The Coping Toolbox, a Child Psych Podcast

Dr. Laila sits down with Dr. Jenny Demark, C.Psych., Dr. Linda Reinstein, C.Psych., and Conrad Leung, BCBA, to discuss their new book, Complex Kids, Simple Solutions, and the powerful three-part framework at its core — Prepare, Teach, Motivate. Together, they explore practical, science-backed strategies for nurturing children’s resilience, confidence, and cooperation. In this episode, the guests break down everyday parenting challenges, such as managing screen time, and offer clear, actionable guidance. Key takeaways include prioritizing quality connection, teaching targeted skills, and using positive reinforcement to support lasting behaviour change. Reference:Demark, J., Leung, C., & Reinstein, L. (2025). Complex kids, simple solutions: How to raise resilient, confident, likeable kids.

In this episode, Jenn interviews Jana DeCristofaro, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Community Response Program Coordinator at Dougy Center, and host of the “Grief Out Loud” podcast. We discuss how grief might appear during different developmental stages across childhood and adolescence. We explore long-term effects of grief and protective factors. Jana outlines the challenges of helping your child grieve, while you as a caregiver are grieving, and ideas to manage these difficult times. The difficult question about talking to children about terminal illness is explored. Resources: https://www.dougy.org/resources/audience/parents-caregivers?how=self-care&who=&type= https://www.dougy.org/ https://www.dougy.org/news-media/podcasts https://thecopingtoolbox.podbean.com/e/grief-in-children-with-joanne-doucette-msw-rsw/

In this episode, Dr. Laila interviews Janine Halloran, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, author and speaker from Massachusetts. They discuss how to motivate teens to develop a coping toolbox, and coping strategies for older children and teens experiencing panic attacks (including challenging anxious thoughts, deep breathing, distraction and exposure exercises). Resource: 1) Janine Halloran's websites and podcast: https://www.janinehalloran.com https://copingskillsforkids.com/big-feelings https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZlimmqsvd7ugw7WWa3qU4w Calm and Connected Podcast 2) Anxiety Canada's handout on panic disorder: https://www.anxietycanada.com/sites/default/files/adult_hmpanic.pdf

In this episode Drs. Jenn and Mary discuss some of the early signs of autism in young children. We discuss typical developmental milestones and what might be some indicators of differences in development. Symptoms related to language and communication, social relationships and emotional responses, as well as sensory processing and interests are explored. Drs. Jenn and Mary explore what to do if you have concerns and the role of early intervention. We emphasize that a diagnosis is not based on one symptom but rather a constellation of symptoms, and that that kids with autistic brain styles are unique and have many strengths and gifts. Resources: 1) https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/autism-spectrum-disorder-asd/signs-symptoms-autism-spectrum-disorder-asd.html 2) https://autismcanada.org/autism-explained/early-signs-characteristics/ 3) https://www.cheo.on.ca/en/resources-and-support/autism.aspx

In this episode, Dr. Jenn is joined once again by Joanne Doucette, Registered Social Worker to examine ideas to help navigate the holiday season while you are experiencing grief. They discuss various emotions which are commonly experienced and how to manage some of those big emotions. Joanne outlines a script for how to say “no” when it is in your best interest. They describe the importance of identifying your needs and the value of self-compassion. Resources: 1) https://kidsgrief.ca 2) https://www.dougy.org 3) https://grief.com 4) Sign up for Joanne’s monthly newsletter for further grief-related resources: www.doucettetherapy.com

In this episode, Dr. Jenn interviews Dr. Simon Sherry. Dr. Sherry is a Professor at Dalhousie University and an internationally recognized expert in perfectionism. During this episode, Dr. Sherry describes types of perfectionism and the role of genetics, parenting and social media as possible contributors. They explore mental health issues related to perfectionism such as depression and eating disorders. Dr. Sherry discusses ideas for managing perfectionism, including reframing failures and challenges as learning opportunities. Resources: 1) Young People Drowning in a Rising Tide of Perfectionism: https://theconversation.com/young-people-drowning-in-a-rising-tide-of-perfectionism-110343 2) How Parents Might Pass on Unhealthy Perfectionism to Their Kids: https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2022/03/08/how-parents-might-pass-on-unhealthy-perfectionism-to-their-kids/?sh=22cc7b3e5498 3) Perfectionists More Likely to Develop Bulimia: https://theconversation.com/perfectionists-more-likely-to-develop-bulimia-new-research-104746 4) Helping Your Child Overcome Perfectionism by Anxiety Canada: https://www.anxietycanada.com/sites/default/files/OvercomingPerfectionism.pdf 5) Dr. Sherry's publications: https://cruxpsychology.ca/about-us/publications/ 6) Dr. Sherry's social media links: LinkedIn: Simon Sherry, Ph.D. Instagram: @cruxpsychology Twitter: @cruxpsychology Facebook: @cruxpsychology Psychology Today: Psymon Says The Conversation: Dr. Simon Sherry

