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All FAQs sorted by category
All questions and answers (FAQs) gathered in one place. Get an overview now and find what you're looking for and need.

Self-Care
Is self-care selfish?
No, self-care is not selfish—it is necessary in order to be there for others in the long term. Those who pay attention to their own needs protect themselves from excessive demands and can be more loving, patient, and stable in their interactions with others. Studies show that people who practice healthy self-care are less likely to suffer from stress, exhaustion, and burnout (e.g., German Psychological Society, 2023). Discover more about #SelfCare →
Is self-care a strength or a weakness?
Self-care is a strength. It means giving yourself permission to pay attention to your own needs – without feeling guilty. It's about finding little moments of peace, joy, and relaxation that give you strength. Because when you're doing well, your family benefits. Discover more about #SelfCare →
Do I always have to be perfect?
No. No one can always be patient, loving, or organized. Perfectionism not only leads to frustration and exhaustion, but also distracts you from what's important: your relationship with your children. Discover more about #SelfCare →
Why is physical relaxation important for parents?
Physical relaxation releases tension, lowers stress levels, and signals safety to the brain. Parents in particular benefit from this because it allows them to be more patient, calm, and energetic for their children. Discover more about #SelfCare →
What does progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) do?
PMR helps to tense and relax specific muscle groups. This puts the entire body in a state of calm. The method is scientifically proven and particularly effective against stress and inner turmoil. Discover more about #SelfCare →
Is a five-minute break really enough to relax?
Yes. Studies show that just five minutes of conscious rest helps to reduce stress hormones and recharge your batteries. It is not the duration that is decisive, but the conscious execution of the break. Discover more about #SelfCare →
Which exercise is ideal for a short relaxation break in everyday life?
The 5-5-5 breathing technique is particularly suitable for everyday use: inhale for 5 seconds, hold for 5 seconds, exhale for 5 seconds. It calms the pulse, reduces stress, and can be done anywhere. Discover more about #SelfCare →
How long should you meditate for it to be effective?
Just two to five minutes a day is enough to achieve noticeable effects. Quality is more important than duration—even short meditations strengthen serenity and resilience. Discover more about #SelfCare →
What are the benefits of 3-minute breathing meditation?
It helps to clear the mind and quickly reduce stress. You concentrate on your breathing for three minutes—ideal for in between other activities. Discover more about #SelfCare →
What is the 4-7-8 method and how does it work?
With this method, you breathe in for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds, and breathe out for 8 seconds. It immediately calms the body and mind – ideal for inner restlessness. Discover more about #SelfCare →
When should I use abdominal breathing?
In the morning for a clear start, in the evening for relaxation, or anytime when you feel stressed. Deep breathing helps to reduce tension and find more peace. Discover more about #SelfCare →
What is the 5 senses technique and how does it help with stress?
This technique brings you back to the here and now by seeing five things, hearing four, feeling three, smelling two, and tasting one. It helps to stop stress immediately. Discover more about #SelfCare →
What does the hand-on-heart method do?
Gently touching your heart in combination with calm breathing and soothing thoughts immediately calms the nervous system. Discover more about #SelfCare →
Why do parents so often feel guilty?
Feelings of guilt often arise from excessive expectations—of oneself, from society, or from comparisons with others. Many parents believe they have to be perfect, even though children need closeness and love above all else. Discover more about #SelfCare →
Is it normal for parents to feel guilty?
Yes, many parents feel guilty when they believe they haven't done enough. It's important to recognize that mistakes are part of life and that children don't need perfect parents—they need real, loving people. Discover more about #SelfCare →
How can I let go of feelings of guilt?
Question your thoughts: Are they really justified? Replace self-criticism with compassion, set clear priorities, and talk to other parents. It often helps to see that you are not alone. Discover more about #SelfCare →
What is the connection between feelings of guilt and perfectionism?
Feelings of guilt often arise from the feeling of not being good enough. Perfectionism is then an attempt to compensate for this. But the desire to do everything perfectly often leads to even more stress and dissatisfaction. Discover more about #SelfCare →
What helps against the inner pressure to do everything right?
