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Netflix’s 'Adolescence' Exposes the Raw Reality of Teen Mental Health—Here’s What Parents Can Learn From It

What Netflix’s Adolescence teaches us about the teenage brain and how extreme social media subcultures can manifest offline. Expert parenting tips from Little Otter.

April 14, 2025

Types of Mental Health Therapy for Young Kids: Which Is Best for Your Child?

Mental health challenges don’t always appear during adolescence or adulthood—research shows that mental health disorders can emerge as early as 4 years old. Yet, many parents aren't aware that therapy is an option to support their little one.

April 9, 2025

7 Easy Bedtime Routine Tips for Children with ADHD

Bedtime can feel like a battle, especially if your kid just can’t seem to slow down. A steady, calming routine can make a big difference—helping them feel more in control, settle easier, and get the rest they need to thrive.

April 9, 2025

Here’s What Makes Kids Anxious (and How You Can Help)

This article explores how anxiety manifests in children, highlighting its different types, causes, and age-specific symptoms. It provides practical advice for parents on how to manage their child's anxiety, recognizing when professional help is needed, and available treatment options.

March 4, 2025

FAQs about Virtual Mental Health Care for Kids and Families

Little Otter’s virtual mental health care model breaks down barriers to pediatric mental health support by providing accessible, evidence-based therapy for children and their families—ensuring that kids, parents, and caregivers all receive the care they need, when they need it.

February 26, 2025

Little Otter Secures $9.5 Million to Transform Family Mental Health Nationwide

Little Otter has raised $9.5 million in a strategic funding round led by top-tier impact investors. This investment brings total funding to-date to $36.35 million, and cements Little Otter’s position as a defining leader in the rapidly growing billion-dollar family mental health market.

February 4, 2025

What to do When Your Co-Parent Has Narcissistic Tendencies

Co-parenting is challenging but when one parent exhibits narcissistic traits, it can feel overwhelming and unpredictable. From communication struggles to maintaining consistency between households, the dynamic can be especially difficult post-separation. This article explores the unique challenges of co-parenting with a narcissistic parent and offers practical strategies to help you support your children and set healthy boundaries.

February 4, 2025

Life Expectancy is Shorter for Adults Diagnosed with ADHD

A recent study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry reveals a startling reality—adults diagnosed with ADHD have a significantly shorter life expectancy compared to their non-ADHD peers. Dr. Helen Egger breaks down the study’s key findings and shares actionable strategies for parents of children with ADHD and adults managing the condition.

February 4, 2025

Q&A on the Mental Health Impacts of Natural Disasters on Children

While the physical devastation of natural disasters is most apparent within the first days and weeks, the mental and emotional toll can extend far beyond then. Child psychiatrist Dr. Helen Egger answered a few of the most common questions parents have in the wake of natural disasters.

January 16, 2025

Parent Tips for Handling Tantrums Over the Holidays

Holiday magic can bring joy—but also tantrums! Learn expert tips to calm big emotions, prevent meltdowns, and keep the season stress-free for your little ones.

December 2, 2024

Navigating Tantrums and Dysregulation with a Whole Family Approach

During our recent Little Otter Live conversation, experts discussed the importance of seeing tantrums as a sign of “mental health fever,” a term we use to describe behaviors that signal underlying stress. Here’s how to understand tantrums from a mental health perspective and create a supportive environment to help children learn emotional regulation.

November 20, 2024

Why Whole Family Mental Health Matters

The idea behind whole family mental health is that children’s well-being is deeply interconnected with the mental health of their caregivers and siblings. By addressing the relationships within the family, we can create a more supportive, nurturing environment for children to thrive.

November 20, 2024

Caring for Caregivers: Insights from Dr. Allison Applebaum on Navigating Caregiving Challenges

Recently, we were privileged to host Dr. Allison Applebaum, a caregiving expert and Director of the Center for Caregiving Science at Mount Sinai. Dr. Applebaum's career is rooted in addressing the emotional and practical challenges caregivers face.

