My Child is Angry. What Should I Do?

As parents, understanding and recognizing big feelings in children is crucial for their emotional development and well-being. Children, especially those between the ages of 8-12, experience a wide range of intense emotions, from joy and excitement to anger and sadness. At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers’ ROWI KIDS programs, we emphasize the importance of acknowledging these feelings and providing children with the tools to manage them effectively.

Understanding Big Feelings

Big feelings are intense emotions that can sometimes overwhelm children. These emotions might include:

• Anger: A powerful emotion often expressed through yelling, crying, or aggressive behavior.
• Sadness: This can manifest as crying, withdrawal, or a lack of interest in usual activities.
• Fear: Children might experience fear in response to new situations, changes, or specific triggers.
• Excitement: Positive emotions can also be overwhelming, leading to hyperactivity or difficulty concentrating.
• Anxiety: Manifesting as worry or fear about future events, often leading to physical symptoms like stomach aches or headaches.

Signs to Look For

Recognizing these big feelings involves observing both behavioral and physical signs:

• Behavioral Changes: Sudden shifts in behavior, such as increased aggression, withdrawal from social interactions, or changes in sleep patterns.
• Physical Symptoms: Headaches, stomach aches, or other physical complaints without a clear medical cause.
• Emotional Outbursts: Frequent crying, tantrums, or meltdowns over seemingly minor issues.
• Changes in School Performance: A drop in academic performance or reluctance to attend school.

Strategies for Parents

1. Open Communication: Encourage your child to talk about their feelings. Create a safe and non-judgmental space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.
2. Active Listening: Pay close attention to what your child is saying. Show empathy and validate their emotions by acknowledging their feelings without dismissing them.
3. Model Emotional Regulation: Demonstrate healthy ways to manage emotions. Children learn by observing, so showing how you handle your own big feelings can be a powerful lesson. This can include parents saying that they need a break to calm down during emotionally heated moments, going to a quiet place and gathering oneself before returning.
4. Teach Coping Skills: Introduce techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and creative expression (like drawing or writing) to help your child manage their emotions.
5. Create a Routine: A consistent daily routine can provide a sense of stability and security, helping to reduce anxiety and emotional outbursts.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many children can learn to manage their big feelings with parental support, some may need additional help. If your child’s emotional responses are impacting their daily life, school performance, or relationships, it may be time to seek professional assistance. ROWI offers a range of programs tailored to help children and families navigate these challenges.Learn more about ROWI KIDS programs.

How ROWI Supports Emotional Regulation in Kids Ages 8-12

Emotional regulation is a fundamental skill that children need to develop as they grow and navigate the complexities of life. For kids aged 8-12, this can be a particularly challenging time, as they begin to experience a wide range of emotions while still learning how to manage them effectively. At ROWI Kids, we understand the struggles that children and families face in this crucial developmental stage. In this article, we’ll explore the common challenges kids aged 8-12 encounter when it comes to emotional regulation and how ROWI can provide valuable support to help them thrive.

Emotional Regulation: Understanding the Struggles

Emotional Overwhelm: Children in this age group often experience intense emotions that can be overwhelming. From school stress to friendship dramas, these young minds may find it difficult to cope with their feelings, leading to emotional outbursts or shutdowns.

Difficulty in Articulation: Expressing emotions can be a challenge for many kids aged 8-12. They may not yet have the vocabulary or self-awareness to communicate their feelings effectively, making it hard for parents and caregivers to understand what’s going on inside their heads.

Peer Pressure: As kids enter preadolescence, they become more influenced by peer relationships. They may grapple with fitting in, dealing with conflicts, and feeling pressured to conform to social norms, all of which can trigger emotional turmoil.

Changing Hormones: Physical and hormonal changes are underway during this age range. These biological shifts can significantly impact mood swings, making emotional regulation even more challenging.

