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Repeated Read Aloud and other demonstration videos
Repeated Read Aloud Lesson Plans and other instructional supports
Big 5 Transition Songs & 5 Grandes Transiciones
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In my line of work, I often hear people describe two communication patterns they’ve noticed in the workplace: 1) they have a hard time saying positive things about themselves, and 2) they tend to hear more “constructive criticism” than genuine praise and positive feedback from their colleagues. The two patterns are usually related and exist for many complicated reasons.
My oldest child is about to turn 18. Soon, he’ll leave our home and continue his own journey into adulthood. I can hardly believe it. When he was younger, he ran barefoot to the bus stop every morning – even in the winter – holding his socks and shoes because he’d lost track of time and was in danger of missing the bus. Every. Morning.
My teenage daughter sometimes leaves me sweet notes on the whiteboard in my home office. She recently wrote, “Thank you for making time for me, even when you could be working.” It made my heart melt because I know she genuinely loves to spend time with me. I hope that doesn’t change as she gets older. The note was also heart-wrenching because it reminded me how she often gets disappointed when I have to work instead of spend time with her. I get disappointed, too. I took a picture of that message to remind myself that although my children are becoming increasingly independent, they still need me to be present in their lives.
I love this time of the year. The holidays we celebrate serve as an important reminder to be thankful for what we have – including each other – and help others in need. I love how holiday celebrations from many religions and cultures share a similar purpose and bring out the best in people. However, holidays can also be a difficult time for many families, and heightened stress and tension can highlight our human flaws. Holidays can quickly become something “to get through” instead of a time for reflection and celebration. Sound familiar? 
My teenage son recently announced he’d read an article on “helicopter parents” for his English class. This was stated while negotiating his weekend plans, and said with a look and tone that implied the article was about us. When asked what that term meant to him, he said, “Parents who hover over their kids so much that the kids don’t learn to do things on their own, so they’re not prepared to be independent.” Ouch.
The start of a new school year is both an exciting and hectic time in my family. My kids look forward to reuniting with friends and meeting new teachers, and I look forward to the predictability of the school-year routine.