Psychologists For The Growing Mind - PFGM

Not all fidgets are created equal.
We sat with Tara Riley to discuss what they are, who they’re for and if they’re legit.

When used intentionally, fidgets can support focus, regulation, and learning. The goal isn’t to follow trends—it’s to find the right support for the right student and use it with clear expectations.

Because different learners need different tools, and that’s okay.

Children don’t understand why Dad is overwhelmed, irritable, or withdrawn—they simply experience it.

This Men’s Mental Health Month, let’s encourage men to seek support, process their emotions, and break cycles that impact future generations.

Healing doesn’t stop with you. It echoes through your family🩵

Every team has a star employee. Ours has four legs. 🐾

The best support for a child never comes from one perspective alone. 🤝

We spoke with occupational therapist Tara Riley to discuss why collaboration between school psychologists, OTs, and speech-language pathologists is so important in understanding the full picture before treatment begins.

Because the right support starts with the right understanding. 🩵

Different fields. Different terminology. One shared goal. 🧠🤝🩺

Dr. Matthews, Pediatrician, and Raquel Matthews, School Psychologist, put their teamwork to the test by quizzing each other on professional terminology from their respective fields.

Because true collaboration goes beyond working side by side — it’s about communicating, learning, and growing together. 🩵

Routine isn’t just for children — it’s something we all need.
Structure creates a sense of safety, predictability and control in a world that can feel overwhelming.⚖️
For children, routines support emotional regulation and development.
For adults, they reduce stress, improve focus and help us show up more fully each day.🔄
Sometimes, it’s the simplest habits that make the biggest difference 📊

Early intervention is not about putting a label on a child.
It is about opening the door to the right support at the right time ⏱️

From age three, developmental evaluations can help families better understand how a child is learning, communicating, and interacting. Waiting and hoping they will simply “catch up” can sometimes mean missing valuable time for support 🪜

When parents, pediatricians, teachers, school psychologists, and therapists work together, children are better equipped to reach their true potential.