Child Study Center Webinars

The Child Study Center, part of Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone, hosts frequent webinars to offer insights, practical tips, and advice to parents and caregivers. Webinars cover topics such as effective parenting, managing stress, and improving emotional health. The webinars are hosted by our expert clinicians.

Previous sessions are available from our Child Study Center webinar archive. For information on upcoming workshops, please subscribe for email updates.

Upcoming Child Study Center Webinars

Screen Time in Early Childhood: Not So Black and White—February 2, 2021

With screens virtually everywhere, monitoring your young child’s screen time usage can be challenging. Historically, the American Academy of Pediatrics has discouraged media usage, with the exception of video chatting, for children younger than 18 to 24 months. For preschoolers, they have advised that high-quality digital media be limited to one hour a day in the presence of family. With family and friends far away and school often remote, how do these guidelines hold up? We discuss the nuances of these recommendations and how they can be adapted and modified to meet the evolving needs of families during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and beyond.

Presenters: Stephanie M. Wagner, PhD, and Stephanie Glickman, PsyD
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Improving Executive Functioning Skills in College Students with Tourette Disorder—February 11, 2021

College can be an incredibly rewarding time of personal and academic growth. In this program, participants are invited to learn about Tourette disorder and the commonly associated challenges in academic planning and organization. Participants learn strategies to keep track of assignments, manage associated materials (including internet-based and online materials due to virtual learning), effectively manage time and scheduling, and engage in systematic planning for assignments. Participants also learn practical strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and mood related to Tourette disorder and associated organizational skills difficulties.

One week following the webinar, participants are invited to engage in a 60-minute group offering support among attendees, trouble shooting, and reinforcement of strategies learned. Additionally, participants get free access to a library of short videos (4 to 5 minutes) illustrating organizational skills taught in the webinar, including time management, scheduling, and planning, as well as stress management and relaxation skills.

Presenters: Richard Gallagher, PhD; Christopher La Lima, PhD; Rebecca R. Berry, PhD; Michelle R. Miller, PsyD; Mark Knepley, PhD; and Sol Wahba, PhD
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Tough Times Call for Tough Discussions: Tips for Talking With Your Teenagers—February 17, 2021

Having meaningful discussions with teenagers allows parents to help them process and problem-solve challenging situations, as well as stay tuned in to their emotional well-being. During this webinar, our expert discusses considerations and tips for talking with teenagers about a range of important topics.

Presenter: Yamalis Diaz, PhD
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Discover the Science Behind Passion—February 25, 2021

Most kids want to discover their passions. When we find our children listless or bored, it can feel like a recrimination. Learn the difference between the passions that increase our wellbeing and the ones that take over our entire life. It can feel like uncovering a passion is just about luck, but during this webinar we describe steps you and your children can take to uncover the things in life that leave them, and you, feeling truly fulfilled.

Presenters: Alan D. Schlechter, MD and Daniel L. Lerner
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Talking with Your Child About Their Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis—April 13, 2021

When your child is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, parents are challenged with figuring out the best way to share this information with your child. Which words are true and capture your child's unique characteristics but sensitive enough to not hurt their self-image? Is there a certain age in which your child is more ready to hear these words? Will it enhance their developmental pathway and their wellbeing? We provide parents with general guidelines and up-to-date information about autism spectrum disorder diagnosis disclosure throughout the lifespan.

Presenter: Gili Segall, PhD
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Helping School-Age Youth with Tourette Disorder Develop Organizational, Time Management, and Planning Skills—April 22, 2021

In this program, participants learn about the relationship between Tourette disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and gain understanding of the commonly associated challenges in learning, academic planning, and organization. Facilitators present parents and educators with strategies to guide students in improving assignment tracking; managing associated materials, including internet-based and online virtual learning materials; effectively managing time and scheduling; and engaging in systematic assignment planning. Practical strategies for students to manage stress, anxiety, and mood related to Tourette disorder and associated organizational skills difficulties are also reviewed. Additionally, participants get free access to a library of short videos illustrating organizational skills taught in the webinar, including time management, scheduling, planning, stress management, and relaxation skills. Educators and parents learn to recognize behaviors that may warrant further assessment or care, and learn about relevant and appropriate Tourette disorder and ADHD referrals and services.

Presenters: Richard Gallagher, PhD; Christopher La Lima, PhD; Rebecca R. Berry, PhD; Mark Knepley, PhD; and Sol Wahba, PhD
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Archive of Past Child Study Center Webinars

How to Talk to Your Child About Gender and Sexuality—January 13, 2021

Gender and sexuality are far from “one size fits all.” While exploring gender identity and sexual orientation is a normal part of children’s development, there is no user’s manual for talking to your child about these issues. In this workshop, Dr. Samantha Busa discusses development of gender and sexuality in childhood and adolescence and offers ways to talk to your children about this critical area of their development.

Presenter: Samantha Busa, PsyD
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Working Parents in Stressful Times: How to Make It All Work—January 5, 2021

Are you a working parent? Is your career crucial for you? Are your children important to you? Then this talk is for you. All parents sometimes get caught in the battle with stress, especially in times like this. That battle usually adds more layers to our very real daily struggle trying to achieve our career and parenting goals. This talk introduces useful ideas, techniques, and real-time practice to help us overcome the struggle with stress. This enables parents to be more focused on their work and life values and goals.

Presenter: Gili Segall, PhD
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My Child Was Admitted to the Hospital: What Now?—January 5, 2021

For many children and adolescents, an inpatient psychiatric hospitalization may be a necessary aspect of treatment and care. But for many families, this is an unfamiliar and scary time filled with a new environment, challenges, and discussions about treatment that may be tough to navigate. Learn about the inpatient hospitalization process, including demystifying the stigma of psychiatric treatment in an inpatient hospital setting. Our expert uses his own experience to help parents and families understand the expectations and their own role in a crucial period.

Presenter: Tzvi Furer, MD
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Tending Your Garden: Improving Family Relationships and Increasing Emotional, Psychological, and Physical Wellbeing for All—December 8, 2020

Family relationships are centrally important for the overall wellbeing of children and adults alike. This webinar introduces insights from the family therapy field on how family members can work to improve the quality of relationships they have both within their immediate and extended family. Attendees should expect to learn both general concepts and guidelines, as well as practical applications for enhancing communication, conflict management, and overall family emotional climate.

Presenter: Andrew E. Roffman, CSW
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Marijuana and the Developing Brain: Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions—December 3, 2020

For American teenagers, marijuana is one of the most commonly used intoxicants. There has been a rapid shift in societal views on the drug and its dangers, yet there is evidence to suggest that exposing the still-developing adolescent brain to marijuana can lead to both short- and long-term effects. This webinar is structured to answer the most frequently asked questions about teens and marijuana use, including how it affects the brain and body, how to talk to your child about marijuana, and when to seek help.

Presenter: Alma Spaniardi, MD
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Video Gaming Opportunities and Problems in Children and Adolescents—November 19, 2020

Many children and adolescents spend a good deal of their leisure time engaged in video gaming. Apart from enjoying themselves, they are often socializing with friends or online acquaintances, deploying skills, and pursuing noble causes in a fantastic world. Nevertheless, the quantity and quality of video gaming activity in kids raise concerns among parents and teachers. Learn the risks of video gaming and the opportunities to prevent and manage them.

Presenter: Victor Pereira-Sanchez, MD
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Healthy Internet Use: Is It Possible?—November 10, 2020

Children and adolescents are increasingly exposed to new media, including social media, internet platforms, and video games. Approximately three-quarters of children from age 8 and younger have access to a mobile device and the same proportion of teenagers own a smartphone. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than two hours of screen time per day, but the average teenager spends approximately four hours online daily. Is this a problem? Or not? We discuss problematic internet use, what makes newer media so addictive and how to establish healthy use of family electronics, even during COVID-19.

Presenter: Argelinda Baroni, MD
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Beating Zoom Gloom: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Children’s Online Learning, Part 2—November 5, 2020

As we navigate the school year in a COVID-19 world, parents are juggling more roles than ever. Many children find it challenging to engage in virtual classrooms, and parents may not have the bandwidth to provide needed support. In part two of this webinar, we continue discussion on strategies parents can use to manage behavior struggles, encourage compliance, and make it all work, followed by an extended question-and-answer session.

Presenters: Karen A. Fleiss, PsyD and Dylann Gold, PhD
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Relational Mindfulness: The Whats and Hows of Improving Your Connection with Your Child—October 27, 2020

Balancing limit setting with your children and building a meaningful relationship can be overwhelming for many parents. Now more than ever, social media, responsibilities at school and at work, and day-to-day stress distract from parents’ ability to be aware of and open to opportunities to build connections with their children. This webinar is designed to help you develop the skills to identify barriers to improving your connection with your child and recognize opportunities for more open communication in the present moment. Learn practical strategies for applying relational mindfulness to improve your communication and understanding of your child.

Presenter: Jeremy A. Wernick, LCSW
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Managing Shame and Stigma for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors: The Benefits of Group—October 8, 2020

Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRB), including hair pulling, skin picking, and nail biting, affect countless individuals, though are not well-understood and are rarely portrayed in the media. As a result, these behaviors are sometimes viewed as bad habits that could be easily controlled. As a result of this misconception, many who live with BFRB experience intense shame, which can interfere with relationships, intimacy, and daily functioning. Sharing feelings and connecting to others in support groups can be especially useful in reducing shame and stigma associated with BFRB. In this webinar, affiliates of the TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors describe their experiences managing BFRB and the important role peer support groups had in their journey. Participants also learn ways to enhance self-compassion and navigate resources.

Presenters: Rebecca R. Berry, PhD and Samantha Busa, PsyD
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Beating Zoom Gloom: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Children’s Online Learning—September 29, 2020

As we begin the new school year in a COVID-19 world, parents are juggling more roles than ever. Many kids find it challenging to engage in their new virtual classrooms, and parents may not have the bandwidth to provide the support needed. In this webinar, Dr. Karen Fleiss and Dr. Dylann Gold discuss strategies for parents to manage behavior struggles, encourage compliance, and make it all work.

Presenters: Karen A. Fleiss, PsyD and Dylann Gold, PhD
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How Parents Can Walk Away from the Battle with Stress—September 15, 2020

Parents can get caught in the battle with stress, a battle that usually adds more layers to our very real daily struggle with parenthood, relationships, and career requirements. This webinar introduces some useful ideas, techniques, and real time practice to help us overcome the struggle with stress. This enables parents to be more focused on their life values and goals and have more energy to change what actually can be changed in reality.

