Years ago, someone shared a simple family tradition with me that I’ve never forgotten.

Every morning, before everyone heads out the door, each person answers one question:

“What is one thing you’re looking forward to today?”

Everyone answers.

Not just the kids.

The adults too.

Maybe it’s something at school. Maybe it’s seeing a friend. Maybe it’s a meeting. Maybe it’s recess.

Then everyone heads out the door.

But the conversation doesn’t end there.

At dinner, they ask the follow-up:

“How did that thing you were looking forward to go?”

Maybe it went wonderfully. Maybe it didn’t happen. Maybe it was a complete disaster.

And that’s okay.

Everything is on the table.

I love this simple tradition because it isn’t really about the question.

It’s about what the question creates. It creates a reason to talk.

It tells children:

What happens in your day matters to me.

I remember a Grade 3 student whose behaviour initially appeared to be the problem. She was avoiding work. She was finding ways not to participate. On the surface, some of her behaviours could easily have been interpreted as defiance, disengagement, or simply not wanting to do the work. But when we looked more closely, we discovered something important: She wasn't reading at grade level.

Think about that for a moment. If you were repeatedly asked to do something you didn't feel you were good at, wouldn't you find a way to avoid it? Most of us would. We don't naturally run toward the things that make us feel unsuccessful. We avoid them. We find distractions. We make excuses. We do what we can to protect ourselves from feeling like we can't do what everyone else seems to be able to do. For this student, assessment helped us understand what was underneath the behaviour. had several areas of literacy that needed to be addressed, including significant foundational difficulties with phonological awareness. Once we understood that, her behaviour looked very different. It wasn't simply a child who "wouldn't" do the work. It was a child who couldn't yet do the work successfully - and had found ways to avoid being put in that position. That distinction matters. It changed the question from: "How do we stop this behaviour?" to: "What is this child telling us, and what does she need next?"That is where literacy and well-being meet.

Looking at the Whole Child

Learning to read is complex. Children need strong foundational word-reading skills, but they also need oral language, vocabulary, knowledge, comprehension, and opportunities to use language in meaningful ways. And they need to believe they can learn. When a child experiences success, we often see more willingness to try. a child has the tools to be successful, frustration can decrease. And when a child begins to see themselves as a reader, that identity can become powerful. This is why our conversations about literacy need to extend beyond test scores and reading levels. The question isn't simply: "Can this child read?" We also need to ask: "What is this child experiencing as a learner?"

Introduction

Across classrooms worldwide, educators are asking: "How do we help children not just succeed academically, but thrive as human beings?"

The evidence is clear - student well-being is not a “nice-to-have,” add on to the curriculum, it’s essential. This research study is one of many I have posted on my website.

What the Research Shows

A systematic review and meta-analysis by Cipriano et al. (2023) analyzed dozens of school-based SEL programs. The findings are powerful:

💥 Universal programs boost student outcomes in social-emotional skills, behavior, and even academics.

💥 Benefits are long-lasting, when SEL is built into the culture of a school.

💥 Results are strongest when programs are delivered with fidelity - meaning staff are well-trained and supported.

What Needs to Be Done

We are passionate about being proactive when it comes to children’s mental health. We have become accustomed to waiting for symptoms for our physical and mental health. We know much more than ever that children can learn strategies at a very young age and have them for life.

This page provides links to evidence based research and change-agents with expertise in child and youth mental health.

What Does the Research Say?

Hundreds of independent studies confirm SEL benefits students … from Casel

As we mark a major milestone in the journey of Taking the Helm, I’m filled with gratitude and excitement! Our 150th episode is here, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate this achievement with none other than Erin Plumb, a recognized leader in assistive technology, accessibility, and inclusion. Erin’s insights on the role of technology in supporting learners both inside and outside the classroom provide an inspiring and timely conversation that speaks to the heart of what this podcast is all about: empowering children and youth to thrive.

Reflecting on the Journey: 150 Conversations of Impact

Taking the Helm podcast presents a 1:1 interview with Radhika (aka Rad) Lakhani, an accomplished attorney, coach, and thought leader in conscious lawyering. Rad shares her deeply personal journey from professional success to spiritual awakening, revealing how life's greatest challenges shaped her mission to guide others toward living their most epic lives.