Recognize that perfection is an illusion. Children don't need flawless parents, but people who are present and authentic. Accept your mistakes as part of the learning process – for yourself and your child. Discover more about #SelfCare →
How can I tell if I am a perfectionist?
Perfectionism manifests itself in excessive self-criticism, constant comparisons, the feeling of never doing enough, and a strong fear of making mistakes. If you often feel overwhelmed because everything has to be “perfect,” that can be a sign. Discover more about #SelfCare →
What is the 80-20 rule and how does it help parents?
The 80-20 rule states that 80% of the positive effect comes from 20% of the effort. For parents, this means that not everything has to be perfect. It is important to focus on the essentials—such as spending time together and closeness instead of perfection. Discover more about #SelfCare →
Token-System
What is a token system and how does it work?
A token system is a reward system in which children collect points, stars, or marbles for desired behavior. When a certain number is reached, they receive a pre-agreed reward. It boosts motivation and helps children practice new behaviors. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
What mistakes should I avoid with the token system?
Common mistakes include unclear goals, too many expectations at once, or irregular awarding of tokens. It is important to have realistic goals, regular feedback, and rules that are discussed together. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
At what age does a token system make sense?
Even children as young as 3 can understand simple token systems, e.g., with stars or marbles for small successes. It is crucial that the tasks are age-appropriate and the rewards are motivating. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
How do I formulate goals for a token system correctly?
Goals should be age-appropriate, concrete, and formulated positively. Instead of: Be tidier. Better: Put your toys in the box in the evening. Result: This way, the child knows exactly what is expected and can experience success. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
What are good rewards for a token system?
Rewards should be age-appropriate, meaningful, and emotionally positive—e.g., a family outing, a movie night, or extra playtime. It is important that the child looks forward to it and does not feel pressured. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
What is the difference between a punishment and a logical consequence?
A logical consequence is directly related to the child's behavior, is fair and understandable. A punishment, on the other hand, often seems arbitrary, damages trust and leads to defiance rather than understanding. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
Why do logical consequences work better than punishments?
Because they show children how behavior and consequences are related. This teaches children to take responsibility instead of just reacting to fear or pressure. In the long term, this promotes independent thinking and action. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
When is a consequence truly logical?
When it is directly related to the behavior, the child understands it, and it is age-appropriate. For example, if a child does not clear the table, they clear it before the next meal instead of being banned from watching TV. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
Can logical consequences be combined with a token system?
Yes. While logical consequences support direct learning from behavior, a token system can provide additional motivation—e.g., by rewarding consistent adherence to rules. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
How do I react calmly when my child does not accept the consequence?
Remain consistent, but calm and respectful. Clearly repeat the connection between behavior and consequence without scolding. Children need time to develop insight—patience is crucial here. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
Why are rewards so important in parenting?
Rewards motivate children to repeat desired behavior. They show that your efforts are seen and appreciated. Shared experiences or symbolic rewards further strengthen the parent-child relationship. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
Why is screen time not an ideal reward?
Screen time can be motivating in the short term, but often leads to habituation, sleep problems, and less genuine bonding. Rewards that create experiences or encourage creative activities are better. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
Which rewards are particularly suitable for toddlers?
Young children enjoy visible, immediate rewards such as stickers, singing a song together, or little surprises from a treasure chest. It is important that they can directly link the reward to their behavior. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
How can I motivate my child without material rewards?
Experience-oriented rewards such as playing games together, going on trips, or doing creative projects often have a more lasting effect than material things. They promote bonding, creativity, and motivation based on joy—not possession. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
Can rewards motivate the whole family?
Yes. Shared rewards such as family outings or game nights not only encourage the child's behavior but also promote family cohesion. Everyone works toward a common goal, which strengthens the sense of togetherness. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
Why do many token systems fail despite good intentions?
Common reasons include unclear goals, inconsistent implementation, too many rules, or unattractive rewards. A simple, clear system with motivating goals is usually more successful. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
What makes a successful token system?
An effective token system is based on clearly defined goals, motivating rewards, regular implementation, and visible progress. It should motivate – not stress. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
How many tokens should my child need for a reward?
