Some Tips on Helping your Child Find Opportunities to Open Up More
January 26, 2020

As parents, one of our greatest desires is to foster open and honest communication with our children. However, in the midst of hectic schedules, digital distractions, and the natural reticence that often accompanies childhood and adolescence, creating opportunities for genuine connection can be a challenge.


If you find yourself struggling to get your child to open up and share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, you're not alone. The good news is, with a little creativity and a whole lot of patience, you can cultivate an environment that encourages emotional vulnerability and strengthens the parent-child bond.


Here are some tips to help your child feel more comfortable opening up:


Make it a judgment-free zone Children, especially teens, often clam up for fear of being criticized, lectured, or punished for their thoughts and feelings. Establish your home as a safe space where they can express themselves without fear of repercussions. Listen without judgment, and let them know that your love is unconditional.


Embrace spontaneity Some of the most profound conversations happen organically, not in scheduled "talk time." Be present and seize those spontaneous moments – in the car, during meal prep, or while taking a walk together. When your child seems open and chatty, lean in and engage.


Find common ground Identify shared interests or activities that you both enjoy, whether it's a favorite TV show, a sport, or a hobby. Bonding over these mutual passions can create a relaxed atmosphere that naturally lends itself to deeper conversations.


Encourage journaling For children who struggle to vocalize their thoughts and emotions, journaling can be a powerful outlet. Provide them with a private notebook or journal, and encourage them to use it as a safe space for self-expression.


Seek professional support In some cases, the guidance of a trained therapist or counselor can be invaluable in helping children and teens communicate more openly. Don't hesitate to seek professional support if you feel your child needs an objective third party to confide in.



Remember, opening up is a process, and progress may come in fits and starts. Be patient, consistent, and always lead with love and understanding. By creating a nurturing environment and fostering trust, you'll pave the way for deeper, more meaningful connections with your child – connections that will serve as a foundation for their emotional well-being and personal growth.

By MINDgarden October 8, 2025
Hi, My name is Amber Donahue, I am a Mental Health Therapist at Mindgarden. I’ve had the opportunity to witness the development of MINDgarden from an abstract idea to help children and families to its fruition of a welcoming, unique, safe, and serene place of help and healing . From the calmness of reading under the Magnolia tree in the library to playful excitement of exploring the life skills room; each space has been perfectly curated to invoke a different emotion and address a specific need or challenge. As a therapist, my first visit to the building was very inspiring and rejuvenating, as I saw each room as a new way to connect with my clients and reach them in ways that are impossible in a regular office setting. As a mother, I see MINDgarden as a place that nurtures children and families. There is a warmth to the building and the staff that puts me at ease knowing that my child would feel comfortable and safe spending time here. I was thrilled when I was asked to join the team at Mindgarden. It is a privilege to work in such a beautiful space for people who value family, community and mental health. It is rare to be in a like-minded workplace where everyone truly loves their job, is committed to their work, and is excited to make a difference. I look forward to being here to see and help the vision for Mindgarden become a reality. Amber's Bio Amber Donahue is a licensed mental health therapist with a Master’s in Social Work from Wayne State University, where she also earned a dual title in Infant Mental Health. Her clinical experience includes supporting mothers with postpartum depression, young children (ages 0–6), adolescents, families, and individuals coping with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Her style is laid-back and supportive, but she’s also not afraid to gently challenge when it helps with growth. She believes the relationship between therapist and client is central to healing, so she strives to create a safe, trusting space where you feel comfortable showing up as yourself. Because she sees mental health as something that extends beyond the individual, she works to support the whole family system. Whether she is helping a new mom postpartum, children build emotional regulation skills, or adolescents navigate complex challenges, her goal is to empower families to strengthen connections, build resilience, and find balance together. Mental Health Focus Areas Postpartum and Perinatal Disorders Infant Mental Health Parenting support Separation Anxiety Anxiety & Depression Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) ADHD Stress Management Self-Esteem Issues Social Anxiety General Behavioral Issues Mood Disorders Life Transitions Relationship & Family Stress School or College Stress Family Conflict Women's Issues Therapeutic Approaches Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Attachment Approach Family Systems Approach Person-Centered Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy Strengths-Based Approach Populations Served: Inclusive therapy for people of all identities, backgrounds, and relationships.
By MINDgarden September 2, 2025
Hello, Marhaba! My name is Christine Glasper. I have been a school counselor for 15 years, a private therapist for 9 years and an administrator for 8 years. I am a wife and a mother of 3 beautiful kids. A counselor deeply impacted my life in middle school and my love for working with school age kiddos and young adults was born. Over time that has developed into a drive to open doors of opportunity for my students, to provide a safe space to explore oneself and make life improvements to my clients, and to support teachers, parents and the community at large in our collective efforts to make the world a better place. I am a huge believer in “teamwork makes the dream work”, “be[ing] the change you wish to see”, the Serenity prayer and the golden rule. I’m blessed and thankful to be working with MINDgarden and the Kalasho Education and Youth Services because there are so many mission aligned people here; and only great things can happen when you put a lot of good people together in one place. I look forward to meeting you, dear reader. Have a good day!