Have you discovered your own GRIT or recognized how important it is to know, show and sow not only your own, but teach your children how to do the same? Host Lynn McLaughlin is joined by Haze Schepmyer, a Life-Event Transition Consultant dedicated to helping individuals transition from surviving to thriving through life events.

This guest post was written by Jackie Simmons, Founder of the Suicide Prevention Society.

“We imagine a world where suicide is a thing of the past.”

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced educational settings, educators face a growing challenge that goes beyond mere academics: the mental and emotional well-being of their students. Classrooms are becoming microcosms of the larger world, reflecting increased anxiety, stress, and isolation among students. As a lifelong educator with experience from Kindergarten through post-secondary, and entrepreneur whose focus is on emotional health for children and youth, I have witnessed firsthand the urgent need for proactive strategies in emotional education.

We must acknowledge the detrimental impact of social media and the lack of emotional literacy among today’s youth. Loneliness can stem from the craving for external validation, where one’s sense of self-worth depends on how others perceive them. This notion manifests in believing that “I am good only if you see me as good.”

If a teen’s need for validation goes unfulfilled, the teen may experience heightened feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and even depression. This reliance on external validation from social media can perpetuate a cycle of seeking approval from others rather than fostering genuine self-confidence and inner validation. As a result, the teen may struggle to develop authentic relationships and find themselves increasingly disconnected from their true selves and those around them.

In the world of entrepreneurship and authorship, one of the most challenging decisions revolves around participating in conferences or expos. Whether it's weighing the financial investment against potential gains or considering the impact on visibility and networking, entrepreneurs and authors often find themselves at a crossroads. Amber and I have been honoured to have a booth at the American Library Association Conference (in Chicago), as well as Reading for the Love of It (In Toronto) in the past year.

Conferences come with a hefty price tag, often ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars for attendance, booth space, accommodations, travel or workshop presenting opportunities. As Canadians, we also have to take into the account the currency exchange rate, which can increase the cost by over 40%. For entrepreneurs like us, this can be daunting. Each time we consider a submission, we have to carefully evaluate the return on investment (ROI) in terms of book sales, brand exposure, and networking potential.

In a world where our children face an ever-growing array of challenges, the importance of nurturing their emotional well-being has never been more vital. Parents and educators understand that emotional well-being is not just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of a child’s healthy development. By taking a proactive approach, we can equip our children with the tools they need to thrive emotionally and academically before they begin to struggle.

I’ve gathered a great deal of research and in this article, we delve into the concept of being proactive with emotional well-being, drawing insights from some of our renowned experts such as Jon Kabat-Zinn, the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), and the Pediatric Society of Canada.

What Does the Science Say?

Phoenix, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/14/2023 -- Host Lynn McLaughlin is joined by Ginny Luther, who has experienced unimaginable crises in her life. When she was 15 years old, her father took his own life. Tragically, she also lost her son to murder in 2008. She has now authored a book, "Blue Star Grit: A Mother's Journey of Triumph and Tragedy, Raising a Defiant Child into an Exceptional Leader," to help parents see that there is a way!

Through her own experiences and trauma, Ginny Luther helps us see how we can change our approach. Our response at any moment has an impact on a child – they will mirror us. The connection we have with them is the key to effective discipline, and how we respond in those moments with empathy or compassion shows them that we are a safe and secure person.

Kingsville, ON -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/17/2023 -- Host Lynn McLaughlin is joined by Jodi Nolin, an educator with over 25 years of experience. Whether you are a new teacher or seeking ways to calm your classroom, this podcast is your guide to fostering well-being and non-reactivity in both teachers and students. Inspired by the pioneering work of John Jon Kabat-Zinn and 40 years of data and research, we'll discuss the compelling evidence behind the effectiveness of mindfulness practices in reducing stress, enhancing attention, and fostering resilience in students and educators.

