The Coping Toolbox, a Child Psych Podcast Drs. Jennifer Vriend, Laila Din Osmun, and Mary Simmering McDonald

In this episode Drs. Jenn and Mary discuss some of the early signs of autism in young children. We discuss typical developmental milestones and what might be some indicators of differences in development. Symptoms related to language and communication, social relationships and emotional responses, as well as sensory processing and interests are explored. Drs. Jenn and Mary explore what to do if you have concerns and the role of early intervention. We emphasize that a diagnosis is not based on one symptom but rather a constellation of symptoms, and that that kids with autistic brain styles are unique and have many strengths and gifts.
Resources:
1) https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/autism-spectrum-disorder-asd/signs-symptoms-autism-spectrum-disorder-asd.html
2) https://autismcanada.org/autism-explained/early-signs-characteristics/
3) https://www.cheo.on.ca/en/resources-and-support/autism.aspx

In this episode, Drs. Laila, Mary, and Jenn examine test anxiety. They discuss why we experience test anxiety and practical tips for before and during tests. Ideas for challenging worry thoughts and suggestions for positive self talk are explored. They describe focusing on healthy striving rather than perfectionism and the role parents can play in helping children and adolescents to achieve success. 
Resources:
Anxiety Canada: https://www.anxietycanada.com/sites/default/files/Test_Anxiety_Booklet.pdf
Here to Help: https://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/workbook/test-anxiety

In this episode, Dr. Jenn is joined once again by Joanne Doucette, Registered Social Worker to examine ideas to help navigate the holiday season while you are experiencing grief. They discuss various emotions which are commonly experienced and how to manage some of those big emotions. Joanne outlines a script for how to say “no” when it is in your best interest.  They describe the importance of identifying your needs and the value of self-compassion.
Resources:
1) https://kidsgrief.ca
2) https://www.dougy.org
3) https://grief.com
4) Sign up for Joanne’s monthly newsletter for further grief-related resources: www.doucettetherapy.com

In this episode, Drs. Laila, Mary, and Jenn discuss separation anxiety and how it affects children and their caregivers. Common symptoms are discussed, and they explore ideas to help cope with the challenges associated with separation anxiety.
Resources:
1) https://www.anxietycanada.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Separation-Anxiety-Doc-FINAL-2.pdf
2) https://www.anxietycanada.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/hm_Separation.pdf

In this episode, Dr. Jenn interviews Dr. Simon Sherry. Dr. Sherry is a Professor at Dalhousie University and an internationally recognized expert in perfectionism. During this episode, Dr. Sherry describes types of perfectionism and the role of genetics, parenting and social media as possible contributors. They explore mental health issues related to perfectionism such as depression and eating disorders. Dr. Sherry discusses ideas for managing perfectionism, including reframing failures and challenges as learning opportunities. 
Resources:
1) Young People Drowning in a Rising Tide of Perfectionism: https://theconversation.com/young-people-drowning-in-a-rising-tide-of-perfectionism-110343
2) How Parents Might Pass on Unhealthy Perfectionism to Their Kids: https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2022/03/08/how-parents-might-pass-on-unhealthy-perfectionism-to-their-kids/?sh=22cc7b3e5498
3) Perfectionists More Likely to Develop Bulimia: https://theconversation.com/perfectionists-more-likely-to-develop-bulimia-new-research-104746
4) Helping Your Child Overcome Perfectionism by Anxiety Canada: https://www.anxietycanada.com/sites/default/files/OvercomingPerfectionism.pdf
5) Dr. Sherry's publications: https://cruxpsychology.ca/about-us/publications/
6) Dr. Sherry's social media links:
LinkedIn: Simon Sherry, Ph.D.  
Instagram: @cruxpsychology
Twitter: @cruxpsychology
Facebook: @cruxpsychology
Psychology Today: Psymon Says
The Conversation: Dr. Simon Sherry

In this episode, Drs. Jenn and Mary explore changes that take place in the adolescent brain, including how rewiring fine tunes the brain. This process starts at the back of the brain and moves to the front, resulting in adolescents making decisions that are more heavily influenced by instincts and emotions. We discuss that the increased desire to socialize with peers as well as the increase in risk-taking behaviour are adaptive and biologically driven. We provide tips to help adolescents and caregivers with managing some of the challenges that take place and highlight positive factors associated with this developmental stage.
Resources:
Dan Siegel – The Adolescent Brain: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0O1u5OEc5eY
Dan Siegel – How the Teen Brain Transforms Relationships: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_the_teen_brain_transforms_relationships