Presenter: Gili Segall, PhD
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Back to School: Understanding and Supporting Teachers during COVID-19—September 10, 2020

The return to school during COVID-19 has raised a lot of questions for teachers, parents, and students. This webinar focuses on understanding teachers’ questions and concerns, and incorporates information learned directly from teachers in a range of school settings. Our experts review strategies for supporting the wellbeing of teachers and their students during this challenging and complex transition time.

Presenters: Randi D. Pochtar, PhD and Bethany E. Watson
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Socializing While Social Distancing: Electronic Communication Skills for Teens and Young Adults— August 25, 2020

For people with autism spectrum disorder, forming and maintaining connections during a time of social distancing presents unique challenges. This webinar focuses on key skills for successfully navigating electronic communication such as video calls, phone calls, texts, and emails. We discuss coaching strategies for caregivers to help expand social opportunities and support social success for adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorder.

Presenters: Lauren J. Donnelly, PhD and Michelle Lee, PhD
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Helping Children Process Grief and Loss During COVID-19—July 7, 2020

The death of a loved one is one of the most painful experiences any of us endure. With the love and support of those closest to them, most children recover well and continue in their lives with the capacity for joy and growth. During the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, it has been all too common that children and families have had to confront the death of a loved one. More common still has been new of deaths in their extended social contacts, and it is virtually unavoidable that children have learned of deaths in their community. In this webinar, Dr. Eric Lewandowski reviews what to expect when children lose a loved one and how to support the process of grief in children. The webinar also discusses challenges of the COVID-19 crisis for grieving families and presents ideas to help manage this difficult time. Finally, this webinar reviews signs that children may be in need of additional support or treatment.

Presenter: Eric Lewandowski, PhD
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Child Traumatic Stress During the Covid-19 Pandemic—July 2, 2020

Across the nation, everyone is being exposed to, and reacting to, the confusing, stressful, and sometimes frightening situation of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic in different ways. But are we, and our children, being traumatized by the pandemic? In this webinar, Dr. Adam D. Brown addresses the emotional reactions that many children, adolescents and families are currently experiencing during the pandemic. An overview of the differences between “stress” and “traumatic stress” are provided, including a focus on developmentally specific reactions. This webinar also helps to clarify typical, developmentally appropriate reactions, when to be considered, and when and how to seek help.

Presenter: Adam D. Brown, PsyD
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Taking the Fight Out of Food: Enjoying Meals with Family While Sheltering at Home and Beyond—July 2, 2020

Mealtimes are an opportunity for families to come together and enjoy each other’s company. If meals were already difficult in your family, the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic may have heightened the conflict. Learn ways to increase your child’s food acceptance while avoiding power struggles. Skills are applicable across childhood and adolescence.

Presenter: Andrea D. Vazzana, PhD
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Managing Social Anxiety and Loneliness in the Midst of COVID-19—June 11, 2020

Children and teens who are shy and socially anxious frequently struggle with establishing and maintaining peer relationships. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, sadness, and isolation. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these struggles for many youth, as opportunities for social interaction are limited and video platforms may create more anxiety for these individuals. This webinar teaches strategies for managing social anxiety in the context of COVID-19 and ways to increase social connection during this difficult time.

Presenters: Randi D. Pochtar, PhD and Carolyn Spiro, PhD
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Breaking the Chain of Emotion Dysregulation in Families—June 9, 2020

Everyone experiences moments of emotional vulnerability and sensitivity and can benefit from more effective coping skills. When living with an emotionally sensitive child or adolescent, families can often find themselves in invalidating patterns of communication, making it difficult to remain mindful and connected. In this webinar, Dr. Giselle Colorado discusses how invalidating communication patterns develop and provides practical strategies for reducing invalidation and fostering validating patterns of communication between parents and their children.

Presenter: Giselle Colorado, PsyD
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Helping Parents Understand and Manage the Academic Impact of Tourette Disorder, ADHD, and Learning Disorders—June 4, 2020

Join experts in pediatrics, neuropsychology, and psychiatry for an interactive workshop highlighting common social, emotional, and learning challenges associated with brain-based conditions, such as Tourette disorder, learning disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Participants have the opportunity to consult with NYU Langone Health faculty about their child’s needs, and gain knowledge about various clinical and school resources to address them.

This webinar is presented in partnership with the Tourette Association of America and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Tourette Syndrome Health and Education Program.

Presenters: Rebecca R. Berry, PhD; Richard Gallagher, PhD; Alanna Gold, PhD; Carolyn Spiro, PhD; and Michael A. Ambrose, PhD
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Pride During COVID-19: Virtually Celebrating Diversity in LGBTQ Youth—June 2, 2020

Recent studies suggest that as many as 1 out of 30 kids will identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ). These youth face unique challenges including increased rates of rejection from their families, increased stigma and discrimination at school and in employment, and experience of healthcare that can be ignorant of their needs. This is compounded during a time where youth are physically distant from another due to the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) crisis. Despite these challenges and adversities, LGBTQ youth often demonstrate tremendous vitality, resilience, and pride in their experience.

In this webinar, experts from the Transgender Youth Health Program at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone discuss the modern LGBTQ movement and recommendations for a virtual pride month. We will also celebrate the strengths of LGBTQ youth and learn how in celebrating and honoring their diverse experiences, we can build a healthier community virtually.

Presenters: Samantha Busa, PsyD; Caroline L. Salas-Humara, MD; and Jeremy A. Wernick, MSW
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#HowTo: Middle School, High School, College, and Beyond—June 2, 2020

Students with ADHD and other conditions that affect learning may face particular challenges with organization, time management, and planning that lead to stress and parent-child conflict. In this webinar, Dr. Christopher La Lima discusses how symptoms leading to organizational deficits can affect relationships, performance, and self-esteem, and ways to set the stage for a successful transition to the next school year. He will also give a brief overview of Organizational Skills Training (OST), and talk about ways to get involved through workshops, therapy, an ongoing research study, and group therapy.

Presenter: Christopher N. La Lima, PhD
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Addressing School-Related Impairments in Students with Tics and Tourette Disorder—May 14, 2020

This webinar aims to provide an overview of tics and Tourette disorder for teachers and other school personnel, as well as instruction in facilitating earlier identification of Tourette disorder and related conditions that contribute to academic difficulties, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

A panel of experts discusses the relationship between Tourette disorder, ADHD, and executive dysfunction, highlighting related school impairments such as organizational deficits. Participants learn best practices for addressing these issues, including school consultation, behavior modification, and organizational skills training, which is a hands-on and practical approach to addressing issues with organization, time management, and planning.

Participants also gain private access to a Tourette Association of America and Centers for Disease Control online training module, which, upon completion, allows program participants to facilitate in-service trainings for other educators in schools.

Presenters: Rebecca R. Berry, PhD, Randi Bennett, PhD, Samantha Busa, PsyD, Kaitlin Happer, PhD, and Christopher N. La Lima, PhD
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Beyond PTSD: Understanding and Helping my Teen After a Traumatic Event—May 12, 2020

Oftentimes symptoms of traumatic stress in youth with known traumatic experiences go misdiagnosed, under-recognized and under-treated. The relationship between trauma and behavioral or mental health problems is complex and sometimes hard to see. In this webinar, Dr. Ruth Gerson and Dr. Patrick Heppell help caregivers and providers understand how trauma affects teens’ thinking, learning, and behavior. This webinar will also provide concrete tips for recognizing symptoms of traumatic stress, engaging youth and finding the right approach, and evidence-based treatments for youth exposed to trauma. This approach may lead to a better understanding of the presenting behaviors and provide greater insight on initiating the healing process.

Presenters: Ruth Gerson, PhD, and Patrick Heppell, PhD
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How to Help Children with Attention Problems Navigate Remote Learning—May 8, 2020

Widespread school closures caused by the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have parents managing their children’s remote learning, often while working from home themselves. This challenge is especially daunting for parents of children with attention and executive functioning impairments, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In this webinar, Dr. Timothy Verduin discusses how to help children with attention problems navigate remote learning.

Presenter: Timothy L. Verduin, PhD
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Behavioral Activation: Fighting the COVID-19 Blues—May 7, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically disrupted the usual routines of teens and families. While introducing unprecedented stresses into our lives, it has also made it more difficult to access our usual sources of support and wellbeing. Under these circumstances, teens are likely to feel distressed and are at increased risk of mood problems, including depression. In this webinar, Dr. Eric Lewandowski discusses ways for families to support teens during this time. He also reviews more focused approaches for supporting teens with depression and provides guidance for when to seek professional support.

Presenter: Eric Lewandowski, PhD
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Checking in on Your Teenager’s Mood during the COVID-19 Pandemic—May 6, 2020

During these challenging times, teens are missing out on their normal activities. This may cause them to feel sad, down, or disappointed. Parents, teachers, and other caregivers may start to wonder: How sad is too sad? Those who know youth who experience depression may struggle with knowing how best to help or support a child during this stressful time. During this webinar, parents and other caregivers learn how to differentiate between typical sadness and depression while picking up strategies for supporting teens during these uncertain times.

Presenter: Aleta G. Angelosante, PhD
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Helping Your Child Manage Disappointment about Abrupt Changes to the End of the School Year—May 4, 2020

Youth may be experiencing myriad emotions in response to major social and academic changes. This includes the loss of important events, such as music, theater, sporting events, graduation, and prom, brought on by concerns about the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19). It can be hard for parents to offer a quick solution, or for youth to find a silver lining in the midst of these circumstances. In this webinar, Dr. Rebecca R. Berry discusses strategies to help youth learn to process and manage these difficult feelings and cope with disappointment.

Presenter: Rebecca R. Berry, PhD
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Micro-Resilience: How to Maintain Overall Functioning with Micro-Moments—May 1, 2020

When it comes to dealing with a stressful moment, many of us have given up our pleasurable activities, lost sleep, and perhaps even isolated ourselves for a time because we know the end is in sight. Not only will the finish line be elusive in the marathon we are all currently running, but many of the tools we once relied on to bolster our resilience, like our work, gyms, and even going outside, have vanished. Like an airline flight, we need parents to put on their oxygen masks before placing one on their children. To bolster our resilience, and the resilience of our children, we need to find new and novel ways to reinforce our wellbeing.

