Category: Early Childhood Services

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column][vc_column_text]By Anne Peters, LMFT

Reading with your child is such a valuable experience. You can go on magical adventures together, learn something new with one another, and strengthen your relationship. Especially during difficult times, it can be helpful to read a book together that really connects with them. COVID-19 brings up a lot of questions and confusion for our children (and for us!). Here are some book recommendations from my library to yours![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”26534″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]1. “Right Now, I am Fine” by D. Owen – This was one of my most recent book purchases, and I love it. It’s written by a child psychologist and it processes the feelings of anxiety and teaches some calming techniques in a super kid-friendly way.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”26536″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]2. “The Good Egg” by J. John and P. Oswald – These authors have also written “The Bad Seed” and “The Cool Bean,” which are also wonderful books. When we think about the time we are in now, “The Good Egg” is a fabulous book that teaches how to take care of ourselves under pressure and offer grace to those around us. Sounds fitting right now![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”26537″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]3. “The Way I Feel” by J. Cain – This book is a tried and true classic for me in my therapy practice. When our brains get all mumble-jumbled during times of confusion or stress, it can be super helpful to just simply talk feelings. Here’s a tip while reading this book: After each new feeling page, encourage your child to identify something that makes them feel that way. This opens the line of communication and you can work together to understand some of those big feelings.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”26538″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]4. “Breathe Like a Bear” by K. Willey – This book includes 30 short mindfulness breathing techniques for children. It helps our children (and us) find the calm during the day.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”26539″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]5. “Don’t Feed the Worry Bug” by A. Green – This book does a phenomenal job of explaining anxiety in an age-appropriate way. This book is all about when we feed our worry bugs, they get bigger and bigger. It can help normalize anxiety for children, but then encourage them to recognize to not let the worries overtake the day.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column][vc_column_text]Let us know what you think! What books have been your children’s favorites over the last several months? Share your ideas with April.Howe@LSIowa.org.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]By Anne Peters, LMFT

It’s no secret that feelings of anxiety have increased for many of us over the last several months. There has been so much uncertainty in our world, and if there’s one thing uncertainty feeds, it’s anxiety. This is the same for children. Children are not always aware of what that feeling may be, so we need to know the signs that our children are feeling anxious so we can offer some support. These signs are great as a reference for yourself, too, if you don’t always fully know what emotions are running through you.

Sleep – When you notice an interruption in your child’s sleep, this could be a sign of anxiety. It can be hard for them (and us!) to turn off their brains enough to rest. Offer support at bedtime and reassure your child they are safe and healthy. A few extra cuddles will never hurt.

Moodiness – A change in mood can also be a sign of some worrying. If you notice the moodiness remains past what is typical for your child, sit your child down and ask what’s on their mind. Don’t dive in with addressing the moodiness. Be vulnerable with your child and process how things have been confusing and difficult lately, and open the gates of communication to get anything off their chest.

Reassurance Seeking – Maybe you’ve noticed your child asking more questions like “Am I going to be OK?” or “Are you going to get sick?” Their little minds are trying to make sense of what’s going on around them. Since we do not have complete knowledge that you, I, or anyone will not get sick, we don’t want to falsely assure them. We can, however, acknowledge the many things we do every day to help stay healthy (washing hands, wearing masks, social distancing, etc.).

Physical Symptoms – Most commonly, headaches and stomachaches can be somatic symptoms of anxiety. If you’ve noticed an increase in any physical symptoms, validate and reassure your child’s ailments, and take some time to do some coping skills together. Go for a walk, take some deep breaths, tell jokes, or draw!

Difficulty Separating – In the midst of hard feelings, a child is likely to want to spend extra time with the people who comfort them the most – you! If you notice your child is clingier, this may be the anxiety talking. Be there for your child, talk with them, and offer endless hugs.

