In episode 29 of the Are they 18 yet?™ podcast, I did part 3 of a 3-part series on literacy (you can find parts 1 and 2 in episode 27 and episode 28.) Since the influx of technology, a lot of us are left wondering how this will impact our children’s learning; especially their reading and writing…
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EP 028: How to help kids become fluent readers and spellers
Figuring out how to help kids learn to spell can be confusing. If you’ve ever helped one of your kids or students spell a word, only to have them forget what you taught them the next day, you know what I mean. The challenge is that if kids don’t automatically catch on to reading skills,…
EP 027: Is texting affecting spelling and reading skills?
With all the technology and texting kids are doing these days, I often find myself wondering if kids are getting enough “good” practice with spelling and reading skills. Based on social rules, texts often don’t have to be written with “correct” grammar and spelling. Since a lot of the kids I’ve worked (who have diagnoses…
EP 026: Does your family need an operating system? (with Kate Wendell)
We’re always updating the operating systems on our devices, but do we ever think about updating the “operating system” we use to live our lives? The truth is, a lot of people end up living with their “default” setting; doing things not because it’s what they want, but because it’s what they think they’re “supposed”…
EP 025: The problem with positive thinking
In this episode, I talk about “toxic positivity” in both the parenting and professional communities for therapists and teachers. If you’ve ever felt dismissed when someone told you to “look on the bright side” or “be grateful for what you have”, you’ll appreciate this discussion. I share:✅Why telling someone to “just think positive” can make an…
EP 024: Building creativity and independence through play (with Drew Vernon)
In this episode, I talk with Drew Vernon about how to help kids develop a natural sense of curiosity and ability to tell stories. Drew currently works for Tonies®, a toy brand that partners with schools to bring screen-free education to your children. He also spend several years working for the LEGO® Group, hosts a podcast with his…
EP 023: De-escalation strategies for home, school, and community (with DJ Stutz)
Meltdowns and tantrums are a normal part of parenting, but it’s not always easy to get through the day if you aren’t sure how to handle them. That’s why in episode 023, I share the second half of my conversation with DJ Stutz, where we talk about bad parenting advice, building self-esteem, and how to…
EP 022: How to set boundaries and share positive feedback with your child (with DJ Stutz)
Most parents know they should be giving their child praise and encouraging them to explore their interests… But most people don’t realize that making small changes to what you say can make a big difference in your day-to-day life and interactions with your family. That’s why in episode 022, I sit down with early childhood…
EP 021: 3 ways to show appreciation for your child’s school
One of the best ways to take care of your kids is to take care of the people taking care of our kids. That includes any professionals working with your child, like teachers, school therapists, administrators, and coaches to name a few. If you know anyone in any of those positions, you know it can be a…
EP 020: How to communicate effectively with your child’s teachers and therapists
It can be frustrating when you aren’t sure how to best support your child; especially when it comes to schoolwork. If you have a child who gets some type of specialized services and therapies, that makes it even more complicated. The good news is that strong communication with the professionals helping your child can make…