Parenting

More than 54,000 kids in Oklahoma live with major depression. Though signs and symptoms of mental health issues can be difficult to identify, know how to recognize major warning signs so you’re equipped to help your child when they may need it most:

• Sadness that last two weeks or more

• Withdrawing from or avoiding social interactions

• Out-of-control behavior that can be harmful

As a parent you want to take care of your child physically and mentally. But when you feel that something may be off, do not ignore the signs – calling 988 will give you the support you may need.

– Taylor Ketchum, APR, Jones PR

I know, as a parent, I’m supposed to listen to my children’s problems and to not do what I’m hard-wired to do – solve them as soon as possible.

In my day job, I’m good at solving problems. Outline a complex issue with lots of roadblocks and my mind goes right to work. I’m a solution machine.

That doesn’t work at home – as a parent or a husband. I have to remind myself to shift gears and be a different person than I am at work. I’ve learned a few techniques that work for me. I’ll share them in coming issues.

– Jeff Arnold, The Arizona 100

We live in an era where kids learn how to use technology at a very young age. Even though they are incredibly tech-savvy, it’s important that they learn how to use technology safely and wisely – especially with increasing threats of cybersecurity. Here are some tips you can implement:

• Familiarize yourself with all the trendy social media sites.

• Keep profiles private.

• Think carefully about posting pictures or videos.

• Only accept friend requests from people they actually know.

• Time limit on apps.

To learn more about how you can keep your kids safe online, visit the Center for Cyber Safety and Education.

– Jeanine Bertou, Jones PR

Parents, no matter the age of your kids, you often want them to put down the tablet and go play.

Give them a challenge that will spark their creativity. Some ways:

• 1-3 year olds: Grab a water bottle, toilet paper roll and sponges and tell them to build a robot.

• 4-6: Have them run outside and grab something green, blue and yellow.

• 7-10: Give them painters tape and chalk and tell them they have 30 minutes to cover the driveway.

It doesn’t take money to get their imagination going — just give them an idea and let them run with it.

–  Taylor Ketchum, APR, Jones PR

For many parents, the end of the school year does not mean workload has changed, but it does mean that your mindset needs to change.

Try to find time each day to do something with your kids one-on-one, even if it is just for a few minutes.

Things like:

1. Race to see who can build the tallest tower
2. Solve a puzzle
3. Watch an art video and follow along
4. Go through a cookbook and let your kid pick out a recipe
5. Do a family yoga video together

Use this summer to bond more with your kids, they had a hard year.

–  Taylor Ketchum, APR, Jones PR