Jodi shares personal and professional experiences and practical techniques she is using in classrooms as a special assignment teacher, helping educators cultivate calm and focus within themselves and their students. From kindergarteners to high school seniors, Jodi shares valuable, inclusive lessons and strategies that are available and can be applied throughout the entire K-12 journey.

How has this transformed educational environments and improved overall well-being? Jodi guides us through a lesson, "What's Your Superpower?" Gain valuable insights and practical strategies to create a calm and focused learning environment from the very start of the new school year.

Children are struggling with their emotional well-being in this complex world. We’re passionate about teaching children proven tools and strategies that will help them build resilience, self-confidence, empathy, social and problem-solving skills. We’ve become accustomed to waiting for symptoms rather than being proactive before we begin to struggle with our own physical and emotional health. Imagine a world where children learn to embrace their emotions at a young age and grow up to be the best version of themselves possible.

Beam your child off to a fictional planet where childlike beings glow in the colour they are feeling. Every book takes readers into a conflict that children can relate to. Adults teach them how to recognize, understand and manage their emotions in a fun and positive way. And that’s not all – every character is named after a crystal and this series is the winner of “The Mom’s Choice Award.”

This press release was orginally distributed by SBWire

Kingsville, ON -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/12/2023 -- Host Lynn McLaughlin is joined by Margaret Boersma who points out that conflict is a natural part of family life, but finding peaceful resolutions is more than possible. Don't let anything stop you from supporting your children to thrive! We break down emotional barriers and learn practical techniques, games and activities that teach empathy, promote self-awareness and open the doors to building strong, healthy relationships. And that's not all - learn how to manage your own emotions, gain energy and time for your self-care.

"You are the most influential role model for your children. Imagine having acquired the grounding and skills to be graceful and calm in any situation," says Margaret Boersma.

What is WE-Spark Health Insitute all about?

“WE-SPARK Health Institute is an innovative partnership between Erie Shores HealthCare, Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, St. Clair College, University of Windsor and Windsor Regional Hospital that brings together health research strengths, expertise, and infrastructure froREm across the Windsor-Essex region of Ontario, Canada. We are establishing research pipelines to address pressing health issues, advancing discovery, innovation and technology, training and promoting excellence among our health professionals, and engaging our community.” Click here to view the brochure.

Reference: https://www.wesparkhealth.com/

As someone who has experienced firsthand what the power of research can do, I am honoured to be writing for this forward-thinking organization. Research brings us more options and opportunities when faced with treatment decisions. Each person I have the pleasure of meeting is delving into something new and exciting and I’m excited to help them share their work.

If you are someone who is looking for information on research that is currently being done, WE-SPARK is a place to start. I’ll be posting links to my articles as they are published.

If you know of a student graduating in June, please read on!

There are over 130 scholarships and/or bursaries available in our community alone that range from $300 to $10,000.

Thousands of dollars go unawarded every year. It’s more than worth the time to look at all the options as things have changed in recent years. Essays are not always required. Some allow submissions which include video, audio, podcast or artistic representations. Reference letters are also not required by many.

Specific details about each application are posted for the grade 12s in the Greater Essex County District School Board’s Edsby folder titled “Scholarship Applications 2022/23.” Deadlines for applications begin mid-April.

There are applications for students who are pursuing studies in horticulture, health care, food service or hospitality, entering law or emergency service, science, history, public relations, civics, technology, engineering, math, criminology, law, agriculture, border services, education, business and more.

After 25 years of songwriting, Shannon Curtis, a self-employed working artist and natural night owl, embarks on an inspiring journey of reclaiming her peace and power, providing a unique door to connection and a chance to create something better in the world.

"When we stand and act in our power, it's not a matter of belief - I know it because I've experienced it. That brings me peace. That brings my spirit a sense of serenity."

Shannon Curtis was a self-employed working artist who started writing and recording music at a young age with little confidence in her talents. Now, Shannon understands that music is a powerful way to connect with others and share stories of healing and growth. After becoming consumed by the state of the world and the pandemic, Shannon decided to take an intentional deep dive back into her Twelve Step Recovery Codependent Program.

