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Peer pressure is a normal part of growing up, but that does not make it easy for children to navigate. From wanting to fit in with friends to feeling pressured to make choices that go against their values, kids face social influences every day. The good news is that peer pressure resistance is a skill that can be taught and strengthened. Why Teaching Kids About Peer Pressure Matters Children experience peer pressure in many forms. Sometimes it is obvious, such as being encouraged to break rule …

Self‑determination plays a huge role in how we set goals, stay motivated, and bounce back when things get hard. You can see it when a student keeps practicing even after failing a test, when a teenager advocates for what they need, or when an adult sticks with a long-term goal despite setbacks. Whether you are supporting students, clients, or your own personal growth, these seven steps can help strengthen self‑determination in practical, meaningful ways. 1. Understand What Self‑Determination Is …

It’s the final stretch before winter break. Hallways and classrooms are buzzing with the anticipation and excitement of the holiday season – and break from school! Behind all of the energy, however, your students may feel restless, overstimulated, and even anxious, especially if the holidays are stressful at home. Impulse control goes right out the window, and they may have a hard time focusing. (You probably feel the same way!) Your students may seem more irritable if their home rou …

As a school counselor, you play a pivotal role in shaping the emotional climate of your school. When students feel safe, valued, and respected, they’re more likely to engage, build healthy relationships, and thrive academically and socially. One of the most effective ways to foster this environment is by intentionally promoting a culture of kindness. Why Kindness Matters Kindness isn’t just a “nice-to-have” trait—it’s a foundational skill that supports emotion …

As the holidays approach, gratitude tends to take center stage. Whether it’s a classroom activity, a dinner table tradition, or a social media post, we’re all encouraged to pause and reflect on what we’re thankful for. But here’s the truth: gratitude isn’t just a seasonal exercise. It’s a skill—one that can be taught, practiced, and strengthened over time. And for kids, it’s a powerful tool that can shape how they see themselves, others, and the wo …

When it comes to helping kids grow, both in and out of the classroom, one of the most powerful tools we have is simple: communication. More specifically, communication that begins early and comes from a place of positivity and partnership. Start Early. Stay Connected. Reaching out to families early, before any issues arise, sets the tone for a strong and trusting relationship. When parents hear from you when things are going well, not just when there are problems, they feel like true partners in …

This article was originally published on sociabilitybooks.com, written by Lou Knows What to Do Authors, Kimberly Tice and Venita Litvack. Like the rest of the world, we are obsessed with the new Avengers movie, Infinity War. The plot revolves around possession of extremely powerful gems called the infinity stones. For the folks reading who aren’t Marvel fans (Why aren’t you?), we will list the stones. They actually relate to some very important rules for promoting readi …

When it comes to mental health, there is no ONE right approach or treatment. Every story is different; every child is different. Helping a child or teen work through their mental health issues extends outside of the home. Teachers and counselors are an essential part of this journey. The following is a Q & A with Dr. Dan Daly, current Director of Youth Care Emeritus and former Executive Vice President and Director of Youth Care at Boys Town. This article originally appeared …

Excerpts taken from full article originally featured on boystown.org/parenting.We’ve all heard “Mom, I have this permission slip for a field trip. It’s due today.” If I’m being honest, I hear it several times a year! My daughters struggle to stay organized once they leave school for the day. They’re so excited to come home and watch Netflix or play with the neighbor kids, that they forget I’m supposed to sign them up to go to the zoo.From their teacher’s perspective, it has to be frustr …