November 19, 2024

Understanding the Surge in Children and Family Anxiety and Depression Post-COVID Lockdowns: A Q&A with Dr. Helen Egger

Dr. Helen Egger discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic intensified mental health issues in children and families, with factors like disrupted routines, increased social media use, and economic instability playing major roles. She emphasizes the need for early intervention and family-centered mental health care to address these lasting challenges.

November 13, 2024

Letter From Dr. Helen Egger Our Co-Founder on World Mental Health Day 2024

A letter from Dr. Helen Egger Little Otter's Co-founder and Chief Scientific and Medical Officer on World Mental Health Day 2024

October 10, 2024

When to Worry: Seeking Professional Help for Children at Risk of Self-Harm or Suicide

This article highlights the importance of seeking professional help if you suspect your child is at risk of self-harm or suicide, offering guidance on how to recognize warning signs, start critical conversations, and connect with mental health professionals who specialize in supporting children and adolescents.

September 9, 2024

When to Worry: Signs and Symptoms of Suicidal Ideation in Young Children

In this article, we provide caregivers with the symptoms of suicidal ideation, highlighting key risk factors, warning signs, and prevention strategies to support their mental health and well-being.

September 9, 2024

9 Suicide Risk Factors for Families to Know

Here are 9 suicide risk factors that may elevate a person’s risk of suicidal ideation or attempts. You’ll also learn warning signs of suicide to watch for in your loved ones.

August 29, 2024

14 Suicide Prevention Tips for Kids, Teens, Parents, and Families

Learn 15 suicide prevention tips for children, teens, parents, families, and adults. You’ll also learn warning signs of suicide, and how to support a person who is experiencing suicidal thoughts. And remember: support exists for you.

August 22, 2024

I’m Worried My Son is Considering Self-Harming. What Can I Do?

One mom recently wrote in, asking “My 11-year-old son was caught Googling ways to commit self-harm. What can I do to respond?” Here’s advice from our child mental health experts.

August 28, 2024

My Child Hurts Themselves When Upset. What Can I Do?

Worried that your child is hurting themselves when they’re upset? In this post, you’ll learn what might be driving the behavior, and how to respond if you think your child is self-harming.

August 28, 2024

When to Worry: Emotional Regulation & Behavior Changes During Back-to-School Season

This article explores emotional regulation and behavior changes during the back-to-school season to help caregivers recognize when professional intervention may be necessary.

When to Worry: School Refusal

School refusal goes beyond the usual back-to-school jitters. In this article, we give caregivers insight into when to worry about school refusal.

When to Worry: Social Anxiety and Back-to-School Season

Learn more about what social anxiety is, strategies to support little ones with social anxiety, and when it’s time to seek additional support.

When to Worry: Separation Anxiety During Back-to-School Season

As summer ends and school begins, some children experience heightened separation anxiety. Learn the signs of separation anxiety and how to recognize when this anxiety may require professional support.

3 Back to School Mental Health Tips for Families

Here are three Back to School mental health tips for families as we head back to the classroom.

What To Do When Your Child Doesn’t Want to Go to School: 3 Expert Tips

Is your child avoiding school? Learn what school refusal is, potential reasons why your child doesn’t want to go to school, how to respond to school avoidance, and when to worry.

How to Help Children Build Social Skills for School

If your child has had limited social experience over the past few months, and you’re worried about them going back to school, you’re not alone. This article provides four tips to help you support their developing social skills.

Why Does My Child Behave Differently at School and Home?

Does your child behave at school, but experience meltdowns and express defiance at home? Here are 8 reasons why, and how to respond constructively.

Did Your Kid Do “Nothing” At School Today?

If your child says, “nothing” when you ask “what did you do at school today?” here’s what it means - and how to have better after-school conversations with your kiddos.

Little Otter Welcomes Amy Kennedy as New Advisor to Extend Impact and Accessibility for Children’s and Family Mental Health

We are thrilled to announce that Amy Kennedy, a dedicated mental health advocate, educator, and co-founder of The Kennedy Forum, has joined Little Otter as an advisor to extend impact and accessibility for children’s and family mental health.

