by Deedee | Apr 10, 2026 | Parenting, Social Emotional Skills
Every parent wants to believe they can protect their child from things that may hurt them. So when parents tell me, “My child isn’t on social media,” I understand why that feels reassuring. But in today’s world, keeping your child offline does not mean keeping them...
by Deedee | Apr 2, 2026 | Parenting, Social Emotional Skills
We are raising children in a world that even adults are struggling to understand. As a nation, our mental health is declining. At this point, mental health skill building is just as vital as teaching kids how to tie their shoes. The news is heavy and the pace is...
by Deedee | Feb 20, 2026 | Parenting, Social Emotional Skills
Do you have your hope toolkit ready? You’re probably prepared for all sorts of emergencies. I bet you have a first aid kit for scrapes, a medicine cabinet for unexpected fevers and colds, a spare tire in the car, and flashlights with fresh batteries for power...
by Deedee | Feb 12, 2026 | Diverse Books, Parenting, Social Emotional Skills
Recently, I had the honor of speaking to a room full of literacy leaders about something I believe with my whole heart: Children’s books are not “just stories.” They are emotional rehearsal. They are language for feelings kids can’t yet name. Just like going to the...
by Deedee | Jan 22, 2026 | Achieving Dreams, Parenting, Social Emotional Skills
How to Create a Family Anchor Box and Boost Your Family’s Hope Life has a way of feeling like a storm sometimes. Whether it’s a personal setback, a family challenge, or just the weight of the world pressing down, it is easy to lose sight of hope when life...
by Deedee | Jan 8, 2026 | Parenting, Social Emotional Skills
The words we use have power. They can build us up or tear us down. This is especially true for children. The messages they hear from others—and the ones they learn to tell themselves—shape their inner voice, their self-esteem, and their view of the world. One of the...