Have you ever wondered why children seem so immersed in play, as if it’s the most important thing in the world? What if I told you that for children, play is their most important work? Through play, children develop critical skills that shape their social and emotional development, and it’s much more than just fun […]
It May Look Like Fun, But Play is Actually a Child’s “Work” Read More »
Have you ever heard a child say, “He made me do it!” after getting in trouble? This common phrase highlights a challenge young students face: taking responsibility for their words and actions. Shifting the blame to others might seem like an easy way out, but it prevents them from learning valuable life skills. In my
Teaching Students How to Take Responsibility for their Actions Read More »
Finger traps are simple yet intriguing little toys made from woven bamboo, paper, or plastic. They consist of a hollow, tubular structure with open ends. When you insert your fingers into each end and attempt to pull them out, the trap tightens around your fingers, making it challenging to free yourself. The more you try
Finger Traps: Fun Toys for Powerful Lessons Read More »
Have you ever had a disagreement with a friend and felt like your emotions were blowing up like a balloon? It can be tough to stay calm and find a solution when we’re feeling strong emotions like anger or frustration. But there’s a fun and educational way to practice managing our emotions and solving problems
Innovative SEL Lesson: The Balloon and Skewer Activity for Regulating Emotions Read More »
You’re at the grocery store with your child, who is begging and pleading for a box of “Frosted Fudge Flakes.” You’ve told them no, but they’re having none of it. Suddenly, they throw themselves onto the floor, kicking and screaming at the top of their lungs. You’re embarrassed, frustrated, and feeling like the worst parent
From Chaos to Peace: Proven Strategies for Managing Temper Tantrums Read More »
When your child complains about another child being “mean”, it might not mean what you think it means! As your child grows and begins to navigate their social relationships, it’s natural for them to encounter moments where they feel like someone is being mean or treating them unfairly. It can be tough for kids to
Mean Doesn’t Always Mean MEAN: an SEL Lesson on Social Misperception Read More »
Festivus, the holiday made popular on the TV show Seinfeld, is celebrated on December 23rd. This parody of traditional holiday celebrations includes the annual Festivus tradition known as “airing of grievances,” where participants tell others how they have disappointed or frustrated them over the past year. While it is true that an increase in negative
