Author Archives: peggy.dolane Posts

I’ve spent a lot of time over the years as an advocate listening to parents talk about their children’s struggles. After listening awhile I might share my lived experience as a parent. Many times after sharing some problem solving ideas or resource referrals, they have asked me to write a book about what I’ve learnedContinue reading “A Washington State Conversation”

As the Legislature prepares to convene and advance the Washington Thriving strategic plan, this work deeply matters and has implications that extend well beyond our state. I recently discovered an advocate in Oregon describing the same systemic failures families experience in Washington. His account mirrors what parents here have been saying for years: children withContinue reading “Washington Thriving Offers Opportunity for Regional & National Change”

Dear Governor Ferguson, I am writing on behalf of thousands of Washington families whose children are navigating serious behavioral health challenges in a fragmented system with so many gaps. You know well that our state ranks 48th nationally for youth flourishing. For too long, investments in children’s behavioral health and education have lagged behind need.Continue reading “An Open Letter to Governor Ferguson”

Parenting children and youth can be stressful. It’s good to plan ahead of time of how to support yourself and keep everyone safe when you feel like you might lose your cool. Remember: When your child is dysregulated, your own emotional regulation matters most. 1. How will I Recognize that a Crisis is Building? IContinue reading “Your Emotional Emergency Plan”