Academic Pressure: Academic demands can increase as kids move through elementary school. Balancing schoolwork, homework, and extracurricular activities can create stress and frustration.

How ROWI Kids Can Help with Emotional Regulation

ROWI Kids offers a holistic approach to addressing the emotional regulation challenges faced by kids aged 8-12. Here’s how ROWI can support children and families:

Emotional Literacy: ROWI encourages emotional literacy through a range of engaging activities, games, and resources. By exploring and naming their feelings, kids can better understand and express themselves, laying the foundation for effective emotional regulation.

Mindfulness and Relaxation: ROWI provides mindfulness exercises and relaxation techniques that help kids manage stress and anxiety. These tools empower children to calm their minds and bodies, promoting emotional balance.

Communication Skills: Effective communication is vital for emotional regulation. ROWI teaches kids how to express their feelings constructively, improving their ability to navigate conflicts and share their emotions with family and friends.

Peer Support: ROWI creates a supportive community where kids can connect with peers who may be experiencing similar emotions and challenges. This fosters a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation.

Parental Involvement: ROWI recognizes that parents play a crucial role in a child’s emotional development. Our program offers resources and guidance for parents, helping them understand their child’s emotional needs and providing strategies for fostering emotional regulation at home.

Understanding Emotional Regulation Challenges

Navigating the ups and downs of emotions during the ages of 8-12 can be a turbulent journey for kids and their families. ROWI Kids understands these challenges and is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to help children develop the emotional regulation skills they need to thrive.

Through emotional literacy, mindfulness, effective communication, and a strong support network, ROWI empowers kids to understand, manage, and express their emotions in healthy ways. Together with parental involvement and access to professional guidance, ROWI Kids creates a nurturing environment where emotional growth can flourish, setting the stage for a happier, more balanced future for children.

To learn more about how ROWI Kids can benefit your family and help your child build strong emotional regulation skills, contact us. Together, we can help your child manage emotions with confidence and resilience.

Navigating Back to School: Supporting Socially-Anxious Adolescents

The transition back to school can be a challenging time for any adolescent, but for those struggling with social anxiety, it can be particularly daunting. The combination of new faces, social interactions, and academic pressures can trigger overwhelming feelings of fear and discomfort. However, there are effective strategies and resources available to help adolescents manage their social anxiety and approach the upcoming school year with confidence.

Understanding Social Anxiety in Adolescents 

Social anxiety is more than just shyness. It’s an intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social situations. Adolescents with social anxiety might avoid social interactions, experience physical symptoms like sweating or trembling, and constantly worry about negative outcomes in social situations. As parents and guardians, understanding the nuances of social anxiety is crucial in providing the right support.

The PEERS Social Skills Curriculum

The PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) Social Skills curriculum is an evidence-based approach that teaches adolescents essential social skills to navigate social situations confidently. This curriculum focuses on areas like conversational skills, reading social cues, handling rejection, and making friends. ROWI Teen and Parent Wellness Centers incorporate the PEERS curriculum into our programs, providing a structured framework to help socially-anxious teens thrive in social settings.

After-School IOP Program

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers a unique opportunity for adolescents to focus on honing their social skills and enhancing their mental wellness toolkit in a supportive environment. The after-school IOP program offered by ROWI Teen and Parent Wellness Centers is designed to empower teens by providing a safe space for practicing social interactions, boosting self-esteem, and developing healthy coping strategies. This program combines evidence-based techniques with personalized guidance to foster growth and progress.

Benefits of the After-School IOP Program

Structured Learning: The after-school IOP program provides a structured and nurturing environment for teens to learn and practice social skills in various scenarios.

Peer Support: Interacting with peers who are facing similar challenges helps adolescents feel understood and less alone in their struggles.

Expert Guidance: Trained therapists and counselors offer valuable insights, guidance, and strategies to manage social anxiety effectively.

Holistic Approach: The program not only focuses on social skills but also addresses overall mental wellness, equipping teens with tools to manage stress and anxiety.

