and confident. Showing a child that you mean what you say, sticking to the boundaries you implemented, and following through on the consequences if the boundary is broken are the keys to long-lasting, effective boundaries.

Parents who do not set clear boundaries with their young children may experience parental burnout, anxiety, depression, and personal relationship problems. It’s no secret that when we feel tired or burnt out, it is harder to carry out activities in our everyday lives.

Taking care of yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically is one of the most important things you can do to help your child. You are modeling healthy behaviors and helping your child understand the importance of taking care of the whole body. When taking care of yourself, you are also more likely to react with thought and purpose when dealing with negative or positive behaviors. This means fewer arguments, eyerolling, tantrums, and meltdowns. Isn’t that the kind of family harmony we are all striving for?

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Gaining Mental Clarity Through a Digital Detox

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By Abby Betz, MSW, LCSW – September 18, 2025 –

We live in a world where our screens never sleep. It is not very often that our minds truly get a break from the onslaught of social media and all of the information available on the World Wide Web.

From never-ending notifications to late-night scrolling, the constant digital overload is silently altering our mood and draining our focus and peace of mind. It is essential to examine the benefits of a digital detox, which can not only restore our mental clarity but also bring balance to our lives.

It is virtually impossible to escape screens in today’s overly connected world. With the popularity of phones, smartwatches, TVs, tablets, and other devices, we are constantly “plugged in” to some form of technology. Although there are many benefits of modern technology, including staying informed and connected with others, the downside of technology often leaves us feeling overstimulated and burnt out.

Too much screen time is also associated with health risks such as increased anxiety and sleep disturbances. Moreover, a study by the American Psychological Association reported that people who check their devices more than 80 times a day indicate higher rates of overall stress in their lives.

The thought of taking a break from screens may seem daunting, but there are signs to watch for that may indicate a digital detox is needed. If you find yourself scrolling through your phone first thing in the morning and last thing at night, it may be time to take a break. Constantly switching between apps or multitasking on screens may leave you feeling overwhelmed and sometimes confused.

If you feel mentally foggy, anxious, or irritable after long scrolling sessions or feel like you can’t stop checking when you try to unplug, it may be time to put the phone down. Additionally, if you have noticed a decline in the quality or duration of your sleep, you may be putting your health at risk.

Taking a complete break from screens may not seem feasible, but you don’t have to completely disappear from the tech world to reset. There are small changes or habits you can incorporate into your daily life to help create balance. A simple change may include starting your mornings without screens. Instead, use this time to stretch, walk, journal, or meditate. Establish “tech-free” zones, such as the bedroom or dinner table and ask your family to participate. Limit app notifications and set boundaries on how much information you receive. Even small breaks from the digital world have been proven to reduce cortisol levels, improve attention span, and promote feelings of inner peace.

If making small changes on your own does not seem to be working, a therapist or mental health professional can also help you understand your relationship with technology. Therapy can address feelings of dependency and screen addiction. Working with a therapist to create a personalized treatment plan can help address your struggles with screen time. The goal of therapy is to regain control of and successfully regulate your emotions. With any change in habits or behavior, starting small and setting manageable goals for yourself is key.

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Coping with Childhood Anxiety

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By Lori Powell, MSW, LCSW – September 10, 2025 –

In today’s world, we hear a lot about anxiety. The American Psychological Association defines anxiety as “an emotion characterized by apprehension and somatic symptoms of tension in which an individual anticipates impending danger, catastrophe, or misfortune.” 

Everyone experiences anxiety to some degree, but not everyone experiences an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders include excessive worry, fear, and avoidance that may significantly interfere with daily life.

What does anxiety look like in children? Children may seem more irritated, uneasy, or have physical problems such as headaches or stomach aches when they are experiencing anxiety.  

Anxiety looks different for everyone. For example, when riding with a parent to school, a child with anxiety might refuse to leave the vehicle when arriving or begin hitting the parent because their fear is so extreme.  

