Are your kids sleeping enough?

In addition to homework, exercise, nutrition & extracurriculars are we neglecting an important pillar of our children’s wellness?  Previous research has suggested that children who get the most sleep tend to perform better on cognitive testing. A recent study led by Reut Gruber, director of the Attention Behavior and Sleep Lab at the Douglas Research Center in Quebec, Canada found that children who get more sleep exhibit significantly better behavior and coping abilities according to their teachers (who were not aware of the children’s sleeping patterns).  Turn off the electronics, keep a consistent bedtime, be a good role model and discuss the importance of sleep with your children.



Marijuana use reduces IQ permanently

An exhaustive and extensive study of approximately 1000 individuals over 20 years recently published by an international team of researchers in New Zealand proves that prolonged use of marijuana is associated with significant cognitive declines.  Additionally, adolescents are especially at risk for cognitive deficits due to their changing and growing brains.  Specifically, those who started using marijuana before the age of 18 suffered a significant drop in IQ.  

The bottom line is that teenagers who smoke pot run the risk of suffering significant and irreversible declines in their intelligence.

It’s not about academics

A team led by Psychologist Craig Olsson studied over 1000 people beginning in 1972-73 when they were three years of age.  They determined that social connectedness as a child and teen was related to future adult well-being or positive emotional functioning in their thirties.  Academic achievement was not. We live in a culture that pushes academic rigor and success above all else when this study clearly points out we need to change our priorities 

The ABC’s of parenting

Researchers and clinicians at 2 leading universities are helping parents learn the most effective behavioral management methods.  It focuses on the the antecedents or what sets the stage for undesirable behavior, the behavior itself or how parents can help a child learn new behavior and consequences, reinforcing positive behaviors or discouraging negative ones.  

  • Point out other children exhibiting a desired behavior. ‘See how nicely that boy is sharing.’ Don’t add, ‘Why can’t you?’
  • Firmly phrase instructions in terms of what to do, instead of what not to do.
  • In case of a temper tantrum, remain calm. Describe the behavior. ‘You are pretending you don’t hear me when I say it’s time to go.
  • Praise reasonable reactions, muted tantrums or any efforts at self-control.
  • State which behavior is being praised. ‘I asked you to pick up the toys, and you did.’
  • As much as possible, ignore negative behaviors. Don’t communicate desperation or beg.
  • Model the behavior you want your child to exhibit.
  • Don’t give up. Some behaviors can take months for a child to master.