Heading back to school doesn’t have to be a source of dread for socially-anxious adolescents. With the right resources and support, they can build the skills and confidence needed to navigate social situations successfully. ROWI Teen and Parent Wellness Centers, with their incorporation of the PEERS Social Skills curriculum and after-school IOP program, offer a comprehensive approach to helping teens overcome social anxiety and thrive in the academic and social aspects of their lives. By prioritizing social skill development and mental wellness, parents and guardians can empower their adolescents to face the school year with resilience and self-assurance. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 800-721-7694.

The Impact of Social Media on Teen Mental health

In today’s digitally connected world, social media has become an integral part of the lives of teenagers. While it offers various benefits, including communication and information sharing, concerns have arisen regarding its impact on teen mental health. As summer approaches, it becomes crucial for parents and guardians to understand this connection and explore effective strategies to support their teens during this transitional period. This blog aims to shed light on the relationship between social media use and teen mental health, as well as provide valuable insights on how to foster a healthy and fulfilling summer for your adolescent.

Teens and the Social Media Conundrum

Social media platforms offer a multitude of opportunities for self-expression, connection with peers, and access to vast amounts of information. However, excessive and unhealthy usage patterns can contribute to various mental health challenges for teens. Here are a few key factors to consider:

1. Social Comparison: Teens often compare themselves to others on social media, leading to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and a distorted self-image. The curated nature of posts can create an unrealistic perception of others’ lives, intensifying these negative emotions.
2. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment: The anonymity and distance provided by social media platforms can sometimes embolden individuals to engage in harmful behavior, including cyberbullying. Such negative interactions can significantly impact a teenager’s emotional well-being, causing anxiety, depression, and social isolation.
3. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Constant exposure to others’ activities and events can trigger FOMO among teenagers, heightening their anxiety and the pressure to participate in every social gathering. This fear can lead to feelings of exclusion and a sense of being left behind.
4. Sleep Disruption: The blue light emitted by screens and the constant stimulation of social media can disrupt sleep patterns, affecting the quality and duration of sleep. Sleep deprivation, in turn, can negatively impact mental health, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

Healthy Habits for Your Teen’s Social Media Use in the Summer

As summer arrives, it provides a unique opportunity to encourage healthy habits, promote well-being, and strengthen the parent-teen relationship. Here are some practical strategies to help your teenager navigate the digital landscape and enhance their mental health:

1. Open Communication: Establish a non-judgmental and open line of communication with your teen. Encourage them to share their feelings and experiences related to social media. Actively listen and validate their emotions while offering guidance and support.
2. Setting Boundaries: Collaboratively establish boundaries for social media use during the summer. Encourage regular breaks, device-free hours, and designated spaces for social media interaction. Promote the importance of offline activities, hobbies, and quality time spent with friends and family.
3. Digital Well-being Practices: Teach your teen about digital well-being strategies, such as mindfulness exercises, limiting screen time, and using apps that monitor and manage screen usage. Help them understand the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between online and offline activities.
4. Promote Positive Online Engagement: Encourage your teen to engage in positive and meaningful online experiences. Guide them to follow accounts that promote mental health awareness, body positivity, and personal growth. Encourage them to create content that is authentic, supportive, and empowering.
5. Cultivate Offline Connections: Encourage your teenager to foster real-life connections during the summer. Help them find activities and hobbies they enjoy, such as sports, art, volunteering, or joining clubs or community organizations. These activities can provide a sense of purpose, social support, and personal fulfillment.
6. Role Modeling: As a parent or guardian, be mindful of your own social media use and its impact on your well-being. Strive to model healthy habits by demonstrating a balanced approach to technology and actively engaging in offline activities.