Another student might visit the school nurse regularly, complaining of headaches or stomach problems. If the school nurse reports that there is no evidence of sickness, the student could be experiencing anxiety, especially if this situation is happening more frequently.  

Here are five helpful, positive coping skills that parents can use to help their children reduce the intensity of anxiety: deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, positive self-talk, and visualizing safe places or an animal they like.    

  1. Deep breathing is a great technique to help regulate emotions and the body. An example of a deep breathing technique is taking a deep breath through your nose, like you are smelling your favorite scent (chocolate cake or a rose), breathing out through your mouth (as if blowing out birthday candles). Just make sure that breathing is slow and deep. 
  1. Progressive muscle relaxation is another technique that can be used to help reduce anxiety. Starting with their toes, have your child tense and relax each muscle group all the way up through their head. When finished, ask your child to identify the emotion they’re feeling and recognize how their body feels. 
  1. Using the five senses can also help children reduce anxiety. An example of a technique that can be used is identifying five things you can see, touch, hear, smell, and taste.    
  1. It’s important to encourage children to talk positively about themselves. When they say things like, “I can’t do anything right” or “I’m always messing things up,” it can negatively affect their mental health. Ask them to use positive affirmations such as “I can do hard things” or “I can get through this situation.” Thinking and speaking positively helps everyone have a better attitude.
  1. Another method children can try is to think about something that makes them feel safe. For example, they can think about their pet or an animal they like, (What does the animal look like, feel like, sound like, and smell like?) or a place that makes them feel safe (What does the place look like, what does it smell like, what can you touch, and what do you hear when you are in this place?). Details are important with this activity. 

The CDC reports that 11 percent of children ages 3 to 17 had been diagnosed with anxiety, according to 2022-2023 data in the United States. If a child’s anxiety becomes more severe and episodes become more frequent, parents should contact the child’s pediatrician for an appointment or have their child evaluated by a therapist. 

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The Homework Struggle: How Parents and Kids Can Cope Without Conflict

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by Britney Wagler, MSW, LCSW – September 3, 2025 –

As the school year settles into full swing, many households find themselves battling a familiar evening routine: the “homework struggle.” It’s a time that often brings stress, frustration, and even tears for both parent and child. With the right coping strategies, however, parents and kids can transform homework time into a more positive and productive experience.

Homework frustration stems from a mix of factors. For students, it can be a lack of understanding, fatigue after a long school day, or feeling overwhelmed by excessive work. For parents, watching their child struggle, especially when they want to help but don’t know how, can quickly lead to tension.

Every parent wants their child to succeed. When a student isn’t doing well, this can lead to frustration. It’s important to remember that frustration is a normal emotion, but how we respond to it makes all the difference to our children.

What can a parent do to minimize the frustration, stress and tears of homework?

  1. Take a step back. Resist the urge to correct or fix mistakes immediately. Let your child attempt the work on their own first. This builds independence and confidence.
  2. Stay calm and supportive. Your tone sets the mood. If your child senses your frustration, they may shut down or mirror that emotion. Take deep breaths, stay positive, and remind them and yourself that learning takes time.
  3. Break it down. Help your child break assignments into smaller, manageable tasks. This can make even the most intimidating workload feel more achievable.
  4. Create a homework routine. Consistency can reduce battles. Designate a regular time and quiet space for homework, with minimal distractions and necessary supplies ready.
  5. Know when to walk away. If things get too tense, take a short break. A ten-minute walk or a snack break can help reset everyone’s mood.

How can a parent help their child cope with frustration?

  1. Ask for help early. If something doesn’t make sense, encourage your child to ask questions before frustration builds up. It’s okay not to know everything right away.
  2. Use a timer. Working in short bursts, like 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break, can improve focus and reduce mental fatigue. This technique, known as the Pomodoro Method, works well for all ages.
  3. Keep a positive attitude. Teach kids to replace negative self-talk (“I can’t do this”) with encouraging phrases (“I’ll try my best” or “I can ask for help”).
  4. Celebrate progress. Finishing a tough assignment deserves recognition. Whether it’s verbal praise or a small reward, celebrating effort motivates kids to keep going.

