Calm and Connected Podcast

OCD can manifest itself in different ways with different obsessions and focus that are going on in your life. Children’s author, Marin Canaday describes OCD feeling like a monster devouring your emotions and feelings, where you could get to the point where you feel out of control and you begin to believe the lies the OCD obsessions tell you about yourself.  Marin joins me today in this episode and we discuss some of the following areas:  Marin discusses how the idea for her book, My Little Monster came about Doubting yourself and OCD Contamination and germs and OCD Religion and OCD Harm and OCD  Hiding symptoms and coping strategies Getting diagnosed How Marin likes to rest and relax About The Guest - Marin Canaday Marin grew up with OCD from an early age, although she was not sure what it was that she struggled with until her 30's. A lot of her struggle was internal. As a child, she found that studying and sports helped take my mind off of the OCD thought patterns. When she studied or played a sport, she felt like she had a brain break, so she threw herself into both with vigor. Her study habits paid off, and Marin graduated in the top of her classes in both high school and college. She also went on to play collegiate volleyball, earning All American honors in her senior year.  Her struggle with OCD really became more evident externally when she reached adulthood. Without studying or sports to hide in any longer, she came face to face with her anxiety disorder. She couldn't eat, sleep, or function in day-to-day tasks. Marin’s struggles with her thoughts were all that she could fight all day and night. It was grueling. Today, with therapy and medication to help, she is much healthier and confident. Marin writes in her free time to inspire others who may be struggling with anxiety as well. She is the the author of two books, My Little Monster and The Very Best Me. Her OCD still whispers to her and at times begins to shout. She finds relief in gardening, crafting, reading, and writing. Website - www.mylittleocdmonster.com Facebook - My Little OCD Monster https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090423289366 Resources mentioned: Marin has two books, My Little Monster and The Very Best Me. Dr. Dawn Huebner - https://www.dawnhuebnerphd.com/ Natasha Daniels - https://www.anxioustoddlers.com/ When a Family Member has OCD by John Hershfield, MFT.  About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

A child at Elementary School will be learning and figuring out what emotions are and what’s going on in their bodies when their ‘big feelings’ appear. They’ll be learning to put names to their emotions and trying figuring out why they’re feeling what they are. In the moments when they feel upset, overwhelmed and unable to put words to their emotions, there are some straightforward strategies we can have in our toolkit ready to use and support this age group with. Here are some some of the strategies discussed in todays episode: Deep breathing strategies like the ‘Cooling the Cocoa’ strategy Imagining your favorite place Helpful distractions like games like ‘Would you rather?’ Go for a walk to a water fountain to hydrate, get the body moving and helping to transition back to the classroom Calming Jars with glitter and glue Feelings Thermometers Take 5 to Calm Down Resources Mentioned in the Podcast Coping Skills Community Hub https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! — About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

The transition to preschool to elementary school can be such an anxious time for both parents and for the children. There’s a lot of unknowns to get them ready for and sometimes we think there’s lots we have to do to prepare them for starting. Today we discuss what you can do to help reduce anxiety for your little one with nursery practitioner, Caroline Allen.  In this episode they discuss: Getting your child ready for school How difficult transition can be for parents as well as children What comments from family may or may not be helpful ‘Transistionitis’ - a phrase Caroline has come up with to describe the time before starting school Tips on how to speak about going to school and what may be at a school setting Does it matter if my child doesn’t write or read before they start school? How your child can learn and being lead by a child's interest  Delving a Little Deeper  How Caroline rests and relaxes About The Guest - Caroline Allen Caroline Allen has run childcare settings in the UK, trained internationally and supported practitioners and carers for over 25 years. She understands how important it is to relate well with our young children, yet this is not easy, and few have the time to read or study. Caroline now hosts Turning Little Stones podcasts, which are for anyone (professionals and family carers) with young children in their lives. In each episode, snippets of sound childcare theory become accessible and relatable, helping us all to better support our children and delight in being part of their journey.  Website - www.turninglittlestones.co.uk Resources mentioned: Delving a Little Deeper' (accessed from the website), which is for those wanting a little more theory.  Instagram - @turninglittlestones About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