Like this episode? Leave a review and we’ll give you a shout out in a future episode. Thank you for the follow!

For Tuesday’s reel:

Join as as we talk about:

💥 Discovering the power of music to create connection and how to use music to explore one's own healing journey.

💥 Reclaim peace and power.

💥 Listening to the messages our emotions are trying to tell us.

💥 Examining how adults can influence the emotional growth of the next generation.

Shannon graciously shares the audio clip of her song , “The Silent Sea” selected from her newly released album, “Good to Me”

"It's about helping them get some of the structure in place so that they will be ahead of the game and don't maybe have to go through some of the challenges that Douglas and I did over the years - keep coming back to those values. You'll make better business decisions as a result of that."

Anthea Mumby started working in her parents' insurance broker business at the age of 13., side by side with her father for over 20 years. In her mid 30's she purchased the business and worked with her spouse.  Over the decades revenues grew 10 times and they became the niche experts for Canada's architectural and design community and maintained client retention of over 92% year after year.   

Anthea made the tough decision to become a consultant, and sold the family business in 2020. She and her partner have had many disruptions, coming close to the brink. She now helps couple-owned businesses to create a legacy of wealth and well-being.  

Key things we talk openly about:  

💥 Setting boundaries between work and home, the tension moving from one domain to another. 

💥 How can you and your life partner enhance each other's skills and capabilities in order to effectively grow your business together? 

💥 Disruption Serves! 

💥 As a parent, what can we do to model self-care for our children?  ‌

"It's about helping them get some of the structure in place so that they will be ahead of the game and don't maybe have to go through some of the challenges that Douglas and I did over the years - keep coming back to those values. You'll make better business decisions as a result of that."

Anthea Mumby started working in her parents' insurance broker business at the age of 13., side by side with her father for over 20 years. In her mid 30's she purchased the business and worked with her spouse.  Over the decades revenues grew 10 times and they became the niche experts for Canada's architectural and design community and maintained client retention of over 92% year after year.   

Anthea made the tough decision to become a consultant, and sold the family business in 2020. She and her partner have had many disruptions, coming close to the brink. She now helps couple-owned businesses to create a legacy of wealth and well-being.  

Key things we talk openly about:  

💥 Setting boundaries between work and home, the tension moving from one domain to another. 

💥 How can you and your life partner enhance each other's skills and capabilities in order to effectively grow your business together? 

💥 Disruption Serves! 

💥 As a parent, what can we do to model self-care for our children?  ‌

What’s working? What’s not? I’m throwing out one theory of my own. We act when we recognize symptoms in our children. When something seems “off”, we seek help. We’ve got it backward! We do the same thing when we make an appointment with our doctor – we’ve had an illness or injury and a reason to call! We’ve become accustomed to being responsive rather than proactive with all aspects of our health.

This world is more complex than ever. Our growing number of struggling children demands an urgent response. How can we, as adults, understand and be able to provide what the children of today need for their own emotional well-being when we weren’t raised with the challenges they now face? I’m suggesting we need to seek out resources and learn for ourselves so we can model for our children. The first step is to admit that we need help to do this.

I’ve seen early years and primary classrooms practice mindfulness or yoga activities daily, children who understand and embrace closing their eyes and breathing to calm their minds and bodies.

As a parent of an adult child who lived with, and has learned to cope with what was once debilitating anxiety, trust me, it’s not a place you can even imagine being in. When our children are born, we have nothing but dreams for them. As they begin to struggle, we blame ourselves and question what we could have done differently. We can’t turn back time, but we can help others learn from our experiences and theirs.

ulie DeLucca-Collins quotes Henry David Thoreau in our conversation, "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.” It's the mantra of her life. Julie was a successful corporate executive until she was forced to take a different path. She decided to launch her own business (and podcast) called "Go Confidently" which helps women entrepreneurs find their confidence and path to success

Tomorrow's guest on Taking the Helm has also found success in helping her clients identify and overcome saboteurs so they can achieve their goals. Julie has learned the power of self-compassion and empathy in order to be successful.

