The Coping Toolbox, a Child Psych Podcast

Mar 18 2024 27
The Coping Toolbox, a Child Psych Podcast artwork

A podcast hosted by Canadian licensed Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychologists Drs. Jennifer Vriend, Laila Din Osmun, and Mary Simmering McDonald, C.Psych. Topics covered include a wide variety of subjects such as coping during COVID-19, dealing with child anxiety, sleep difficulties and parenting issues. Guest speakers include other Child Psychologists and developmental professionals across Canada.

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Early Signs of Autism in Young Children

Mar 18 2024 41 mins  
In this episode Drs. Jenn and Mary discuss some of the early signs of autism in young children. We discuss typical developmental milestones and what might be some indicators of differences in development. Symptoms related to language and communication, social relationships and emotional responses, as well as sensory processing and interests are explored. Drs. Jenn and Mary explore

Test Anxiety

Jan 31 2024 28 mins  
In this episode, Drs. Laila, Mary, and Jenn examine test anxiety. They discuss why we experience test anxiety and practical tips for before and during tests. Ideas for challenging worry thoughts and suggestions for positive self talk are explored. They describe focusing on healthy striving rather than perfectionism and the role parents can play in helping children and adolescents t

Grief and the Holidays with Joanne Doucette, RSW

Nov 05 2023 34 mins  
In this episode, Dr. Jenn is joined once again by Joanne Doucette, Registered Social Worker to examine ideas to help navigate the holiday season while you are experiencing grief. They discuss various emotions which are commonly experienced and how to manage some of those big emotions. Joanne outlines a script for how to say “no” when it is in your best interest. They describe t

Coping with Separation Anxiety in Children

Sep 12 2023 26 mins  
In this episode, Drs. Laila, Mary, and Jenn discuss separation anxiety and how it affects children and their caregivers. Common symptoms are discussed, and they explore ideas to help cope with the challenges associated with separation anxiety. Resources: 1) https://www.anxietycanada.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Separation-Anxiety-Doc-FINAL-2.pdf 2) https://www.anxietycanada.com/w

Perfectionism with Dr. Simon Sherry, RPsych

Sep 04 2023 33 mins  
In this episode, Dr. Jenn interviews Dr. Simon Sherry. Dr. Sherry is a Professor at Dalhousie University and an internationally recognized expert in perfectionism. During this episode, Dr. Sherry describes types of perfectionism and the role of genetics, parenting and social media as possible contributors. They explore mental health issues related to perfectionism such as depressio

The Adolescent Brain

Apr 10 2023 34 mins  
In this episode, Drs. Jenn and Mary explore changes that take place in the adolescent brain, including how rewiring fine tunes the brain. This process starts at the back of the brain and moves to the front, resulting in adolescents making decisions that are more heavily influenced by instincts and emotions. We discuss that the increased desire to socialize with peers as well as the

Helping Your Anxious Child Use Intentional Practice with Dr. Dawn Huebner

Jan 27 2023 34 mins  
In this episode, Dr. Laila interviews world-renowned child psychologist, parent coach and award-winning author, Dr. Dawn Huebner. They discuss the importance of intentional practice in the treatment of childhood anxiety disorders and how parents can help their children take on right-sized, progressive challenges when facing fears. Resources: 1. Dr. Huebner’s Website & Books, incl

Healthy Relationships

Oct 19 2022 32 mins  
In this episode, Drs. Mary, Jenn, and Laila discuss qualities that are frequently observed as part of healthy relationships. Listeners are encouraged to observe what qualities they notice in their present relationships. Qualities discussed include having a sense of acceptance, respect for boundaries, a sense of independence, feeling supported, reciprocity and balance, and having fu

Building Resilience in Children & Teens

Oct 06 2022 25 mins  
In this episode, Drs. Jenn, Laila and Mary discuss how parents can help their children and teens build resilience. Topics covered include the importance of modelling resilience, optimism, self-compassion and self-care, routines, and supporting children during difficult situations. Resources: The Resilience Workbook for Kids: Fun CBT Activities to Help You Bounce Back from Stress an

Social Anxiety in Children and Teens

Feb 20 2022 34 mins  
In this episode, Drs. Jenn, Laila and Mary discuss social anxiety in children and teens. Common symptoms, evidenced-based treatment, and how parents can help their children cope with social anxiety are reviewed. Resources: https://www.anxietycanada.com/disorders/social-anxiety/ The Shyness and Social Anxiety Workbook for Teens: CBT and ACT Skills to Help You Build Social Confidence