Understanding the connection between social media use and teen mental health is vital for parents and guardians in today’s digital age. By fostering open communication, setting boundaries, and promoting offline engagement, you can help your teenager navigate the complexities of social media while nurturing their mental health. As summer unfolds, seize the opportunity to create a supportive and enriching environment, empowering your teen to build resilience, embrace their authentic selves, and cultivate meaningful connections beyond the digital realm.

How ROWI Can Help

At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we offer evidence-based treatments, as well as a range of therapies and activities to meet the unique needs of each individual with ASD. We believe in providing comprehensive and individualized care to help teens with ASD reach their full potential. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 800-721-ROWI, and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, and verifying your insurance to get you, your family, and teen started on your journey to mental wellness.

Adolescence is a time of self-discovery and identity formation, and for some teenagers, this process involves exploring their gender identity. As parents, guardians, and allies, it is crucial to provide support and understanding during this challenging journey. By creating a safe and accepting environment, we can empower teens exploring their gender identity to navigate this path with confidence and self-acceptance. In this blog post, we will discuss several ways to support and advocate for teens who are exploring their gender identity.

Seven Ways to Support Teens Exploring Their Gender Identity

1. Educate Yourself About Gender Identity Topics:

The first step in providing meaningful support is to educate yourself about gender identity and related topics. Take the time to understand the nuances of gender identity, transgender experiences, and the challenges faced by gender-questioning teens. Familiarize yourself with appropriate terminology and seek resources such as books, articles, or websites dedicated to LGBTQ+ issues. By gaining knowledge, you will be better equipped to support and advocate for your teen.

2. Foster Open Communication:

Create an environment where your teen feels safe and comfortable expressing their feelings and experiences. Encourage open dialogue by actively listening without judgment. Respect their preferred pronouns and chosen name, and make sure to use them consistently. By validating their identity and experiences, you demonstrate your support and willingness to understand them better.

3. Seek Professional Guidance:

Consider reaching out to professionals who specialize in working with gender-questioning or transgender individuals. Mental health providers, such as therapists or counselors, who have experience in this area can offer valuable support and guidance. They can help both you and your teen navigate the complexities of gender identity and provide tools to cope with challenges that may arise.

4. Connect with Supportive Communities:

Encourage your teen to connect with support groups or communities that cater to gender-questioning or transgender individuals. These communities can provide a sense of belonging, offer support, and foster connections with peers who share similar experiences. Online platforms, local LGBTQ+ organizations, and youth centers may provide safe spaces where your teen can explore their identity and find support.

5. Respect Privacy and Confidentiality:

Respecting your teen’s privacy and confidentiality is crucial. It is essential to maintain their trust by not sharing their personal information without their explicit consent. This includes refraining from discussing their gender identity or journey with others unless given permission. By demonstrating respect for their privacy, you show your commitment to supporting them in a way that respects their autonomy.

6. Advocate for Their Rights:

Be an advocate for your teen within their educational institution, healthcare settings, and broader community. Work with school administrators to ensure inclusive policies and practices are in place, such as gender-neutral restrooms or policies protecting against discrimination. Educate teachers and staff about gender diversity to foster a more inclusive environment. Advocate for gender-affirming healthcare, including access to appropriate medical care if your teen chooses to pursue hormone therapy or other medical interventions.

7. Celebrate and Affirm Their Gender Identity:

Celebrate and affirm your teen’s gender identity by using positive language and reinforcing their self-worth. Recognize and honor their achievements, milestones, and steps they take on their journey. Allow them to explore and express their identity through their choice of clothing, hairstyles, or other forms of self-expression. By affirming their identity, you help boost their self-esteem and foster a strong sense of self.

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Supporting a teenager who is exploring their gender identity is a journey of empathy, understanding, and acceptance. By fostering a safe and open environment, seeking knowledge and professional guidance, connecting with supportive communities, respecting privacy, advocating for their rights, and celebrating their unique identity, you can play a pivotal role in empowering them throughout their self-discovery process. Remember, your unwavering support and affirmation can make a significant and positive impact on their overall well-being and self-acceptance. Together, let us create a world where every teen feels seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are.