Small rewards can be achieved after just 3–5 tokens. For larger rewards, 15–20 tokens are appropriate. Important: Rewards should be achievable, but not too easy. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
What can I do if my child finds the token system boring?
Review the rewards – perhaps they are no longer attractive. Build in variety, let your child suggest new goals or rewards, and focus on visible progress (e.g., a success board). Discover more about #TokenSystem →
How can I integrate the token system into everyday life on a permanent basis?
Create fixed routines – e.g., awarding tokens after dinner – and make progress visible. Combine the system with existing routines to make it easy and natural. Discover more about #TokenSystem →
Sibling-Rivalry
Why do clear family rules help to avoid sibling rivalry?
Clear rules provide guidance and create a fair framework. Children know what is allowed, which reduces misunderstandings and arguments – e.g., by taking turns playing with a coveted toy. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
How can I formulate rules in such a way that children accept them more readily?
Involve the children in the rule-making process, formulate rules simply and positively. Instead of: You must not shout. Better: We speak calmly to each other. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
What role does a rule board play in everyday life with several children?
A rule board makes family rules visible and reminds everyone of them. Younger children benefit from symbols, older children from clear texts. It reinforces the binding nature of the agreements. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
What happens when a rule is broken?
Breaking a rule should have a logical, fair consequence. For example: If you take someone else's toy without permission, you are not allowed to choose a new toy for a while. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
How often should family rules be reviewed?
Every 3–6 months or so, it makes sense to review the rules during a small family meeting and adapt them to changing needs or age groups. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
How can responsibility help reduce sibling rivalry?
Children who take on responsibility learn to be considerate of others and develop empathy. This strengthens their relationship with each other and helps them resolve conflicts independently. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
What tasks are suitable for motivating siblings to work together?
Setting the table, tidying up, or a gardening project together promote cooperation. Such activities improve communication and strengthen the sense of togetherness. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
What can I do if a child refuses to take on tasks?
Give your child choices. A self-chosen task gives a feeling of control and increases motivation to participate. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
How should I react if a child complains about an unequal distribution of tasks?
Explain that tasks are distributed according to age and ability, and introduce a rotation principle where the children swap regularly. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
How do children benefit in the long term from taking on responsibility?
They develop more self-confidence, learn to resolve conflicts better, and strengthen their relationship with each other through shared experiences. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
Why is communication so important for a good relationship between siblings?
Good communication helps children express their feelings, clear up misunderstandings, and resolve conflicts – thereby strengthening their relationship with each other in the long term. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
How can I help my child express their feelings better?
Use emotion cards or exercises in which your child names and explains emotions. This teaches them to express their needs instead of turning them into anger or withdrawal. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
What are the benefits of role reversal when siblings argue?
Role reversal promotes empathy. When children put themselves in their sibling's shoes, they understand their point of view better – this reduces the potential for conflict. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
How can I teach my children active listening?
Set an example yourself: make eye contact, ask understanding questions, and summarize what you have heard. Children often adopt this attitude automatically in their everyday interactions with their siblings. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
What creative methods help children communicate?
Storytelling, journaling, or drawing encourage expression and willingness to talk – especially in children who find direct conversation difficult. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
How can I prevent arguments between my children by spending exclusive time with them?
If you give each child undivided attention on a regular basis – e.g., by reading aloud or going for walks – they feel seen and have to fight less for attention, which reduces rivalry. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
Why are family rules so important for harmonious sibling relationships?
Clear, jointly established rules provide guidance, prevent misunderstandings, and help avoid arguments—especially when they are phrased positively and reviewed regularly. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
How can I teach my children conflict resolution in a playful way?
Role-playing, cooperative projects, or the “quarrel game” help children practice conflict resolution in a safe environment and develop solutions together. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
When should I intervene in a sibling quarrel?
If the quarrel escalates or a child feels hurt, you should intervene—but with empathy, without immediately taking sides. Facilitate dialogue and support the children in finding a solution. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
What can I do if one child always takes the blame?
