Contact@paparentandfamilyalliance.org (PA Parent And Family Alliance)

Shows

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWe’re Fine. Totally Fine. Probably.Storms, screaming kids, no power—and somehow, we’re still standing (barely). This week we're talking about the real chaos of parenting through emergencies, how our kids handle it (spoiler: wildly differently), and why staying calm sometimes means hiding in a closet later. Laugh, relate, and remind yourself you’re doing just fine… probably. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support...2025-05-0829 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingI Birthed You—You Can Buy Me a CardNot every Mother’s Day looks like a Hallmark movie—and honestly, that’s okay. This week we’re talking about what the day really feels like for moms who do everything but don’t always get much back. Laugh (and commiserate) with us as we share funny stories, honest frustrations, and the little things that actually make us feel seen. Then go ahead—send this episode to your partner as a not-so-subtle hint to help them step it up this year. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental h...2025-04-2431 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingRediscovering What Fills Your CupWhen was the last time you did something just because it made you feel good? This week we talk about finding simple, personal outlets—like painting, baking, journaling, or even making your own laundry detergent—that help manage stress and bring a little peace into the chaos. No pressure, no perfection—just time for you. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can su...2025-04-1028 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingMama’s Tired: The Mental Load Is RealLet’s be honest—parenting is exhausting, and the stress doesn’t disappear when the kids grow up. This week our moms talk about the constant mental load we carry, from managing school calls and family logistics to trying (and sometimes failing) to find time to breathe. We share real talk, practical ways to cope, and a few laughs along the way—because sometimes just knowing you're not alone makes all the difference.Christina talks about the book Burnout by Emily and Amelia Nagoski. Learn more here: https://www.burnoutbook.net/ For one on one supp...2025-03-3128 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingNavigating Sibling DynamicsWhen one child in the family has mental health or behavioral challenges, it affects everyone—including their siblings. How do you balance attention, make sure no one feels left out, and manage the unique sibling dynamics that come with raising a child who needs more? This week we get real about the challenges, share personal stories, and offer ideas to help support all of your kids. Because when one child struggles, the whole family feels it—but there are ways to make sure everyone gets what they need. For one on one support at no cost to p...2025-03-0732 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingParenting BattlesWhat happens when you and your partner don’t see eye to eye on parenting? From discipline styles to daily decisions, disagreements are inevitable—but they don’t have to lead to all-out war. In this episode, we get real about handling parenting conflicts, finding middle ground, and managing the frustration of feeling like you’re in it alone. Tune in for relatable stories, honest insights, and a few laughs along the way! For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparent...2025-02-2029 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingChaos, Creativity, and Keeping It TogetherWhat happens when snow days turn into “Flexible Instruction Days”? In this episode, we dive into the highs, lows, and downright hilarious moments of balancing work, kids, and packets of schoolwork. From creative ways to make learning happen (cooking French toast counts as math, right?) to real talk about managing IEPs and 504 plans during these challenging days, we’re here to commiserate and share tips for surviving it all. Tune in for laughs, insights, and a reminder that you’re not alone in the wintertime chaos!For more information on Flexible Instruction Days or Remote Learning Days (as they...2025-01-2228 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingFlexible instruction days, Christmas Chaos, and Hot Mess Realities.It’s the holiday season, and we’re diving into the real-life chaos of parenting while trying to manage Flexible Instruction madness, holiday prep, and everything in between. From kids refusing to do packets to mismatched socks for spirit week, we’re sharing the behind-the-scenes mayhem. We talk about setting realistic expectations, finding small moments of joy (hello, pencil Christmas trees!), and why it’s okay to skip the matching PJs and focus on what really matters. Join us for laughs, commiseration, and a reminder that the Hot Mess Club is thriving—and you’re welcome to join! For one...2024-12-1226 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingHow about some bad parenting advice?We’ve all heard it—unsolicited advice from family, friends, and even strangers that ranges from mildly annoying to downright harmful. In this episode, we break down some of the worst parenting advice we’ve received and share how these misconceptions can block us from getting the help our kids truly need. We’ll also give you a few cheeky phrases to shut down rude comments, tips on setting boundaries, and a good dose of inspiration to keep going despite the nonsense. Plus, we throw in a funny story or two to remind you: you’re not alone in this! ...2024-11-2850 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingFrom Meal Planning to Meltdowns: Tackling Decision OverloadWe talked about the book and cards called Fair Play Life. If you check it out let us know what you think. