PEP Talks - A Parent Education Program

Let us know how we're doing, or send us an idea!

In this conversation, Dana Viox, RN,BSN, Coordinated School Health & Nursing Supervisor with Arlington Community Schools, discusses how physical activity plays a role in child health. Erin and Ja’Neair talk with Dana about unstructured play and breaks and the many benefits of movement related to physical health and beyond, including increased executive functioning skills, emotional regulation and social skills, and decreased disruptive behaviors. 

Dana encourages parents and families to model movement and exercise within their home in order to promote healthy habits and lifelong practices.

We hope you enjoyed this podcast! Let us know how we did, or what you would like to hear more about at [email protected] 

Resources: 

• Research Benefits of Breaks
• Family Fitness
• Activities & Games for Kids
• Activities for Families
• Healthy Parks, Healthy Person
• Activity Calendar
• Benefits of Student Physical Activity Breaks 
• Power of Play
• Active Students, Active Learners
• CSH 22-23 Physical Education/Physical Activity Annual Report
• Influence of Parents' Role Modeling Behaviors and Perceptions of their Child's Competence 

Let us know how we're doing, or send us an idea!

In today's episode, Ja'Neair is joined by co-host Tyler Hill, ACS Director of Communications, as they continue exploring The Social Media Brain Drain. What is it, and how should we think about social media use in today's digital world?

This week, they speak to Jason Winkler, an Instructional Technology Supervisor who specializes in technology curriculum and instruction, about the role social media plays in our teens' lives. Jason talks about the importance of modeling good Digital Citizenship and gives parents tips on how they can strike a balance on technology use. As he shows us, it all begins with a plan.

Resources:

• Catch up on The Social Media Brain Drain Part I where Ja'Neair and Tyler interview a high school student panel.
• Social Media & Mental Health: The US Surgeon General's Advisory (Pages 17 and 18 are especially beneficial for parents and students)
• American Psychological Association: Health Advisory on Social Media Use in Adolescence 
• Social Media, Social Life Infographic
• Help Kids Balance Their Media Lives
• Family Tech Planners
• Keeping Teens Safe on Social Media: What Parents Should Know to Protect Their Kids
• Youth Engaged Channel: Tip Sheet on Social Media Use & Mental Health

Let us know how we're doing, or send us an idea!

In today's episode, Ja'Neair is joined by co-host Tyler Hill, ACS Director of Communications, who is filling in for Erin. The Social Media Brain Drain: What is it? What's the impact of social media on our teens, and what can we do about it to ensure the experience is positive?

In part one of this two-part series, Ja'Neair and Tyler go to the best source to explore the topic: teenagers. Listen as they dive into the world of social media with four high school students who are actively engaged on social platforms.

Resources Mentioned:

Teens and Social Media: Key findings from Pew Research Center surveys

Let us know how we're doing, or send us an idea!

Today on PEP Talks, Erin and Ja’Neair chat about an important tool for managing big feeling moments; coping skills. They discuss how each coping skill needs to fit the situation and the child. As they discuss their favorite coping skills to teach, they remind families coping skills do not fix a problem long-term but rather assist them in getting through those tough moments. 

What coping skills work for you or your child? We want to hear from you!
Reach out to us at: [email protected] 

Resources Mentioned on the Show: 

Coping Skills For Kids

Mind Yeti- Mindfulness

Freezing/Melting Strategy

99 Coping Skills

Let us know how we're doing, or send us an idea!

In this PEP Talks, Erin and Ja’Neair interview Kayla White, MA, CCLS II, about grief and loss. As a Certified Child Life Specialist with Methodist Lebonheur Hospital, Kayla describes loss from a unique perspective as she supports children and families with death and dying. She provides practical tools for parents and expands on community resources available to families.

Ja'Neair and Erin reflect on the impact of loss for students and are reminded grief doesn't end when a student walks through the school doors.

Have recommendations on topics or guests? Reach out to us at [email protected].

Resources: 

Methodist Lebonheur Bereavement Services

Camp Braveheart

Recommended Books:

• In My Heart: A Book of Feelings
• If Nathan Were Here
• The Memory Box: A Book About Grief
• The Invisible String

Let us know how we're doing, or send us an idea!

In this PEP Talks, Erin and Ja’Neair  discuss six prompts, recommended by Kind Minds Therapy, you can use to connect with your children and teens in hard moments. They talk about the importance of allowing children the freedom to express feelings without “rescuing” them or casting judgement.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to diagnose or treat any mental health condition. If you need further support or treatment, reach out to your family doctor, or a licensed mental professional in your area.  Some topics may be sensitive and are not suitable for children.

Reach out to us at: [email protected] 

Resources:

• Kind Minds Therapy 
• Check out Kind Minds Therapy on Instagram for more tips

Let us know how we're doing, or send us an idea!

Erin Williams and Ja’Neair Johnson chat about depression and the signs and symptoms at the elementary, middle and high school levels. They discuss supports for families in the “everyday.” 

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any mental health condition. If you need further support or treatment, reach out to your family doctor, or a licensed mental professional in your area.  Some topics may be sensitive and not suitable for children.

Reach out to us: [email protected]

Resources:
Erika's Lighthouse
Try the Calm App