Presenters: Alan Schlechter, MD, and Daniel Lerner
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Distance Learning and the Organized Child—April 30, 2020

Helping kids manage their schoolwork on a regular day can be overwhelming. Helping them manage their schoolwork during a pandemic brings new meaning to the word. While managing the COVID-19 outbreak, we have the challenge of becoming our kids' schooltime guides as they set their schedule, manage their passwords, navigate needed websites, and complete assignments on time. In this webinar, Drs. Richard Gallagher, Elana Spira, and Jennifer Rosenblatt discuss adapting tested methods to help families meet the demands of distance learning.

Presenters: Richard Gallagher, PhD, Elana G. Spira, PhD, and Jennifer L. Rosenblatt, PhD
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Essential Social Skills for Teens and Young Adults—April 28, 2020

Adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorder often struggle to establish meaningful friendships and romantic relationships. In this workshop, you learn coaching strategies for expanding social opportunities and increasing social success for adolescents and young adults who have autism spectrum disorder.

Presenters: Lauren Donnelly, PhD, and Michelle Lee, PhD
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Finding the Growth in Our Challenges: For Ourselves and Our Kids—April 24, 2020

Everyone loves a good story about overcoming hardship, but that doesn’t mean we want to live through it. During this protracted period of stress, parents are struggling with how to overcome daily challenges and, in some cases, help their children manage truly traumatic moments. Fortunately, there is science that can guide parents and their children to manage daily adversities and potentially even encourage growth.

Presenters: Daniela Montalto, PhD, and Alan D. Schlechter, MD
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Keeping Your Child Progressing Upward on the Learning Curve—April 22, 2020

Our family structure and routines have shifted in order to flatten the COVID-19 curve. However, our children still need to grow, develop, and continue to move upwards on their learning trajectory. In this webinar, Dr. Daniela Montalto discusses resources available to parents of children of all ages and offers suggestions, activities, and ideas on how to continue to help your child climb toward success during this challenging time.

Presenter: Daniela Montalto, PhD
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Clashing In Close Quarters: A Parent Guide to Managing Noncompliance and Disruptive Behavior During COVID-19—April 20, 2020

With nationwide efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19, families are spending an unprecedented amount of time at home. Routines have been turned upside-down and resources are spread thin, maximizing household stressors. As a result, many parents are struggling to manage increased conflict, tantrums, and disruptive behavior. Dylann Gold, PhD, and Jacqueline Smith, PsyM, offer strategies for parents to address behavior challenges during this difficult time.

Presenter: Dylann Gold, PhD and Jacqueline Smith, PsyM
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Family Resilience and COVID-19—April 17, 2020

COVID-19 is presenting families around the world with unique challenges. Many of us must make significant changes to the daily patterns, arrangements, and rhythms of our individual and family lives. The great task is to adapt in a way that meets all family members’ needs while at the same time recognizing that this is a work in progress. We discuss family resilience, which is the capacity for a family to weather and even thrive during adversity, and a family’s ability to balance stability and flexibility in changing circumstances. This webinar offers tasks, including constructive dialogue, house rules, and establishing structure, to enhance family resilience while giving suggestions on how to go about them.

Presenter: Andrew E. Roffman, CSW
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Divorce, Co-parenting, and COVID-19: Challenges and Opportunities—April 15, 2020

For separated or divorced families, co-parenting can be stressful even in good times. In this pandemic, families are discovering that previously stable arrangements are having a hard time withstanding the stresses created by fears of illness and mandates to shelter in place. And for those families where co-parenting and custody were already contentious, the pandemic has amplified those conflicts and creates new ones. In this webinar, we offer advice for divorced, separated, or getting divorced parents who are facing unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Presenter: Anthony Charuvastra, MD
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Identifying and Supporting Co-Occurring Diagnoses in Autism Spectrum Disorder—April 2, 2020

Many individuals with autism spectrum disorder present with co-occurring challenges, such as anxiety, inattention, or depression. At times, it can be challenging to distinguish these symptoms from the core features of autism spectrum disorder and to adapt intervention approaches. Dr. Michelle Lee discusses identifying co-occurring symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder as well as ways parents and clinicians can support individuals with autism spectrum disorder presenting with co-occurring diagnoses.

Presenter: Michelle Lee, PhD
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Rocking Your Role as Non-Primary Caregiver—March 31, 2020

More than ever, both parents are working out of the home and it can be difficult to find a balance between roles at home, self-care, and work responsibilities. With a little more communication, some troubleshooting, and intentional prioritizing, parents can do a lot to support each other in their roles whether it is the primary breadwinner, the primary caregiver or both. Dr. Lauren Knickerbocker reviews the phenomenon of mental load and give practical steps and tips to help families find a way to get it all done with more support and less stress.

Presenter: Lauren Knickerbocker, PhD
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Honey, Where are the Brakes? How to Reduce Your Child’s 0–100 Anger Acceleration—March 17, 2020

While children can be naturally predisposed to more or less intense emotional reactivity, the “0-to-100” descriptor used by many parents about their child’s anger may often represent a low emotional self-awareness rather than a lack of impulse control. This propensity can often extend to other family members, resulting in greater conflict and more frequent destructive arguments. This webinar, led by Dr. Samuel Fasulo, focuses on one specific, family-based skill designed to help each family member improve his or her own emotion-management capacity, while also respecting the ability of other family members to do the same.

Presenter: Samuel Fasulo, PhD
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Everyone Is Anxious! Talking with Children About Novel Coronavirus—March 11, 2020

With the spread of 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and other illnesses on people's minds, parents and teachers are looking to find ways to calm anxiety and teach children preventative measures. We provide guidance on topics that include the following:

• What to do if your child who is diagnosed with anxiety or obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is already washing “too much.”
• How to manage a child who has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and is impulsive, can’t stop touching, or does not easily follow directions.
• What to do when preventative measures cause more hurt than help for children with ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, or OCD.

In this webinar, Dr. Lori K. Evans and Dr. Kathleen Camacho focus on how to help children cope with COVID-19 and provide ideas by diagnosis and developmental level.

Presenter: Lori K. Evans, PhD, and Kathleen Camacho, PsyD
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How to Talk to Your Kids About Gender and Sexuality—March 3, 2020

Gender and sexuality are far from "One Size Fits All.” While exploring gender identity and sexual orientation is a normal part of children’s development, there is no user’s manual for talking to your child about these issues. In this workshop, Dr. Samantha Busa discusses development of gender and sexuality in childhood and adolescence and offers ways to talk to your children about this critical area of their development.

Presenter: Samantha Busa, PsyD
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Supporting Siblings of Children with Mental Health Needs—February 18, 2020

While research tells us there are many positive outcomes associated with growing up with a sibling with neurodevelopmental or mental health needs, there are often questions and challenges that arise as well. In this webinar, child psychologist Dr. Michelle Lee discusses common experiences of siblings, approaches to communicating with other children in the family about a diagnosis, and strategies for supporting siblings over development. She also shares resources for family members.

Presenter: Michelle Lee, PhD and Lorien Baker, PhD
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Effective Advocacy: Tips for Securing Appropriate Academic Supports for your Child—January 7, 2020

This webinar helps parents understand the steps for obtaining academic supports and accommodations, including individualized education programs (IEPs) and Section 504 plans, for students in need in kindergarten through 12th grade. The role of psychoeducational and neuropsychological evaluations in this process is explored. We also review parents’ and students’ rights and provide tips for effective collaboration with school personnel. We focus primarily on students with specialized learning needs, such as learning disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Presenters: Meghan Jorgenson, PhD and Sarah Powell, PhD
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Creating Sensory Environments—December 10, 2019

Every individual who has autism spectrum disorder experiences the world differently from a sensory point of view. This webinar provides a brief background on the neurobiological evidence for sensory differences in autism spectrum disorder and provides practical guidance on creating sensory-friendly environments. Several sensory sensitivities are covered generally and specific examples are provided to illustrate individual preferences and needs.

Presenter: Katherine Sullivan, PhD
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The Organized Child: How to Teach Your Child Skills for School and Home Success—December 10, 2019

Learn strategies to help your child get and stay organized. This 60-minute webinar is led by psychologist Richard Gallagher, PhD, the first author of The Organized Child. Dr. Gallagher discusses methods proven to be effective in helping children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder improve their school performance and their school-related behaviors at home. Learning these methods can help reduce family conflict and help your child develop a more positive attitude toward school.

Presenter: Richard Gallagher, PhD
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Time-Outs, Tantrums, and Talking Back: Managing Disruptive Behavior in Young Children—November 26, 2019

What is the right thing to do when a young child argues, whines, and refuses to listen? Parents, caregivers, and teachers seeking solutions for disruptive behavior are often inundated with conflicting information. In this webinar, Dr. Dylann Gold sets the record straight with some practical strategies for keeping the peace in your home or classroom.

Presenter: Dylann Gold, PhD
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Study Habits for the Successful Student—November 12, 2019

As students enter middle school, academic demands increase. Many students, especially those with executive function weaknesses, struggle to complete long-term assignments and prepare adequately for tests and quizzes. In this webinar, Dr. Elana Spira explains why these tasks can be so daunting to some students and outlines a plan for supporting your child in planning ahead, studying effectively, and completing tasks efficiently and confidently.

Presenter: Elana Spira, PhD
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Identifying Depression and Suicide Risk in Teens—October 29, 2019

As children enter their teenage years, parents may have more difficulty telling the difference between normal mood changes, including bouts of sadness and irritability, and signs of more serious problems like depression and risk of suicide. Depression can interfere with many aspects of a teen’s life, including relationships with family and friends, school success, and enjoyment of normal activities. Thoughts of suicide may also accompany depression or may arise for other reasons. In this webinar, Dr. Eric Lewandowski differentiates between normal aspects of teenage life and more significant mood problems. He shares ideas for talking with teens about these difficult subjects and for supporting them through hard times. Dr. Lewandowski also provides guidance on signs to watch for, when additional support may be needed, and how to find effective treatment.

