Dr. Pontillo Featured on CBS 8 News
30855860912832013-04-29T11:24:33+00:00April 8, 2013 Dr. Deb Featured on CBS 8 News: Controversial gay coloring book hits store shelves
How do I know when it is time to transition my little one out of the crib into a toddler bed?
30855860912832013-04-08T15:42:34+00:00Excellent question! Transitioning to a toddler bed from a crib can be a very exciting time for both you and your child. For most of us, the switch marks the end of the ‘baby’ phase, and the bright beginning of a new ‘big kid’ phase. To help your child make the transition as positive and [...]
What do I do when I think my child has ADHD?
30855860912832023-01-30T21:36:57+00:00Hi Dr. Deb, I was referred to you by my friend. She said you would be able to help me with my son. Earlier this week during a parent teacher conference his teacher and I came to the conclusion that he should be looked at for ADD/ADHD. He is a good hearted child he just [...]
5 Easy Tips to Reduce your Toddler’s Aggressive Behaviors
30855860912832013-02-22T14:50:40+00:00HI Dr. Deb, I am wondering if you have suggestions for my 2 1/2 year old in preschool. He has been throwing sand, pushing kids down (dad taught him to wrestle), taking toys out of other kids hands and throwing them and not doing well during free play/choice time. He does GREAT in circle time [...]
Tips For Parents on How to Talk to Your Child about the School Shooting in Newtown, Connecticut
30855860912832012-12-19T23:21:51+00:00The tragic event that took place on December 14th at Sandy Hook Elementary claimed the lives of 26 individuals, 20 of whom were children. Most of us, especially those of us who are parents, may experience a variety of emotions, from shock, disbelief, and confusion to, grief, loss, fear, and anxiety. Although such feelings are [...]
Navigating Preschool Choice
30855860912832012-11-12T13:13:18+00:00Moderated by child psychologist Dr. Deborah Pontillo, this workshop features a panel of teachers from the Bill and Sid Rubin Preschool at Congregation Beth Israel, The Children’s School-La Jolla, and a Montessori school who will discuss different curricular approaches, including Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, and Jewish values-based schools. This workshop provides an excellent opportunity for parents to [...]
Dr. Pontillo’s Top 5 Myths About ADHD – Debunked!
30855860912832012-10-09T12:17:26+00:00Dr. Deb’s Top 5 Myths About ADHD – Debunked! My child is not hyperactive, therefore he/she can’t have ADHD. This is a very common misperception. There actually are 3 subtypes of ADHD – children who mostly show symptoms of inattention, children who mostly show symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity, or children who have a little of both [...]
5 Quick Tips to Ease Preschool Separation Anxiety..and More!!
30855860912832012-10-02T06:34:51+00:005 (PLUS!) Quick Tips to Ease Preschool Separation Anxiety Dear Dr. Deb, My 3 1/2-year-old just started preschool, and she is having a very tough time separating from me. She whines and complains on the ride in to school that she doesn't want to go, and then clings to my leg and cries at drop-off. [...]
ASD In 4 Year Olds
30855860912832012-10-02T06:28:24+00:00ASD In 4 Year Olds Dear Dr. Deb, I have been reading a lot about Asperger's Disorder and autism spectrum disorder, and I'm worried my 4-year-old might have some of the signs. How do you know if a child has one of these disorders at such an early age? I know that autism itself is [...]
How to Manage ADHD Effectively WITHOUT the Use of Medication (Part I)
30855860912832012-10-02T06:23:20+00:00How to Manage ADHD Effectively WITHOUT the Use of Medication (Part 1 of a series) Dear Dr. Deb, Our 7-year-old son was just diagnosed with ADHD. Our pediatrician has recommended that we start him on medication, however my husband and I are hesitant to put him on medication this young. We are hoping that maybe [...]