If homework struggles persist and are severe, it may be time to discuss them with the teacher. Sometimes the issue lies with unclear instructions, learning differences, or workload expectations that need adjustment.

Ultimately, homework doesn’t have to be a nightly battle. With patience, structure, and empathy, parents and kids can turn frustration into an opportunity for growth and hopefully enjoy the process of learning together.

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Avoiding Freshman Year Follies

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By Katie Martin, MSW, LCSW – August 20, 2025 –

Freshman year is the most crucial year of high school, as it sets the tone for academic achievement and social standards. It can be a fresh start, or for some students, the beginning of ongoing struggles and painful lessons. When students start high school, their understanding of expectations is often far from accurate.

Freshman year can be intimidating, confusing, scary, overwhelming, stressful and exhausting; mentally, physically, emotionally and socially. High school becomes a rude awakening when failed classes must be repeated and discipline hinders progress toward graduation. Students may struggle with making healthy decisions that aren’t socially attractive.

It is important that students identify trusted adults, develop boundaries with peers, prioritize academics and attendance, strive for high grades, join extracurriculars, and incorporate healthy habits. Students who surround themselves with people who promote good habits and motivate them to take ownership of their high school career will experience more success and less stress. 

The goal of high school is to prepare students for graduation and life. Freshmen can take ownership of their success by taking control of the things they have control over, letting go of the things they cannot control, and distancing themselves from unhealthy relationships. Setting goals as a freshman and speaking up about concerns and feelings can greatly improve a student’s chance of success. 

Social adjustments are expected; students may have to redefine what is cool. Freshmen are trying to figure out who they are and where they belong. Having the courage to set boundaries with peers doesn’t come easily to most students. Students should build relationships with those who promote healthy habits that propel them toward graduation, such as trusted adults and positive peers. 

Understanding the connection between academic success and maximizing opportunities for the future is imperative. Typically, a GPA (Grade Point Average) is generated by averaging the points earned from each letter grade at the end of a grading period and/or semester; an F can result in a course being repeated if it is part of the graduation plan established with the student’s academic counselor. On average, most colleges require a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0, but this can vary. Freshmen should know their high school academic counselor, establish solid communication, and work closely with them to stay alert to academic opportunities and progress toward a successful post-graduation plan.

Parents play a major role in student success by modeling helpful qualities such as organization, problem-solving, assertiveness and navigating opportunities that promote growth. Parents should connect with school personnel to establish communication and create a network of trusted adults to collaborate with during the student’s high school years. Parents also need access to grades and attendance. They should check in with their student daily about successes and struggles.

Parents should also connect with school staff as needed but also direct their student to reach out to teachers to encourage independence, build appropriate and effective problem-solving and communication skills, and encourage positive relationships. Parents should attend all available parent nights, orientations, and any other opportunities to be present with their child in the school building. 

Freshman year can make or break a high school career. According to the US Department of Education, students fail ninth grade more than any other grade in high school. This can lead to feelings of frustration and discouragement that can result in less effort, lower motivation and the possibility of dropping out. Freshman year is hard; it requires more attention, organization, maturity and independence. Freshman year also requires students to make more thoughtful decisions rather than decisions based upon impulse or popularity. 

In conclusion, students are capable of graduating and can learn all the necessary tools to get there. However, work begins on the first day of high school, when every student will decide what they are going to do with their opportunity to learn. Supportive adults and a growth mindset will carry a student far. However, high school should also be fun, exciting and full of new experiences that can be enjoyed more fully when academics are well-managed.     

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Be the Superhero Your Child Needs: The Power of Presence, Love and Example

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By Nolan Miller, MSW, LCSW – August 14, 2025 –

We often think of superheroes as those who wear capes, possess powers, and save the world with flashy rescues. But in reality, some of the most important superheroes don’t fly; they stand beside a child, quietly shaping their future through love, support, and example.