Presenter: Eric Lewandowski, PhD
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How to Navigate Care for Tics and Tourette Disorder: Evidence-based Approaches for Individuals and Families—October 29, 2019

This webinar aims to highlight research-supported evaluation and treatment for tic disorders available at the Child Study Center’s Tic, Tourette Disorder, and Trichotillomania Program, a Tourette Association of America Center of Excellence, and showcases services available in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, neurology and pediatric neurology, and neurosurgery. We discuss behavioral and psychosocial interventions for tic disorders, including comprehensive behavioral intervention for tic disorders. When behavioral interventions are insufficient to address moderate to severely problematic tics, medication and other agents, including tetrabenazine and botulinum toxin injections, may be useful. Finally, we review interventions for treatment-refractory tics, including deep brain stimulation for young adults and present evidence from a review of clinical practice guidelines describing implications for assessment and practice.

Presenters: Glenn Hirsch, MD, and Rebecca R. Berry, PhD
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“Is it Going to Be Okay?” How to Respond to Your Anxious Child—October 15, 2019

Anxious children often seek reassurance from family members, including parents and siblings, that their fears won’t come true. Well-intentioned responses may inadvertently reinforce these anxieties over time and lead to an increase in anxiety symptoms. This webinar provides information about the role of family accommodation in anxiety disorders, including subtle ways that parents and other family members may change their behaviors in response to their child’s anxiety. The webinar equips parents with concrete skills and strategies to respond to their children’s anxiety in a way that will support their progress and help fight the anxiety as a team.

Presenters: Randi Pochtar, PhD, and Carolyn Spiro-Levitt, PhD
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Pulling the Plug on Fear After Mass Violence and Other News Tragedies—October 1, 2019

In light of the recent mass shootings and current political climate, having an open and validating dialogue about violence with youth is critical for healthy coping. Given the role the media plays in today’s culture makes children and adolescents especially vulnerable to developing fears and anxieties. But what can parents and teachers say or do? In this webinar, Dr. Giselle Colorado discusses how parents and teachers may have developmentally appropriate discussions about mass violence tailored to the specific age group and use validating strategies to foster open communication and a safe space to process what they see and hear.

Presenter: Giselle Colorado, PsyD
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Addressing School Refusal Behavior in Children and Adolescents—September 17, 2019

School refusal is a common problem in children and adolescents, and a particular concern due to its potential short- and long-term impact on academic, social, emotional, and family functioning. Furthermore, the longer a child misses school, the more likely these problems are to develop. In this webinar, Dr. Randi Pochtar, will discuss the most common reasons for school refusal behavior, things that parents can do to help their child or adolescent return to school, and the most effective treatments for targeting this issue.

Presenters: Randi Pochtar, PhD
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Celebrating Diversity in LGBTQ Youth—June 25, 2019

The most recent studies suggest that as many as 1 in 30 children identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ). These youth face unique challenges, including increased rates of rejection from their families, stigma and discrimination at school and in employment, and dealing with a healthcare system that can be ignorant of their needs. These challenges add up and can lead to an increased risk of mental health concerns. And yet, despite these challenges and adversities, LGBTQ youth often demonstrate tremendous vitality, resilience, and pride in their experience. In this webinar with Dr. Samantha Busa and social worker Jeremy Wernick, which is timed to coordinate with the 50th anniversary of the launch of the modern LGBTQ rights movement, we celebrate the strengths of LGBTQ youth and learn how we can build a healthier community by celebrating and honoring their diverse experiences.

Presenters: Samantha Busa, PsyD, and Jeremy A. Wernick, LMSW
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Going to College with a Psychiatric Illness—June 11, 2019

The transition to college is a significant milestone for teenagers, their parents, and their families. This transition is even more complicated for teenagers with psychiatric disorders, especially those who are taking psychotropic medication. In this webinar, child psychiatrist Dr. Lisa A. Kotler discusses what parents and their teenage children should look for when selecting a college, including questions to ask about necessary services and accommodations. She also shares ways for parents to make this transition as smooth as possible and maximize their children’s success as they start college.

Presenter: Lisa A. Kotler, MD
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Welcome to Parenthood—May 28, 2019

As first-time parents your heart is full, but at the same time you have so many questions. First-time parents often receive conflicting and confusing information from many well-intended sources. In this webinar, Dr. Lauren Knickerbocker answers your questions about the lifestyle transitions new parents may face, explains the developmental and emotional stages of infants, and explores ways to strengthen the parent–infant bond.

Presenter: Lauren Knickerbocker, PhD
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De-Prescribing Children on Multiple Psychiatric Medications—May 14, 2019

An increasing number of children and adolescents are prescribed multiple medications for long periods to treat various mental health disorders. In this webinar featuring Dr. Martin A. Irwin, he discusses strategies to reevaluate a child’s need for medication, and focuses on de-prescribing, reducing the dose of medication safely and slowly, and possibly discontinuing some or all of the medications.

Presenter: Martin A. Irwin, MD
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Cannabidiol and Alternative Treatments for Autism—April 30, 2019

Because there is no cure and few options for evidence-based treatment of autism spectrum disorder , many people with autism spectrum disorder, their families, and the professional community are eager to find new effective interventions. Although research on novel approaches continues, it’s crucial that we recognize the limits of the research base and equip caregivers with the skills needed to evaluate their treatment choices. In this webinar, Dr. Francisco X. Castellanos and Dr. Paige E. Cervantes briefly review the wide variety of alternative treatments currently being promoted for autism spectrum disorder and suggest strategies to help parents make informed decisions about their child’s care. Additionally, they discuss the increasing interest in cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in the cannabis plant that does not produce intoxicating effects but may be therapeutically beneficial for a number of conditions, including autism spectrum disorder.

Presenters: Francisco X. Castellanos, MD, and Paige E. Cervantes, PhD
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Ten Ways to Improve Social and Communication Skills in Children—April 2, 2019

Children who experience communication difficulties in social situations, such as those with autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, can benefit from some coaching to improve their social skills. Dr. Lauren J. Donnelly and social worker Sarah Kern review strategies to help children learn how to choose appropriate friends, initiate conversations, and exhibit good sportsmanship and other relationship-building skills.

Presenters: Lauren J. Donnelly, PhD, and Sarah Kern
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The Shy and Socially Anxious Teen—March 19, 2019

Many teenagers and young adults require extra help to overcome shyness and anxiety in social situations. Everyday tasks from making friends, raising a hand in class, or going to new places may seem impossible for some. Dr. Samantha Busa and Dr. Anna J. Swan, experts in anxiety and mood disorders in youth, provide teens and their families with practical tips to understand their anxiety and develop and refine skills to manage social shyness and discomfort.

Presenters: Samantha Busa, PsyD, and Anna J. Swan, PhD
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Traumatic Stress and the Parent–Child Relationship: Focus on Birth to 5—March 5, 2019

Infants’ and young children’s experiences are shaped by their attachment relationships with their parents. Positive and secure attachments can buffer the impact of traumatic life events on the child. At times, the type of trauma experienced can affect both child and parent and change the parent–child relationship. In this webinar, Dr. Daniel S. Schechter and Dr. Erica Willheim focus on what we have learned from recent research and what we can do in the face of traumatic events to reduce stress and support the psychological health of the child and strengthen the parent–child relationship.

Presenters: Daniel S. Schechter, MD, and Erica Willheim, PhD
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Voices, Mood Swings, and More: Understanding Complex Psychiatric Symptoms in Children—February 19, 2019

When children hear voices or have mood swings, we often assume the worst: that these symptoms may indicate serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. This isn’t always the case. Dr. Bem L. Atim and Dr. Ruth S. Gerson explore complex psychiatric symptoms in children as manifestations of other illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. They also discuss how and when to get the appropriate care.

Presenters: Bem L. Atim, MD, and Ruth S. Gerson, MD
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Can a Child Make Medical Decisions?—February 5, 2019

As parents, we teach and encourage children to make their own decisions because it helps them become more independent, responsible, and confident. But when and how should children decide whether or not to take a certain medication or have an elective surgery? In this webinar with Dr. Lesha D. Shah and Dr. Kyle A. McGregor, experts in biomedical ethics, we explore the doctor–young patient encounter, the definitions of and controversies concerning informed consent and assent, and how to prepare children in these potentially life-threatening, decision-making situations.

Presenters: Lesha D. Shah, MD, and Kyle A. McGregor, PhD
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Virtual Parent Mentoring for Children with Mental Health Concerns—January 29, 2019

Parenting a young child can be difficult, especially if your child is diagnosed with a mental health condition. Even if your child is receiving mental healthcare, parenting can seem overwhelming. In this webinar, child psychologists Dr. Michael A. Feder and Dr. Douglas Brodman, experts on anxiety disorders and parent–child relationships, discuss how a brief, virtual parenting consultation program can help parents meet their children’s needs and help them develop into healthy adults.

Presenters: Michael A. Feder, PhD, and Douglas Brodman, PhD
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Fake Instagrams for a Real Conversation: The Social Media Life of Teenagers—January 22, 2019

Almost three quarters of teens who use social media use Instagram to connect with friends and share photos and videos from everyday life. In recent years, “finstas” or fake, subsidiary Instagram accounts have grown in popularity among American teenagers. These accounts are created to depict picture-perfect lives, which can have a potentially negative impact on adolescents’ mental health. There is another darker side to these secret accounts that involves gossip, bullying, exhibitionism, risk-taking, and other attention-seeking behaviors. Led by Dr. Kyle A. McGregor, this webinar delves into the hidden world of social media to help parents better understand the ways their kids connect online and the constantly evolving use and role of social media in our lives.

Presenter: Kyle A. McGregor, PhD
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Reporting to Class: Building Strong Parent–Teacher Relationships—January 8, 2019

Our children spend as much time in school as they do at home, so it’s important for parents to talk to teachers about what happens in the classroom. When there is a strong relationship between parents and teachers, children benefit in terms of academic and social–emotional functioning. In this webinar, Dr. Elana G. Spira discusses how parents can foster open, constructive communication with teachers and school personnel. She also highlights tools and strategies that can get parents and teachers on the same page and maximize children’s potential in school and at home.

Presenter: Elana G. Spira, PhD
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Relational Mindfulness: The Whats and Hows of Improving Your Connection with Your Child—December 11, 2018

Many parents find it overwhelming to balance setting limits with their child and building a meaningful relationship. Now more than ever, social media, responsibilities at school and work, and day-to-day stress distract parents from being aware of and open to opportunities to build connections with their children. This webinar is designed to help you develop the skills that can help you identify barriers to improving your connection with your child and recognize opportunities for more open communication in the present moment. Social worker Jeremy Wernick provides practical strategies for applying relational mindfulness to improve your communication with and understanding of your child.

