By Sharon Grand, Ph.D.

​If the holidays are over and you are wondering how you will pay your rent or mortgage over the next few months, or staring at your credit card bill with a sinking feeling in your heart, it’s important to know that you are not alone!  Money blues after the holidays is an experience shared by many, especially here on Long Island where the cost of living is significantly more than the national average.

Often after overspending for the holiday, we blame ourselves for being irresponsible. We may hold resentment towards our spouse for their choices, or our wealthier family members for not understanding. There are moments where we may become overwhelmed with feelings of shame, anger, and stress. Olivia Mellan, the author of the book “Money Harmony: Resolving Money Conflicts in Your Life and Relationships” notes in a 1994 article that “It is important for people not to beat themselves up for having screwed up again.  It won’t help you change and it won’t pay the bills.  The important thing is to forgive yourself and take action.”

A video blog by Sharon Grand, Ph.D.

Dr. Sharon Grand discusses ADHD and Executive Functioning with Michelle Malon, Occupational Therapist

by Sharon Grand, Ph.D.

According to a new study led by University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers, “Elementary school-age children who get less than nine hours of sleep per night have significant differences in certain brain regions responsible for memory, intelligence and well-being compared to those who get the recommended nine to 12 hours of sleep per night.”
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These findings would not be surprising for any parent who has ever dealt with with a tired child. Children are highly impacted by fatigue with significant changes in mood, attention, and focus, so it is easy to imagine how consistent, good quality sleep can have positive effects in the long term on their intelligence and well-being.

Let’s talk about some tips on how to help your elementary child go to sleep and stay asleep through the night.