Julie and her husband, who helps with tech and editing, have conversations on her podcast, “Casa DeConfidence” that are real and down to earth as they talk about their life and business.

She's also a best-selling author of the book, "Go Confidently", and coaches women entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses. Key discussion points in our conversation include: 💥 How can recognizing and understanding our inner saboteurs help us achieve success in our businesses? 💥 How can we cultivate self-compassion and emotional literacy to help us overcome our inner saboteurs? 💥 What strategies can we use to leverage our strengths and tap into our sage to become more successful in our businesses?

Just about a year ago, I spoke to my father (then 82 years of age) about a writing platform I had discovered called StoryWorth. He had mentioned after I published my last book that he had written a great deal during his life but never did anything about it. Over the years he had told many stories to us but they were never recorded in any way, only engrained in our memories.

11 months later, at our family Christmas, the book he had finished writing titled, “Pappa Pete, My Journey” became a Christmas gift for the family. It was a moment in time I’ll never forget and I don’t think it would have been possible without StoryWorth.

StoryWorth is the easiest way to record family stories and print them in beautiful hardcover books. I became his “partner” and every week sent him a question to respond to. I took on the editor hat and everything flowed beautifully. We searched for photos and easily added them into the chapters. When my father needed a break, we paused the questions. Dad simply replied with his story via email or the website, and at the end of a year, it became his book.

My father was a child in Scotland and recalls hiding in the bomb shelters. His recollections of the family emigrating to Canada, his teenage years, shenanigans, triumphs and tragedies are a treasure for each of us now. My daughter said, “I’m so happy he shared his journey! I will cherish it forever and loved hearing his story!”

This was the perfect gift and we kept it a secret between us for almost a full year (other than my husband). I learned so much about him and my ancestors. Of course, some of his memories differ from mine. We see things from different perspectives as children. How fascinating it was to have these regular conversations with him over the year. This will now be an heirloom for generations.

On a side note, I wish I had thought of creating such a program myself! It’s user-friendly, holds every entry, allows edits at any time, has a question bank you can use (or you can write your own), and support is readily available.

In today’s world, our grandchildren won’t even have handwritten letters to hold on to for memories. Don’t hesitate to capture the life stories of the people you love by beginning the conversation. There is nothing more magical than seeing them hold their own book in their hands, knowing that generations to come will walk in their shoes.

Helen Panos is a lifelong educator who left teaching to open The Dynamis Learning Academy seven years ago to help children reach their full potential. She offers tutoring services and is branching out into supporting students with mental health, helping students to learn to advocate for themselves and parents to understand the school system.

“I think families need to sit down, maybe have weekly meetings on a Sunday or pick the best time for you and sit down to really find out what your child's strengths are … Pausing the outside world around you and really getting to know your child in terms of what's going on.” She offers tutoring services and is branching out into supporting students with mental health, helping students to learn to advocate for themselves and parents to understand the school system, what school systems offer and don't offer, and where the gaps are.She is helping parents and students advocate for themselves.

Helen is also a podcast host and is currently working on writing a book entitled "Mastering Test Strategies, A Simple Successful Guide to Enhance Your Child's Grades", to be launched in the first quarter of 2023. In our conversation you will learn:

💥 How and when to help your child become a self-advocate.

💥 How to support your child's mental health.

💥 How to find the right resources to help your child succeed in school.

Are you looking for a way to gain self-appreciation, growth, and success, but feeling stuck when exploring other options in your life? Are you tired of hearing the same conventional wisdom to “just try harder” or “work harder” without seeing any real results? If you’re feeling stuck and frustrated, then this episode is for you. When Doors Slam Shut, New Opportunities Open!

Natasha Feghali is an award-winning Canadian philanthropist, educator, and business owner. She is the recipient of the 40 under 40 United Way Leadership Windsor Essex Award, the Sovereign Canadian Medal, and the Odyssey Award from the University of Windsor.

Natasha and I talk about:

💥 Life events can open new doors for us with the right mindset.

💥 The benefits of teaching internationally.

💥 Learning to set boundaries to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

💥 How to celebrate self-appreciation, and growth while giving back to the community.