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Clair Mellenthin

Child and Family Therapist

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Get On The Floor And Play!

February 3, 2020 by clair Leave a Comment

We all understand that it’s important to play with our children, but did you know that you can have even more of an impact when you physically get down on the floor with them? It’s true!

Being on the floor in closer proximity to your children helps them feel seen and heard. Parents should put their phones away, get down on the carpet or the ground, and give their kiddos that individualized attention they need. Let the child be the boss and direct the play. This is so important for their brain development, gross and fine motor skills, and also the development of their social abilities and other skills they’ll need throughout their life.

Research shows that all kids really need is 20 minutes a week playing with their parents. That’s very little time, and we can certainly do that and even do more. Getting on the floor to play with your child can help create a deeper bond and give your child experiences that they’ll always remember.

The Impact of Birth Order on Relationships

August 30, 2015 by clair Leave a Comment

Ever wonder how being a middle child sets you up for certain personality traits or wondered how it is that the baby in the family gets away with anything and everything?  We discuss all of this and more in this fun Fresh Living segment.  Watch this clip for for more information and interesting studies on birth order.

The Back To School Jitters

August 25, 2015 by clair Leave a Comment

For many parents, the beginning of the school year not only brings a sigh of relief, but also a feeling of panic with the emergence of the endless school supply lists, homework, and trying to get not just to bed on time but to school! For many children and teens however, the first few weeks of school are not just a struggle because they are mourning the lazy days of summer.  Many kids experience anxiety and really struggle adjusting, especially if it is one of the “firsts” – 1st grade, the start of junior high, high school, and the senior year.  These are major milestones as well as rites of passage for kids growing up into adulthood, with many hurdles and the unknown of what to expect.  Watch this segment for tips for parents on how to move through these first few weeks smoothly as we calm the Back To School Jitters.

Clair Mellenthin, LCSW, RPT-S, Director of Child and Adolescence Services, Past President of UAPT. As an experienced play therapist,
and sought after presenter, she frequently appears on local and national media as an expert on child and family issues.