Calm and Connected Podcast

Using coping skills can be such a useful tool to have ready in our tool kits to use with our children or even ourselves. Sometimes it's hard to get kids to practice and try different strategies. In this year's summer series, Janine introduces us to a selection of different coping skills which she invites you to practice and see which style works best for you and your child. In today's episode, Janine introduces us to a deep breathing technique called ‘Cool the Cocoa'. This is where you breathe in and out pretending to blow and cool down a hot drink of cocoa. Take a moment to try a new method, listen along and practice if you'd like. See if it's a skill you'd like to add in to your own personal coping skills toolkit! And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/janinehalloranlmhcInstagram @janine_halloran and @copingskillsforkidsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JanineHalloranLMHCPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/encourageplay/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janine-halloran-43787b7b/

We talk so much about the kids but what coping skills do you use as the parent or the professional who works with kids? This episode is specially for the grown ups! In this episode Janine speaks about :Emergency strategies, like positive self talk and the use of grounding techniquesPreventative Mental Health strategies; including Quick strategies like, slow breathes at a red light and getting out in the sunshine each dayA weekly strategy like, meeting a friend for coffee or going to an exercise classA yearly strategies like going on a girls weekend away or a spa dayIntentional Mental Awareness session and resources: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/intentional-mental-health-scheduling-wellness-coping-skills-in-your-life-tickets-1394759827189?aff=oddtdtcreatorAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/janinehalloranlmhcInstagram @janine_halloran and @copingskillsforkidsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JanineHalloranLMHCPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/encourageplay/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janine-halloran-43787b7b/

Carrie Bonnett is a veteran teacher and lifelong list-maker. She is an Executive Function coach based in Bend, Oregon, where she lives with her husband and two children. Carrie works with students and families all over the world. Her no-shame approach and the strategies she teaches:• empower students to thrive in life and in school, • help parents and teachers to better support their children, and• help adults get on top of all that life requires. In addition to coaching, she is also an adjunct instructor for early-career teachers at University of Portland in Oregon.Resources mentioned in this podcast were, 4 ways to help your student get things done (without constant reminders): www.carriebonnett.com/blueprintWebsite: www.carriebonnett.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachcarriebonnett/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachcarriebonnettYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@carriebonnettAbout The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterThe Coping Skills Hub has everything you need to teach kids coping skills, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Have you ever wondered when is a good time to practice coping skills with your child? This is a really good question to consider and how this may look in your week. The first step is for the adult and child to be emotionally ready and calm and from this point, new skills can be learned. In this episode Janine speaks about:The window of tolerance The rainbow illustration explained by Lindsay BramanWhen learning can't happen and the emotions to look forBeing a thermostat rather than the thermometer Looking for calm moments and transition points in the dayIt's okay to do learning seasonally and not regularlyBuilding a coping skills toolkit with the Coping Skills HubAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Have you ever considered sharing a journal with your kids? Sometimes your child may come home and isn't ready to share about your day. Journaling is an opportunity to see how your child views the world while you're living the same moments. It can open up opportunities to be empathetic to situations that you weren't experiencing in the same way. It can create a safe space for questions to be asked, that you weren't aware that they were worrying about. In this episode Katie and Janine discuss:The powerful connection you can build through journalingWhy journaling can be helpful How to set rules for a joint journalHow to start to journal togetherHow to spark a conversations away from a journal How Katie likes to rest and relaxAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!About The Guest - Katie Clemons Katie Clemons is a mom of four, award-winning author, and nationally recognized expert in family connection. For over a decade, she has helped over 600,000 families strengthen their bonds through storytelling, conversation, and shared experiences. Through her guided parent-child journals, free printables, and Letters to My Child membership, Katie makes it easy for busy parents to capture memories, nurture meaningful conversations, and create lasting connections with the kids they care about. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, People, CNN, Pregnancy & Newborn, and Good Housekeeping, and she has shared her expertise on HGTV and the TEDx stage. She believes that the simplest moments often become the most cherished.Find her free resources and family connection printables at: https://katieclemons.com/free-printables/For free journal printables got to: https://katieclemons.com/write/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/katierclemons/About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterThe Coping Skills Hub has everything you need to teach kids coping skills, learn more at https://copingskillsforkids.com/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Where do you begin when you want to teach kids coping skills? Janine has a five step system she uses to help kids learn and use coping strategies, starting with connection, and finishing up with making a personal coping toolkit for kids. In this episode Janine speaks about Connecting with your young person where they're at and what they loveTalking about feelingsUsing movie or book characters to talk through scenarios The use of checklists Making a personalized toolkitResources Mentioned in the podcast:Ways to Connect with Kids and TeensThree Playful Ways to Explore Feelings with KidsUsing TV, Movies and Book Characters to Explore Coping SkillsHow to Use the Coping Skills ChecklistHelp Kids Use Coping Skills When they need themCoping Skills Hub - everything you need to teach coping skills!And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