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/To access any tip sheets and booklets we talk about visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/helpfulresourcesTo be the first t...2024-11-1439 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingRunning on Empty: Finding Space for Yourself as a ParentParenting doesn’t come with a roadmap, but sometimes it does come with wax in the drain and a pumpkin patch meltdown! Join us as we get real about juggling our own needs with the chaos of family life, from unexpected “kid experiments” to the stress of spirit days, Halloween costumes, and daily demands. We’ll talk about how we’re learning to protect our energy, embrace imperfect moments, and why showing our kids what self-care looks like can be just as valuable as any life lesson. For one on one support at no cost to parents of...2024-10-3139 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingHeart over DNA: Mental Health Journeys for Non-Bio FamiliesHave you met Julia yet? You'll love her just as much as we do as she takes her first turn hosting this week's podcast! Julia leads our group of moms through a deep dive into the unique journey of raising and supporting children who aren't biologically ours. Whether you're an adoptive parent, foster parent, step-parent, or legal guardian, this episode is for you. Parenting non-bio kids comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to navigating mental health. From dealing with trauma and attachment issues to overcoming stigmas and misconceptions, we’re here to offer understanding, su...2024-10-1837 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingA Little Kindness Goes a Long WayAll it takes is 1 person to roll their eyes or smirk and just like that a difficult situation gets even worse. If you've been there, in public while your kiddo is melting down, you've seen that look and know that feeling. However, there are times when strangers’ simple acts of kindness in the middle of our chaos make such a difference just when it matters most.Today our team shares those moments when the kindness of a stranger made a difference. If you need your faith in humanity restored, we invite you to join us as we share our rea...2024-09-2626 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingThings We No Longer DoAfter decades of advocacy work between us all here's a list of the things we'll no longer do as parent raising kiddos with mental health challenges and just parenting in general. We'd love to hear what's on your list! Share your list in the comments. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/2024-09-0529 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingHow Can I Manage It AllAs parents we're expected to keep everything moving, on time, while ensuring everyone is safe and taken care of. But how can we balance everyone's needs as well as our own? This week join Melissa, Tracy and Perl as they share the challenges and their tips for keeping all the balls up in the air, while tending to children's and their own mental wellness. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about t...2024-08-2945 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingParenting with a mental health challengeRaising a child who has a behavior or mental health challenge is hard enough but if you're doing it and have a challenge of your own, it's extra hard. On this week's episode we talk about our own challenges and share our tips and tricks for managing. Sometimes it's nice to know that we have a community of friends who get it. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA...2024-08-2230 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingIs it time to make dinner, again?!Here we are deep into summer and our kids are eating us out of house and home! We're doing our best to keep them busy and enriched all while working a demanding job, from home. Who else can relate? Join us this week as Tracy, Melissa and Chrissy talk about snack deficits, how hard it is teaching our kids about how money works and 504 plans for the upcoming school year. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help 2024-08-1528 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingBack to School PrepWe're sorry to be the ones to bring it up but our kiddos will be going back to school shortly so our group of moms got together to share some tips and tricks that can help make back to school manageable. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/To access any t...2024-08-0834 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingIt's OK to not be the popular parentDo you feel like you're the only parent who says "No" or has rules for your child? Well this week Melissa is here to tell you that you're not alone! Our parents, Tracy, Perl, and Christina, talk about the limits and rules they insist on for their children and how they're fine not being their child's friend. At least until they get older. If you feel like you're the "bad guy" never letting your child have any fun, this week's podcast is for you! For one on one support at no cost to parents of children...2024-08-0128 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWho has time to be bored?How many times have you heard, "I'm bored" already this summer? If Perl or Tracy hear that phrase again they may just blow their tops. This week our ladies share how they're managing to keep everyone in their family on track and having fun during the dog days of summer. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at...2024-07-2530 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWhat happens after high school?One day they're toddlers and getting into everything and the next they're teens who you only see when they emerge to visit the fridge. They grow up so fast that it's never too early to start thinking about what's going to happen once they leave high school. Join Chrissy, Tracy, Perl and Christina to talk about what you should think about now, before your child with behavior or mental health challenges turns 18.For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help Find out...2024-06-2034 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingA funny thing happenedThis week we completely forget our planned topic and instead ended up talking about our summer plans compared to our Gen X and Millennial childhoods. From formerly fully stocked fridges to drinking out of the hose, this behind the scenes episode let's you see what happens before we hit record. