Ask Dr. Sandra

Stories have a magical way of opening doors to new worlds, but beyond the enchantment, they play a vital role in shaping a child’s emotional landscape. When I think about the moments I’ve shared stories with children, I see more than just smiles and wide eyes—I see seeds of empathy, resilience, and self-awareness being planted. Storytelling for child development is not just about entertainment; it’s a gentle guide helping young hearts understand their feelings and the feeling

Understanding the 7 C's of Resilience Resilience is like a garden that needs careful tending. Each of the 7 C's represents a vital part of that garden, and when nurtured, they help children bloom into strong, adaptable individuals. Competence: Building Skills Through Experience Competence is about helping children develop the skills they need to solve problems and face challenges. This can be anything from learning to tie their shoes to managing conflicts with friends. Strate

Understanding Anxiety in Young Children Anxiety doesn’t always look like worry or fear. Sometimes, it shows up as restlessness, irritability, or even physical complaints like stomachaches. Children aged 4 to 8 are still learning how to express their feelings, so anxiety might come out in unexpected ways. Imagine anxiety as a little alarm bell inside a child’s mind. When it rings too loudly or too often, it can be hard for them to focus or feel safe. Recognizing these signs ea

Stories have a magical way of opening doors to new worlds, feelings, and ideas. When I think about the power of storytelling for emotional learning, I see it as a gentle bridge that connects a child’s inner world with the vast universe around them. Stories are not just entertainment; they are essential tools that nurture emotional growth, spark imagination, and build resilience. Let’s explore how stories play a vital role in child development, especially for young children ag

Oh, Exhausted in Boca, I feel this in my bones. The bedtime jack-in-the-box routine is one of the most frustrating parenting challenges, and you're definitely not alone. Here's what's really happening, and what actually works: What’s Going On Your 4-year-old isn't trying to torture you (even though it feels that way at 10 PM). Several things are at play: Developmental : Four-year-olds are becoming more independent and testing boundaries. Bedtime is a big boundary. Fear : Ni