Empower your child by emphasizing that conflicts are usually influenced by both sides. Give them space for self-reflection and support them in their self-awareness. Discover more about #SiblingRivalry →
ADHD
Is ADHD really a disease?
Many experts do not view ADHD as a classic disease, but rather as a reaction to a stressful, stimulus-saturated environment. From this perspective, children with ADHD are considered to be particularly sensitive and adaptable—but in a world that hardly takes their needs into account. Discover more about #ADHD →
Can medication help with ADHD?
Medication can alleviate symptoms such as restlessness or inattention in the short term. However, it does not address the underlying causes, such as emotional insecurity, lack of exercise, or an overwhelming environment. Long-term improvement is usually only achieved through a holistic approach. Discover more about #ADHD →
What can I do specifically if my child is very impulsive or restless?
Instead of pressure or punishment, clear structures, emotional security, and positive reinforcement help. Exercise, a healthy diet (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids), and simple mindfulness exercises can strengthen your child's self-regulation in the long term. Discover more about #ADHD →
Aggressive Behavior
How can I prevent my child from becoming aggressive?
Aggressive behavior often arises from excessive demands or internal stress. You can prevent this by establishing clear, lovingly enforced rules while also creating space for emotions. Children need the opportunity to express anger in a healthy way—through exercise, drawing, or an anger pillow, for example. Also, make sure to slow down your daily routine with plenty of breaks. Discover more about #AggressiveBehavior →
What should I do if my child hits others?
Intervene calmly but firmly: gently restrain your child and explain clearly that violence is unacceptable. It is important not to let the situation escalate. This should be followed by a logical and appropriate consequence, such as a break from play. Avoid harsh punishments – children learn more from boundaries with explanation than from fear. Discover more about #AggressiveBehavior →
How can I help my child deal with anger better?
Show your child alternative ways to express their anger: through language, creative activities, or movement. Role-playing games in which you reenact conflicts together help change perspectives and strengthen social skills. It is particularly effective if you set an example by showing how you deal with frustration yourself – calmly, honestly, and constructively. Discover more about #AggressiveBehavior →
Age-Appropriate Development
How can I tell if my toddler is developing appropriately for their age?
From ages 0 to 3, the focus is on building basic trust, motor development, and early language skills. Your child should have the opportunity to explore their environment safely, e.g. by crawling, climbing, or balancing. Important indicators of healthy development include an interest in closeness, first words, imitative behavior, and regular interaction with caregivers. Fixed rituals and loving attention provide security. Discover more about #AgeAppropriateDevelopment →
How can I best support my preschooler's development?
Children between the ages of 3 and 6 learn through free play, role-playing, and social interaction. Encourage creativity and social skills through crafts, dress-up, and regular meetings with other children. Strong emotions such as anger or frustration can also be processed well in playful scenarios. It is particularly important that your child learns to share, wait, and resolve minor conflicts on their own. Discover more about #AgeAppropriateDevelopment →
What support do young people need in their development?
Young people are faced with the task of finding their own identity and gradually separating from their parents' home. Support your child by taking their interests seriously and talking to them as equals—even when you disagree. Provide guidance without controlling them and offer help with their future career or education. Friendships, hobbies, and first experiences of independence are crucial for healthy development. Discover more about #AgeAppropriateDevelopment →
Social Phobia
How can I tell if my child is suffering from social anxiety?
Social anxiety often manifests itself in subtle ways. Children may seem quiet, withdraw, avoid eye contact, or be reluctant to speak in front of others. Some complain of stomachaches or headaches before social situations. If your child doesn't want to play with friends or hardly participates in school, for example, this could be a sign. Early observation helps to provide timely support. Discover more about #SocialPhobia →
How can I help my child cope better with social anxiety?
Empathetic listening and taking their fears seriously are key first steps. Create gentle approaches to social situations – e.g., with a play date at home or a short conversation with the teacher. Small successes help to build self-confidence. At KindHilfe.de, you will find practical exercises and tips that specifically help with social anxiety. Discover more about #SocialPhobia →
What role do school and friendships play in social anxiety?