Every child faces challenges. Whether it’s school struggles, peer pressure, big emotions, or feeling misunderstood, the world can be overwhelming. But when a child knows there’s someone who sees them, believes in them, and stays by their side, they begin to build the strength to rise above life’s storms. That “someone” can be you.

The Everyday Hero Work
You don’t need a mask or magic. You just need to show up. Listening without judgment, offering a hug when words fall short, and making time for even the smallest moments—those are your superpowers. The bedtime stories, the car rides, the walks around the block, the simple “I’m proud of you,” they all add up to something much bigger than we realize.

Children may not always remember exactly what we say, but they’ll never forget how we made them feel. Your presence tells them they matter. Your encouragement tells them they can try again. Your boundaries teach them safety. And your love, especially your unconditional love, teaches them how to value themselves.

The Struggles Are Real—and So Is Your Impact
When kids struggle, they need a safe harbor. Life comes at them fast—friendship drama, academic pressure, big questions about identity, anxiety about the future. And while we can’t shield them from every storm, we can anchor them. Your steady voice and open arms remind them that they’re never alone.

Being their superhero doesn’t mean fixing everything; it means walking beside them through it. Sometimes, just sitting in silence, holding their hand, or saying, “I don’t have all the answers, but I’m here,” is enough to help them breathe again.

The Legacy You’re Building
What you do today matters far more than you know. By showing compassion, staying consistent, and being honest about your struggles and growth, you model what resilience looks like. You show your child how to get back up. You teach them empathy, courage, and character.

And one day, when they’re older and faced with a world full of decisions and distractions, they’ll remember the strength you gave them. They’ll stand taller, walk kinder, and love stronger, because a real-life superhero raised them.

Final Word: The Hero They’ll Always Remember
In the end, it’s not about perfection. It’s about showing up again and again, even when you’re tired, even when you’re unsure, even when you feel like you’re not enough.

Because to your child, you are. You always have been, and you always will be. So keep going. Keep loving. Keep being the difference.

The world may never see your cape, but your child will never forget your impact.

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Back to School on the Runway: Event on August 9 Raises Funds for Kids

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EVANSVILLE, IN – The community and media are invited on Saturday, August 9, at 1 pm CT to Fashion for a Purpose at Eastland Mall. This fashion show, featuring Hot 96’s Sarah Pepper as Master of Ceremonies, is a fun back-to-school event that blends fashion and community, with proceeds benefiting Youth First.

Volunteer models will walk the runway and feature styles from numerous Eastland Mall stores, including Aeropostale, American Eagle Outfitters, Buckle, Hollister Co., JCPenney, Lane Bryant, and Maurices.

The event runs from 1:00-2:00 pm CT and takes place in the Dillard’s wing of Eastland Mall. Donations are being accepted for Youth First, a local nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families by embedding licensed mental health professionals in 130 K-12 partner schools across 14 Indiana counties. Youth First also provides prevention programs, community engagement, and parent resources that empower youth and families and promote healthy behaviors, correct misperceptions, and foster positive development in young people.

“Fashion for a Purpose is another example of Eastland Mall’s commitment to the community,“ says Eastland Mall marketing manager Sean Ferguson. “Working alongside Youth First for our first ever event has been a privilege and an honor. When we can advertise our stores and highlight the great work of Youth First in our community, it’s a win-win.”   

Eastland Mall’s mission is to provide a safe and enjoyable shopping environment for visitors, employees, and the community, with a focus on supporting local nonprofit organizations. To learn more about Fashion for a Purpose, go to: https://www.shopeastlandmall.com/Events/Details/578236.  

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Beat the Back-to-School Blues

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By Breanna Dudley-Wissel, MSW, LSW – August 7, 2025 –

Sweet summertime. Longed for all school year and mourned when classes start in early August. We all feel it, right? Parents, school personnel, and kids often dread the end of summer.

While some parents may long for school to resume—and for rowdy kids to be back in a routine—the end of those carefree summer days can evoke strong emotions. Educators and students often feel it too, as summer passes in a blink. This article shares more about what the “back-to-school blues” can look like and how to help yourself and your child get past them.