Finally, if you are worried about the anxiety your child is experiencing and feel you need some more support, please contact us. LSI has a team of therapists ready to support you![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]By Anne Peters, LMFT

Happy September, everyone! We have officially made it through summer and we are all getting back into our school and work routine. Although this is a time of year when we fall into normal routines and a lot of predictability, this year feels a little bit different due to COVID-19. How can we manage the uncertainties for ourselves and our families?

First, let’s take a look at the definition of the word “uncertain.” It can be defined as “not known beyond doubt, not having certain knowledge, and not clearly defined.” All of those aspects feel pretty similar to what we are experiencing right now, right? As humans, we are motivated to reduce the feeling of uncertainty because it feels so uncomfortable for us. Scientific studies have shown that when we know something negative is coming, we experience less agitation and more of a sense of calm than when we are told there’s a 50% chance that same negative thing might happen. That uncertainty is difficult for us to manage. It’s an unnatural state of being for us and scientifically, it signals to the brain that things are not quite right. The brain then tries to fill in the blanks to resolve the uncertainty, which can lead to anxiety.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”26441″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]So, what do we do? It’s so important for us to teach our children how to separate the things we can control from the things that we cannot control, and to practice that ourselves. When we focus on the aspects of the situation that we can control, we switch from ineffective worrying to active problem solving. Take a look at this example from Clearview Social of a way to draw out and visualize the separation between the things you can and cannot control.

Beyond recognizing what you can and cannot control, setting a routine and structure is critical. It provides us with a sense of safety and security. I encourage you to include one calming moment in each day’s routine, whether it’s a walk around the block, watching nature, etc.

Finally, it’s important to recognize your own feelings and encourage your family to recognize theirs as well. This technique is named, according to Dr. Daniel Siegel of the UCLA School of Medicine, “Name It to Tame It.” When we are able to recognize our own feelings and put a name to them, it helps us make sense of the mixed-up thoughts in our head and put them in an order. The feelings will hopefully not feel as big and scary when we start to really understand what they are and why we feel that way.

If you notice the uncertainty of the situation is weighing on you or your family to the point it is impacting your day-to-day life, please reach out to us. We have therapists here at LSI ready to serve you via telehealth therapy. Remember, you are not alone. We are all in this together.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]By Anne Peters, LMFT

It’s the start of a new school year! This year has looked pretty different than any other year, hasn’t it? You haven’t been to school since March, you and your family have been social distancing from others, you’ve been wearing a mask, and some of your activities were cancelled. That has brought up a lot of different feelings – sad, angry, worried, scared, confused. Did you know it’s OK to feel any feeling? Even the adults around you have felt those feelings too. When the feelings come, talk to a safe adult, journal, or draw about it. That helps!

I’m sure the feelings have continued to swirl with the start of school. Some of us are going back full-time, some part-time, and some will be learning at home. No matter where you will be learning, I hope you can feel the support of all the adults in your community and beyond. We know this school year feels different. We know it feels like you’re missing out on a lot. We continue to be proud of your strength and courage. You are the future, after all!

So think of this year as another way to show just how brave and kind you are. Be kind to those around you (even if they think about things differently), study hard, and do your part to stay healthy.

I wanted to share a short story with you. As we know, flowers grow with water, sunshine, and soil. However, I came across this amazing story of a flower that only blooms after extreme tragedy. A Baker’s Globe Mallow is a beautiful purple flower that only grows following a forest fire.

How does this relate to you? We are going through something really challenging now, but it is absolutely possible to thrive on the other end of a difficult situation. When you hear upsetting news about COVID-19, or when changes happen due to the virus, allow yourself to feel those feelings. But remember that this little purple flower made it out stronger. So will you.

Have a great school year![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]By Anne Peters, LMFT

It’s safe to say the start of this school year looks a little different than years past due to COVID-19. School will look different for children across the state, too. No matter what you’ve decided for your child for this school year, we’ve got some tips and tricks for you to get back into that school routine.