Presenter: Jeremy Wernick, LMSW
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Broccoli? Yuck! Help for Caregivers of Picky Eaters—November 27, 2018

It can be difficult to care for children who are picky eaters. Some children don’t like green vegetables, and others eat nothing but three or four “safe foods.” Parenting and nutritional recommendations are hard to verify, so parents often find themselves wondering: is this advice grounded in science, or is it just a fad, opinion, or sales pitch? Join Dr. Helen L. Egger and Dr. Timothy L. Verduin for a discussion on restricted eating in young children, and hear more about the Child Study Center’s digital health app that helps us learn from and support parents and their picky eaters.

Presenters: Helen L. Egger, MD, and Timothy L. Verduin, PhD
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Ten Commandments of Parenting—November 13, 2018

A quick browse through the parenting section of any bookstore will likely turn up a dizzying array of contradictory recommendations and advice. And then there are the suggestions provided free-of-charge from in-laws, siblings, friends, or perfect strangers on how best to raise your kids. How do you make sense of it all? Dr. Ethan R. Ehrenberg presents 10 clear and concise universal parenting tips backed by decades of child psychology research and clinical experience. They serve as a guide for life’s most challenging and rewarding occupation.

Presenter: Ethan R. Ehrenberg, PhD
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The Difference Between Being Distracted and Having ADHD—October 30, 2018

It’s normal for children to have a short attention span from time to time, but if your child is frequently acting impulsively or struggling to stay focused, you might be questioning whether he or she has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In this webinar, Dr. Dylann Gold, an expert in ADHD and behavior disorders, separates fact from fiction and science from opinion as she discusses the ins and outs of the diagnosis. She provides an overview of the types of treatments that help children achieve success in home, school, social relationships, and beyond.

Presenter: Dylann Gold, PhD
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Getting the Most Out of Your Visit with a Child Psychiatrist—October 16, 2018

When you’re concerned about your child’s psychological or emotional wellbeing, a consultation with a psychiatrist—a medical doctor who can prescribe medication when necessary, in addition to providing other therapies—can be helpful. In this webinar, Dr. Susan J. Friedland discusses what you and your child can expect on your first visit with a child psychiatrist and how to get the most out of your evaluation or consultation. She helps you set goals beforehand that allow you and your child’s doctor to gain the clearest understanding of your child’s mental health concerns and determine which medication treatment makes the most sense, if any.

Presenter: Susan J. Friedland, MD
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Getting to Dialogue: How to Turn Conflict into Closeness in Relationships—October 2, 2018

Conflict is an unavoidable part of all relationships, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be a problem. In fact, when individuals engage in constructive dialogue rather than arguing, conflict can be a significant pathway to building an emotionally connected, resilient relationship. This webinar, led by social worker Andrew E. Roffman, focuses on partner–partner conflict but is applicable to other relationships as well, including parent–teen relationships. He offers general principles and specific strategies for transforming conflict into dialogue.

Presenter: Andrew E. Roffman
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Recognizing Depression and Suicidal Thoughts in Children and Teens—September 18, 2018

Most parents and adults can recognize when a child is feeling sad or experiencing normal blues, but it can be difficult to know when it’s something more serious. Depression or feelings of hopelessness can interfere with social activities, interests, school, and family life. They can also increase risk of suicidal thoughts or suicidal ideation. In this webinar, Dr. Ruth Gerson and Dr. Eric Lewandowski discuss how families can identify and differentiate stress, depression, and suicidal thoughts and how parents can discuss these important topics with their children. Additional topics include how to help children and teens navigate stressful times using resilience; knowing when to reach out for help; and what to look for when seeking effective treatment.

Presenters: Ruth S. Gerson, MD and Eric Lewandowski, PhD
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Organizational Skills, Executive Functions, and Academics: The Brain Science of Skill Building—September 4, 2018

Children who struggle with executive functioning can be disorganized. They forget assignments, lose papers, and run late. In this webinar, Dr. Francisco Castellanos and Dr. Richard Gallagher describe their currently-recruiting research study investigating methods for building organizational skills and using state-of-the-art brain imaging to understand how this learning occurs.

Presenters: Francisco X. Castellanos, MD and Richard Gallagher, PhD
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The Science of Positive Relationships—July 24, 2018

The quality of your relationships largely determines your well being in life. Led by Dr. Alan Schlechter, this webinar is guaranteed to make you and your child happier. You’ll learn to distinguish “good” from “bad” conflict when the kids are going at it, and also learn to listen to the little ones and understand what the older ones are really saying—when they’re not texting.

Presenter: Alan Schlechter, MD
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How to Thrive in College (and Beyond)—July 10, 2018

What is the number one factor that predicts academic success in your first year of college? It’s not how hard you study or how smart you are. Dr. Alan D. Schlechter and performance coach Daniel L. Lerner review the essential toolkit for thriving in college. They discuss how parents can best support their kids, help them overcome some challenges they’ll face, and encourage them to thrive.

Presenters: Alan D. Schlechter, MD, and Daniel L. Lerner
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Losing a Parent to Suicide—June 28, 2018

When children experience the sudden death of a parent, they may experience turbulent and intense emotions, like anger, guilt, and traumatic grief. In this webinar, Drs. Randi Pochtar, Daniel Schechter, and Stephanie Wagner—three child psychiatry experts in stress and trauma, parent-child relationships, and early childhood—will discuss how surviving caregivers and family members can help one another and children understand suicide, and support them through the grieving process.

Presenters: Randi D. Pochtar, PhD, Daniel S. Schechter, MD, and Stephanie M. Wagner, PhD
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Better Than Barbie: Raising Teens with Positive Body Image—June 5, 2018

Does your teenage daughter complain about the way she looks? Social media, magazines, and popular culture have had a major impact on the way adolescents and young adults feel about their bodies. By age 6, girls often start to express concerns about their weight or shape, and this is a concern that often remains with them throughout life. Additionally, body dissatisfaction is a risk factor in the development of future eating disorders. Dr. Dana Galler discusses strategies that parents can implement to boost confidence and a positive body image among teens.

Presenter: Dana Galler, PsyD
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Choosing the Right Summer Program for Your Child—May 22, 2018

For most parents, sending kids to summer camp for the first time may stir up fond memories, anticipation of the fun awaiting their children, and perhaps a little separation anxiety. It’s more complicated for parents of children with special needs. Dr. Karen Fleiss provides techniques to help you assess camp counselors and staff members’ abilities to meet your child’s needs, evaluate the skills and activities offered, understand how the program communicates with you, and ensure your child has fun and makes friends.

Presenter: Karen Fleiss, PsyD
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Tics and Tourette Disorder: What Families Should Know to Get the Help They Need—May 15, 2018

If your child has been diagnosed with tics and Tourette disorder, you might be wondering what this means for your child and family. In this webinar, child psychologist Rebecca Berry, PhD, and a patient’s family share their perspectives to help you better understand your child, investigate treatments and therapies, and get the support your child needs at home and school.

Presenter: Rebecca R. Berry, PhD
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The Acrobatic Parent: Juggling Family and Work on a Tightrope—May 8, 2018

Maintaining a work–life balance can be hard for many parents, who have to juggle between their children’s needs, work, and other life issues. Because of this, parents often experience anxiety, stress, and difficulties with coping. This webinar with Dr. Justin R. Misurell is designed to help you feel more relaxed, calm, and in control as a working parent. We also provide useful tools and practical strategies that can help you manage stress, prioritize your many responsibilities, and improve communication with your child.

Presenter: Justin R. Misurell, PhD
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Healing Trauma Through Parental Self-Care—April 24, 2018

Caring for children who have experienced trauma can take a toll on parents and caregivers, and affect our mental or physical health, as well as our ability to parent effectively. This webinar helps normalize such reactions, known as “compassion fatigue”—the consistent outpouring of care without adequate replenishment of personal attention—by discussing factors that put us at risk and ways to support resiliency and improve self-awareness.

Presenter: Mary Dino, LCSW-R
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Studies Show… What, Exactly?—April 10, 2018

The news is awash with conflicting stories about how to raise your child. It seems like what’s recommended one day is totally wrong the next. How can you find out what the research really says? Social worker Christina Di Bartolo discusses how to uncover the science under the reporting and get to the bottom of the story. Newsflash: it’s not usually as black-and-white as it’s made out to be.

Presenter: Christina Di Bartolo, LMSW
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Let’s Talk About Marijuana—March 27, 2018

As marijuana gains greater acceptance, research shows that fewer and fewer teenagers see using it as risky—partly because of the rise of its legal medical use. How do parents begin the conversation with their kids about drugs? Dr. Komal Nayak discusses the role of marijuana in psychology, medicine, and culture, and offers some tips on how to talk to young people about it.

Presenter: Komal Nayak, MD
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My Child Doesn’t Need More Stimulation. So Why Treat His ADHD with Stimulants?—February 28, 2018

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a crippling disorder with childhood onset. There are well-established treatments, including pharmacologic interventions that dramatically reduce the symptoms of ADHD. Dr. Rahil Jummani, MD discusses the disorder, how it is diagnosed, and effective therapies. The webinar also focuses on medication management of ADHD and developing an understanding of how stimulants and other medications for the disorder work.

Presenter: Rahil Jummani, MD
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Speaking about the Unspeakable: A Conversation with Child and Adolescent Psychologists about the Recent School Shooting—February 26, 2018

In light of the most recent school tragedy, there are currently a number of challenging and poignant discussions occurring within and between families, schools, and the greater community related to gun control, mental health, prevention of school violence, and school safety. In this webinar, Dr. Lori Evans and Dr. Randi Pochtar discuss strategies for talking to children and adolescents about school shootings; understanding approaches to identifying and supporting youth at risk in school, at home, and in the community; and reviewing the importance of a collaborative approach to school violence prevention.

Presenters: Lori Evans, PhD and Randi Pochtar, PhD
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Four Effective Parenting Interventions to Support a Child with Eating Disordered Behavior—February 13, 2018

Struggling with food is far from uncommon in childhood and adolescence. Because food is such an important part of our daily lives, eating disorders are highly stressful for both the child experiencing them and their families. Fortunately, there are many effective behavioral interventions—including an approach called Off the CUFF (Clear, Undisturbed, Firm, and Funny)—to address them and support parents. Dr. Michelle Miller explores the development of eating disorders, discusses parental concerns, and provides tips on how to improve communication with children with eating disordered behavior.

