Written by Bethany Todd, in Collaboration with Laura Barr What is Neurodiversity? Neurodivisity is defined as the range of differences in individual brain function and behavioral traits, regarded as part of normal variation in the human population (used especially in the context of autistic spectrum disorders). Syrucuse Univsersity states that, “For many autistic people, neurodiversity […]
Empowering Girls to Respond to Social Aggressive Bullying
By Bethany Todd, in collaboration with Laura Barr Bullying behavior can look different coming from a girl versus a boy. While boys tend to bully more physically, girls bullying behavior is often more “socially aggressive”. This aggression is often manipulative behavior that happens away from the eyes of teachers and sometimes parents; it’s hidden. […]
Practical Ways to Teach Young Children How to Respond to a Bully
Written by Bethany Todd, in collaboration with Laura Barr Last week, an 8 year old boy committed suicide after being bullied at school. This utter heart-break is another example why we need to prepare schools and children for how to deal with bullies. In the next few weeks, we will discuss different elements of bullying and […]
Define Success with your Kids
Written by Bethany Todd, in collaboration with Laura Barr Family meeting time! Gather together as a family to define success. It’s important to define words with our children as our language has a strong impact on how children interpret the world around them. I didn’t define success in my own life until well after college […]
Tips and Services for Parents Relocating to Denver
Written by Bethany Todd and Jen Rigsby Each year thousands of families move to different cities pursuing career possibilities or a better lifestyle. While some family members may be excited and inspired by the move, others may feel a sense of stress, anxiety and fear of the unknown. For young children, the stress of […]
Journaling with your Child, Teenager, or Student
Written by Bethany Todd, in collaboration with Laura Barr Journaling is an effective way for parents and children to communicate with each other. It invites both parties to slow down, quiet oneself, and, reflect on thoughts and feelings, before communicating them. Journaling is also effective because it is a process. Communication with children, and especially […]
Denver Libraries Offer More than Just Books
Written by Bethany Todd, in collaboration with Laura Barr The Denver Libraries are a rich source of fun, play, education, and opportunity. If you haven’t plugged into your local library, make a visit. See below for some fun activities you may not have known you can do at the library. It goes well beyond checking […]
The Power of Authentic Listening: At Home and In the Classroom
Written by Bethany Todd, in Collaboration with Laura Barr “Listen to me”, we all beg of our children. But, do we ever stop to explain what we mean? I imagine that many of us don’t. However, explaining what we mean could improve communication and understanding between our child or students and yourself. Improving communication […]
Connecting Elders and Teens: The Value of Inter-generational Programming
Written by Bethany Todd, in Collaboration with Laura Barr Research shows that powerful things happen when we link elders and students. It’s important for different generations to engage and interact. The purpose of inter-generational planning is to serve the community, build character and promote emotional health for both generations involved. Maurice Elias, Professor of Psychology and […]
How White Lies Undermine Teaching our Children Honesty
Written by Bethany Todd, in Collaboration with Laura Barr A white lie is defined as a harmless or trivial lie, especially one told to avoid hurting someone’s feelings. However, I don’t believe that a lie can be harmless. Nick Galifianakis, a cartoonist for the Washington Times enlightened me with his recent cartoon in which two young kids are […]