– Start early – Weeks in advance of school starting, it’s important to go back to earlier bedtimes and wake-up times. Set those alarms, and get started. Although it may be hard to do while it’s still technically summer, the benefits will certainly outweigh the drawbacks. Starting this routine will allow for the child’s sleep cycle to get on track so when the first day of school rolls around, they will feel energized in the morning instead of groggy.

– Practice new school expectations at home – This tip applies if your child will be heading back to school in the fall. Determine what changes will be in place this school year and start discussing and practicing these expectations at home. This could include wearing a mask around the house, practicing appropriate hand washing (sing “Happy Birthday” twice), and answering any questions the child may have about the changes. Remember: your child will base their thoughts and opinions on the changes based on your reaction, so stay positive!

– Communicate, communicate, communicate – Open up the lines of communication. No matter what your child’s age is, there is bound to be some confusion and questions as the school year approaches. Do your best to stay positive, but also be (age appropriately) honest.

– Plan ahead – If your child will be staying home for school this fall, start the structure now. Make a visual schedule and calendar to keep everyone on track. Designate space in the home for each child to do their school work, and for you to work (if you’re working from home). Let the child make the space their own and decorate it as they choose. That will give them some ownership of the space and feel positive about it.

– Offer yourself grace – A lot of this school year is going to be trial and error, and that’s OK. Remember to give yourself grace and compassion and to recognize you’re doing the best you can. We can accept there will be bumps along the way.

– Seek additional support when needed – If you do find yourself or your child having anxiety that is hard to manage during this time, reach out for some professional support. LSI has a team of therapists ready to support you via telehealth in the comfort and safety of your own home. Learn more or give us a call at 888.457.4692.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]I hope your summer has been going well, despite the challenges presented with everything going on in our world right now. I can’t believe it is August. Someday soon, we will see summer turn to fall. We may as well grasp every minute of summer between now and then.

Are you running low on ideas of summer activities to do with your kids? Look no further, I’ve got five easy and fun summer activities for you and your kiddos!

1. Make homemade ice cream – Long gone are the days of needing an ice cream maker and lots of time. All you need now is a resealable plastic bag, some ingredients, and 15 minutes. This is a great recipe I found from Delish. Have an ice cream social with your family, and each kiddo can be in charge of their own baggie to make their very own ice cream. It takes some endurance to shake it until frozen, so consider it a movement activity too. Here’s the recipe:

Ingredients

1 c. half-and-half

2 tbsp. granulated sugar

1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract

3 c. ice

1/3 c. kosher salt

Toppings of your choice

Directions
1. In a small resealable plastic bag, combine half-and-half, sugar, and vanilla. Push out excess air and seal.

2. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine ice and salt. Place small bag inside the bigger bag and shake vigorously, 7 to 10 minutes, until ice cream has hardened.

3. Remove from bag and enjoy with your favorite ice cream toppings.

2. Build a backyard obstacle course – You can use anything available to make this happen. Think hula hoops, jump ropes, sticks, balls, or hoses. The kids will love to run around and challenge each other (and themselves) to beat their time.

3. Camp and stargaze from home – Plan a family night outside to lay back and take in the calm of a starry night. It’s so calming and peaceful, which we all certainly need right now. Really make it a night and plan a backyard campout. Let the kids help with planning and set up. Sounds like a memory maker to me!

4. Create a scavenger hunt – This can be done indoors on a rainy day or outdoors when the weather feels good. You can put a lot of thought and preparation into this, or simply go on the fly. Make a list and send them on their way! Here’s an example: Count how many pairs of socks are in your sock drawer (and put them back). Find your favorite book and write down the first sentence. Count how many stairs are in your home. The options are truly endless!

5. Host a Yes Day – This will require some flexibility on your part, but it’s guaranteed to be a day you will always remember. The premise is this: you can’t say “no” to anything! Of course, it’s important to set boundaries prior to Yes Day, including the time parameters and any specific rules (no harm to self or others, etc.). The catch is the children can’t say “no” to anything either. Added difficult chores should not be added, but rather use it as an opportunity to ask them to do their typical chores but also goofy things, like “Do you want to run around the backyard with me 4 times?” Research has shown that having a Yes Day with your children increases closeness and you are teaching your children how to make decisions (even when they are silly). It brings awareness to how many times you offer an automatic “no” which can be really humbling.