Presenter: Michelle Miller, PsyD
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Telepsychiatry: Talking to Your Clinician in the Digital Age—January 30, 2018

For many children and teens with mental health needs, factors such as distance, location, or time of day can affect access to psychiatric care, owing to a nationwide shortage of child and adolescent mental health practitioners. Telepsychiatry—which uses live interactive videoconferencing between doctor and patient—is an innovative approach to help address this challenge. In this webinar, Dr. Shabana Khan discusses various applications of telepsychiatry, and several activities our department is undertaking to accelerate telepsychiatry care and education for youth.

Presenter: Shabana Khan, MD
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Playdate Boot Camp for Anxious Kids and Their Parents—January 16, 2018

Many young children require extra support to overcome shyness and anxiety in social situations. Everyday tasks from making friends, raising a hand in class, or going to new places may seem impossible for some kids. In this webinar, Dr. Rachelle Theise discusses practical strategies that can help decrease stress and improve communication between anxious children and their peers.

Presenter: Rachelle Theise, PsyD
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Talking to Kids About Sexual Harassment—December 8, 2017

There has been a marked increase in the report of sexual harassment in the media recently, and this might be sparking some challenging conversations at home. In this webinar, Drs. Christina Laitner and Randi Pochtar discuss strategies for managing media content being viewed in the home, talking to children and adolescents about sexual harassment and what they are seeing on the news, and ways to educate children of all ages and genders about safety and respect in interpersonal relationships.

Presenters: Christina Laitner, PhD and Randi Pochtar, PhD
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Rewarding Kids for Good Behavior: A Bad Idea?—December 5, 2017

As parents, we’ve all been there: maybe it’s potty training or trying to get your child ready in time for school. Perhaps you’ve offered a little treat—a sticker, a cookie, or a trinket—for motivation. But what’s an appropriate reward? In this webinar, Dr. Stephanie Wagner provides information about rewards and how to use them strategically and systematically to teach skills and modify behaviors.

Presenter: Stephanie Wagner, PhD
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Reclaiming the Family Dinner: How to Get Kids to the Table and Enjoy It Too—November 21, 2017

Conventional wisdom and research both tell us that sitting together for family meals is an important part of raising healthy, happy kids. So why is it so hard to do? Between busy schedules, picky eaters, and behavior at the table, family meals can be stressful. In this webinar, Dr. Lauren Knickerbocker highlights common challenges parents face in bringing the family to the dinner table and tips for how to meet those challenges with success and ultimately, enjoyment.

Presenter: Lauren Knickerbocker, PhD
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Born to Be Wild: Why Teens Take Risks, and How We Can Keep Them Safe—November 7, 2017

Texting while driving. Binge drinking. Unprotected sex. There are plenty of reasons for parents to worry about getting a late-night call about their teen. But most of the advice parents and educators hear about adolescents is outdated and unscientific—and simply doesn’t work. This webinar, led by Dr. Jess P. Shatkin, discusses why teens take risks and what drives their decision-making, and provide advice about what parents, teachers, and society can do differently to keep our kids safe.

Presenter: Jess P. Shatkin, MD, MPH
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Logging Off: Ways to Stop Cyberbullying—October 24, 2017

More than 80 percent of teens use a cell phone regularly, making it the most common medium for cyberbullying. Research has shown that kids who are bullied are more at risk for developing depression and anxiety. Dr. Lori Evans and Dr. Whitney Waugh discuss the best strategies for monitoring media and helping you talk with your child about cyberbullying, whether they are a victim, bully, or bystander.

Presenters: Lori Evans, PhD, and Whitney Waugh, PhD
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What to Do When Your Child’s Brain Gets Stuck: Strategies for Reducing Family Accommodation of OCD—October 10, 2017

Children and adolescents with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) perform repetitive actions or rituals to relieve their anxiety, finding it difficult to break away from the routine. Dr. Rebecca Berry discusses how OCD affects a family and provides practical tools to cope with symptoms, practice compassionate limit setting, and help children work toward healthy functioning and satisfying relationships.

Presenter: Rebecca Berry, PhD
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Keep Calm and Get Your Homework Done—September 26, 2017

For many children and parents, staying on top of homework and long-term projects is a never-ending battle. Difficulties with time management and planning are often a major source of conflict at home and lead to missed assignments and underachievement in school. In this webinar, Dr. Elana Spira provides tips on how parents can optimize homework routines and engage children in planning and managing their time for school assignments and projects.

Presenter: Elana Spira, PhD
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Eight Ways to Beat the Back-to-School Blues—September 12, 2017

The transition from summer vacation to the school year can be difficult for many families. However, with proper supports in place, children can more easily adjust to the changes in academic, social, and organizational demands. In this webinar, Dr. Dylann Gold discusses eight ways to set the stage for a successful school year.

Presenter: Dylann Gold, PhD
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Winding Down From Summer: Tips for Transitioning Back to School—August 29, 2017

Summer is coming to an end, and it’s time to get back to school. While starting a new school year is exciting, the transition back can also bring some challenges. In this webinar, Meghan Jorgenson, PsyD, will provide tips for overcoming first day jitters, preparing for learning, and falling back into school year routines in order to help your child start the year strong.

Presenter: Meghan Jorgenson, PsyD
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Talking to Children About Racism—August 22, 2017

In light of the recent tragic events in Charlottesville, VA, having a dialogue about race and racism with children and teens is critical to help them process what they see and hear. But how do you start the conversation? In this webinar, Yamalis Diaz, PhD, discusses why talking to them early on can affect how they think about others and their relationships with them. She will also provide adults some tips on having age-appropriate discussions about discrimination, and how parents and teachers can serve as positive role models in promoting tolerance.
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“Can I Hold Your Hand?” Navigating the Dating World When You’re a Teen with Autism—August 15, 2017

Dating can be hard enough as it is, but when you’re a teenager or young adult living on the autism spectrum, it can be even harder. Social cues can be hard to read and sometimes it’s difficult to get a message across, so you can only imagine how tricky it is when flirting or in a romantic relationship. Atypical, an upcoming comedy television series from Netflix, explores this through an 18-year-old boy with autism spectrum disorder, and his goal to start dating, despite his mother’s hesitation. In this webinar, Katherine Sullivan, PhD, offers information related to the social skills of dating, including how to let someone know you like them, dating safety skills, and how parents can support their teens and young adults.

Presenter: Katherine Sullivan, PhD
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Spin Me, Squeeze Me, Twist Me: Do Fidget Spinners Help Kids Focus or Distract Them?—August 1, 2017

Meant to help children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, anxiety, or other conditions relieve tension and focus better, fidget spinners have become a popular toy among children and adults. But some critics—including teachers—find it distracting or ineffective. Lori Evans, PhD, and Samantha Busa, PsyD, will discuss the controversy over fidget spinners, and provide parents and caregivers tips to determine if their children may benefit from these as tools and, if so, how to work with schools to allow them in the classroom.

Presenter: Lori Evans, PhD and Samantha Busa, PsyD
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Promoting Positive Body Image and Acceptance Among Teens—July 20, 2017

The recent release of the Netflix film “To the Bone,” a story about one young woman’s experience with anorexia, has ignited an intense discussion on eating disorders and the power of media portrayals. Body dissatisfaction and eating disorders affect teens of all races, ethnicities, religions, genders, sizes, and socioeconomic groups. In this webinar, Melissa Nishawala, MD, clinical director of the Eating Disorders Service at the Child Study Center, helps teens to cultivate healthy coping skills, to challenge negative media stereotypes, and to be supportive of friends in need.

Presenter: Melissa Nishawala, MD
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I Think, Therefore I Can’t: Helping Your Child Build Resiliency and Grit—June 27, 2017

From tests to tryouts, children are faced with obstacles nearly every day. However, children may view these obstacles as insurmountable leading to an increase in negative self-talk and difficult emotional states causing our children to lose interest in learning skills and subjects. In this webinar, Paul Sullivan, MS, examines the concepts of resiliency and grit from positive psychology, and discuss ways in which parents can help transform their child’s negative thinking and enhance positive emotions to help children foster a resilient mindset.

Presenter: Paul Sullivan, MS
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Medication Demystified: The Ins and Outs When Considering Medication for Your Child—June 13, 2017

Anxiety, irritability, and aggression can remain problems even after receiving the best behavioral treatment for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, or other disorders. In this webinar, Rahil Jummani, MD, offers parents plain language about which medicines work well, tips to minimize side effects, and recommendations for collaborating with their child’s doctor to ensure that medicines are used safely and effectively.

Presenter: Rahil R. Jummani, MD
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More Than a Pesky Habit: Helping Children with Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors—May 16, 2017

Navigating body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRB) and school can be quite challenging for both parents and youth. In this webinar, Rebecca Rialon Berry, PhD, helps parents understand how to best advocate for their child at school, including various ways teachers can help with a child’s recovery plan and pursuing special accommodations for BFRBs.

Presenter: Rebecca Rialon Berry, PhD
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Thirteen Ways to Prevent Suicide in the Digital Age—May 3, 2017

The recent release of the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why has been a topic in schools, the media, and at the dinner table due to the themes of suicide and sexual assault. Whether or not you have watched the series, children and teens are being exposed through social media outlets. Lori Evans, PhD, and Samantha Busa, PsyD, will discuss how to talk to your children and teens about the series, present facts regarding suicide rates and the contagion effect, and make recommendations for parents, educators, and professionals.

Presenter: Lori Evans, PhD, and Samantha Busa, PsyD
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Parental Self-Care: Taking Time to Recharge—May 2, 2017

Parenting is a time of great joy and excitement. It can also be a time of high stress to meet the demands of day-to-day life. Many parents find it difficult to make time for themselves, especially when their children are struggling. In this webinar, Samantha Busa, PsyD, discusses why parents should take care of themselves and tips to implement self-care into their hectic lives.

Presenter: Samantha Busa, PsyD
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Building Organizational Skills and Executive Functions in Children with ADHD—April 4, 2017

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often struggle with organizing schoolwork, managing time, and planning projects. In this webinar, Richard Gallagher, PhD, discusses techniques and best practices from our highly successful book, Organizational Skills Training for Children with ADHD.