June 5, 2024

Highlighting Dr. Helen Egger's Insights from Fortune Brainstorm Health 2024: Youth and Mental Health

Dr. Helen Egger recently spoke at the Fortune Brainstorm Health conference. One of the focal points for this year’s event was youth mental health, a topic of extreme importance as we navigate the rising mental health crisis among young people. Read the highlights and watch the full discussion here.

June 4, 2024

Recognizing PTSD in Children: Signs, Symptoms, and Support

Understanding and addressing PTSD in children is critical for their mental health and development. This article highlights the signs, symptoms, and effective interventions for PTSD in children to help caregivers support their well-being and recovery. Read more to learn how to identify PTSD in children and provide the necessary support.

May 29, 2024

Common Signs and Symptoms of OCD in Children

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of OCD in children is key for early intervention and effective support. This article provides valuable insights into understanding OCD, identifying symptoms, and implementing strategies to help your child manage their anxiety and compulsions.

May 29, 2024

Mental Health Activities: Make a Friend Album Together

Create a friend album with your child to boost their confidence in social interactions. This fun, creative activity helps children learn about friendship, sharing, and kindness while making personalized memories with their friends.

May 28, 2024

Mental Health Activities: Make a Comfort Object Together

Helping children manage their emotions early on is crucial for their lifelong well-being. Many kids find comfort in "loveys" or "transitional objects," which help them feel secure. Here is a simple, therapist-approved activity to create a "comfort rock" with your child, helping them feel centered and connected to you even when you're apart.

May 20, 2024

United for Change: A Collaborative Commitment to Youth Mental Health

At Little Otter, we believe true change in youth mental health comes from sustained action. Join us this #MentalHealthActionDay to 'Dedicate One Hour to Connection.' Strong relationships enable early intervention and support well-being. Together, we can make a difference

May 16, 2024

Mental Health Activities: How to Make a Calm-Down Bottle

As we say all the time here at Little Otter, the stage for lifelong mental health is set in early childhood. In these critical early years, it’s important to support your child’s emotional, social, and mental development. Here is a therapist-approved preschool mental health activity you can do with the little ones in your family.

May 11, 2024

How to Talk About Stress with Your Child

Did you know that your stress can affect the quality of your interactions with your child? This guide will teach you how to talk to your little ones about stress and equip them with skills to help them work through life’s pressures.

April 11, 2024

4 Tips for Helping Your Child Manage Their Stress Around Standardized Testing

Is your child expressing feelings of stress or worry around upcoming standardized assessments? This article will provide you with practical strategies to help your child work through the challenges of standardized testing with confidence and resilience.

April 11, 2024

Unwind Together: 5 Guided Meditations for Families

Experience the transformative power of mindfulness with your family through these five guided meditations, designed to reduce stress and promote calmness and connection.

April 10, 2024

A Family’s Guide to Parent Specialty at Little Otter

Struggling with parenting challenges and want effective solutions? Learn how Parent Specialty at Little Otter can help. Explore personalized support and evidence-based strategies for your family's unique needs.

April 2, 2024

The Truth About Time-Out

Time-Out can be a confusing concept for parents. This article addresses common misconceptions, provides insights into its benefits for both caregivers and children, and offers guidance on implementing Time-Out in a safe and supportive manner while strengthening the parent-child relationship.

March 19, 2024

How Can I Respond to My Child’s Aggressive Tantrums?

One parent asked us about their child’s aggressive tantrums, and how to respond. Here’s advice from our team of child mental health experts.

March 18, 2024

Addressing Your Child’s Fear of the Dark

Does your child dread bedtime because they’re afraid of the dark? This article walks you through several expert-approved tips for supporting them with this common fear.

March 15, 2024

Understanding and Managing Pediatric Insomnia

Has your child been having trouble sleeping lately? Are they waking up in the middle of the night and can’t get back to sleep or making several trips to your room in the night? They could be struggling from pediatric insomnia. Learn what pediatric insomnia is, and when to seek outside support.

March 14, 2024

10 Savvy Sleep Strategies to Help Your Child Get a Better Night’s Rest

From encouraging physical activity during the day to creating consistent bedtime routines and seeking professional help when needed, this article offers comprehensive guidance to help families navigate bedtime struggles and promote better sleep for children.