Enjoy these last few weeks of summer! It’s certainly been a summer to remember, and we want there to be some positive memories in there too![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]By Anne Peters, LMFT

My full-time job is a Mental Health Therapist, and my other full-time job is providing foster care to kittens. Ever since I was a young girl, I have had a strong love for our four-legged friends. My mom deemed me a “cat wrangler” from a very young age. About 15 months ago, my journey as a foster home for young or ill kittens began. Let’s be honest – I loved my pet cats growing up, but I was totally going in blind when I agreed to take in the first fosters. I had been volunteering at a local pet shelter and arrived for my shift and saw two tiny kittens that were less than one day old. The mom cat had rejected them. The staff tried different ideas to keep the kittens safely at the shelter without any luck. I said I would give fostering a try, and I would be back to get them shortly once I got some supplies. I called my mom and my friend and said “I just agreed to something…” Luckily, I have the greatest people and they both said “OK, let’s do it.” Gus and Gertie headed home with me.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”26242″ img_size=”medium”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Here they are at Day 1. Eyes and ears are not yet open; requiring bottle feedings every two hours; weighing in at less than ½ of a pound. Most importantly, they had stolen the hearts of the few of us tag-teaming their care. I learned so much during this experience. Specifically, I learned so much about myself. Kittens that do not have their mothers from birth have a much higher likelihood for fatality. Unfortunately, our little white furball Gertie put up a strong fight from Day 1, but did not make it. That lit a huge fire underneath me to help Gus grow, thrive, and survive.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”26243″ img_size=”medium”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Not only did he thrive and survive, he’s now a permanent member of my family and could not be more loved. Here he is today, at one year old! I can now say I have fostered a total of 20 kittens over the course of 15 months. Some have been ill, some have been tiny, and all have been loved. The picture used at the top of the blog includes five of my previous fosters – you’ll recognize baby Gus right in the middle! The Pet Effect, or the relationship between human and pet, has scientifically been proven to improve our mental health. In fact, 75% of pet owners in one study stated getting a pet improved their mental health. Those are some pretty good odds.

We would love to hear from you. Do you have any fur babies in your family? What’s your favorite thing about having a pet? Mine is their loyalty and unconditional love. You can’t buy happiness, but you can rescue it.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]By Anne Peters, LMFT

Today I am going to share with you my absolute favorite grounding technique. I’ve taught this to clients, family members, and have used it myself many times. This is a great technique when you feel overwhelmed or like your mind is racing. If you are someone who focuses on the past and gets stuck reliving a stressful situation over and over, this is for you. If you are someone who thinks to the future and you find yourself worrying about what’s to come, this is for you. If you are currently overwhelmed with all the stress and roles you are trying to juggle, this is for you.

This is a technique based in mindfulness and it’s been deemed effective by even the toughest critics (looking at my sister, Molly). Here’s how it works. You can engage in this strategy no matter where you are or who you’re with. We simply use our five senses. Slowly, and in the moment.

Find

5 things you see

4 things you feel

3 things you hear

2 things you smell

1 thing you taste

That’s it! I’ll give you an example of what it would sound like when I would do this activity right now.

5 things you see – I see the clouds in the sky, my cup of coffee, my blanket, a globe, and a vase of flowers.

4 things you feel – I feel my soft blanket, my back against the chair, my feet against the floor, and my hands on the keyboard.

3 things you hear – I hear the TV, a neighbor mowing the lawn, and my cat purring.

2 things you smell – I smell fresh air and hot coffee.

1 thing you taste – I can taste my coffee.