A supportive school environment and understanding friends can help reduce fears. Teachers who are considerate and children who respond empathetically strengthen social self-confidence. Open communication with the school and gentle social occasions promote integration. It is worthwhile to actively seek cooperation in this area. Discover more about #SocialPhobia →
How has the pandemic affected children's social behavior in the long term?
Social isolation during the pandemic has led many children to withdraw from social contact. Younger children in particular have had little opportunity to practice important social skills such as sharing, arguing, or compromising. Since then, some children have shown insecurity in groups or avoid new social situations altogether. These developments are not a sign of weakness, but understandable reactions to extraordinary circumstances. Discover more about #SocialPhobia →
Why do some children suddenly seem shy or anxious when interacting with others after the pandemic?
For months, many children had little opportunity to meet with their peers or test themselves in groups. This lack of experience can lead to children feeling overwhelmed today when, for example, they are approached on the playground or asked to participate in school. The fear of doing something wrong or being excluded can manifest itself in social withdrawal or physical symptoms. Discover more about #SocialPhobia →
What can parents do to help their child regain social confidence after the pandemic?
Patience and gentle encouragement are especially important now. Plan small, stress-free social activities—e.g., a visit to a trusted friend or playing together with a neighbor's child. Create fixed rituals and provide space for conversations about fears and uncertainties. This will allow your child to rebuild confidence in social situations at their own pace. Discover more about #SocialPhobia →
Cyberbullying
What distinguishes cyberbullying from traditional bullying?
Cyberbullying takes place in the digital space—i.e., via chats, social networks, gaming platforms, or messengers. Unlike traditional bullying, it happens around the clock, often anonymously and visible to a large audience. This makes it particularly stressful for children because they can hardly retreat. Even their own home no longer offers protection if the bullying continues on their cell phone. Discover more about #Cyberbullying →
As a parent, how can I tell if my child is being cyberbullied?
Noticeable changes in behavior can be clues. Children who are being bullied often withdraw emotionally, appear tense, or avoid their cell phones. Physical symptoms such as headaches or sleep disturbances and a decline in school performance are further warning signs. Many children do not voluntarily talk about their experiences, so it is important to ask them regularly in a calm atmosphere and to observe them closely. Discover more about #Cyberbullying →
What can I do if my child is being bullied online?
Stay calm and show your child that you take the situation seriously. Work together to gather evidence such as screenshots, do not respond to insults, and contact the school, counseling centers, or the police if necessary. In the long term, it helps to boost your child's self-confidence, e.g. through behavioral training or creative activities that give them a sense of achievement. Cyberbullying is stressful – but with support, it doesn't have to be inevitable. Discover more about #Cyberbullying →
The Mother as a Friend
Why can it be problematic when mothers treat their children like their best friends?
When mothers take on the role of “best friend,” there is often a lack of parental guidance, which gives children security and orientation. The child becomes emotionally overwhelmed because they take on responsibilities that do not actually belong to them – such as offering comfort or having intimate conversations. In the long term, this role reversal can impair the child's independence, self-esteem, and ability to deal with conflict. Discover more about #TheMotherasaFriend →
How does excessive closeness to the mother affect the child's independence?
If the relationship with the mother becomes too close or symbiotic, it can hinder the child's autonomy. The child learns that they are jointly responsible for their mother's emotional balance – and thus develops dependence instead of independence. The result: difficulties in detachment, insecurity in later relationships, and fear of disappointing others. Discover more about #TheMotherasaFriend →
How can mothers make the relationship with their child healthier?
A healthy mother-child relationship needs clear roles. Mothers should show parental leadership, set boundaries, and discuss their emotional issues with adults—not with their child. At the same time, it is important to encourage the child's independence and to cultivate their own friendships. If the transition is difficult, family therapy can help find new ways forward. Discover more about #TheMotherasaFriend →
Refusal to Learn
What are common reasons why children refuse to study or do their homework?
There is rarely just one reason why children refuse to study. Common triggers include feeling overwhelmed by the material, lack of motivation, fear of making mistakes, emotional stress, or distractions from leisure media. Sometimes there is also an undiagnosed learning problem or an unstructured environment behind it. Discover more about #RefusaltoLearn →
How can parents respond appropriately to refusal to learn without exerting pressure?
