Webisode 24: Sex and the Kiddies - When and How to Talk to Children about Sex

Forget the birds and bees, today’s kids are much more informed and connected than ever before. They get information from friends, from the Internet, and from everyday media such as movies, advertisements, and TV. Not only are more kids aware of sex at a younger age, more are having it. But this doesn’t mean they understand the physical issues involved nor can handle it emotionally. So when and how do parents today talk to and properly manage their kids and sex? Dr. Kristen Eckler, a respected obstetrician and gynecologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, discusses this often awkward topic with us so parents can be more prepared and more effective in talking to their kids.

Sponsored by: “Please Stop the Rollercoaster! How Parents of Teenagers Can Smooth Out the Ride”

Webinar 23: Grand Theft Childhood - The truth about video game violence

Most of us assume violent video games can negatively affect children and their behavior. After a multi-year, multi-million dollar study, Dr. Cheryl K. Olson, Sc.D. Co-Director for The Center for Mental Health and Media at Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Psychiatry, will summarize the research and findings. Despite Columbine High, Virginia Tech, and other seemingly related tragedies, you’ll be surprised to learn about some of the benefits that these games can actually provide to children.

Sponsored By: Grand Theft Childhood: The Surprising Truth About Violent Video Games and What Parents Can Do

Webisode 17: "Not So Happy Childhood: How to Identify and Deal with a Depressed Child"

Depression is more common than most people realize – especially in children. The average age depression begins is 13-14 years old. Julie Totten, founder of non-profit Families for Depression Awareness is dedicated to helping family members whose loved ones are affected by depressive disorders to get people well and prevent suicides. Julie considers depression a "family illness" - meaning it takes support of loved ones to get well. Julie discusses signs and symptoms for mothers to look for in their children, how mothers can best support their loved ones who have depressive disorders, precautions to take for children prescribed with antidepressants, and personal lessons from her family's experiences.

Sponsored by: Parents For Parents Magazine

Webisode 12: Please Stop the Rollercoaster! Parenting Teens

Hormones, drugs, school, college prep, and the list goes on. Being a teenager is tough business but parenting one can be even more challenging at times. Sue Blaney is the author of “Please Stop the Rollercoaster! How Parents of Teenagers Can Smooth Out the Ride,” a series of discussion group guidebooks for parents to gain support from fellow parents. With such groups all over the country, Sue has heard it all! She is a frequent consultant to the media, religious and academic groups on raising teenagers.

Sponsored by: “Please Stop the Rollercoaster! How Parents of Teenagers Can Smooth Out the Ride”