It’s wonderful having a home set up where you have a reset or safe space where your kids can use strategies and process their emotions. But what happens when we go out? Having coping strategies ready is just as important. Whether that’s at school, traveling, out with friends, before a medical appointment or at parties knowing what you can do outside of the comfort of your own home is really helpful. The topics we cover in this episode are: Thinking about what situations could be tricky How to create a plan for when you’re out Items which are helpful to have in your ‘on the go’ bag. Including Pens and pencils Notebooks and coloring books Music Fidgets Visual reminders of coping skills, like word games, breathing strategies, etc. How to review your ‘On the Go’ plan for your family Resources Mentioned in the Podcast Coping Skills Community Hub https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! — About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

When you’re expecting a baby or experiencing the first year of their life, there are books which tell you all the key development growth points to be looking out for and what comes next. We don’t talk about these as well as we could as our children go through childhood and adolescents. What emotions should they be feeling at what point? Is this behavior or outburst normal? As they grow and develop, one of the questions that gets asked is, “What does a healthy brain look like?” Our brain reacts to different pathways and it can affect our mood and responses. If we can understand the brain we can understand why we teach our children different skills and functions at key life stages and certain ages. Rebecca shares how if we can understand the brain then we can understand how to support our children’s next steps and if needed support getting them back on track. The topics we cover in this episode are: What Brain Balance is and how to strengthen the brain and pathways How development impacts our brain pathways Why Rebecca wrote Back on Track The impact of the pandemic on development Why having an action plan to help children is important What developmental markers look like in childhood and as your child heads towards adolescence Sensory development in children and how the senses affects our decision The effects of tiredness on the brain The practice of pausing The Snow Angel Exercise And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! — About The Guest - Dr Rebecca Jackson Dr. Rebecca Jackson, Chief Programs Officer at Brain Balance, is a celebrated expert in brain health and optimization. In her role at Brain Balance she drives programmatic enhancements and creates new programs to meet the growing demands of people wanting to achieve more for themselves and their children. As the author of her new book, "Back on Track," Dr. Jackson is a media fixture, featured in respected outlets like Mayo Clinic Press, Forbes, Psych Central, and Business Insider. She's also been a guest on national and local shows, including The Doctor’s Show and NBC’s Nightly News. Website - https://www.brainbalancecenters.com/ https://drrebeccajackson.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drrebeccajackson/ About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Today’s question is, what can you do in 5 minutes or less that will make you feel happier, healthier or stronger? There are many moments in life when the day to day can feel stressful. Anyone can feel this. Whether you’re a working professional or a parent at home with kids in any stage of life. You may hit those moments and ask how can I take a moment for myself in the midst of the situation you face to give yourself some self care and revitalize yourself in those moments. Today’s episode covers some quick self care strategies to use during the day. These can make a difference to your day to empower and reset your mind as you go about your day.  The topics we cover in this episode are: What a Power Up is and the benefits of it Moments of self care we can do as adults  Breathing techniques  Mindful moments around you in the environment you find yourself in  The value of hydration  Short exercise  Doorway affirmations Imagining your favorite place Reading your favorite poem or quote  Spending time with animals Stacking coping skills  How these strategies can be used by children too Resources mentioned in the podcast: Superbetter: The Power of Living Gamefully by Jane McGonigal Jon Cunha’s interview on the Calm and Connected Podcast: https://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-88 Coping Skills Community Hub https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! — About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Have you ever considered the neuroscience behind how we self-regulate our emotions? How do these two work together? Some children may respond in fight or flight mode in some situations. But how does your child’s body and emotions respond and why in these specific moments? What pathways are connecting in your child’s brain to cause certain reactions? Knowing your child and techniques to keep them calm can help moments like this - it’s more than just a behavior, but thinking about the child as a whole. The topics we cover in this episode are: An introduction to Dr. Varleisha and the work she does The beauty of having a multidisciplinary team and how to support the kids in your lives How does our brains work and what hormones are released Techniques for self regulation The power of sound and movement and self regulation Using temperature for self regulation Finding evidence based practice rather than what social media tells us How Dr. Varleisha rests and relaxes And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! About The Guest - Varleisha D. (Gibbs) Lyons PhD, OTD, OTR/L, ASDCS has been an occupational