Parents experience everything from relief to frustration to worry. Some parents feel relieved that their child is heading back to school and getting back into a structured routine, but it may also feel bittersweet that their child is growing up, maturing, and moving forward in all areas of life. Some feel frustrated when their child struggles with adjusting to the school routine. Other parents may be worried because their child is having a difficult time with separation anxiety.  

School personnel also experience a range of emotions. They can be eager to decorate their classrooms and reconnect with co-workers they haven’t seen all summer. They may be excited to meet new students and build relationships with them, or maybe anxious and worried about what the coming school year may bring. Teachers may wonder whether their classroom will be well-behaved or difficult to control.  

For some students, the start of the school year may bring sadness. They may feel sad that summer is over, days are shorter, and pools are closing. They may feel sad because their extra time at home, whether it was spent with family, at summer camp, or just sleeping in, is coming to an end. Some may be anxious about meeting their new teacher and worried about who will be in their class. If they are moving to a new school, students may be concerned about what the schedule will be and how to find their classroom. Older students could be experiencing anxiety over figuring out how to work their locker’s combination lock or getting from one class to another before the bell rings.  

All of these feelings are completely normal, so if you or your child experiences them, just know that it is okay! Validate yourself and your child. Reassure yourself and them that everything will be fine and everyone will feel better once the new routine is in place.  

There are some things you can do to help with the adjustment back to school:

  1. Restart a bedtime routine a couple of weeks before school starts. This can also include waking them up at the time they would need to get up to get ready for school.
  2. Attend back-to-school night to help ease your child’s anxiety about finding their classroom and meeting their teacher and classmates. This is also an opportunity for older kids to practice unlocking their combination lock, and you can help them map out a route to get from one class to another. 
     
  3. If your child does not want to get on the bus or out of the car and is experiencing separation anxiety, reassure them that you love them and that you will see them after school. (You could also write a note they can stick in their locker to remind them.)
  1. Help them focus on the positive aspects of their day by asking them what they like about school and what fun memories they made that day. Help them take deep breaths and give them some extra hugs if they need it.  

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Guiding Your Child Through the Journey of Loss

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By Hailey Hagan, MSW, LSW – July 30. 2025 –

Coping with a loss, whether it’s a loved one or a pet, can be challenging for anyone, but helping your child navigate the complex emotions that come with it can be particularly daunting. As a parent or guardian, it is often hard to see the little ones we love and care for in pain. Here are some gentle ways to support your child during a time of grief:

  1. Foster Open Communication: Create a safe space for your child to express their emotions openly. Encourage them to share memories and feelings, and assure them it’s okay to feel a range of emotions, from sadness to confusion.
  1. Share Stories and Memories: Celebrate the life of the person or pet they lost by sharing fond memories and stories. Reminiscing about happy times can bring comfort and help your child remember the positive impact their loved one had on their life.
  1. Validate Their Feelings: Let your child know their feelings are valid and normal. They need to understand that grief takes different forms and everyone processes it in their own unique way and at their own pace.
  1. Maintain Routine and Stability at Home: In times of loss, routine can provide a sense of stability for children. Stick to familiar schedules and activities to create a reassuring environment for your child.
  1. Encourage Healthy Coping Skills: Assist your child in finding healthy ways to express their grief. This could include using art or play as a vehicle for expressing painful emotions. Other healthy ways of coping include spending time in nature and engaging in shared family activities such as hiking, watching movies, playing board games, etc.
  1. Seek Professional Support if Needed: If your child is struggling to cope with the loss, consider seeking professional help. You can reach out to their school’s Youth First Mental Health Professional (a list is available at youthfirstinc.org) or your child’s family physician for additional support and resources.

Helping a child cope with loss is an ongoing journey. Hold space for your child and listen to them. By providing love, understanding, and the necessary tools to express their emotions, you can help your child navigate the path of healing with resilience and strength.

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