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the chaos as we take you on a journey through the unplanned but always entertaining world of parenting through chaos. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA...2024-06-1326 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWhat mom's really want for Mother's DayThis week our moms talk about the challenges and mental load that comes with motherhood. It takes a team to help raise a child who has a mental health challenge and that team includes not only family but bosses and coworkers and the community. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/...2024-05-1827 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWhy Is My Child Behaving This Way?Did you know a child with ADHD may have trouble falling or staying asleep? Did you know that children with physical disabilities can have mental health challenges too? Join Tracy, Perl and Christina to talk about some of the surprising things they've learned as parents of children with mental health challenges and bust some of the myths you may have heard. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent a...2024-05-0130 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingSo many fightsFor parents raising children with behavior and mental health (and other) challenges it feels like we spend so much time fighting. Fighting our insurance company to provide the treatments our children need. Fighting the school to help our children. Fighting the doctors to actually listen to all of our child's symptoms and what we've already tried. Sometimes we ask ourselves, "Is it worth it?" Join Tracy, Melissa, Perl and Chrissy to get their take on that question and find out what keeps them going when things get tough. For one on one support at no cost...2024-04-2636 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingCan my child say no to mental health treatmentThis week we have a full house to talk about PA's law regarding mental health consent. So many parents reach out to ask if their children can refuse mental health treatment once they turn 14. The answer to that is an emphatic No. Act 65 of 2020 allows children to consent to mental health treatment on their own once they turn 14 but it definitely does not allow them to refuse necessary help. Get more details here: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/mental-health-faq For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges...2024-04-1927 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingParental GuiltIf you've ever lost it because you had to ask your child 14 times to bring their laundry down from their room or felt like a bad parent because you medicated your child or didn't medicate your child, you're not alone. As parents of children with mental health or behavioral challenges we can find a lot to beat ourselves up over. Join Melissa, Tracy and Christina as they tackle parent guilt and share some ideas on how to let it go. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental...2024-04-0840 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingNo break for you!It school break and while our kiddos may be thrilled as working parents break time means double duty for us. If you feel like your world is absolute chaos you're not alone! Join Chrissy, Jill, Melissa and Christina as we wade through the sea of anarchy together. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance...2024-03-2825 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWhy doesn't my insurance cover what my child needsIt's not unusual for parents to be told that their health insurance won't pay for their child's mental health treatment. That can leave a parent in a tough spot trying to cover the costs out of pocket or even worse forgoing the necessary treatment. No need to panic! Today we're talking about how you can get insurance that will cover the therapies your child needs at no cost to you, no matter your income. That's right, we're talking about PH 95! Join Melissa and Christina to get the information you need to get your application started!https://www...2024-03-2120 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingThere's no upside to organizingChildren come with so much stuff! We're tempted to organize but one Parent Alliance team member has a good reason to not get organized. This week we share some tips on organizing, ideas for helping your child break down large tasks and a surprising downside and we chat a bit about chores. Have a topic you want us to address? Reach out to us at contact@paparentandfamilyalliance.org For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help...2024-03-1432 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWhy is this happening?When your child suddenly starts acting out at school it can really throw you for a loop. The goal is to figure out what's going on and get them back on track as quickly as possible but the process is so slow. Additionally it really takes a toll on us, a parents. We question everything we're doing. This week we unpack not only ideas on how to help our kiddos but also how to help each other as parents in the thick of things, raising children with behavior and mental health challenges.Melissa shared a resource from...2024-03-0838 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingAre we babying our children too much?We're never quite sure if we're doing too much or too little for our children. When you're raising a child with a mental health challenge it's even harder to know. Join us for this week's episode when Tracy, Chrissy and Christina share tips they've learned for walking that line between helicopter parent and hands off parenting. We'd love to hear what challenges you're facing. Feel free to reach out at contact@paparentandfamilyalliance.org Maybe we'll talk about your challenge next! For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental...2024-02-2932 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingParenting Curveballs: Real Talk on Picky Eating & Sensory Challenges!In this episode of This Is Not What I Was Expecting we dive into the challenges of parenting that you won't find addressed in parenting books. From food challenges to sensory processing disorders, we discuss our children's struggles and share our experiences. Tune in to hear our tips and advice for navigating these all to frequent tricky situations. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help Find out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our...2024-02-1600 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWinter bluesSometimes we wonder if anyone understands just how hard it is ... to be a parent, to be a parent of a child with a mental health challenge, to BE the child with the mental health challenge. Join Melissa, Tracy and Christina to check in and and chat about how this time of the year can be a little disheartening. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help Find out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support...2024-02-0819 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingManaging your relationship with your adult childrenThe Parent Alliance offers one on one support to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges no matter their age! Yes, you can give us a call and talk to a Family Support Partner at no cost even if your child is over 18 because, we get it. Our job as parent doesn't end just because our child becomes a legal adult. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the P...2024-02-0225 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingExtended School Year services (ESY): Why you need to plan for the summer nowAs always the team at PaTTAN has excellent resources to help us understand this service. Check them out here: https://www.pattan.net/publications/teachers-desk-reference-extended-school-year-esy/ https://www.pattan.net/videos/extended-school-year-esy/Questions an IEP team could consider regarding the need for ESY:Documented problems with working memory from assessmentsDemonstrated need for constant reinforcement over time, even during the regular instructional day/yearHistory from a previous year of losing skills and struggling to regain them after a school breakNeed for constant reinforcement of a behavior support program when a student is at risk of being moved to...2024-01-2530 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingHow do I keep my kiddos busy over the holidaysThe holiday break has started and we're already out of things to do to keep our kiddos busy! We're looking for any ideas we can find to avoid hearing the dreaded "I'm bored." Join us as we troubleshoot ideas and inspiration to help everyone enjoy winter break. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance...2023-12-2130 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWhat I wish my family knew about my kiddo (holiday edition)When you're raising a child who struggles with their behavior or mental health, changes in schedules, large noisy events and activities with lots of pressure are ticking timebombs. Unfortunately all those things come together to make the holiday season the most joyful and hectic time of the year. Join our team as we talk about some of the challenges we face raising our own kiddos who struggle. We'll share how we manage and hopefully give you a few ideas to try out.How do you manage over the holidays? We'd love to hear! For...2023-12-1417 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingHoliday mishapsIn the real world the holidays don't always go as planned. In the moment things can feel like a disaster but so often looking back they're some of our favorite memories. In today's podcast the Parent Alliance team shares some of their favorite mishaps and ideas for managing those holiday expectations.Help your child prepare for holiday socialization with ideas from the Understanding your child's social battery tip sheet: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/understanding-social-batteriesWhat are your favorite holiday mishaps? We'd love to hear! For one on one support at no cost t...2023-12-0836 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingTough conversationsIt's never easy to talk with your child about topics that are scary, awkward or safety focused. But when your child has anxiety, depression or any mental health challenge you, as a parent, can feel like you're walking a tightrope between giving them the information they need and not needlessly upsetting them. Join Melissa, Perl and Chrissy to hear how they navigate those tough parenting conversations.If you're concerned about your child's mental well being here's a tip sheet on How To Talk To Your Child About Suicide https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/talkaboutsuicide For o...2023-12-0242 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingIt's so nice when we can get togetherThis fall the Parent Alliance team held a youth, young adult and parents conference. We learned so much we wanted to share the highlights with those who couldn't make it. Join us to catch up without having to leave your house.We won't be posting next week since it's Thanksgiving but we hope you have a nice day filled with love and peace. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more a...2023-11-1636 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingIt's beginning to look a lot like stress seasonWe shared the Parent Alliance's tip sheet for Understanding your Child's Social Battery: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/understanding-social-batteriesWe're always here to provide one on one parent peer support to parents living in PA at no cost: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/...2023-11-0932 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingSo much anxietyWe shared the Emotional Safety Planning tip sheet. There's versions for parents, kiddos and we didn't leave out our Spanish speaking parents! There's a version for you as well. https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/emotional-safety-planIt's also never too early or too late to help our children learn some mindfulness exercises. Check out those along with morning affirmations and other quick tips for your kiddos and yourself! https://www.youtube.com/shorts/xbcaVtrY2jMYou can also check out the Mindfulness webinar Awaken Pittsburgh did for us: https://youtu.be/ih-VSk-a4gs For...2023-11-0233 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingHow's the school year going?As the school year loses it's shine of newness a few of us got together to talk about how it's going, how we're holding up and how we hold it together. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help Find out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/ To access any tip sheets and booklets we talk about visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/helpfulresources To be the first to...2023-10-2637 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingThey'll let my child be bullied 399 timesIf you live in Pennsylvania and would like to work one on one with a Parent Alliance teammate reach out to us here: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/To access any tip sheets and booklets we talk about visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/helpfulresources 2023-10-2201 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingBullying, ADHD, and Dyslexia. Oh my!We talked about and shared the following resources today: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/bullying-prevention For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/To access any tip sheets and booklets we talk about visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/helpfulresourcesTo be the first to know about our events, read stories of s...2023-10-1946 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingFriendships and so much moreWe talked about a lot of resources available on our website. Check out our Juvenile Justice eBook https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/juvenile-justice-ebookOther tip sheets we talked about, like the Social Battery tip sheet can be found here: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/tip-sheetsWe're still putting the finishing touches on the Friendship eBook. Visit our What's New page to see it as soon as it's published: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/what-s-new For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in P...2023-10-0337 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingSome days are harder than othersThis week we really rely on the excellent information from the PA Education Law Center (ELC) and their truancy resources: https://www.elc-pa.org/truancy/Check out the webinar the ELC did for us on the topic of Truancy. Attorney Wakelin did an excellent job of breaking down each important section of the law and clearly spelling out how schools should be working with Pennsylvania parents to help their children attend rather than punish them for missing. https://youtu.be/lzT5OVYS9aYIf you'd like to talk with a Family Support Partner about your...2023-09-2647 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingYou're out of what?!Struggling to find the right medication for your child with ADHD? You're not alone. Medication shortages can have a significant impact on our children, but there are ways to manage the fallout and support them effectively. It's essential to champion the cause of children with ADHD and seek professional assistance. We share tips on how to advocate for our kiddos effectively. Now, here's where we need YOUR help! If you found these insights helpful, I would love for you to share this post with other parents who may be facing similar challenges. Together, we can create a supportive community and...2023-09-1937 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingAn insiders trick to getting resultsChristina shared one of her favorite resources from Wright's Law, the Letter to a Stranger. Find it and the theory behind how it works here: https://www.wrightslaw.com/advoc/articles/Letter_to_Stranger.html For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/To access any tip sheets and booklets we talk a...2023-09-1246 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingOur babies are all grown upMelissa shared a Mental Health Crisis Plan app, empowering anyone who has a serious mental illness to help guide their treatment preferences during a mental health crisis. https://smiadviser.org/mymhcpTeresa shared an article on FERPA: What parents of college students should know: https://www.usnews.com/education/articles/ferpa-what-parents-of-college-students-should-knowAnd A Parent's Guide to College Student Mental Health from McLean Hospital: https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/parents-guide-college-student-mental-health For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.pap...2023-09-0533 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingThey're going back!Does your child have an IEP? Sign up for our 21 day IEP bootcamp. We'll send you 1 tip everyday to help get your child's IEP into great shape! https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/256643/76927333143938394/shareIf you live anywhere in the state of Pennsylvania feel free to reach out to us and we'll connect you with a Family Support Partner (FSP). An FSP is a parent just like yourself who is also raising a child with mental health