It is important to remain calm and not react with reproaches. Show genuine interest, ask about your child's feelings, and try to find out together where the blockage lies. In such situations, children need understanding, security, and the feeling of being taken seriously. Discover more about #RefusaltoLearn →
What specific measures help to increase motivation to learn?
A learning-friendly environment, fixed routines, realistic goals, and playful learning methods promote motivation. Positive reinforcement is also important: praise the effort, not just the result. Reward systems can be helpful—but they should not become the only incentive. Discover more about #RefusaltoLearn →
How can parents deal with refusal to learn without getting into power struggles?
Avoid getting caught up in a daily battle. Instead, involve your child in decisions, find solutions together, and set clear but fair boundaries. Compromises such as breaking tasks down into small steps can help to overcome obstacles. Discover more about #RefusaltoLearn →
When does it make sense to seek external support?
If the refusal persists or is accompanied by strong fears, frustration, or family conflicts, professional help may be useful. Teachers, tutors, school social workers, or a child and adolescent psychotherapist can offer valuable support, depending on the cause. Discover more about #RefusaltoLearn →
Jealousy in Children
Why do children often react jealously when a new partner enters a parent's life?
Children fear losing their parent's affection. A new partner can trigger insecurity, fear, and feelings of being replaced—especially when routines or closeness suddenly change. Discover more about #JealousyinChildren →
How can I show my child that they are still the center of attention despite the new relationship?
Plan regular exclusive time with your child and maintain existing rituals. Show through reliability and genuine interest that nothing has changed in your relationship. Discover more about #JealousyinChildren →
When and how should I introduce my child to my new partner?
Wait until the relationship is stable and organize the first meeting in a relaxed atmosphere. Joint activities can help build trust without creating pressure. Discover more about #JealousyinChildren →
What can I do if my child rejects my new partner?
Take your child's feelings seriously and avoid coercion. Help them express their concerns, explain the role of the new partner clearly, and give them time to process the change. Discover more about #JealousyinChildren →
Bedtime Rituals
Why is sleep so important for children?
Sleep supports children's physical growth and mental development. During the night, the brain and body regenerate and what has been learned is processed. Lack of sleep can lead to concentration problems, irritability, a weakened immune system, and long-term health problems. Discover more about #BedtimeRituals →
What are useful bedtime rituals for children?
Bedtime rituals such as reading aloud, cuddling, a warm bath, or quiet music help children calm down and feel safe. These rituals signal that the day is ending and make it easier to fall asleep. It is important to perform them regularly and without rushing. Discover more about #BedtimeRituals →
Why should children not use screens in the evening?
The blue light from cell phones, tablets, or televisions inhibits the release of melatonin, the sleep hormone. This makes it difficult to fall asleep and reduces the quality of sleep. Therefore, screen use should be avoided at least one hour before bedtime. Discover more about #BedtimeRituals →
What constitutes a healthy sleeping environment for children?
A quiet, dark, and well-ventilated room with a comfortable temperature (61–64°F) is ideal. The bed should be comfortable and suitable for the child's size. A minimalist design without too many stuffed animals or pillows prevents restlessness in bed. Discover more about #BedtimeRituals →
How much sleep do children need at what age?
Sleep requirements vary with age: Newborns: 14–17 hours, infants: 12–15 hours, toddlers: 11–14 hours, preschoolers: 10–13 hours, schoolchildren: 9–11 hours, Teenagers: 8–10 hours --> Regular bedtimes help to meet these needs. Discover more about #BedtimeRituals →
Mental Illness
Am I to blame for my child's mental illness?
No – mental illnesses arise from a complex interplay of biological, genetic, and psychosocial factors. Feelings of guilt are understandable, but not helpful. It is important to focus on supporting your child and relieving your own stress. Discover more about #MentalIllness →
Can I talk about my child's illness – or is that a betrayal?
