Is My Child Ok?: When Behavior Is a Problem, When It's Not, and When to Seek Help

There is an acute public health crisis in this nation; a crisis precipitated by the burden of suffering experienced by children with mental health needs, and their families. Today's students are challenged by an array of concern that directly impact their well-being. Child abuse, family dysfunction, economic dislocation, and the prevalence of violence, sex, and the objectification of woment in our popular culture all influence childrens' lives each day. Children represent 100% of our future. Therefore fostering social and emotional health in children as a component of healthy child development must be a national priority. Anyone who is a parent has asked him or herself at one time "is my child ok?" Dr. Paul has written a cogent, no-nonsese book that will equip parents to be better informed about the mental health issues of children. As a parent of two children, and as a teacher of children with special needs, I have found this book to be extremely useful. Dr. Paul skillfully and gently guides the reader to help her discern when a child's behavior is "just a stage she is going through," and, therefore "developmentally appropriate," as well as what to look for when dealing with maladaptive behaviors, and mental health issues. This book is a must read for parents, teachers, school couselors, and anyone else who has a stake in the mental health of children. Children represent 100% of our future. We need to care for them as best as we can. Dr. Paul's work can help do just that.

Because kids communicate more through behavior than words its so hard sometimes to judge if there is a serious problem or if your child is just struggling to communicate something to you. This book is a great aid in getting insight into your child and holding a parent back from pathologizing them. As the mother of two young boys, I really appreciate the compassionate attitude toward children-- And the reassuring words to the often freaked- out mom. This would definately be one of my "desert island" parenting books.