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Written by Dr. John Carosso What does it mean to “increase structure” Parents are often told about the importance of structure, that they need to increase structure, and that structure is vital to helping children who need “more structure.” However, what does that mean? Simply put… The simplest way to explain structure is that ‘more structure’ equates to more rules, […]
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Written by Dr. John Carosso To compare or not to compare? Parents often quickly correct themselves after making comparisons between their kids, saying “I know we’re not supposed to do that…” It’s generally taken for granted that comparing our children is wrong. Is it really wrong? In reality, we compare all the time. In fact, comparing helps us to understand […]
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Written by Dr. John Carosso What I’m expected to do… As a psychologist, I’m expected to talk about traditional and clinically-relevant approaches to help kids, and parents, work through difficulties. This of course would include helping people to think in more reasonable ways (cognitive therapy), behave in ways that are productive and healthy (behavioral approaches), be emphatic (Rogerian techniques), stay […]
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From Dr. John Carosso For many parents with kiddos struggling with any number of behavioral health or developmental issues such as ADHD and Autism, the Holiday Season can be an extra stressful time. Watch this Morning Minute Special below on how to prepare your child for the season. You can also find more information on my blog here.
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Written by Dr. John Carosso The discipline trap How beneficial is time-out, taking away the TV, or ‘grounding’ a child from going outside? Of course, as most parents have come to find, all of these discipline strategies can be effective. However, what happens if you rely too heavily on these strategies? Well, first, your household can become like a gulag; […]
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Written by Dr. John Carosso How it all began Many years ago, starting out as a Psychologist, I came across a Principal who established a ritual with his teachers. At the conclusion of every morning meeting, he would huddle the teachers together and lead a chant “softer and closer” repeated four to five times, before sending the teachers off to […]
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Written by Dr. John Carosso Subtle difference? Well, it’s really not so subtle. It’s the difference between labeling your child, or simply describing an annoying and transient behavior. What’s the big deal? When we call our kids “lazy,” “rude,” “liars,” “thieves,” or whatever, we are defining their character, and suggesting that this is their enduring quality. Okay, so now you’re […]
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Written by Dr. John Carosso Yes, it’s that time It’s that ‘back to school’ time. Yes, it’s sad to see the summer coming to a close and definitely time to get back to the school routine. Summer vs. School Routine Need I mention the difference between summer and school-year routines? If you start about 2-3 weeks out, it’s much easier […]
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Written by Dr. John Carosso What are some of the primary treatment modalities for Autism? One of the biggest challenges facing a parent of a child with autism is, what’s the most effective form of treatment? The choices seem endless and differentiating one from another can be a daunting task. Parents often rely on therapists to know and carry-out these […]
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Written by Dr. John Carosso Where we left off We spent the past few posts discussing the diagnosis and treatment of mild autism. By the way, your subsequent comments and questions have been remarkable and very thought-provoking; thank you. At this point, you already know the general signs and symptoms of autism (if not, just check-out any number of my […]
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