March 13, 2024

Recognizing and Supporting Early Signs of Eating Disorders in Children

Early detection can make a significant difference in addressing eating disorders, and understanding the triggers is a crucial step. Here's a guide to help you spot the signs and support your child, along with recommendations for nationwide services.

February 16, 2024

Decoding the Struggles of Selective Eating in Preschoolers

If you've ever found yourself locked in a culinary battle with a picky eater, you're not alone. But what if something deeper is going on, and their selective eating is more than just a phase? This article explores the intricate dynamics of dealing with selective eating habits in preschoolers, revealing that it may signify deeper psychological and social challenges rather than mere pickiness.

February 14, 2024

How to Recognize and Enhance Support in Your Parenting Partnership

It’s common to overlook signs of insufficient support in parenting. In this article, we break down some of the key indicators that suggest a lack of support and provide actionable steps for parents to enhance their support for one another.

January 26, 2024

Mom Guilt: Embracing Imperfection

Mom guilt, a prevalent experience in motherhood, casts a shadow on maternal mental well-being, and recognizing its impact is vital for fostering better mental health. In this article, we delve into strategies to alleviate mom guilt, providing support to mothers in their parenting journey.

January 26, 2024

Mom Rage: Recognizing and Navigating the Storm

Mom rage is a common but seldom discussed phenomenon that many mothers experience. In this article, we discuss how addressing this intense emotional response requires a combination of self-reflection, open communication, and proactive steps to manage immediate triggers and any deeper emotional challenges.

January 25, 2024

Myths and Facts about Virtual Mental Health

In the rapidly evolving landscape of mental health care, virtual mental health has emerged as a revolutionary and accessible way for individuals to seek support. However, misconceptions surrounding this innovative approach persist. In this article, we debunk common myths and shed light on the facts about virtual mental health.

January 12, 2024

A Guide to Easing the Mental Load of Parenting Together

From open communication to celebrating achievements, this guide offers actionable steps for parents to share responsibilities and create a supportive, balanced family environment.

January 11, 2024

5 Tips for a Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve

New Year's Eve is a time of excitement, celebration, reflection, and, of course, fun for everyone! While it might seem like many of the traditional festivities are geared towards adults, there are actually countless ways to make this special night family-friendly, ensuring that everyone from the youngest to the oldest has a memorable time.

December 13, 2023

How to Set Healthy Boundaries During the Holidays to Avoid Burnout

Now that the holidays are in full swing, maintaining healthy boundaries is key to ensuring enjoyment with your family and minimizing stress. Here are some tips on how to set boundaries this holiday season.

December 13, 2023

How to Respond to Your Child’s Picky Eating During the Holidays

During the holidays, we’re all thinking about the different kinds of yummy food that is associated with the season — but what do you do when you have a child that is selective when it comes to food? In this blog post, we’ll provide some suggestions to help navigate the holiday season with a picky eater.

December 13, 2023

How to Encourage Mindful Gift Opening with Children

As parents, navigating the excitement of gift-giving can be a magical experience, but it also presents an opportunity to instill valuable lessons in mindfulness and gratitude. In this article, you’ll learn how you can encourage mindful gift opening with your kids this holiday season.

December 11, 2023

15 Gift Ideas for Nurturing Your Child’s Mental Health This Holiday Season

Explore thoughtful gift ideas for children this holiday season that promote mental health through creative outlets, emotional intelligence, and positive family experiences.

November 22, 2023

Giving thanks: 3 prompts caregivers can use to promote gratitude with their little ones

In this article, we outline three simple yet effective gratitude prompts that you can use with your family. These easy questions can help your family reflect to appreciate all things big and small.

November 21, 2023

Navigating Little Otter's In-Network Coverage with Independence Blue Cross and AmeriHealth

In this article, we break down case rates for Independence Blue Cross and AmeriHealth to help you make an informed decision about your family’s mental well-being.

October 31, 2023

A Parent’s Guide to Safe and Responsible Kids’ Cell Phone Use

In today’s digital age, children using cell phones has become the norm, which presents both opportunities and challenges for parents. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and risks of kids using cell phones, safety tips for parents, and how to determine the right age for your child to start using one.

