We've all been there—the awkward silence after someone praises us, not knowing whether to smile, shrug it off, or just say a simple "thanks." It's like standing at a crossroads with no signposts. I want to take you on a journey into the often underestimated world of compliments.

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.