Children’s Mental Health Blog

Explore recent articles from Little Otter’s child and family mental health and wellness experts.

Any Advice for Dealing with An Extreme Picky Eater?

Any Advice for Dealing with An Extreme Picky Eater?

“My son can eat everything, but he’s an extremely picky eater. Lately, it’s become worse. He eats so slowly; it takes 1-2 hours to eat even things he loves! He takes small bird bites. For example, he can take a bite of a chocolate fudge cookie and ask me to save the rest for later - but he won’t finish it later. I have no idea what to do. Eating/meals have become unbearable for the whole family. He’s also one of the smallest in his class. Any advice?”

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How Can I Help My 12-Year-Old Manage His Anxiety?

How Can I Help My 12-Year-Old Manage His Anxiety?

“My 12-year-old son has been diagnosed with moderate anxiety by his doctor, and school work seems to trigger his anxiety. He’s often so emotionally overwhelmed that he’s unable to do school work…I often don't know how hard to push with school work, because he’s clearly in lots of distress. How can I support my son in his school work and help him feel calm at the same time?”

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Is It Okay for Parents to Take a Vacation Without Their Child?

Is It Okay for Parents to Take a Vacation Without Their Child?

“My husband and I have a trip planned in a few weeks. We’ll be leaving my 23 month old daughter with her grandparents for 6 days. I’m worried she might hate us when we get back, or feel abandoned or detached…Can a 2-year-old get detached from her parents over 6 days if spent with family?”

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