I still remember the day Mateo melted down in the hallway. His art project had torn, and the calm-down corner was four doors away. My pockets were empty, my heart racing. That afternoon I vowed never to get caught without a calm down kit again. Since then I’ve carried a lunch-pail-sized box stuffed with simple […]
Calm Down Kit: How to Build a Portable Peace-Maker Students Will Actually Use Read More »
A quick hello from the counselor’s chair 🎙️ By 9 a.m. on Day 1 I’ve already speed-walked two hallways, high-fived 30 third-graders, and taped my lanyard back together (again). The new-year buzz is electric—but so are the student nerves. Over the years I’ve learned that the fastest way to lower the collective cortisol is to
First-Week SEL Icebreakers That Double as Counselor Meet-&-Greets Read More »
Is it weird that my counselor toolkit contains both Kleenex for tears and sneakers for hallway sprints? Because during that whirlwind first week of school I’m ping-ponging between classrooms, greeting 400 new faces—and fielding 87 “Can I talk to you?” notes before lunch. By Day 3 even I, the resident Zen-master, crave a reset button.
Back-to-School Calm Corners: 7 Budget Decor Hacks Counselors & Teachers Swear By Read More »
A relationship-first guide inspired by sensory-smart design and the DIR/Floortime® approach A Quick Personal Note I’m a school counselor by day and a mom the rest of the time. A few years ago I stumbled onto the DIR/Floortime model and it completely reshaped how I think about children’s behavior. DIR/Floortime isn’t about fancy swings or
How to Create a Kids’ Room That Supports Their Nervous System Read More »
Creating a therapeutic environment that sparks imagination, supports emotional regulation, and encourages expression doesn’t have to be complicated. One of my favorite tools to introduce in a therapy space or child-centered area is the interactive LEGO wall. It may seem like just a fun distraction, but in reality, it offers incredible opportunities for connection, communication,
When you walk into my counseling office—or my home—you might see something softly glowing in the background: a light table. At first, it may seem like just a fun visual toy. But over the past few years, it has become one of the most loved, versatile, and calming tools in both my work as a school counselor and in my parenting life.
Light tables are often thought of as classroom extras or preschool playroom staples, but when used with intention, they become so much more. I use them for emotional regulation, sensory exploration, quiet play, and even social-emotional learning prompts.
How I Use a Light Table as a School Counselor and a Mom Read More »
Every August, as the first day of school approaches, our house fills with a mix of excitement and nerves—mine included! As a mom, I know how easily little worries can sneak in, turning simple mornings into stressful sprints. As a counselor, I see it in the families I work with, too: the desire for a
How to Create Calm Back-to-School Routines: A Mom & Counselor’s Guide Read More »
There’s something special about summer camp. It’s messy and magical, unpredictable and unforgettable. For many kids, it’s the first time they’re away from home, trying new things, navigating social situations—and big emotions. That’s why camp counselors, teachers, and support staff are more than just fun adults with walkie-talkies. They’re emotional role models.
The words we wear, say, and display around kids matter. And when they carry meaningful messages—on T-shirts, hats, water bottles, tote bags, or even stickers—they become daily reminders of self-worth, emotional awareness, and resilience.
Encouraging Camp Counselor Quotes That Kids Need to See (And Wear) This Summer Read More »
Your child comes home from school withdrawn, quiet, and hesitant to share what’s bothering them. Or perhaps tantrums and emotional outbursts have become regular occurrences, and you’re feeling lost and uncertain about how to help. You’re not alone. Many parents face similar challenges and often wonder if counseling might offer the solution they’re seeking.
This article will clarify exactly how counseling supports a child’s emotional and mental well-being, offering practical tips for parents to complement the counseling journey.
How Can a Counselor Help a Child? Read More »
As the days grow longer and the sun begins to pour through your windows, there’s a gentle nudge in the air—a feeling that it’s time to shift gears. For therapists working with children, summer is more than just a season. It’s a powerful opportunity to infuse your space with light, energy, and sensory-friendly activities that meet kids exactly where they are: playful, curious, and in need of emotional expression.
In this article, we’ll explore how to transition your child therapy office for summer in a way that feels exciting, calming, and therapeutically meaningful. Whether you’re a counselor, psychologist, social worker, or psychotherapist, this guide offers creative ways to bring the season into your practice. From sunshine-themed sensory bins to summer-adapted art therapy tools, you’ll find easy-to-implement ideas that make therapy both fun and healing—without losing professional structure or intention.
Let’s help kids feel seen, safe, and free to be themselves—one summer-inspired detail at a time.
How to Get Your Child Therapy Office Ready for Summer Read More »
