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H-E-L-P. Four simple letters, yet one of the most difficult words in the English language to say.  From a young age, children are told to “shake it off”, “let it go”, or “get over it”, when they experience minor physical or emotional pain. These messages can come from parents, teachers, coaches, siblings and friends. But what do these messages really teach our children? Do they model compassion? Do they make them feel valued? Do they help them feel supported, safe and protect …

Five tips for teaching kids how to cope with and react effectively to rumors.Have you ever been targeted by a rumor? I have! In seventh grade, I accidentally burned my neck with a curling iron. The burn resembled a hickey. I tried to cover it up with makeup, but it took less than two hours for a rumor to circulate at school that I had made out with someone, was easy and loose and was most likely pregnant! Growing up in an extremely conservative area, I lost most of my friends by the end of …

Teachers / Counselors, Have you ever asked a child how his or her day was and heard the standard response of “good,” but deep down it seems like something is just a little bit off? In my experience as a school counselor, I find that more and more children are dealing with sadness, but it I also find that children can be masters at hiding these feelings. They may feel embarrassed about the feelings, or may not even be aware of what the feelings are – they just might feel different. Her …