therapist for over 20 years. Dr. Lyons founded and operated a private therapy firm for over 10 years. She developed and founded Delaware’s first occupational therapy program and became the first Black Indigenous American woman to serve as the Scientific Programs Officer at the American Occupational Therapy Foundation. Currently, she is the Vice President of Diversity Equity Inclusion Justice Access and Belonging and formerly the Vice President of Practice Engagement and Capacity Building at the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). Varleisha continues to lecture internationally and has authored four books, one of which is a bestseller. She has dedicated her time to mentoring underrepresented individuals and desires to help shift others toward growth and healing despite traumatic experiences or diagnoses. Her research spans various disciplines and professions with grant funding in the areas of community-based services and interprofessional education and care. Through such efforts she has guided several into the profession of occupational therapy and supported families across the nation through her volunteer efforts. Her areas of expertise include neuroanatomy, self-regulation strategies across the lifespan, health inequities, and trauma responsive approaches. Website: http://wasutsanctuary.com/ Instagram Page: https://instagram.com/drvarleisha X: https://x.com/drvarleisha Other resources: https://www.amazon.com/Books-Varleisha-Gibbs/s?rh=n%3A283155%2Cp_27%3AVarleisha+Gibbs ; https://www.pesi.com/speaker/details/00259440 ; https://www.medbridge.com/instructors/varleisha-gibbs-otd-otrl-pediatric-occupational-therapy-sensory-integration/ Other Calm and Connected Podcast episodes mentioned: Sophie Garner https://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-99 Ryan Judd: https://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-116 Lynne Kenney https://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-106 About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Have you noticed your child doesn’t enjoy being at birthday parties? Do they struggle hearing loud noises? Does your child appear to not like the seams in their socks? Or have they felt overwhelmed by crowds and are very observant? Some people may read this list and think you’re describing the symptoms of Autism. They could be right but did you know it could also be the symptoms of high sensitivity? Today I speak with Maureen and how they have navigated learning about high sensitivity in her family. The topics we cover in this episode are: An introduction to Maureen and her two sons What it means to be highly sensitive What high sensitivity is not How it can be misdiagnosed as something else How to determine if my child is highly sensitive What support to put around your family How Maureen rests and relaxes And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! About The Guest - Maureen Maureen is an author, anxiety and high sensitivity advocate, and web designer. Her online journey began with a boy, a big challenge and a blog. Back in 2014, her 3-year-old son was diagnosed with Selective Mutism, a childhood anxiety disorder which took her whole family on a wild journey of learning so many things, including being introduced to the term high sensitivity and Dr. Aron’s book, the Highly Sensitive Child. Discovering this term was a game changer. It answered so many questions about her son’s behavior as well as her own. She discovered that not only was her son a highly sensitive child, but that she and her husband were also highly sensitive people. She started blogging about her family's journey and quickly realized she wasn't alone. Parents all over the world started following her and began asking questions like, Why does my son have trouble with loud noises? Why are birthday parties difficult for him? How come he can’t join in with a group of kids like other children can? Why is he so emotional? In 2017, she created thehighlysensitivechild.com to help other parents who were looking to better understand their children and in 2021 had her first traditionally published children's book released for highly sensitive kids- I Don't Like birthday Parties. She now continues to help parents raising highly sensitive children via her Facebook group, as well as her membership community. Website- https://www.thehighlysensitivechild.com/ Parents of Highly Sensitive Children Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/140237519964291 Parenting Highly Sensitive Children FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091859734934 X: https://twitter.com/sensitivekids1 Other resources: https://www.thehighlysensitivechild.com/ About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

We all know those kids who can’t quite get settled in the classroom. They may have a hard time sitting down to get their homework done. They may be zoning off in the middle of a lesson in school. Or they may look like they are paying attention, but their mind is constantly wandering off. These kids might benefit from a fidget! Today's solo episode of the Calm and Connected podcast is all about fidgets, and in particular, the ones I think are great for the classroom. The topics I cover in this episode are: How I use Fidgets Fidgets are tools, not toys The different types of Fidgets How you can make cost-effective Fidgets from a pool noodle Using Velcro and fabrics as tactile tools Fidgets which are available buy My own Fidget Mentioned in podcast: Calm and Connected Podcast about Coping Skills Toolkit at Dollar Tree https://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-127 Coping Skills Quiet Fidget https://copingskillsforkids.com/fidgets And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! — About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Every school should have a school counselor and there are so many reasons why a school counselor may work with any student at any stage of their educational career. But what do they do? From individual 1-1 support to whole class workshops, a school counselor is there to see students thrive and support them with strategies so they can love and enjoy learning. They give the tools the student needs for the challenge in front of them at that moment. Today I speak to school counselor, Rachel Davis. The topics we cover in this episode are: The work Rachel does  The role of a school counselor and how they support the students Feelings and emotional regulation How a counselor works out which student to support for the year Keeping the lines of communication open between the counselor and parents Organizational tips for counselors  Impact, a school’s counseling membership service which Rachel runs How Rachel rests and relaxes About The Guest - Rachel Davis Rachel has nearly a decade of experience working as a school counselor at public, private, and charter schools in Southern California and most recently was the K-12 school counselor at an International School in Costa Rica! Currently, she is the counselor and curriculum designer behind Bright Futures Counseling with a top-rated school counseling podcast, School Counseling Simplified, and an engaged online community. She writes a blog for school counselors and is passionate about helping school counselors increase their impact and advocate for their role. She resides in Costa Rica, and when she's not working on her business you can find her at the beach playing with her family!  Website - https://brightfutures-counseling.com/ IG - https://www.instagram.com/brightfuturescounseling/ Other Resources discussed: Rachel has a membership for school counselors. https://www.stressfreeschoolcounseling.com/impact About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Firstly I want to pre-warn you that my guest Meghan Joyce Tozer and I discuss some tough topics during this episode. Today’s podcast talks about sexual abuse and suicide. We encourage you to keep this in mind when listening to this podcast. Please be aware, especially if younger ears are listening, and please click play with care.  CALM AND CONNECTED - EPISODE 141 Sexual assault and harassment, sadly happens in schools on a too regular basis, whether that’s happening peer to peer or even between teacher to student. We hope our children never have to experience this. Knowing how to parent our children to take ownership of their bodies, so they know how to say no is key. We discuss how to navigate through abuse, bullying, harassment so they can get help is just as vital.   In this episode, I speak with Meghan Joyce Tozer, author of the critically acclaimed novel Night, Forgotten and her annotated middle school diary, UnSlut: A Diary and a Memoir, which she wrote under the pen name Emily Lindin.  The topics we cover are: How Meghan came to work in this area The catalyst for sharing her experience The abuse and eventual suicide of Rehtaeh Parsons and Audrey Pott Cyber bullying; how technology means bullying is beyond the school gate  The work of the non-profit organization called Stop Sexual Assault in Schools  Preventative measures schools can put in place including Sash Clubs What parents can do to support their child at home How Meghan rests and relaxes About The Guest - Meghan Joyce Tozer Meghan Joyce Tozer is an advocate for young sexual assault survivors and the author of the critically acclaimed novel NIGHT, FORGOTTEN (2022). She holds a B.A. from Harvard jointly in Music and in English and American Literature and Language, as well as a M.M. in voice performance and a Ph.D. in music history from the University of California Santa Barbara. Much of Meghan’s public writing has appeared under the pen name Emily Lindin, including her annotated middle school diary, UnSlut: A Diary and a Memoir (2015). As the founder of The UnSlut Project, she’s advocated for survivors of sexual assault and abuse on platforms such as ABC with Katie Couric, CNN, The Doctors, Al Jazeera America, and NPR. She’s led workshops in bullying prevention and media literacy at dozens of high schools and universities around North America. She was the 2017 recipient of the Community Leadership Award from Child Abuse Prevention Services. Meghan is also the director and narrator of the award-winning UNSLUT: A DOCUMENTARY FILM. Website - www.meghanjoycetozer.com IG: www.instagram.com/meghanjoycetozer Meghan is on the board of the national nonprofit Stop Sexual Assault in Schools, which provides free toolkits about campus prevention, Title IX rights, bullying, and all kinds of related topics. Her critically acclaimed novel NIGHT, FORGOTTEN is available wherever books are sold.  About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Firstly I want to pre-warn you that we discuss some tough topics during this episode, like sex and consent, talking with your kids about death, and bullying. Please be aware, especially if younger ears are listening. Please click play with care. All parents will face that moment when they have to have some of life’s hard conversations and speaking with your child to prepare them for what comes in life is key. We don’t really know when the right time is but in life we have to put the building blocks in place relationally with our children so that when that time comes, we can have proactive, sensitive and good conversations. Take a listen to this episode where I speak to Dr Robyn Silverman about how to talk to your kids about anything. The topics we cover are: Dr Robyn discusses her book The biggest mistakes parents make when discussing big topics How to keep the conversation going once you’ve started When is the right time to talk to kids about sex and consent How to talk to kids about the mistakes and failures you make Ways to fess up and repair your relationship with each other How do you start talking with your kids on these big topics How kids realize they can help and teach you too Books which can be helpful tools Navigating your child's friendships and bullying How Dr Robyn rests and relaxes And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! About the Guest: - Dr Robyn Silverman Known as the "Conversation Doc," Dr. Robyn Silverman is a child and teen development specialist and author of the [forthcoming] book, How to Talk to Kids About Anything, as well as the host of the popular podcast of the same name. She is a cofounder of the Powerful Words Character System, which gives educators the talking points they need to help children become kind, responsible citizens of the world. Dr. Robyn has appeared on The Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS Early Show and Nightline and has been quoted in the New York Times, Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, CNN.com, and many other publications. She lives with her husband, two kids and fuzzy rescue dog who loves sunning himself on their front steps, even in the summer heat of North Carolina. Find out all about the book at DrRobynSilverman.com. Website - https://parenting.drrobynsilverman.com/ Facebook: @DrRobynSilverman X: @DrRobyn IG: @DrRobynSilverman Dr Robyn Silverman’s new book launches on October 10th! How to Talk to Kids about Anything. https://www.amazon.com/Talk-Kids-about-Anything-Conversations/dp/1728246989 About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Do you ever sit and think about how you actually became an adult? Think of all the skills you have from tying your shoelaces to presenting a report at work. How did we learn these skills? … with lots and lots of practice! And for us to practice, our parents or caregivers have to ease the control a little to allow us to make mistakes. Imagine if your parents still followed you around all day waiting to tie your shoelaces or stand up in front of your colleagues to make that presentation themselves, life wouldn’t be very fulfilling would it! Take a listen to this episode where I speak to Julie Lythcott-Haims about how parenting is about letting go of control. The topics we cover in this episode are: Julie discusses her book ‘Your Turn’ Outdated definitions of adulting What “taking care of business” means with the 3 B’s; Body, belongings, bills What it means to be an adult The negative side of standing under the monkey bars, waiting to catch your child How can parents best support their children going into young adulthood? Using everyday activities as a way to practice being an adult Why ‘Don’t talk to strangers’ is bad advice for children Modeling behavior to show your kids you don’t have everything figured out either How Julie rests and relaxes And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! — About the Guest - Julie Lythcott-Haims Julie Lythcott-Haims believes in humans and is deeply interested in what gets in our way. Her work encompasses writing, speaking, public service, and activism. She is a New York Times bestselling author of books on human development, a TED speaker, a former Stanford dean, and a lawyer, and she holds degrees from Stanford University (BA), Harvard Law (JD), and California College of the Arts (MFA). She serves on numerous nonprofit boards whose work focuses on equity, education, youth, wellness, and the arts. Julie lives in Palo Alto, California with her partner of over thirty years, their itinerant young adults, and her mother. She is a member of the Palo Alto City Council. Website - https://www.julielythcotthaims.com/ Instagram - @jlythcotthaims About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children and adolescents for over 15 years. She loves to create products and resources, so she started two businesses to support families and professionals who work with children and teens. ‘Coping Skills for Kids’ provides products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. It’s the home of the popular Coping Cue Cards, decks of cards designed to help kids learn and use coping skills at home or at school. Janine’s second business ‘Encourage Play’ is dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! Encourage Play has free printables, as well as digital products focused on play and social skills. Coping Skills for Kids - https://copingskillsforkids.com Encourage Play - https://www.encourageplay.com Interested in reading my books? The Coping Skills for Kids Workbook - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/coping-skills-for-kids-workbook/products/coping-skills-for-kids-workbook-digital-version Social Skills for Kids - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/encourage-play/products/social-skills-for-kids-workbook Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Does your child like to move and fidget a lot? Maybe lay upside down or spin around in circles? This isn’t just a random act of silliness or hyperactivity, they are likely