Parenting Challenges

Parenting is like a rollercoaster where the ups and downs are equal parts exhausting and exhilarating. It can be stressful, demanding, and tests our limits. There are many times when our parenting skills are challenged and it’s natural to feel overwhelmed in the absence of that definitive parenting handbook!

Dr Dawn’s support is tailored to your individual circumstances. If your child is under 12 years of age, she works directly with you, while if you have an adolescent, she offers direct support to them.

Both children and adolescents who experience stress and anger may not have developed healthy ways to address their needs. Dr. Dawn’s role is to provide insights and tools to help them understand their stress and anger and find more constructive ways to fulfil their needs. This approach aims to prevent them from resorting to ‘acting out’ as a means of expression.

Parenting Challenges for Children Under 12:

Emotional Regulation

Young children often struggle with regulating their emotions. They might experience intense outbursts of anger or stress due to frustration, fear, or unmet needs. Parents face the challenge of helping their children understand and manage these emotions, and needs

Behavioural Development

Children in this age group are still developing their behavioural patterns and social skills. They may not have fully developed the ability to communicate their needs and frustrations effectively, leading to acting out when they feel overwhelmed.

Parent-Child Communication

Effective communication between parents and young children can be challenging, as children may have limited vocabulary and struggle to express themselves verbally. This can lead to misunderstandings and frustration for both parents and children.

Peer Interactions

As children enter school and socialise with peers, they may encounter conflicts and challenges in their relationships. These issues can affect their emotional well-being and behaviour at home.

Based in Hale, Cheshire, I am also available globally via Zoom.
Get in touch for a free 20 minute initial consultation today.

Why Dr Dawn works with the parent(s) of a child under 12 years:

Understanding Triggers

Parents can often identify the specific triggers that lead to their child's anger and stress, whereas the child may not be able to articulate this. Working with parents allows an exploration of these triggers and helps address the root causes.

Safety and Boundaries

Young children thrive in an environment with consistent boundaries. Supporting parents in understanding boundaries and how to communicate them is fundamental in supporting a child and de-escalating their anger and stress.

Parent-Child Dynamics

The parent-child relationship is central to a child's emotional well-being. By working with parents, they become equipped with the skills to support their child’s anger and stress. This both improves their relationship and helps reduce the child's feelings of stress and anger.

Supportive Home Environment

A supportive home environment is crucial for a child's well-being. When parents struggle to handle their child's anger and stress, the home becomes a less safe and less supportive environment. Equipping parents with effective strategies helps maintain a safe and nurturing space for their child.

Parenting Challenges for Adolescents (Aged 12-18):

Identity and Independence:

Adolescents are navigating a phase where they are seeking independence and exploring their own identity. They may question authority and want to make more decisions for themselves.

Peer Pressure:

Adolescents often face peer pressure and the influence of friends on their behaviour. They may feel the need to conform to societal or peer expectations, even if it goes against their own values.

Academic Stress:

Schoolwork and academic pressures can cause stress and anxiety in adolescents. Balancing academic expectations, extracurricular activities, and future goals can be overwhelming.

Digital and Social Media Challenges:

Adolescents are growing up in a digital age, which brings both opportunities and challenges. Social media, cyberbullying, and online interactions can have a significant impact on their well-being.

Why Dr Dawn works directly with adolescents: