Sensitivities, Labeling, Teens, Depression, Resources, More

ORCHID CHILD OR DANDELION? That’s a comparison you might hear or read about in the wake of the release of a new book by a professor of pediatrics and psychiatry. According to NPR, Professor Thomas Boyce says, “most kids tend to be like dandelions, fairly resilient and able to cope with stress and adversity in their lives. But a minority of kids… ‘orchid children,’ are more sensitive and biologically reactive to their circumstances, which makes it harder for them to deal with stressful situations.” These sensitivities have profound consequences for emotional and physical health. Find out more.

LABELING. An article at the Worcester, Massachusetts, Telegram describes changes in the attitude toward labeling over the years, and provides reasons why labels can be an advantage. The writer is someone who didn’t have the advantage of a label and consequent services. And as the author notes, “If you don’t label your child, other kids will.” Read more.