Secure attachment at every stage means understanding what your child needs as they grow. In this deep dive, Dr. Sarah Bren uses Erik Erikson’s developmental stages to explain how parents can stay connected through toddler independence, school-age comparison, teen intensity, and repair over perfection.


When a child says reading is boring, the real issue is often frustration, shame, or skills that have not fully developed. In this Q and A, Dr. Sarah Bren and Dr. Emily Upshur explain how to understand school resistance, support confidence, and know when tutoring, incentives, or an evaluation may help.

Independent play isn’t just possible—it’s essential for your child’s growth. In this Q&A, Dr. Sarah Bren and Dr. Emily Upshur share the best toys, activities, and strategies to foster self-directed play. Learn how to set realistic expectations, create a “yes space,” and encourage independence without guilt or overwhelm.

What is developmentally appropriate for a toddler when it comes to sharing and taking turns and how to strengthen these skills.