In this episode, Dr. Laila interviews world-renowned child psychologist, parent coach and award-winning author, Dr. Dawn Huebner. They discuss the importance of intentional practice in the treatment of childhood anxiety disorders and how parents can help their children take on right-sized, progressive challenges when facing fears. Resources: 1. Dr. Huebner’s Website & Books, including Dr. Dawn's Mini Books About Mighty Fears: https://www.dawnhuebnerphd.com/books-by-dawn/ 2. Dr. Huebner’s TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jryCoo0BrRk

In this episode, Drs. Jenn, Laila and Mary discuss how parents can help their children and teens build resilience. Topics covered include the importance of modelling resilience, optimism, self-compassion and self-care, routines, and supporting children during difficult situations. Resources: The Resilience Workbook for Kids: Fun CBT Activities to Help You Bounce Back from Stress and Grow from Challenges by Caren Baruch-Feldman et al. The Grit Workbook for Kids: CBT Skills to Help Kids Cultivate a Growth Mindset and Build Resilience by Elisa Nebolsine et al. The Resilience Workbook for Teens: Activities to Help You Gain Confidence, Manage Stress and Cultivate a Growth Mindset by Cheryl M. Bradshaw.

In this episode, Dr. Jenn is joined by Joanne Doucette, Registered Social Worker, from Ottawa (Ontario). They discuss differences between grief and mourning, the uniqueness of the experience of grief, emotions associated with grief (e.g., guilt, anxiety, and anger), suggestions for how to talk to your child about death and illness, and how to support your child’s grief journey. Resources: https://kidsgrief.ca https://www.dougy.org https://andreawarnick.com https://www.childrenandyouthgriefnetwork.com

In this episode, Dr. Laila interviews Dr. Jody Thomas, Clinical Health Psychologist, Founder and CEO of the Meg Foundation, and Adjunct Faculty at Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. Thomas discusses evidence-based strategies that parents and healthcare providers can use to reduce pain and prevent needle fears in children. The importance of minimizing painful experiences and medical trauma in early life for long-term health is reviewed. Resources: Meg Foundation: www.megfoundationforpain.org Interactive tool for creating a plan: https://www.megfoundationforpain.org/blog/supermeg-interactive-chatbot-that-helps-kids-manage-the-anxiety-and-pain-of-needle-pokes Pain Champions: https://www.megfoundationforpain.org/pain-champions Resources for healthcare providers: https://www.megfoundationforpain.org/providers

As a follow-up to the Helping Kids Develop a Healthy Body Image episode, Dr. Laila interviews Connie Beaulieu, CSCS, a Fitness Professional with over 25 years of experience from Ottawa (Ontario). They discuss healthy lifestyle choices for youth including avoiding fad diets, the negative influence of social media on body image, the importance of regular exercise, and how parents can help model healthy lifestyle choices. ***Although this discussion is around a psychologically healthy and balanced approach to nutrition and exercise, some of these topics can be sensitive to some listeners. If these topics are triggering for you, please look after yourself by seeking help.*** Resources: CHEO - Helping Your Child or Youth Spend More Time Outdoors: https://www.cheo.on.ca/en/resources-and-support/resources/P6200E.pdf Caring for Kids - Physical Activity for Children and Youth: https://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/healthy-living/physical_activity Government of Canada - Healthy Living Activity Tips for Children and Youth: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/physical-activity-tips-children-5-11-years.html https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/physical-activity-tips-youth-12-17-years.html

In this episode, Drs. Laila, Jenn and Mary discuss what parents can do to help their children and teens develop a positive body image. Topics such as food culture at home, the dangers of diet culture, modelling positive body image, building self-esteem separate from appearance, and critical media consumption are reviewed. Resources: Sick Kids: https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=625&language=english Kelty Mental Health: https://keltymentalhealth.ca/body-image-struggles CHEO: https://www.cheo.on.ca/en/resources-and-support/resources/P5686E.pdf Picture Perfect: The Direct Effect of Manipulated Instagram Photos on Body Image in Adolescent Girls. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/15213269.2016.1257392