Blog Category: Transition Planning

  • Puberty in Neurodivergent Preteens

    By: Juno Elsa Ottathengil, MSW Practicum Student & Janelle Schenk, LMSW

    December 8, 2023

    This blog will expand on the starting age of puberty, the different types of changes and challenges neurodivergent preteens may experience, ways to support neurodivergent preteens during puberty, and a few neurodivergent-friendly readings on navigating various aspects of puberty.

  • Adjustment to Life Changes

    By: Juno Elsa Ottathengil, MSW Practicum Student & Janelle Schenk, LMSW

    November 30, 2023

    This blog will further expand on the types of adjustments that children may experience at some point, typical behaviors and other expectations during adjustment periods, the distinction between adjustment disorders and depression and anxiety, and ways that children can cope with life changes.

  • Finding a Summer Job

    By: Elena Tsantis & Janelle Schenk, LMSW

    March 31, 2023

    Landing a summer job as a teenager can be a challenging and daunting experience, especially if this is your teens’ first time getting their foot in the door. However, there are many evidence-based strategies to help your teen in overcoming nerves and feeling confident in themselves throughout the job-hunting process.

  • Ann Arbor Resources and Programming for Parents of Gifted and Twice Exceptional Children

    By: Allura Malcolm, M.A., Suzi Naguib Psy.D.

    July 2, 2021

    What is giftedness? Is your child twice exceptional? What resources are available for children who are gifted? You have questions, and we have the answers for you. Read our blog for more information..

  • Return to School: High Schoolers

    By: Melanie Rose, Rachel Piper, LMSW & Suzi Naguib, Psy.D.

    April 6, 2021

    Significant changes in routine are tough for all people, but especially for our teenagers. For teens still learning from home, the transition back to in-person schooling may be on the horizon for them. In this blog you will learn many strategies that can foster a smoother transition for your teen.

  • Getting your Child a Cell Phone

    By: Skyler Rad, Morgan Nicoll, Rachel Piper LMSW & Suzi Naguib Psy.D.

    February 10, 2021

    With the current pandemic, social distancing, and staying home it has become more normalized for kids to turn to their electronics as a source of entertainment. If you are considering purchasing a cell phone for your child, read our blog for tips..

  • Special Needs Summer Camps 2020

    By: Ben Flanagan MSW, Christin DeWit TLLP, Bethany Gilchrist MSW, Rachel Piper LLMSW, Suzi Naguib Psy.D

    March 3, 2020

    Summer is almost here, which means it's time to start thinking about camps for your child. Between work and taking care of your family, we know how difficult it can be to find the time it takes to do extensive summer camp research; which is why we did it for you! Read more for a comprehensive list..

  • Navigating the Community Mental Health System

    By: Charlotte Harrington, Jaime Zavier, LLMSW, Rachel Piper, LLMSW, Suzi Naguib, Psy.D.

    January 6, 2020

    Community Mental Health provides a comprehensive range of services and supports to children, adolescents, and adults. Even if you are otherwise insured, you may still be eligible for CMH services through medicaid application. Read our blog for more information..

  • Navigating the School System

    By: Nicole Mathes, M.A., Amy Nasamran, Ph.D., & Suzi Naguib, Psy.D.

    February 13, 2019

    When children struggle at school, there are steps that parents can take to advocate for their child within the school setting. This blog provides parents with basic information about the school system and how to officially seek help.

  • Let’s Get Moving: Setting Driving and Transportation Goals For Your Teen With Special Needs

    By: Sabrina Riera & Suzi Naguib, Psy.D.

    May 23, 2018

    For many people, driving is a right of passage. There’s that thrilling rush of adrenaline and excitement (and probably a little bit of anxiety) as you get behind the wheel [...]

  • Summer Planning for your Child

    By: Allison Salk & Suzi Naguib, Psy.D.

    May 23, 2018

    As the sun has started to reemerge after a long winter, many parents begin looking ahead to the summer. As a parent of a child with special needs, planning for [...]

  • Social Media Use Among Today’s Youth

    By: Amy Nasamran, M.A. & Suzi Naguib, Psy.D.

    May 23, 2018

    Today’s youth are now more than ever using a wide variety of screen-based media sources, such as TV, video games, and the Internet. Recent research has found that over 90% [...]