October 12, 2023

7 Tips for Talking about War with Children

War. It’s something we wish we didn’t have to talk about. But here we are. To help support your family during these difficult times, here are 7 tips for how to talk with your children about war.

October 10, 2023

Common Signs of Anxiety in Children at Every Age

Just like adults, children of every age experience feelings of fear, worry, and apprehension from time to time. But if you’re the parent of a child who seems to have a lot of worries, you might find yourself wondering if something more serious is going on.

May 3, 2023

Little Otter’s Outcomes Show That When You Care for the Whole Family, Everyone Gets Better

At Little Otter, we care for the whole family. Our outcomes show that when you care for the whole family, everyone gets better.

March 28, 2023

Why Do Kids Act Out?

Does your child seem to act out or misbehave on purpose? Learn the four reasons why kids act out, and how to respond when they do.

March 21, 2023

How Can I Respond To My Child’s Picky Eating?

Is your child a picky eater? If so, learn whether it’s typical for children to be picky eaters, what causes picky eating, and 9 ways to respond to picky eating.

March 14, 2023

20 Tips for How to Understand and Parent Your Highly Sensitive Child

If you’re parenting a highly sensitive child, you know it can be full of extremes. These bright, intuitive kids are full of feistiness and intensity. Here are 12 traits of highly sensitive children, and 8 tips to parent them.

March 8, 2023

Should You Ignore a Toddler Temper Tantrum?

Wondering if it’s okay to ignore your toddler’s temper tantrums? This in-depth article is full of guidance from child mental health experts about when and how to ignore a temper tantrum.

March 1, 2023

Temper Tantrums and Your Child’s Mental Health

Temper tantrums are one of the ways kids tell us how they’re doing. In this post, you’ll learn what a tantrum is, and what it means for your child’s mental health.

February 22, 2023

40+ Questions to Ask a Child Psychologist in Your First Appointment

Your first appointment with a child mental health expert is a chance for you to get to know them. Here are 40+ questions to ask a child psychologist, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional in your first appointment.

February 15, 2023

My 10-Year-Old Daughter is Being Bullied. What Can I Do?

As a parent, it can be difficult to know what to do when your child is being bullied. In this post, you’ll learn tips about how to respond and when to worry.

February 14, 2023

My Child Has ADHD and Has Gained Weight. How Can I Support Them?

If your child has ADHD and has gained weight, you may be wondering how to help them. This article aims to clarify how ADHD can impact weight, and what you can do to support your child’s health.

February 8, 2023

15 Questions a Child Psychologist Might Ask in Your First Appointment

Wondering what questions a child psychologist will ask in your first appointment? Here are 15 questions to expect as you prepare. We hope this empowers you to advocate for your family throughout the process.

February 1, 2023

What To Do When Your 2-Year-Old Tantrums Daily

Does your 2-year-old have almost daily tantrums? If so, you’re probably a little exhausted and overwhelmed. This article aims to offer guidance about how many tantrums are typical for toddlers, and when to worry.

January 31, 2023

What To Do When Toddlers Don’t Listen

Sometimes, toddlers just don’t listen. Learn what to do when your toddler doesn’t listen, plus expert tips for teaching toddlers discipline.

January 25, 2023

Is Your Child Overreacting? Here’s How to Respond

Dealing with a “big reactor”? Here are a few insights, mindset shifts, and parenting strategies that can help you deal with a child who overreacts.

January 24, 2023

Should I Worry About My 5-Year-Old’s Tantrums?

Tantrums can be concerning for both kids and for adults! In this post, you’ll learn about 5-year-old tantrums from our team of child mental health experts - and when to worry.

January 18, 2023

A Parent’s Guide to Toddler Bedtime Tantrums

In this article, you’ll learn what causes toddler bedtime tantrums, how to respond to night tantrums, tips to prevent bedtime meltdowns, and when to worry.

