The Child and Family Connection

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Costa Mesa, CA
The Child and Family Connection

The Child and Family Connection is a solutions-oriented group practice focused on strengthening the parent-child relationship.

We provide individual and family therapy to toddlers, children, adolescents and their caregivers with offices in Costa Mesa and Laguna Hills.

02/04/2026

Parenting is a journey with many learning curves. No parent gets it right all the time - and that’s okay. What matters most is how we repair after tough moments.

Repair could look like this: “I’m sorry I raised my voice. Let’s try again.”

Repair teaches children accountability, emotional regulation, and healthy boundaries.

In moments where we react in a way we later regret - we can choose to turn it into an opportunity to teach our children how to navigate growing and taking accountability in their own lives, through example.

Parenting is also a journey of personal learning and growth. Our therapists are here to support you along the way.

02/02/2026

Groundhog Day is all about pausing to notice patterns - just like our emotions.

Just like the groundhog checks the weather, we can help children (and parents!) learn to check in with their emotions:
✔ What am I feeling right now?
✔ Where do I feel it in my body?
✔ What do I need in this moment?

Naming emotions is the first step toward managing them. We’re here to support your family every step of the way.

01/30/2026

❌ Myth: “If my child isn’t having meltdowns, they’re fine.”
⭐ Truth: Not all struggles are loud.

Many children experience anxiety or stress quietly. It can show up as:
👉 Frequent stomach aches or headaches
👉 Perfectionism or fear of making mistakes
👉 Withdrawal or shutting down
👉 Being “extra good” or overly compliant

Big behaviors and meltdowns are only one way kids communicate distress. Quiet signs matter too.

At The Child and Family Connection, we help caregivers notice the subtle signals and support kids before those feelings grow bigger.

You don’t need a crisis to seek support.

01/28/2026

Parenting can feel overwhelming - especially when emotions run high. One powerful tip we often share with families is connection before correction.

Before addressing behavior:
💛 Get down to your child’s eye level
💛 Name the feeling you see (“It looks like you’re really frustrated”)
💛 Offer empathy before guidance

When children feel understood, their brains are more open to learning and cooperation.

The next time your child is upset, pause and connect first…then gently guide.

01/26/2026

Recent research suggests some AI companion apps may pose potential risks for adolescents, particularly during key stages of emotional and social development.

While these apps can feel comforting or engaging, concerns include:
⛔ Reduced real-world social connection
⛔ Over-reliance on technology for emotional support
⛔ Limited opportunities to build coping and communication skills
⛔ Exposure to content that may not be developmentally appropriate

Adolescents benefit most from supportive, real-life relationships that foster emotional growth and resilience.

At The Child and Family Connection, we encourage families to stay informed and intentional about technology use while prioritizing mental health and meaningful connection.

01/23/2026

❌ Myth: “My child going to therapy means I failed as a parent.”

⭐ Truth: Seeking help is a sign of strength and love.

Parenting is complex. There’s no manual, and every child and family faces challenges at different stages. Reaching out for support shows commitment to your child’s emotional well-being, not failure.

At The Child and Family Connection, we believe therapy is a proactive step toward understanding, growth, and stronger family connections. You don’t have to do this alone, we are here to help and support you and your child.

01/21/2026

When emotions run high for kids, it can be hard for parents and caregivers to know the right thing to say. Having a simple script can help you stay calm, and help your child feel connected and supported.

A simple script could look like this:
“I can see you’re really upset right now. It’s okay to feel this way. I’m here with you, and we’ll figure this out together when you’re ready.”

Why it helps:
✨ Names the feeling
✨ Validates your child’s emotions
✨ Reinforces safety and connection

At The Child and Family Connection, we support parents and caregivers in building tools that strengthen relationships and emotional resilience - one moment at a time.
Remember: You don’t have to get it perfect. Showing up with empathy is enough.

01/16/2026

❌ Myth: “My child is too young for therapy.”

⭐ Truth: Children as young as 2–3 years old can benefit from play-based, developmentally appropriate therapy.

Young children often do not have the words or ability to communicate their feelings. Through alternative therapies such as play, movement, art, and connection - children are given the support, tools, space to express emotions and build key developmental skills.

Early support matters.

When children receive help early, it can strengthen emotional development, improve behavior, and reduce struggles later in childhood.

Therapy meets children where they are and supports families growth and communication from the very beginning.

-based

01/14/2026

As we move into the new year, it’s a great time to reflect on expectations - and ensure they match your child’s developmental stage.

Parenting isn’t about doing it perfectly… It's about meeting your child where they are and growing together.

Helpful reminders for parents:
💛 Focus on progress, not perfection
💛 Consider your child’s age, emotional skills, and temperament
💛 Break big expectations into small, achievable steps
💛 Offer guidance and support instead of pressure
💛 Celebrate effort as much as outcomes

When expectations align with development, children feel more confident, capable, and supported; and family relationships grow stronger.

01/12/2026

We loved coming together to celebrate our wonderful colleagues and the exciting arrival of their little ones. It was such a joy to shower them with love, support, and well wishes as they begin this new chapter.

Wishing your growing family so much happiness, health, and sweet moments ahead — we can’t wait to meet the newest additions! 👶👶👶✨

01/09/2026

❌ Myth: Play therapy is “just playing.”

👍 Truth: Play is a child’s language - and therapy helps them speak it.

In play therapy, the therapist isn’t simply playing alongside a child. They are carefully observing patterns, offering thoughtful prompts, and guiding emotional development and expression in a safe, intentional way.

Through play, children can express feelings they don’t yet have words for, practice coping skills, and build tools they can use in real life. Play functions as the bridge between a child’s inner world and the development of their skill set.

Play therapy is meaningful, evidence-based work that supports emotional growth, healing, and connection.

01/08/2026

January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month.

Birth defects affect every 1 in 33 babies born in the U.S. yearly. This month is a reminder that early understanding, compassion, and support can make a meaningful difference for the families impacted.

This month reminds us:
💜 Every child deserves care, understanding, and opportunity
💜 Families benefit from emotional support at every stage
💜 Early intervention and mental health care can strengthen resilience and connection

At TCFC, we’re here to support children and families navigating medical, developmental, and emotional challenges.

If your family is facing uncertainty, stress, or adjustment challenges, you don’t have to do it alone.

Address

151 Kalmus Drive, E250
Costa Mesa, CA
92626

Website

http://www.thechildandfamilyconnection.com/

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