gaining sensory input! In this episode, my guest Claire and I discuss proprioception, which is your body's ability to sense movement, action, and location. It's present in every muscle movement you have. Without proprioception, you wouldn't be able to move without thinking about your next step. We also discuss the vestibular system which functions to detect the position and movement of our head in space. This allows for the coordination of eye movements, posture, and equilibrium. The topics we cover in this episode are; Claire’s career background Why it helps to work alongside different types of therapists What differences therapists have noticed since COVID Language skills and self regulation skills in children after covid The challenges of moving from elementary to middle school Our thoughts on teachers Strategies that are helpful for children’s behavior and self regulation The proprioception and vestibular systems What is proprioceptive input? Where is our vestibular system in our body? And how does it work? How a weighted hall-pass can help you What are Claire’s coping skills to find rest and peace? And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! — About The Guest - Claire Claire Heffron is a pediatric occupational therapist who has worked in school and community settings since 2005. She and Lauren Drobnjak (physical therapist) started The Inspired Treehouse in 2013 and have developed the business into one of the top online resources for pediatric therapists around the world. Claire and Lauren also opened a non-profit organization in Cleveland called The Treehouse, where they provide developmental playgroups for children of all ability levels. Website - theinspiredtreehouse.com Instagram - https://instagram.com/insptreehouse/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/inspired.treehouse/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Theinspiredtreehouse Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/inspiredtreehou/ The Therapist Informed Classroom - self-paced, email-based course https://theinspiredtreehouse.com/the-therapist-informed-classroom About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children and adolescents for over 15 years. She loves to create products and resources, so she started two businesses to support families and professionals who work with children and teens. ‘Coping Skills for Kids’ provides products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. It’s the home of the popular Coping Cue Cards, decks of cards designed to help kids learn and use coping skills at home or at school. Janine’s second business ‘Encourage Play’ is dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! Encourage Play has free printables, as well as digital products focused on play and social skills. Coping Skills for Kids - https://copingskillsforkids.com Encourage Play - https://www.encourageplay.com Interested in reading my books? The Coping Skills for Kids Workbook - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/coping-skills-for-kids-workbook/products/coping-skills-for-kids-workbook-digital-version Social Skills for Kids - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/encourage-play/products/social-skills-for-kids-workbook Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Let me ask you a question - if you had a magic wand and could fix one major problem or difficulty you have with teaching kids coping skills when they need them most, what would you change? I asked my email list this very question and got some interesting answers. This episode will give you 7 strategies to help kids use coping skills when they need them most. The topics I cover in this episode are: Practicing skills when your child is calm and the benefits Create visual reminders like cue cards Make a plan before anything happens or escalates The importance of debriefing Create a calm area or space Have an ‘on-the-go’ calm down kit Your mindset matters too - as the adult, parent or guardian Your actions make such a difference, how important modeling is How the Coping Skills for Kids Resource Library Community Hub can help you find coping skills Visit The Resource Library Community Hub - https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun! — About The Host - Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneur and a mom. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Janine has been working primarily with children, adolescents, and their families for over 20 years. She is the Founder of 'Coping Skills for Kids', where she creates products and resources to help kids learn to cope with their feelings in safe and healthy ways. Janine also founded 'Encourage Play’ which dedicated to helping kids learn and practice social skills in the most natural way - through play! If you're interested in learning more about how to teach kids coping skills, download your free Coping Skills Toolkit: https://copingskillsforkids.com/newsletter If you're interested in joining the Coping Skills Community Hub, an ever-expanding resource library and community of families and professionals teaching kids how to cope, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hub If you'd like to purchase Janine's products, including the Coping Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Skills for Teens Workbook, Social Skills for Kids Workbook, Coping Cue Cards, and more, visit https://store.copingskillsforkids.com or https://amazon.com/copingskillsforkids Connect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplay Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay