I’ve sat in many sessions lately where the air feels heavy before a single word is even spoken; I know exactly what my client is going to bring up because of the distressing national tragedy we’ve both had forcing itself in our social media algorithm. Between the non-stop news alerts and the weight of current events, I know you’re exhausted. As a parent, your first instinct is likely to protect your child’s peace—to shield them from the “scary parts” of the world- but we have to protect them with information by talking to kids about current events.

Every parent has been there: your child pushes back, challenges a rule, or seems determined to test every boundary you’ve set. In these moments, it’s easy to feel frustrated, disrespected, or even worried that you’re “losing control.” But what if I told you that, from a developmental perspective, a child who tests boundaries is often a sign of a healthy, secure, and empowered individual?