As a parent, I found myself trapped in a tempest of expectations, societal standards, and the haunting whispers of perfectionism. Every skipped bedtime story, every less-than-nutritious meal—it all became ammunition for the guilt that seemed to be an ever-present companion on this parenting journey.

As a parent, I've often found myself navigating the delicate balance between cheering on my child's accomplishments and fostering a resilient spirit. It was during a seemingly ordinary homework session that I stumbled upon a revelation that changed my approach to parenting—the profound difference between praise and encouragement.

There are some really tough things happening in the world, and as parents (and educators), we want to help our kids understand and feel safe. When headlines feature stories of conflict or war, it’s common for emotions like fear, sadness, anger, and anxiety to surface, regardless of where you live. Here's a simple guide to having these difficult conversations with your children/students.