Kaleigh McMillan Paine, M.A., PLPC

08/11/2025

From TF-CBT to Play Therapy, Attachment Theory to TBRI — these are some of my most-used approaches in the therapy room. 💛 Each one offers kids and families tools to heal, connect, and grow!

08/05/2025

💛 The Invisible String 💛

One of my absolute favorite books to use in session — The Invisible String by Patrice Karst — is a powerful and comforting story for children dealing with separation anxiety, grief, or feeling far from someone they love.

It gently teaches that we’re always connected to the people we love, no matter the distance, no matter what.

Whether it’s a parent going to work, a move to a new place, or the loss of someone special… this book helps kids understand that love doesn’t go away—it stretches, it holds, and it remains.

📚 I use this story often in sessions to help children feel safe, seen, and supported.

If your child is struggling with big feelings around being apart, I highly recommend sharing this story with them. 💕

07/30/2025

It doesn’t always make life easier… but it does make it a little less heavy ✨

07/30/2025

there is no shame in being human.
making human decisions, human mistakes, feeling human emotions. you are as you should be 💖

07/30/2025

07/29/2025

Positive reinforcement goes a long way 💛

When we notice and name the good things our kids are doing, it builds confidence, connection, and motivation.

✨ Try shifting from “good job” to specific, encouraging words.

The more we point out what’s working, the more likely it is to grow! 🌱

07/29/2025

Is There a Difference Between Shame and Guilt? 🤔

Yep—and it’s a big one.

💭 Guilt says: “I made a mistake.”
💭 Shame says: “I am a mistake.”

Guilt can guide us—it helps us recognize when we’ve done something that doesn’t align with our values. It invites change and repair.

But shame? Shame attacks who we are. It often leads to silence, hiding, and self-blame. And when kids feel shame, it can deeply impact how they see themselves.

💛 Want to support emotional growth? Help children (and yourself!) separate what they did from who they are.

We all mess up. But we’re still worthy of love, connection, and growth.

07/29/2025

I’m so excited to share some updates to my office! 💛

My hope is that this space brings safety, playfulness, and connection to everyone who steps inside.

Here’s to a cozy, welcoming place for healing and growth!

07/29/2025

Let’s Talk About Sibling Conflict 💥

“Why are my kids always fighting?”
“Is this normal?”
Short answer: YES. Sibling conflict is completely normal — but that doesn’t mean it’s easy.

Often, it’s not really about the toy, the game, or who sat where on the couch. It’s about big emotions, unmet needs, or feeling disconnected. And when one child (or adult!) is dysregulated, the entire conversation can spiral fast. Think tug-of-war or a seesaw — when one side is up, the other’s down.

✨ Here’s how you can help:
✔️ Regulate first. Help each child calm their body before jumping into problem-solving.
✔️ Separate if needed — not as punishment, but for a reset.
✔️ Connect with each child individually. That 1:1 support can go a long way.
✔️ Once everyone’s regulated, guide the conversation: “What did you need in that moment?” “How can we fix this together?”
✔️ Practice emotional language and listening skills daily — not just during the conflict.

Remember, connection and communication are the keys to long-term change. You’re not just managing the moment — you’re building skills for life. 💛

07/28/2025

Protecting Our Kids Starts with Simple Conversations 💛

Teaching children about safe and unsafe touch isn’t scary—it’s empowering.

✔️ Use real names for private parts
✔️ Teach them their body belongs to them.
✔️ Let them know they can say no to any touch that feels uncomfortable—even from someone they know.
✔️ Remind them: secrets about bodies are never okay.

When we talk early and often, we build safety, confidence, and trust.
You are your child’s first line of protection. 🌈

07/28/2025

Let’s talk about shame. 💛

Sometimes, without meaning to, we say things to our kids that hurt their hearts.

Here are a few examples of shaming phrases:

🔸 “You should be ashamed of yourself.”
🔸 “Why can’t you be more like your brother?”
🔸 “Stop crying. You’re being dramatic.”
🔸 “What’s wrong with you?”
🔸 “You’re acting like a baby.”

To a child, these words can feel like, “I’m not good enough.”

Instead, we can say:

✔️ “I see you’re having a hard time. I’m here.”
✔️ “It’s okay to feel big feelings.”
✔️ “Let’s work on this together.”

Shame shuts kids down.
Connection helps them grow. 💗

Let’s lead with love—even when it’s hard.