The holidays are often painted as a season of joy, connection, and celebration. But for many teens, this time of year can amplify feelings of isolation, sadness, and stress. Between disrupted routines, social pressures, and complex family dynamics, holiday mental health challenges can quietly take root, and depression may go unnoticed. As a parent, knowing … Read more
You love them. You really do. But if you’ve walked out of a room lately and mouthed “What just happened?” to yourself—or caught your reflection mid-sigh because somehow your teenager just argued against showering—this one’s for you. No long lectures. No “10 easy steps to peaceful parenting.” Just real-life moments that remind you that you … Read more
If you’ve walked with us through Is it Okay That I Hate My Teenager? and Field Notes for Moms of Teens, you already know this truth: parenting teens is messy, humbling, and full of emotions you never expected to feel. This phase can stretch your patience, test your boundaries, and tug at your heart in … Read more
Let’s get real: being a young athlete can feel amazing…and also, kind of exhausting. You love your sport—or at least, you used to.You’ve got drive, discipline, and big goals.You’ve made friends, had cool wins, and grown stronger than you ever thought possible. And yet… You might also be: This blog is for you—the kid or … Read more
If you’re parenting a child or teen in competitive sports, you’ve probably already heard about the mental health challenges that can come with it—burnout, pressure, anxiety, and self-doubt. You might have nodded along, recognizing moments where your child seems a little more irritable, withdrawn, or overwhelmed than usual. But now you might be asking: “Okay, … Read more
Have you ever looked at your teen and wondered, “Is she really as happy as she seems?” You’re not alone. Recently, a mother shared with us, “My teen daughter seems to be faking happiness.” This statement echoes a growing concern among parents of teens in Ballwin, Kirkwood, Chesterfield, and throughout the St. Louis area. Today’s … Read more
Summer jobs and internships are more than just a rite of passage—they’re a training ground for adulthood. Whether your teen is flipping burgers, interning at a local nonprofit, or launching a side hustle, these experiences teach resilience, financial literacy, and problem-solving skills that classrooms can’t replicate. But navigating the job market as a teenager can … Read more
Picture this: your teen returns home from college, and suddenly your quiet house feels full again—now what? While having your child back under your roof can be joyful, it often comes with growing pains: conflicting schedules, shifting boundaries, and the delicate balance between nurturing independence and maintaining household harmony. Here’s how to navigate this transition … Read more
Graduation is a milestone that marks both an ending and a new beginning. Whether you’re finishing high school or college, this transition is filled with excitement, uncertainty, and a wide range of emotions. For many in Ballwin, Kirkwood, Chesterfield, and throughout St. Louis, graduation is more than just a ceremony–it’s a major life change that … Read more
Life is full of twists and turns. For teenagers navigating these challenges, setbacks can feel especially difficult. From academic pressures and friendship drama to disappointments like rejection or failure, these experiences can take a toll on their well-being. That’s why teaching emotional resilience and helping teens adapt, grow, and emerge stronger from adversity are essential … Read more