challenges. They understand how challenging things can be and they're available to help you figure out how to best help and a...2023-08-3031 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingMental Health Days?We talked about a few resources today. Here they are:What are the physical symptoms of anxiety? Find out in our blog. https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/post/the-physical-symptoms-of-anxietyCreate an Emotional Safety Plan for yourself and then have your children create one for themselves. It can be a great way to start a conversation about mental health days. https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/emotional-safety-planWant to create a calm room at your child's school? Here's some tips https://smithsystem.com/smithfiles/stress-less-create-a-school-calm-room-students-want-to-visit/If your school offers calm rooms, let us know! 2023-08-2230 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingSummer is way harder now then when we were kidsIf you'd like to talk with a Family Support Partner (FSP) connect with us here: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help We'll be talking about back to school challenges in our Parent Connections meetings until the end of September. Join us Monday night at 7 pm (ET) or Friday afternoon at noon (ET). https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/supportgroup And if you child has an IEP now's the time to prepare for the school year. Check out our IEP Bootcamp https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/256643/76927333143938394/share For one on one support at no cost to pa...2023-08-0839 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingStay at home parenting with ADHDWe want to give a big thank you to Brewer who spent his internship with us as our Podcast Producer. His help was so valuable in helping us figure out how to get started and find our feet. Check out Dave's blog about being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult and the impact it had on his life: paparentandfamilyalliance.org/post/getting-an-adhd-diagnosis-in-your-30-s-parents-mental-health-matters-too-1Christina mentioned KC Davis check her out here: https://www.strugglecare.com/ For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health ch...2023-08-0144 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingTime for KindergartenMusic: Dancehall Lush by Spice Originals. Here's some guidance from the PA Department of Education on admission to kindergarten: https://www.education.pa.gov/Policy-Funding/BECS/Purdons/Pages/AdmissionKindergartenBeginners.aspx Be sure to look for your local school district's website for rules and tips specific to your local area. If you have trouble enrolling your child in school or want to talk one on on to a family support partner because you're worried about your child's behavior in school or mental wellness reach out to us here: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help 2023-07-1829 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingCha-cha-cha-cha-changesIf you're not sure if your child is ready for kindergarten or not, the Parent Alliance, Family Support Partners are always available to listen and help you make a plan no matter your decision. https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help If you live in Pennsylvania we're available to help at no cost to you. Parents from anywhere are welcome to join our support groups, webinars and utilize our resources. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help...2023-06-1420 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingReplay - With Power Comes Responsibility - Act 65 of 2020Act 65 of 2020 is a mental health consent law introduced by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. This law "determines who can provide consent for voluntary mental health treatment of minors, in both inpatient and outpatient settings." The original goal of this law and the actual outcome have become blurred and have since negatively affected many families who are unaware of the real meaning behind the law. Listen to today's episode and check out these links below to get a better understanding of this mental health consent law. Enjoy!Find all of our Mental Health Consent resources here...2023-05-3133 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingInsecurities and Changes: The Story of Sunny DaysOn this week's episode Melissa, Tracy, and Brewer talk about all the different things happening at this point in life. School is ending, people are graduating, and pool parties are becoming the norm. For many children and young adults, this is a scary sight. At a time when you should be in relaxation mode, you are faced with a rush of anxiety and insecurities. This can be especially hard for our children that face challenges. In the end, Melissa and Tracy give great insight into combating these sunny day struggles. For one on one support at n...2023-05-2339 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingI Think It's Time to TalkTalking to your child about mental health can be challenging, especially when you are talking about their own challenges. Children and young adults may look at all of these myths and stigmas we talked about last week, and become insecure about their own challenges. This ultimately results in an insecure and defensive situation when you or another trusted individual try and talk to your child about mental health. In the end, open communication is key when it comes to your child and their challenges, but sometimes it is difficult to achieve without problems. In this episode, our crew talks...2023-05-1635 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingBE a Normalizer. NOT a Stigmatizer50 years ago things such as depression and anxiety may have been considered taboo, or not even considered at all. Today, we live in a world where myths and stigmas about youth mental health are constantly represented in schools, social