“You are too sensitive!  Why are you so emotional and intense”? Have you ever said this to your child?  Did a parent or teacher or another caregiver ever say this to you?  Does the description “shy” characterize you or your child? These are common inquiries and labels a child or adult gifted with high sensitivity may encounter from well-intentioned others. 

Another year is quickly coming to a close, and with it comes the beginning of a new year.  As often happens, many New Year’s resolutions will most likely be made by millions, if not billions of people.  Unfortunately many of these resolutions will be started, but then slowly falter as all the motivation that initially started them fades.  What about the people who are able to follow through and see their resolutions to fruition though?

There is much to look forward to during the upcoming holiday season, but many families spend this time dealing with stress from family conflict, travels, and disrupted schedules. Children especially can experience stress around the holidays despite their excitement. In my practice, I frequently tell families: even positive stress is stressful. So how can you tell when your children are experiencing stress? And what are some ways you can help your kids manage stress during the holidays?

When we slow in our mountain of “to-do’s” to speak prayers, to call out something beautiful in another person, or to truly hear them in a time of need we are providing an opportunity for something greater than just two people gathered together. We invite an experience of sharing God’s loving gaze with that person. It can be life-changing for them, and/or us, when we take the time to share in one another’s belovedness.