How ROWI Can Help

At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we offer evidence-based treatments, as well as a range of therapies and activities to meet the unique needs of each individual with ASD. We believe in providing comprehensive and individualized care to help teens with ASD reach their full potential. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 800-721-ROWI, and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, and verifying your insurance to get you, your family, and your teen started on your journey to mental wellness.

The Power of Group Therapy for Teens Struggling with Mental Health

Adolescence is a period of significant change and growth, both physically and emotionally. Many teenagers face mental health challenges during this critical phase, often feeling isolated and unsure of where to turn for support. While individual therapy is a valuable option, group therapy has emerged as a particularly effective approach for teens grappling with mental health issues. 

Why group therapy for teens can be a powerful tool for mental well-being

1. Peer Support: Breaking the Isolation

Teenagers often experience a sense of isolation in their struggles, believing that they are alone in their pain. Group therapy creates a supportive environment where adolescents can connect with peers who are facing similar challenges. Sharing their experiences and emotions with others who can relate helps diminish feelings of isolation and offers a sense of belonging. Knowing that they are not alone can be immensely comforting and validating for teens.

2. Normalization: Erasing the Stigma

Adolescents frequently believe that their mental health difficulties are abnormal or unique to them, which can intensify their shame and self-blame. In a group therapy setting, they quickly realize that their struggles are shared by others. The normalization of their experiences reduces self-stigma and promotes self-acceptance. By understanding that their feelings and thoughts are not uncommon, teenagers can gain a broader perspective and develop greater compassion for themselves.

3. Social Skills Development: Learning and Growing Together

The teenage years are a critical period for social and emotional development. Group therapy offers a safe space for teens to practice and develop essential social skills. Engaging with peers in therapy allows adolescents to improve communication, active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution skills. Through interactions within the group, they receive valuable feedback, learn from others’ experiences, and explore different ways of relating to others. These skills extend beyond therapy, contributing to their overall social and emotional growth.

4. Feedback and Perspective: Broadening Horizons

In group therapy, teenagers benefit from receiving feedback and perspectives from both their peers and the therapist. They gain insights into their own behavior and beliefs by hearing how others perceive them. This feedback challenges assumptions, enhances self-awareness, and provides alternative viewpoints that may not have been considered. Exposure to diverse perspectives can serve as powerful catalysts for personal growth and change.

5. Role Modeling and Inspiration: Harnessing the Power of Peers

Within a group therapy setting, teens have the opportunity to witness the progress and successes of their peers. Seeing others overcome challenges and make positive changes can inspire hope and motivate individuals to work towards their own goals. Role modeling is particularly impactful during adolescence, as young people tend to value and learn from the experiences of their peers.

6. Support Beyond Therapy: Building Lasting Connections

Group therapy facilitates the formation of connections and friendships among participants. These relationships extend beyond therapy sessions, offering ongoing support and encouragement. Adolescents find solace in knowing they have a network of peers they can turn to during difficult times, even outside of therapy. These lasting connections become an invaluable source of support on their mental health journey.

Group therapy holds immense potential for teenagers struggling with mental health challenges. By providing peer support, normalizing experiences, fostering social skill development, offering feedback and perspective, inspiring through role modeling, and facilitating lasting connections, group therapy becomes a powerful tool for adolescent well-being. While individual therapy remains a valuable option, the unique benefits of group therapy make it an effective and holistic approach to supporting teenagers on their path to mental wellness.

How ROWI Can Help

Engaging in mental health treatment is another way to support your teen. ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers can help you and your teenager with professional mental health support.  Each of our clients receives a treatment plan that will support them in meeting their goals. Programs are individualized in order to meet each client and family where they are at in the process. To get started with ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, contact us or simply call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477 and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, verifying your insurance, and get you, your family, and your teen started on your journey to mental wellness.