media, and much more. As a young child or teenager, it may be difficult to admit that you may be going through hard times, and these myths and stigmatism do nothing but hurt the situation. If we can normalize before we stigmatize then we can create a socially comfortable space for our kiddos to express themselves in the fullest form. ...2023-05-1132 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingI Can't be Everywhere at OnceSometimes, as a parent, we are forced to give more time and attention to our children that need it more. As young teens/children, these more self-sufficient may not fully understand why they are receiving less than their siblings. Although the love never changes from child to child, sometimes our care does and this stirs up a whole lot of sibling resentment. At the end of the day, no one is to fault but by lending an ear to this episode you may be able to navigate around the issue as a whole. As always, enjoy, and if you...2023-05-0231 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingSummer Series Part 2: Keep the Messy Play Outside!This week we are picking up where we left off with the second part of our 'Summer Series'. In this week's episode, you will hear our moms share some of their favorite summer memories with their kids as well as some of the tips and tricks they picked up along the way. Navigating Summer break can seem expensive and stressful, but we promise that some cheap supplies and an enthusiastic attitude will do just fine. And of course, don't forget to drop your kids off at Cheryl's!For more information visit us @: paparentandfamilyalliance.org...2023-04-2527 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingSummer Series Part 1: More of the Logistical SideThe weather is getting warmer and the days are getting longer and we all know what that means. Yes, the kids are coming back from school and parents gotta figure it out! Whether you work on-site, remotely, or are a stay-at-home parent you are going to need to find your child some time to kill and yourself some time to work. For our kiddos with challenges we also want to try and find them some beneficial programs and our moms get into this by chatting about the logistics of their Extended School Year programs. Although the Summer can be...2023-04-1828 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingSometimes We Just Need a BreakThis time of year always seems like the right time for a little recharge. Whether the time is best filled with family, friends, or our favorite, by yourself it always is nice to get a break from regular life. In this episode, you will get to hear how some of our moms find these little 'recharge' moments throughout their busy days. It is always important to remember to give some time and effort back to yourself as the best you can be as a parent is when you are the best to yourself. For more information visit u...2023-04-1135 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWith Power Comes Responsibility - Act 65 of 2020Act 65 of 2020 is a mental health consent law introduced by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. This law "determines who can provide consent for voluntary mental health treatment of minors, in both inpatient and outpatient settings." The original goal of this law and the actual outcome have become blurred and have since negatively affected many families who are unaware of the real meaning behind the law. Listen to today's episode and check out these links below to get a better understanding of this mental health consent law. Enjoy!More information on the law from the PA Dept...2023-04-0433 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingBack to Basics with some Tips & TricksWe went back to basics with our episode today and decided to offer you guys some tips and tricks to help you navigate through this challenging journey as a parent. Sometimes the simplest tasks like getting up and out of the house can be so difficult, but with some helpful hints, you and your family may be able to tackle the morning better than you ever have. Whether you have the latest technology or traditional, we got you covered in this episode. Enjoy! For more information visit us @:https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/ 2023-03-2827 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingWhy is it so hard finding my child's interest?Growing up, I'm sure you had experiences where you found it difficult to fit in, find a hobby or group which you enjoyed, and every other possible experience when your main goal was to just feel normal. These experiences are the ones that make you so adamant about finding and utilizing your own child's special interest. Although it may be difficult to get this goal, the outcome is so special that we as parents would do whatever we can to achieve it. Hopefully, our episode here makes that journey an easier one. Enjoy!For more information visit...2023-03-2237 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingMy insurance won't cover what my child needs?!In this week's episode, the original crew of Melissa, Christina, Tracy, and Brewer discuss certain resources that can be useful when you feel like you are either stuck in a waiting line, between specialists, dealing with school difficulties, etc. You have probably heard our members mention certain ideas like PH95 and the Student Assistance Program (SAP) but you may not be fully aware of all the behind-the-scenes information when it comes to utilizing these tools. In this episode, you will hear our amazing moms' first-hand experiences when working with these resources. Learn more about SAP here https://ww...2023-03-1434 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingBullying In Today's WorldIn today's episode, we get into a sadly common phenomenon of bullying. Members of our crew give us their own life examples to further their points of view on the matter. At the end of the day, bullying is becoming more intricate and