I notice each time I practice 54321 how calm I feel. Another great thing about 54321 is how adaptable it is to children. What a great family activity to practice all together. We would love to hear from you if you find some calming relief, too![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]By Anne Peters, LMFT

Is there anything better than finding a book you really connect with? I’ve talked before about the benefits of reading. Reading has been shown to put our brains in a similar state to meditation. I received the book I Really Needed This Today by Hoda Kotb as a gift from my mom last year at Christmas. It has provided some great insight over the last couple of months as we go through some challenging and anxiety-producing times with the COVID-19 pandemic. Let’s dive into it!

The author, Hoda Kotb, prefaces this book by saying “If you’ve ever read a quote, nodded your head, and thought, ‘I am not alone’ . . . this book is for you.” One of my favorite parts of this book is the layout, because it allows for you to read it at whatever pace feels right to you, bookworms and occasional readers alike. Hoda starts with an introduction, then it is followed by 365 sayings and quotes, a quote for each day of the year. Hoda then offers a small interpretation of what the quote means to her. Most entries are less than a page long, so it’s such an easy read.

Here’s my recommendation and what I plan to do for the rest of 2020 and into 2021. Each day, read the assigned quote for the date, Hoda’s response, then do some self-reflection. We could all use a little motivation, reassurance, and just acknowledgment that we are not alone in what we feel. Here’s an excerpt from the book:

“In optimism there is magic. In pessimism there is nothing.” – Esther Hicks

Hoda states “I like the endless sparkle in that first –ism. I’ve been exposed to optimism my whole life because of my mom. I could share a thousand examples, but the beach comes to mind. If she’s describing bad weather during a trip to Rehoboth, she’ll say ‘It was rainy, but you can’t believe how much I needed a break from the sun.’ She’s like that about everything, every day! If the weather forecast is bad for an upcoming trip, she’s not having it. ‘Oh, please. They always say it’s going to be cloudy until it’s sunny.’ And you know what? My mom is usually right.”

I don’t know about you, but I totally resonated with this quote. Has anyone else fallen into more pessimistic thoughts than usual with the COVID-19 stress around us? I typically pride myself on being a “glass half full” kind of person, but this worldwide pandemic and all the worries that come with it have made it harder. I’m going to challenge myself to find the positives every day and work towards returning to my typical optimistic point of view. Also, I totally resonated with the “My mom is usually right” statement. She did buy me this book after all! What did you take away from this entry?

Let us know if you give this book a try! We can have a virtual book club that again, helps us to know we are not alone. I also saw Hoda is releasing a new book of the same format in October! Even more quotes coming for us to continue some self-reflection. Take care, everyone! We are here with you.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]By Anne Peters, LMFT

It’s really important for us to set boundaries for ourselves that feel comfortable. Saying “no” is often where it all begins. We sometimes get fearful that saying “no” will come off as rude or self-centered. It can be just the opposite! As I’ve mentioned before, my token saying is “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” What I mean by that is you can’t take care of others in a healthy way if you aren’t also caring for yourself. Trust me, this isn’t easy to do, but setting boundaries is key to being the best you can be.

First of all, practice saying “no.” It can be helpful to offer an alternative in that moment. If someone asks if you could bring six dozen cookies to a bake sale, and you just know you have no time, say no. Then follow up by offering different ways you could help. Could you supply the napkins and plates? Could you help with set up? Could they keep you in mind for the next bake sale? Bottom line: offer alternatives.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”26201″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”padding-one”][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Secondly, trust your gut. I will say it time and time again – your gut instinct is always something to listen to. In my experience, gut instincts are your own intuition. If your gut says “no,” say “no.”

Know your limits and stick to them. We can give and give, just know at what point it’s time to take a pause and take care of yourself.

Finally, be direct when communicating your boundaries. Get straight to the message so that it’s clear. You can even explain how your cup is running empty and it’s just not an option.
I’m ending with one of my favorite graphics from @hellosunshine. This speaks it all.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”26202″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][/vc_row]