Encompass Parent Talks

Early literacy is about more than simply reading to your child – it’s also about engaging their senses in other ways. Encompass Bi-lingual Early Literacy Specialist Gloria Martinez offers some tips on incorporating art, music, and movement into reading with your child to promote early literacy and other skills. Two mothers also share their techniques.

All parents and caregivers have probably experienced Sibling Rivalry at some point – fighting, tattling, hitting, and attention-seeking behaviors. Encompass Behavioral Health Manager Megan Walsh offers some tips on how and when adults should step in, and when it’s best to let the kids work it out. And two parents share how they manage rivalry in their households.

Many of us likely know someone on the autism spectrum or someone with a child or other family member on the spectrum. According to the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 1 in 54 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Recognizing April is National Autism Awareness Month, we’re discussing it on our Parent Talks podcast in two parts. In Part 1, two mothers share their experiences and the signs and behaviors that led them to seek professional help. We also hear from two pediatric therapists with Encompass, Missy Budworth and Kim Hall, as they offer their suggestions and guidance to parents who have concerns about their child’s development.

Everyone worries and feels anxious occasionally, and when it negatively impacts daily life, it’s time to take action. Current studies show that about 30% of children between ages 3-17 experience symptoms of anxiety. So we’re tackling this important topic in two parts. In Part 2 of Understanding Childhood Anxiety, two kids share how they manage their anxiety and their mothers share their perspectives and what they wish they had done differently. We’re also joined by Encompass Behavioral Health Manager, Megan Walsh, who shares ways parents can help and support their children.