prominent with the advancement of social media and other communication platforms. As a parent, it is hard to resolve the bullying challenges when most of it is happening over technology, but we hope some resources here may be able to help. Resources:Website: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/NBC News Article: h...2023-03-0835 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingHow About Some Bad Parenting Advice?For more information visit us @:https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/ For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/To access any tip sheets and booklets we talk about visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/helpfulresourcesTo be the first to know about our events, read stories of success f...2023-02-2820 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingSome Insight on Secondary TraumaFor more information visit us @:paparentandfamilliyalliance.org For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/To access any tip sheets and booklets we talk about visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/helpfulresourcesTo be the first to know about our events, read stories of success from families raising children...2023-02-2115 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingLet's Chat About Sibling ResentmentRead about one family's challenges with sibling resentment: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/post/dealing-with-sibling-resentmentFor more information please visit us @: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/ For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/To access any tip sheets and booklets we talk about visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/helpfulresources 2023-02-1431 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingDon't Forget to Take Care of Yourself!For more information visit our website:https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/Additional information can also be found on our blog:https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/blog Important Quote:"Do not let perfection get in the way of you completing something" For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at h...2023-02-0735 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingHow Is Your Family Support System?For more information visit us @ https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/ For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/To access any tip sheets and booklets we talk about visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/helpfulresourcesTo be the first to know about our events, read stories of success from families r...2023-01-3131 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingHow Can We Be Better At Exploring Our Children's Interest?Listen to Melissa, Tracy, Christina, and Brewer chat about their experience with navigating a child's interest. Throughout this episode, our crew gives perspectives from both a parental point of view and from the point of view of being a child themselves. Your child's interests can lead to many opportunities both socially and internally, so why not start your exploration with us?For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-help Find out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you...2023-01-2437 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingLet's Chat About TruancyLearn more about your rights as a parent when it comes to your child and truancy. https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/truancySee an example of a Student Attendance Improvement Plan (SAIP) and hear from our friends at the PA Education Law Center about your rights. For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance...2023-01-1730 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingUtilizing Your Child's Strengths: From Adventures in Navigation to Empathy and Problem-SolvingThis episode was about Utilizing your children's strengths. I learned that there are many ways to work on weaknesses with our children and it is important to recognize and nurture their strengths. We should focus on what our children are good at and use it to overcome their weaknesses. We should also look for ways to encourage them to use their strengths, such as utilizing interests to help them in tasks or using empathy to help in social settings. By doing this, we can help our children gain confidence, show them they have value, and create a positive experience...2023-01-1031 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingMy Child Needs Therapy, What Should I Expect Next?Christina, Melissa, Tracy, and Brewer discuss the importance of recognizing mental health challenges in children and the difficulty of getting them the help they need. They discuss the stigma of therapy and how parents can help their children view it positively. They also discuss the extended wait times due to the pandemic, and the availability of online therapy. Finally, they discuss how parents can create an environment for their children for telehealth visits. The moms discussed the difficulty of recognizing mental health challenges in children and the long waitlists to get help, how to help their children view therapy p...2023-01-0334 min

This Is Not What I Was ExpectingIEP BootcampInterested in joining the ongoing Parent Alliance bootcamp? Visit our Upcoming Events page to sign up. https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/upcoming-events It's free and starts when you're ready! For one on one support at no cost to parents of children with behavior and mental health challenges in PA visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/one-on-one-helpFind out more about the PA Parent and Family Alliance and how you can support our work at https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/To access any tip sheets and booklets we talk about visit: https://www.paparentandfamilyalliance.org/helpfulresources 2022-10-3101 min