Openness is not a betrayal, but can be a relief – for you and your child. Talk to people you trust. Young people should be allowed to decide for themselves who they want to confide in. Silence out of shame unnecessarily increases the burden. Discover more about #MentalIllness →
How can I support my mentally ill child in everyday life without losing myself?
Help by providing structure, offering to talk, and being patient—but don't forget your own needs. Only if you take care of yourself can you be there in the long term. Short breaks, breathing exercises, or talking to friends can help you maintain balance. Discover more about #MentalIllness →
When is it time to seek professional help?
If your child or teenager is sad, anxious, withdrawn, or aggressive for a long period of time, or if their everyday life is severely impaired, therapeutic support should be sought. As a parent, you are also entitled to counseling or self-help. Discover more about #MentalIllness →
What can I do if my child doesn't seem to be making any progress?
Mental healing is often not a linear process. Even small steps are important. Celebrate every positive development—even if it seems small. Patience, trust, and a loving attitude are key elements on the road to recovery. Discover more about #MentalIllness →
Emotional Regulation
What does emotional regulation mean for children?
Emotional regulation is the ability to recognize, name, and control feelings such as anger, sadness, or joy in a manner appropriate to the situation. Children who learn this are better able to cope with conflicts, deal with frustration, and interact more successfully in social situations. Discover more about #EmotionalRegulation →
Why is emotional regulation so important for my child's development?
Children with well-developed emotional regulation have better social skills, feel more comfortable, learn more easily, and cope better with change. They develop stable self-esteem and experience less stress in everyday life. Discover more about #EmotionalRegulation →
How can I help my child regulate their emotions better?
Be a role model in dealing with feelings, talk openly about emotions, and help your child name them. Remain patient during tantrums or withdrawal and show understanding. This will help your child learn to deal with their feelings step by step. Discover more about #EmotionalRegulation →
What to do in case of frequent outbursts of anger or defiant phases?
Such reactions are usually an expression of inner overload. Instead of punishing your child, help them understand their emotions. Stay calm, name the feelings, and accompany them mindfully through the situation—this conveys security and orientation. Discover more about #EmotionalRegulation →
What role does stress play in dealing with emotions?
Children often take on the emotional tension of their parents. A regular, low-stress daily routine helps your child to remain calm and balanced. Your emotional state therefore has a direct influence on your child's regulation. Discover more about #EmotionalRegulation →
Mealtime Rituals for Children
Why are fixed meal rituals so important for children?
Meal rituals give children orientation, security, and emotional stability. They promote healthy habits, strengthen a sense of community, and prevent power struggles at the table. Discover more about #MealtimeRitualsforChildren →
How do I deal with a child who is very picky about food?
Be patient and avoid pressure. Always offer a familiar food alongside something new, keep portions small, and praise your child for every attempt. Important: Food should never be used as a punishment or reward. Discover more about #MealtimeRitualsforChildren →
What helps to combat restlessness and distraction during meals?
Clear rules such as “We stay seated until everyone has finished” help, as does turning off screen devices. A calm atmosphere without toys promotes concentration and pleasant interaction. Discover more about #MealtimeRitualsforChildren →
How can I promote healthy eating habits without being controlling?
Be a good role model yourself, offer a colorful selection of healthy foods, and talk playfully about their benefits. Avoid snacks shortly before meals and focus on eating together. Discover more about #MealtimeRitualsforChildren →
What might a simple everyday eating ritual look like?
Start each meal with a short ritual such as a song, a prayer of thanks, or a moment of silence. Fixed times, a beautifully set table, and helping to prepare the meal reinforce the reliability and joy of eating together. Discover more about #MealtimeRitualsforChildren →
Family Rituals
What exactly are family rituals?
Family rituals are recurring activities in everyday life or on special occasions that give the family structure and cohesion. They can be everyday activities, such as eating dinner together, or celebrations, such as birthdays or holidays. Discover more about #FamilyRituals →
Why do rituals strengthen family cohesion?
Rituals provide security, promote communication, and create shared memories. Through regular repetition, they reinforce the feeling of being part of a stable and loving “we.” Discover more about #FamilyRituals →
What types of family rituals are there?
