Why the Minimum Age for Substances Is 21: The Science Behind the Law
Posted on 3/5/25
Have you ever wondered why you must be 21 to buy alcohol, nicotine, or marijuana? It’s not just a random rule—there’s solid science behind it. Let’s dive into why this age limit is so important for protecting young brains. Your brain keeps developing well into your mid-20s. The prefrontal cortex, which helps with decision-making and...
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Parents in the Know
Posted on 6/14/24
Social media is a part of everyday life; in fact, you might be reading this on a social media platform right now. As adults, we possess the ability to choose what we want to engage with in our lives, an ability honed through personal experiences, relationships, and our evolving vision of what we want our...
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The Do Not Do List
Posted on 1/13/24
As the new year unfolds, we find ourselves immersed in the timeless tradition of seeking a fresh start—a cultural practice that has spanned over 200 years in our Western society. Many Americans embrace the spirit of self-improvement, often manifested in the form of New Year’s Resolutions. As the calendar pages turn, we must introspectively inquire:...
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Our Goal as Parents
Posted on 9/12/23
This is an exciting time for our teens, where they experience increased cognitive abilities, learning, and memory due to the brain’s ability to rewire its connections in response to experiences. What triggers this transition? Physical development (aka puberty), which also initiates brain development. As a teen, I am not only dealing with the stresses of...
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Rx Drugs & Opioids
Posted on 9/4/23
The impact of physical pain on the lives of millions of Americans cannot be underestimated. Opioids, once prescribed to alleviate suffering, have now exposed us to an alarming “opioid crisis” due to their highly addictive nature. Mitigating youth access to prescription medications is imperative, as studies reveal that 60% of teenagers who misuse prescription drugs...
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Gratitude
Posted on 8/30/23
What if someone gave you an easy way to become more upbeat, positive, and energized? Would you take advantage of it? Scientists now know people who practice gratitude and appreciation reap many benefits, such as improved physical and psychological health, increased energy, reduced stress, improved quality of sleep, and mental strength. Gratitude reduces negative emotions...
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