January 12, 2023

Toddler Aggression: When to Worry & How to Respond

Parents and caregivers often ask us how to deal with an aggressive child. Seeing toddler aggression - physical behaviors like hitting, kicking, pushing, biting, pinching - often sparks concern. In this article, learn how to deal with an aggressive child, common parenting mistakes, what their behavior might signal, and when to worry.

January 10, 2023

How to Stop a Temper Tantrum: 5 Tips from Child Mental Health Experts

Learn 5 tips for how to stop a temper tantrum from child mental health experts.

January 9, 2023

Little Otter Wins 3 Awards for Best Online Therapy for Kids, Parents, and Families

Little Otter was named the best online therapy for kids and teens, the best online therapy for young children, and the best online couples counseling for parents!

January 3, 2023

My Daughter Has Tantrums When I Return to Work. What Can I Do?

One mom recently shared that her daughter has tantrums when she returns to work. Her daughter also is expressing sibling rivalry when mom is at home. Here’s advice from our team of child mental health professionals.

January 2, 2023

Top 10 Free Child Mental Health Resources of 2022

Here are our top 10 free child and family mental health resources of 2022, all in one convenient place.

December 26, 2022

A Student Is Acting Out. As a Teacher, What Can I Do?

An educator shared concerns about a kindergarten student who recently began acting out - leaving the classroom and destroying property - while saying he misses mommy. Here’s our advice.

December 26, 2022

How Many Gifts Should You Give Kids for the Holidays?

In this blog post about gift-giving, you’ll learn how many presents to give a child for the holidays, tips for talking with family about gifting budgets, and how to help you child learn to receive gifts well.

December 19, 2022

I’m 13 and Can’t Stop Thinking about Death. Can You Help?

One teenager shared her fears about death and dying. Our team of child mental health experts shared their tips for how to cope with these thoughts and worries.

December 19, 2022

Why are Hugs Important for Kids and Parents?

Did you know that hugs and loving touch support our mental health and development? Learn more about the human need for touch, and why hugs are so important for our wellbeing.

December 13, 2022

Does My Child Need Help Coping with Divorce?

One father wrote to us looking for guidance about whether his son was struggling to cope with parental separation and divorce. Our team provided tips for how to help his son, and understand his behavior.

December 12, 2022

Do Weighted Blankets Help with Anxiety?

Learn the science behind weighted blankets and what the research says about whether they actually work to address anxiety.

December 6, 2022

What Should You Expect in an ADHD Evaluation & How is ADHD Diagnosed in Kids?

Does you child’s school want them to get an ADHD evaluation? That’s exactly the situation one mom asked us about. Here’s what to expect in the ADHD evaluation, and how ADHD is diagnosed in kids.

December 5, 2022

When Do Kids Stop Believing in Santa?

If your family traditions involve make-believe characters like Santa, the Easter Bunny, or the Tooth Fairy, you may wonder how long your child will believe in Santa, and how to talk about it as they grow up. Get clear answers from our team of child mental health experts.

November 29, 2022

How Can I Help My Child Process Loss?

One parent recently wrote in asking for clarity about how children process grief, and how to help a child process loss. Here’s advice from our team of child mental health experts.

November 28, 2022

My Child is Scared of New Places. What Can I Do?

One parent asked us about their child’s fear of going new places, and the ensuing tantrums. Here, our team of child mental health experts provided guidance about anxiety and temper tantrums.

November 21, 2022

7 Benefits of Nursery Rhymes and Lullabies for Child Development

Learn 7 benefits of nursery rhymes and lullabies for your child’s development. Hint: it’s not just about language skills!

November 15, 2022

How Can I Handle My 2-Year-Old’s Meltdowns?

One parent wrote to us, worried that their two year old’s tantrums might be a sign of a greater mental health concern. Here’s the question, and answers from our team of mental health experts.

November 15, 2022

7 Benefits of Online Therapy

Wondering about telehealth? Here are 7 of the most important benefits of online therapy for kids, parents, and families.

November 9, 2022

How Can I Stop My 3 Year Old from Hitting?

One parent wrote in about her toddler’s aggressive behavior: hitting. Here are three tips for how to handle 3 year old hitting, from our team of child mental health experts.

November 7, 2022