Brenda Miles

About Brenda Miles, PhD

Brenda S. Miles, PhD, is a pediatric neuropsychologist who has worked in hospital, rehabilitation, and school settings.

She is an author and co-author of several books for children, including The Moment You Were Born: A Story for You and Your Premature Baby, Stickley Sticks to It!: A Frog’s Guide to Getting Things Done, Chicken or Egg: Who Comes First? and Princess Penelopea Hates Peas: A Tale of Picky Eating and Avoiding Catastropeas, all published by Magination Press.
Mom smiling while young boy paints on her face with finger paints

Mindfully Engaging All Your Senses

Mindfulness is a strategy that can help us become more fully aware of what’s happening around us and, in turn, feel more fully alive. We’ve probably all heard the word “mindful,” but when we’re talking about mindfulness as an approach to life, we’re talking about something different. We’re talking about very purposefully paying attention to what is going on in the present moment, without worrying about the past or the future, and without judging ourselves in the present. When we are mindful, we focus on our thoughts, feelings, and what is going on in our bodies—and accept whatever that might be. We slow down, and notice the world around us. In the process, we also become aware of things we had no idea we were missing!

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How Mantras Can Help Kids Feel Calm

Big emotions can get the best of all of us. A sudden wave of frustration, anxiety or fear can cause even a usually calm, rational adult to lose her cool. A child overwhelmed by emotion may react so strongly that he feels powerless to calm down. Parents and caregivers can help a child manage strong emotions by teaching him a simple mantra and explaining what is happening in his body when he feels overwhelmed.

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How Mantras Can Help Kids Feel Calm 2018-07-16T11:05:48-04:00

Coping with Pain Using Imagery and Deep Breathing

Childhood is filled with scrapes, bruises, and falls. When a minor injury occurs, children usually shed a few tears, receive a hug and a bandage, and promptly move on. But for some children, pain is a way of life. When a child suffers from something more serious, like cancer, burns, or pediatric arthritis, the management of pain becomes a primary, ongoing concern for both the child and the adults in the child’s life.

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Coping with Pain Using Imagery and Deep Breathing 2018-06-14T14:09:14-04:00