MASK The Magazine Spring 2021

In a world where everything is made to look happy, perfect and well put together, how could this not have an effect on children today? When a child is spending so much time scrolling down the screen looking, comparing and ingesting this “false” narrative, how, as parents, can we protect, redirect and monitor how they are feeling? There are so many things today that can contribute to your child feeling less than, feeling anxious and feeling depressed especially during this past year. We know that genetics and environment play a huge role in mental health. Research has also shown that people with parents or siblings who have depression are up to three times more likely to have the condition. While I have never struggled with depression or have felt anxiety for a long…

Do you want to be well-equipped with the appropriate knowledge, resources and tools that will empower you to make healthy and informed decisions for your family? If so, subscribe to MASK The Magazine today! For only $24 a year, you’ll receive four issues of the award-winning MASK The Magazine delivered conveniently to your door. Or, for only $12 a year, download MASK The Magazine to your iPad or iPhone. For information: visit maskmatters.org or call 480-502-5337 MASK ON THE GO Download our digital edition to your iPad or iPhone. Visit zinio.com to subscribe today! SUBSCRIPTION FORM PLEASE MAIL COMPLETED FORM TO: MASK 8937 E. Bell Road Suite 202 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: maskmatters.org MASK will contact you via email regarding MASK subscriptions, promotions, and events. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of your first issue.…

MASK (Mothers Awareness on School-age Kids) is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization created in 2007 by a group of dedicated mothers who recognized the need to consistently educate families on rapidly-changing issues. The MASK mission is to engage and educate parents, children and the community about the issues facing youth and to empower children to make safe, healthy choices. MASK helps children learn invaluable life skills for how to cope with a number of issues including responding to peer pressure, dealing with trauma and technology-related challenges. In today’s viral and social media world, coping skills are more necessary than ever. MASK equips students to feel confident regulating their emotions, maintaining frustration tolerance and setting healthy boundaries. MASK has served the community, for over a decade, with the goal of strengthening parent-child…

Before you give your child a cell phone—or if your child already has one—make an agreement with your child to use it responsibly. The days of using a cell phone for phone calls only are history. Sexting, cyberbullying and “text bombing” are very real concerns and should be discussed early. With the Parent/Child Cell Phone Contract, parents and their children can openly discuss and agree upon the responsibilities that come with having a cell phone. Download the free MASKMatters App today to access the contract and get the conversation started at www.maskmatters.org…

When people say that children are sponges, they aren’t kidding. According to Michigan State University, most children learn through observational learning. That’s why it’s not only important for parents to set a good example, but also to surround their children with adults who also set good examples because they are learning from them, too. It may feel awkward at first asking friends or family to change their language or actions around your child. But if you want the best for them, setting them up with positive role models is the least you can do. You may think you’re doing everything right as a parent, but remember that your child is always watching, even when you aren’t doing “parental duties.” For example, if you’re putting a dresser together and it becomes really difficult,…

Many families across the country are engaged in remote learning or online programs like ASU Prep Digital. Here are some tools and tips for online student learning and success: 1 Set a schedule and check in often. One of the major differences between online learning and brick-and-mortar is that students have the freedom to work at their own pace. Help your child put together a schedule that allows them to work on assignments in a timely fashion without feeling overwhelmed, and check in often to ensure they’re staying on track. 2 Take breaks.It’s important to take breaks! Working for too long can cause burnout and make it harder to complete tasks. Scheduling downtime throughout the day will give your child’s mind and body the break it needs, whether it’s taking a walk,…