Episode 6: Everyone in 7th Grade Was Invited to the Birthday Party Except Me!

Parenting Matters

In this episode of Parenting Matters, Rebecca and special guest host, Dr. Nina Kaiser of Practice SF, discuss the complexities of social dynamics in middle school, focusing on social exclusion, the importance of early intervention, and how parents can support their children through these challenges. The conversation emphasizes the need for resilience, understanding, and effective communication between parents and children, as well as the significance of having at least one good friend. Dr. Kaiser also provides insights on when to seek professional help and the role of social media in shaping friendships.

Takeaways

• Mental health skills can be learned and practiced.
• Social exclusion can start as early as third grade.
• Parents should validate their child's feelings of exclusion.
• It's important to teach children self-advocacy skills.
• Having one good friend can significantly impact a child's well-being.
• Parents should underreact to their child's social mistakes.
• Social dynamics in middle school can be challenging for both boys and girls.

Early intervention can prevent significant social challenges later on.

Children need tools to navigate social situations effectively.

Communication is key to understanding a child's social experiences.

For more info on Dr. Nina Kaiser and PracticeSF:

Practice San Francisco website: https://www.practicesanfrancisco.com

Other Mothers weekly newsletter on Substack: https://othermothers.substack.com

Instagram: @practice.sf and @drninakaiser

Connect with us:

Website: earlychildhoodmatters.com/podcast

Instagram: @EarlyChildhoodMattersSF
Facebook facebook.com/ecmsf

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