Presenter: Richard Gallagher, PhD
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What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation?—March 21, 2017

There are many different types of evaluations and assessments for children. Neuropsychological evaluations assess a child’s cognitive, behavioral, and social or emotional strengths and weaknesses. It provides recommendations aimed at helping the child be better able to navigate their home, school, and community life. This webinar will provide an introduction to parents on what a neuropsychological evaluation is and how it can be helpful for your child.

Presenter: Helen Tam, PhD
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Understanding Adolescent Self-Injury—March 7, 2017

It can be difficult to understand why adolescents engage in self-injury. In this webinar, Randi Pochtar, PhD, will provide information about the what, who, when, and why of self-injury. She will also review potential signs of self-injury in adolescents, strategies for talking to adolescents about self-injury, and what types of treatment may be appropriate.

Presenter: Randi Pochtar, PhD
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The OCD, ADHD, and Tic Disorder Triad: Why Are These Conditions Connected and What it Means for Treatment—February 21, 2017

Many individuals, including children and teens, experience a combination of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms in addition to tics. Furthermore, their family members may have one or more of the related conditions. Michelle Miller, PsyD, explores the biological underpinnings that connect these OCD, ADHD, and tics. She also discusses how they can impact behavioral and psychiatric treatment, and presents recent research in this area.

Presenter: Michelle Miller, PsyD
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From Wallflower to Social Butterfly: Skills for the Shy Preschooler—February 7, 2017

Many young children require extra support to overcome shyness and anxiety in social situations. In this webinar, Dylann Gold, PhD, discusses techniques to help preschoolers cultivate meaningful friendships, participate actively in the classroom, and develop confidence across a variety of settings.

Presenter: Dylann Gold, PhD
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There’s a Monster in My Closet! Dealing with Worries and Fears of Early Childhood—January 24, 2017

As children learn about the world during their early years, they develop a variety of concerns and worries. Some of these are typical, while others may reflect an overly active, worried mind that may be prone to anxiety disorders. Problems with separation, interacting with people outside of the family, and trying new activities can often develop. In this webinar, Lauren Knickerbocker, PhD, clarifies the differences and provides guidelines to parents of children 2 to 9 years old on how to help children deal with their worries and anxieties.

Presenter: Lauren Knickerbocker, PhD
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Facing Your Fears—January 10, 2017

Anxiety is part of day-to-day life for many children and teens diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. In this webinar, Sarah Kern, LCSW, discusses the overlap between and anxiety disorders as well as practical strategies to help children and teens with cope with anxiety and to begin facing their fears.

Presenter: Sarah Kern, LCSW
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Taming Tots’ Tantrums—December 13, 2016

Tantrums are relatively common among young children and may occur for a variety of reasons. As children get older, many learn more appropriate coping skills for managing their frustration, but some children may not easily learn these skills. The way parents respond to tantrums can have a significant impact on both managing tantrums in the moment and teaching more effective emotion regulation skills over time.

Yamalis Diaz, PhD, reviews strategies parents can use to tame their tot’s tantrums with both of these goals in mind.

Presenter: Yamalis Diaz, PhD
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Being Your Child’s Champion—November 15, 2016

Parents often find themselves advocating for their children—whether they’re seeking the right treatment or school placement, wanting a second opinion, or simply looking for support. Christina Di Bartolo, LMSW, offers helpful background information and concrete strategies to improve parents’ skills when being their child’s champion.

Presenter: Christina Di Bartolo, LMSW
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Donkeys and Elephants Oh My! Discussing Politics With Your Child—November 10, 2016

Whether your emotional reaction to Tuesday nights presidential election results was joy or anger, as a parent you may find yourself in the position to explain and answer questions about politics and the presidential election results to your child. In this webinar, Lori Evans, PhD, and Paul Sullivan, MS, will offer recommendations on how to navigate conversations about politics with your child, reduce anxieties about the election results, as well as discuss and normalize what is next.

Presenters: Lori Evans, PhD and Paul Sullivan, MS
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Parents’ Relationships and Breakups: Impact on Children—November 1, 2016

When parents separate or divorce, children are impacted in many ways. Some can be good and positive, while others will be difficult and trying. Children are likely to experience a range of feelings, such as sadness, anxiety, relief, or even happiness. In this webinar, Rachelle Theise, PsyD, breaks down a breakup from a child’s perspective and provides tips and techniques to help them navigate the changes to continue on a course of natural psychological, emotional, and social development.

Presenter: Rachelle S. Theise, PsyD
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The Truth About Timeouts: Effective Punishment for Young Children—October 18, 2016

There is seemingly unending child-rearing advice available to any parent who searches blogs, social media, online communities, or even books. Much of this information is contradictory, especially on the subject of discipline. Are timeouts effective? Does this technique help children learn better behaviors? Do most parents know how to give a timeout?

Stephanie Wagner, PhD, explores the debate over timeouts through a scientific lens and will provide practical tips for parents of young children.

Presenter: Stephanie M. Wagner, PhD
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The Importance of Social Skills: The What and How of Making and Keeping Friends—October 4, 2016

Friendship is protective—having just one or two friends can make all the difference in a child’s development. But for some of children, making and keeping friends isn’t easy. In this webinar, Katherine Sullivan, PhD, discusses the importance of having one or two close friends, including positive effects on self-esteem, mood, independence, and confidence. She also shares her knowledge about key social skills for building quality friendships and conflict resolution.

Presenter: Katherine A. Sullivan, PhD
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Tourette Syndrome in the Classroom: Collaboration and Accommodations for a Successful School Year—September 20, 2016

As the new school year begins, addressing tics and Tourette syndrome in the classroom is especially important. In this webinar, Samantha Busa, PsyD, discusses how parents of children with tics and Tourette syndrome can advocate for their children’s needs, navigate the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process, and partner with school staff to ensure long-term success. Parents will also learn what accommodations and interventions are helpful educationally and socially within the school.

Presenter: Samantha Busa, PsyD
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Fact and Fiction: Identifying and Successfully Treating ADHD—August 23, 2016

New and conflicting information about ADHD is reported seemingly every week and can overwhelm any family. In this webinar, Rahil Jummani, MD, helps parents learn how to distinguish fact from fiction, navigate the evaluation process, and select treatments that are based on the latest and best objective research with autism spectrum disorder children.

Presenter: Rahil R. Jummani, MD
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Safety Skills for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder—August 9, 2016

Many children with autism spectrum disorder struggle with safety awareness and can demonstrate unsafe behavior in the home, school, and community settings. Rebecca Doggett, PhD, provides strategies to address wandering, community safety, and emergency planning for families with autism spectrum disorder children.

Presenter: Rebecca Doggett, PhD
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Prenatal and Parenting Blues: What to Do if the Sadness Won’t Go Away—July 26, 2016

Are you pregnant or a new mom? Do you ever feel down or stressed out? In this webinar, Bonnie Kerker, PhD, explores the differences between common sadness that pregnant women and new moms may experience and feelings that may need professional attention. Dr. Kerker also talks about what you can do to prevent prenatal and postpartum depression, how to recognize the signs and symptoms, and what to do if the sadness doesn’t go away, including tips on how to access helpful resources.

Presenter: Bonnie Kerker, PhD
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Are You a Pushover Parent?—July 12, 2016

Has pleading and pushing the limits become a way of life with your school-age child? Do you give in more often than you’d like to your child’s demands? In this webinar, Timothy Verduin, PhD, discusses how to set and enforce reasonable limits, and recognize the difference between flexibility and negotiating a reasonable compromise with your child.

Presenter: Timothy L. Verduin, PhD
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Finding the Right Therapist—June 21, 2016

Over 43 million people in the U.S. have a mental disorder. Realizing that you or a loved one needs therapy is only the first step to receiving treatment. Whether it’s for your or a family member, finding the right therapist can be challenging. In this webinar, Michelle Miller, PsyD, discusses how to navigate the mental health care system and better determine how to find a therapist to meet your individual needs. She also covers therapist fees and the role of insurance, mental health provider credentials, the different types of therapy, resources to find therapists, and many other key areas involved in finding a therapist.

Presenter: Michelle Miller, PsyD
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How to Talk to Your Kids About Gender and Sexuality—June 7, 2016

As adults, we know that gender and sexuality are far from one size fits all. While exploring gender identity and sexual orientation are a normal part of kids’ development, there is no user’s manual for talking to your kids about these issues. In this webinar, Aron Janssen, MD, discusses development of gender and sexuality in childhood and adolescence and offer ways to talk to your kids about this critical area of their development.

Presenter: Aron Janssen, MD
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Smart Snacking for Busy Kids—May 24, 2016

Eating throughout the day can be tough when you and your child are running around with busy schedules. Learn why incorporating snacks is essential not only to curb hunger cues and cravings, but to keep your child fueled to perform his or her best and avoid the mental fog that could be slowing him or her down.

Presenter: Bridget Murphy, MS, RDN, CDN
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All in the Family: ADHD in Children and Parents—April 26, 2016

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) runs in families, which often means that at least one parent has ADHD symptoms. In this webinar, Mary Solanto, PhD, discusses how to find out if you have it, how ADHD affects parenting, and what treatments are available for adults and children.

Presenter: Mary Solanto, PhD
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Latest Developments in Autism Research—April 12, 2016

In this webinar, Adriana Di Martino, MD, the Leon Levy Assistant Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Research Director of the Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical and Research Program at NYU Langone, discusses the cutting edge of research for children with autism spectrum disorder and their families. She also shares innovative brain imaging research initiatives ongoing at the Child Study Center that are revealing the functional organization of the brain in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Presenter: Adriana Di Martino, MD
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Everyday Trauma—March 29, 2016

When your child is exposed to a potentially traumatic event at school or in the community, or when they hear about upsetting events in the media, it can be challenging know how to best support and talk with them. As a parent, you may also wonder what types of reactions are typical in the short term and over time.

In this webinar, Victoria Libby, PhD, provides you with strategies for speaking with your child, providing emotional support, and knowing when to consult with a mental health professional.

Presenter: Victoria Libby, PhD
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Validation: A Powerful Parenting Tool—March 15, 2016

Validation is a powerful parenting tool that can improve your relationship with your child, reduce conflict, and help your child build confidence in peer and adult interactions.

Although simple on the surface, validation can be challenging to implement. Randi Pochtar, PhD, will discuss the importance of validation in parenting, the ways that parents unintentionally invalidate their children, and how to practically and effectively incorporate validation into your everyday parenting practices.