There are daily rituals such as reading aloud, weekly rituals such as game nights, and festive rituals such as birthday customs. Individual rituals between family members are also valuable. Discover more about #FamilyRituals →
How do I introduce new rituals into the family?
Start with simple, regular activities that everyone enjoys. Make sure the rituals suit your family and can be easily integrated into everyday life—such as a short review of the week on Sunday evening. Discover more about #FamilyRituals →
What should I do if rituals no longer work?
If a ritual no longer fits, it can be adapted or replaced with something new. Families change—rituals should remain flexible and support current needs. Discover more about #FamilyRituals →
Early Childcare
Is it problematic to put a six-month-old baby in daycare?
Yes, it can be problematic. In the first years of life, a constant, sensitive caregiver is crucial for the development of a secure attachment. Early external care can increase stress levels and impair emotional stability. Discover more about #EarlyChildcare →
Why is a secure attachment so important in the first years of life?
Because it forms the foundation for emotional security, social competence, and stress management. Children with secure attachments feel protected, develop more self-confidence, and have more stable relationships later in life. Discover more about #EarlyChildcare →
How can you tell if a baby is suffering from early external care?
A baby who suddenly seems calmer may not be relaxed, but rather resigned. Common signs include increased irritability, sleep problems, or increased separation anxiety. Discover more about #EarlyChildcare →
Are there alternatives to daycare for babies?
Yes. Childminders with small groups, extended parental leave, or a gradual settling-in period are more attachment-friendly alternatives. Working part-time or from home can also help strengthen the bond. Discover more about #EarlyChildcare →
As a parent, how can I strengthen the bond despite daycare?
Plan intensive time together before and after childcare. Be sensitive to your child's needs and ensure rituals, closeness, and reliability in everyday life. Discover more about #EarlyChildcare →
Feeding Disorders
What are feeding disorders in children?
Feeding disorders are recurring difficulties with eating, e.g., refusal to eat, selective eating, or aggressive behavior at mealtimes. They can have physical, psychological, or developmental causes. Discover more about #FeedingDisorders →
Why do some children develop feeding disorders?
Common causes include stress at mealtimes, negative experiences with food, emotional stress, or a need for control during the defiant phase. Bad habits such as distraction from screens can also play a role. Discover more about #FeedingDisorders →
How can parents recognize feeding disorders early on?
If a child regularly refuses meals, eats very little, or reacts aggressively, this may be an indication of an eating disorder. Very small portions over a long period of time should also be taken seriously. Discover more about #FeedingDisorders →
What helps with eating disorders in everyday life?
Regular mealtimes, a calm environment, no pressure, and shared meals help. Children benefit from being allowed to have a say and being involved in cooking. Discover more about #FeedingDisorders →
When should you seek professional help for eating problems?
If your child eats too little over a long period of time, loses weight, or puts a strain on everyday family life, you should consult a pediatrician or therapist. It is also important to seek clarification if you suspect there may be medical causes. Discover more about #FeedingDisorders →
Playing Together
Why is playing with my child so important?
Playing together strengthens emotional bonds, promotes trust, and supports child development. It creates closeness and joy and helps parents and children understand each other better. Discover more about #PlayingTogether →
Which types of play promote which skills?
Free play promotes creativity, board games teach rules and patience, movement games strengthen motor skills, creative games support expression and fine motor skills, and digital games improve problem-solving and spatial thinking in moderation. Discover more about #PlayingTogether →
Which games are particularly suitable for toddlers?
Toddlers benefit from simple games such as feeling, stacking, hiding, or playing with water and sand. These promote their senses, motor skills, and early social interaction. Discover more about #PlayingTogether →
How can I make playing with my child age-appropriate?
Adapt games to age and interests: Preschoolers love role-playing games, elementary school children like team and strategy games, and teenagers enjoy digital or sports games. Let your child have a say and show genuine interest. Discover more about #PlayingTogether →
What should I do if I don't have much time to play?
Just 10 minutes of undivided attention every day strengthens the bond. Plan small rituals, such as a quick game after dinner or painting together on the weekend. Quality counts more than quantity. Discover more about #PlayingTogether →