Sharon Pienaar Educational Psychologist

21/09/2025

It’s National Keep Kids Creative Week. Keeping kids creative through pretend play helps children practice regulating emotions, building empathy, and developing social skills like cooperation and perspective taking. Read about it here:
https://childmind.org/blog/how-pretend-play-helps-children-build-skills/

21/09/2025

06/09/2025

Action for Happiness ❤️

06/09/2025

According to the CDC, su***de is the second leading cause of death for young people aged 10 to 24. And the numbers have more than doubled between 2000 and 2021.

Children who feel they are “different” are at higher risk for bullying, which can contribute to mental health challenges. Students identifying as le***an, gay, or bisexual are 5 times more likely than straight teens to attempt su***de. And according to a survey by the CDC, more than a quarter of gay teens reported attempting su***de in the prior 12 months.

Parents sometimes worry that asking about su***de may make it more likely, but that isn’t the case, and asking is very important. For children who have a hard time admitting they need help, it sends the message that a parent cares very much about them, and that struggling and asking for help is okay. That conversation can be lifesaving.

When a child mentions that they’re thinking about death or su***de, it’s important to take them seriously. And if you’re concerned that they might be in immediate danger of attempting su***de, call 911 or take them to the nearest emergency room.

See our educational resources on su***de and self-harm below:
https://childmind.org/topics/su***de-self-harm/

07/06/2025

Feeling down? Your pet might be the best therapist. 🐾

Research shows that pets don’t just make us smile — they actively support our mental health.

📖 According to studies:

🔹 Cuddling a pet can lower blood pressure & reduce cortisol, our primary stress hormone. (Beetz et al., 2012)
🔹 Pet ownership is linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. (McConnell et al., 2011; Brooks et al., 2018)
🔹 Animals provide consistent emotional support, especially during times of grief, isolation, or transition. (Powell et al., 2019)
🔹 For children and teens, bonding with pets can support emotional regulation and social skills. (Purewal et al., 2017)

Whether it’s a dog, cat, or even a guinea pig, the emotional benefits are real — and backed by science. 🧠🐶🐱🐭🐰🐖

❤️ So give your furry friend an extra cuddle today.

11/05/2025

It’s Exam Term for schools and universities! 🫣

Exam season can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools and mindset, it can be manageable – even empowering.

Here are some simple ways to prep:

• Start small, start now: Break your study material into chunks and tackle a little each day.
• Create a study schedule: A consistent schedule helps your brain know when it’s time to focus.
• Use active study methods: Think mind maps, practice papers, teaching someone else, or using flashcards.
• Stay balanced: Rest, move your body, eat well, and take breaks. Your brain needs fuel and downtime to perform.
• Ask for help: Whether it’s a teacher, tutor, friend, parent, psychologist or counsellor – you don’t have to do this alone.

04/05/2025

🌿Nature isn't merely a backdrop—it's a healing agent:

Research suggests that spending at least two hours weekly in nature is linked to improved health and higher psychological wellbeing, as noted in a 2019 study published in Scientific Reports by White et al. Engaging with nature, whether through walking, listening to birdsong, or sitting under a tree, offers a calming reset for both mind and body. Nature grounds us, calms our nervous system, and reestablishes our connection to what truly matters. 🍂

Prioritise your mental health—step outside and allow nature to support you.🌼🐝



White, M. P., Alcock, I., Grellier, J., Wheeler, B. W., Hartig, T., Warber, S. L., ... & Fleming, L. E. (2019). Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing. Scientific Reports, 9, Article 7730. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-44097-3

29/06/2024

🌟 Helping children with emotional regulation:

😄🫠☺️🫣🤔😒🙄😮‍💨😬😭😱😡😤

As an educational psychologist, I understand how crucial it is for children to learn emotional regulation. Here are some tips to help your child navigate their feelings:

1. Model calm Behaviour: Kids learn by observing. Show them how to stay calm and manage your emotions effectively.
2. Name the emotions: Help children identify and label their feelings. This can make emotions less overwhelming.
3. Create a safe space: Ensure your child feels safe expressing their emotions without fear of judgment.
4. Teach coping strategies: Breathing exercises, mindfulness, and physical activity can help children manage stress.
5. Encourage problem-solving: Guide them in finding solutions to their problems, fostering independence and resilience.
6. Consistent routines: Structure and predictability provide security, helping kids manage their emotions better.

Remember, patience and empathy are key when teaching emotional regulation to young minds. Let's nurture emotionally healthy children together! 🌈💖

25/06/2024

🌟 Understanding Play Therapy 🌟

Ever wondered how children express their thoughts and emotions? 🧠🎨 Play therapy provides a unique window into their world! 🌈

As an educational psychologist, I often use play therapy to help children communicate their feelings, explore relationships, and make sense of their experiences. 🤝 Whether it's through dolls, art, or imaginative play, each session is tailored to their individual needs and developmental stage. 🎭

Here’s why play therapy works wonders:
1️⃣ Non-threatening: Children feel safe to express themselves in a relaxed environment.
2️⃣ Developmentally appropriate: It taps into their natural way of learning and interacting.
3️⃣ Healing through play: It fosters emotional growth and resilience.

20/06/2024

More about psychoeducational assessments.
Contact me for more information.
WhatsApp: 061 791 2413.
Email: info@sharonpienaar.com 🌿