Presenter: Randi Pochtar, PhD
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Enjoying Your New Baby—March 1, 2016

With every coo, newborns thrill and delight their parents. But as newborns become babies and eventually toddlers, parents may wonder how to support these transitions. In this webinar, Elizabeth Roberts, PsyD, offers tips for parents on how to tune in to their babies’ feelings, play with them at every stage, and foster a strong, healthy relationship with them.

Presenter: Elizabeth Roberts, PsyD
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After the Diagnosis: When and How to Talk About Your Child’s Condition—February 16, 2016

A child’s learning disability or mental health issue can be an enormous challenge for parents. It can be even more challenging to talk about it with family members, friends, teachers, and other people in your child’s life.

Amy DiBernardo, LMSW, JD, offers simple strategies on choosing the right words for a particular situation or audience, which can help achieve goals, reduce stigma, and alleviate additional stress.

Presenter: Amy DiBernardo, LMSW, JD
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Adolescent Love: The Romeo & Juliet Effect—February 2, 2016

Ah, love. L’amour. The very word stirs our imaginations and pulls at our heartstrings. This most fundamental of emotions has long been a source of creative inspiration, and a muse for literature, song, and art. The importance of love and intimacy in human life is clear, but what can the latest observations and scientific discoveries about the brain tell us about this supreme emotion?

In this webinar, Francesco Ferrari, MD examines adolescent brain development and its implications for love, romance, and identity formation in the teenage years.

Presenter: Francesco Ferrari, MD
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Striving for Perfect: Tips to Manage Perfectionism in Students—January 19, 2016

Yamalis Diaz, PhD, highlights some important differences between a “conscientious” work ethic and perfectionism among students. Although sometimes subtle to the outside observer, this difference is an important one. Perfectionism among students is sometimes indicative of anxiety and can ultimately lead to underperformance and underachievement. Instead, we want to help children develop a positive and conscientious work ethic that will allow them to successfully achieve academic goals and beyond.

Dr. Diaz also offers tips and strategies for parents to help their children build resilience and manage perfectionistic expectations.

Presenter: Yamalis Diaz, PhD
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Mindfulness for Adolescents—January 5, 2016

Today many teens experience stress. And with good reason—they are connecting 24/7, navigating relationships, and facing more competition than previous generations. All of which can impact their well-being and happiness. In this webinar, Mary Solanto, PhD, shares how mindfulness can help adolescents to better manage their stress, gain greater control on their behavior, sharpen their ability to focus, and increase kindness and compassion.

Presenter: Mary Solanto, PhD
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Pandora’s iPhone: Talking with Your Child About Internet Safety—December 15, 2015

The amount of digital media children consume is growing steadily. The impact is unclear, but this increasing level of involvement leaves less time for other developmentally appropriate activities. In this webinar, Douglas Brodman, PhD, examines the potential benefits and drawbacks of internet use by children, the characteristics of problematic use, and the need for parental involvement.

Presenter: Douglas Brodman, PhD
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Tourette and Other Tic Disorders: Misunderstood and More Common Than You Think—December 1, 2015

In this webinar, Michelle Miller, PsyD, reviews the symptoms of Tourette disorder and other tic disorders. Dr. Miller shares how such disorders affect daily life, how they vary across different settings, and the impact of certain environmental factors. In addition, she explores a variety of clinical, school, and home interventions for tics.

Presenter: Michelle Miller, PsyD
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Better Living Through Social Media? Helping Children Become Good Digital Citizens—November 10, 2015

While we often hear about the dangers of social media use by young people, the opportunities it presents for them to form meaningful social connections and to contribute to shaping their identity should not be overlooked. In this webinar, Carlene MacMillan, MD, discusses the role social media plays for children at each developmental stage. Dr. MacMillan offers strategies for you to help your children navigate the increasingly complex digital landscape and to engage in regular, open conversations with them about their online lives.

Presenter: Carlene MacMillan, MD
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Working with Your Child’s School: Advocating for Your Child and Partnering with Teachers—October 27, 2015

Partnerships between parents and school staff are critical to children’s long-term success. In this webinar, Yamalis Diaz, PhD, identifies strategies to develop effective classroom accommodations and behavioral plans for attention and behavioral concerns. Dr. Diaz also covers helpful behavioral interventions, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504, and Daily Report Cards.

Presenter: Yamalis Diaz, PhD
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Better Sleep for Children and Adolescents—October 13, 2015

Sleep plays a key role in daytime functioning. Unfortunately, many children experience sleep problems, which can result in insufficient sleep for both themselves and their parents. In this webinar, Dr. Argelinda Baroni and Stephanie Wagner, PhD, discuss how sleep problems develop and strategies you can take to help both you and your child sleep better. You can learn how to set up your child for success, how to develop healthy sleep habits, and how to track the results of these changes.

Presenters: Argelinda Baroni, MD, and Stephanie Wagner, PhD
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Recognizing Beauty: Helping your Child Cultivate a Healthy Body Image—September 29, 2015

Stereotypes of attractiveness are everywhere. The discrepancy between what’s seen in the media versus the mirror can feel overwhelming for tweens and teens whose bodies are transforming rapidly. During this webinar, Andrea Vazzana, PhD, examines the nature of body image, its impact on self-esteem, and its perilous role in the development and maintenance of eating disorders and other illnesses, and share cutting-edge strategies to help children better accept and appreciate their bodies.

Presenters: Andrea Vazzana, PhD
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The College Student with ADHD: Getting Off to a Running Start—September 15, 2015

Students with ADHD face particular challenges when they transition to college. In high school, they were partially dependent on support from parents and teachers to remind them of tasks and assignments, structure their time, and maintain organization. When students transition to college, they are entirely responsible for these “executive” self-management functions. They also face many new distractions and temptations. During this webinar, Dr. Mary Solanto discusses these issues and tips to help your new college student be successful.

Presenter: Mary V. Solanto, PhD
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Helping Anxious Children Find Their Voices—September 1, 2015

In this webinar, Lauren Knickerbocker, PhD, discusses how anxiety can make everyday tasks such as speaking, making friends, and going to school into Herculean tasks for kids. Together with parents and other supportive adults, kids can learn to confront these challenges head on, and learn to be brave and confident when anxiety pops up.

Presenter: Lauren Knickerbocker, PhD
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Parent Power: 5 Steps to Improving Your Home—August 18, 2015

Parents often struggle to manage difficult behaviors in children. Defiance, temper tantrums, fighting, and school refusal, among others, are challenging to address and change. These behaviors can frustrate and aggravate parents and caregivers. In this webinar, Justin Misurell, PhD, synthesizes a number of powerful parenting strategies into five easy-to-remember steps that help improve your family environment.

Presenter: Justin Misurell, PhD
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Grief, Loss, and Moving Forward—August 4, 2015

The loss of a loved one is one of the most painful experiences to endure. For children, such a loss can seem catastrophic, but most children recover and return to their lives with the same capacity for joy and growth. Yet some children may get stuck in their grief and struggle to resume their regular routines and roles. In this webinar, you can learn what to expect when children lose a loved one and when they may benefit from treatment.

Presenter: Eric Lewandowski, PhD
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When Names Hurt Even More Than Sticks and Stones—July 21, 2015

Sometimes names can hurt more than sticks and stones. Research has shown that kids who are bullied are more at risk for developing depression and anxiety. In this webinar, Lori Evans, PhD, discusses the best strategies for helping your child, whether they are a victim, a bully, or a bystander; how to get the school on your team; and coping with the distressing phenomena of cyberbullying.

Presenter: Lori Evans, PhD
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ADHD Recommendations: Tots to Tweens to Teens—July 7, 2015

Ever wonder what are the best ways to help a child with ADHD? The fact is optimal strategies can vary based on the child’s age. Christina Di Bartolo, LMSW, Program Coordinator for the Institute for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity and Behavior Disorders, explores recommendations for getting the best from a child with ADHD regardless of their age.

Presenter: Christina Di Bartolo, LCSW
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Dos and Don’ts for Better Date Nights—June 23, 2015

Parents can all too easily lose touch with their sense of couple-ness. Having children is a life-changing, wonderful event, but it can also take its toll on parents’ adult-to-adult relationship. Remember that? Before you had kids, all the things you used to do and enjoy, and how much you liked spending time with one another? Becoming parents doesn’t have to mean losing your life as a couple. Andrew Roffman, LCSW, covers several practical dos and don’ts to help you bring the “date” back to a night out with your partner.

Presenter: Andrew Roffman, LCSW
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Making Successful School Transitions for Tweens and Teens—June 9, 2015

A new school year can be an exciting and challenging time for many children and teens as they transition between schools. These transitions can be especially challenging for those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. Richard Gallagher, PhD, the co-creator of our Organizational Skills Training programs, discusses ways to prepare children and teens for the move from elementary school to middle school and from middle school to high school.

Presenter: Richard Gallagher, PhD
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Mindful Parenting: Strategies for Anxious Parents—May 26, 2015

Balancing your child’s needs with the demands of your busy life can be overwhelming. Many parents experience anxiety, stress, and difficulties with coping. This webinar is designed to help you feel more relaxed, calm, and in control as a parent. Amy DiBernardo, LMSW, provides useful tools and practical strategies that can help you decrease parenting stress and improve communication and understanding with your child.

Presenter: Amy S. DiBernardo, LMSW
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Choosing the Right Summer Program for Your Child—May 12, 2015

For most parents, sending kids to summer camp for the first time may stir up fond memories, anticipation of the fun awaiting their children, and perhaps a little separation anxiety. It’s more complicated for parents of children with special needs. Karen Fleiss, PsyD, discusses techniques to help you assess camp counselors and staff members’ abilities to meet your child’s needs, evaluate the skills and activities offered, understand how the program communicates with you, and ensure your child has fun and makes friends.

Presenter: Karen Fleiss, PsyD
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Babies and Autism: What Every Parent Needs to Know—April 28, 2015

Identifying very young children at risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder is essential so that potential treatments can begin. In this webinar, Dr. Roberts discusses when and when not to be concerned for babies as young as 6 months. She also explains the newest diagnostic tools and treatment methods for very young children.

Presenter: Elizabeth Roberts, PsyD
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Stressed Out? Helping Children and Parents Manage Stress—April 14, 2015

Stress can have both positive and negative effects on children and parents. In this webinar, you can learn how to identify your child’s stressors, strategies for lowering anxiety among children, techniques to help build resilience, and tips to manage your stress.

Presenter: Rebecca Berry, PhD
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