On today's podcast I speak with Giselle Shardlow, M.Ed., from Kids Yoga Stories. She is a colleague I connected with recently who has so much experience working with kids through movement, mindfulness and yoga. This is a sneak peek of the Family Resilience Speaker Series starting on March 31st, 2025. Sign up here to attend the FREE Series. https://copingskillsforkids.com/resilienceAbout The Guest - Giselle ShardlowKids Yoga Stories was founded in 2012 by classroom teacher and trained yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. Through her travels and teaching grades K-5th in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, courses, and educational resources to bring the benefits of yoga to children everywhere.The pandemic and the rise in mental health issues in children, as well as teacher burnout has made the Kids Yoga Stories mission even more critical and timely. They continue to grow and expand, providing weekly free resources and hundreds of yoga products available for purchase on their site.www.kidsyogastories.comhttps://www.facebook.com/KidsYogaStories/https://www.instagram.com/kidsyogastories/https://www.pinterest.com/kidsyogastories/About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Sometimes it's some of the simple things in your day to day like a game you like to play that remind you of a few strategies and values in life that are helpful to keep you going. In this episode, Janine speaks about the game Stardew Valley and the reminders of life lessons that she holds and was reminded of from playing this video game. She speaks about:Building up Resilience You have to practice to get better at something. The importance of keep going, recognise your strengths but still keep practicing. It's okay if you fail in the process and you can always try again. If you miss a goal that's been set, isn't the end of the world There's always a chance to have another go at it if you miss the chance or don't get it quite right the first time around Have connection moments with others while you're live so you don't miss the moment and can gain skills or new experience from sharing with others Schedule your play and downtime Rest is important. Guard it. Make sure work doesn't interfere with this time. Book in the hangouts with friends, exercise and keep those non-negotiables in this time. Resources Mentioned in the podcast:Want to play Stardew Valley? https://www.stardewvalley.net/Coping Skills for Adults Survey: https://copingskillsforkids.com/coping-skills-for-adultsAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIfyou'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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

When you label your feelings, it can help you regulate your emotions better. How do you explore feelings with your child in a fun way? One of the ways to explore this with your child is via reading a story. So why not head to your local library and check out one of the following feeling focused books: The Color Monster Big Feelings Lizzy's Ups and DownsOther strategies which are discussed include:Make your own book with your own child together; using the framework, “A time I was sad, a time I was happy, a time I was mad, etc.” Draw together and make pictures using just 1 color at a weekend, on vacation or in a small groupHow to pull all the strategies together in one activity: Read The Color Monster, Make Your Own Book, Focus on One Color Other podcast episodes that are related to feelings:Three Playful Ways to Explore Feelings with kidshttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-156Feelings Check in Ideas at Home and Schoolhttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-90Six Books about Feelings for Kidshttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-66How to Explore Feelings with Kids Who Won't Talkhttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-47How to Use the Feelings Thermometerhttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-30And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIfyou'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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

CALM AND CONNECTED - EPISODE 169Every child needs 3 to 5 people to be part of their orbit to help shape their world and will have a significant influence on them. Whatever role you have, you could be that key person in a teenager's life to discuss the more stressful moments in their lives. There are signs and symptoms we can look out for in our teenagers. Stress is a normal reaction for anybody in different situations. But what if these reactions are taking over our young people's lives? In today's episode:The importance of relationships and connectionsThe negative effects disconnection can have Understanding our child stress baseline and the normal behavioursHow to recognize depression How stress can affect our body's physical response as well as mental health What signs we should be looking for in our adolescence, if they last for longer than a 2-week period. Spending 1-1 time with our teenagers to develop the space to talkHow to not overreact to your teenager sharing something important and validate what they're feelingHow Dr. Chinwé likes to rest and relax And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!About The Guest - Dr Chinwé Uwah WilliamsTrauma therapist, Best-selling Author, and Speaker, Dr. Chinwé is an expert at simplifying the complexities of our human experience. She is a sought-after speaker trusted by corporate and ministry leaders, educators, and parents to deliver messages that inspire individuals and teams to better connect with the individuals they lead and support. From managing anxiety, despair, and burnout, to highlighting the benefits of equity and empathy-centered leadership, Dr. Chinwé helps individuals, teams, and organizations accomplish their goals through the power of connection.An avid researcher and life-long student of wellness, Dr. Chinwé presents scientifically-sound information with the utmost professional care. She has spoken or facilitated workshops at several national and international gatherings and conferences. Dr. Chinwé is frequently invited to be an expert guest on blogs, podcasts and other media programs.Dr. Chinwé offers tailored keynotes and workshops on different levels for different occasions. She offers real-life case examples that help audiences cultivate a greater depth of understanding and spark insight. Her messages are rooted in evidence and solution-based practices, but she always applies her own experience from the field (which brings boring research to life!). She blends research and inspiring stories with VERY practical tools that are immediately actionable!Website: https://drchinwewilliams.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.chinwewilliams/About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Today, I'm highlighting one of my favorite coping skills to use: Take a mini mental vacation wherever you are. You'll hear an example of what a mini mental vacation can look like and how to practice this method. This is a coping skill that is in the Coping Skills for Teens Workbook. I'm excited to share that I've recently recorded and launched the audiobook version of the Coping Skills for Teens Workbook. If you're someone who connects better with audio than sitting down to read a book, this resource could be a huge help to you or your teen. You can download the audiobook now from Amazon. And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

CALM AND CONNECTED - EPISODE 167What is social anxiety and how big an impact does this have for a child and the difference for an adult? How can you tell the difference between social anxiety and being an introvert? These are just some of the questions Janine speaks about with Natasha Daniels as she also talks about her memoir Out of My Shell. They also speak about:What the definition of Social Anxiety actually isWhat does it look like in children compared to adultsFeeling the fear and doing it anywayThe potential to lack other social awarenesses The difference between introversion and social anxietyHow Natasha likes to rest and relaxAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!About The Guest - Natasha DanielsNatasha Daniels has been an anxiety & OCD therapist for over two decades. She combines both her clinical expertise with her lived experience, raising her own three kids with anxiety and OCD.She is the creator of the website AT Parenting Survival, As well as the host to the show AT Parenting Survival Podcast and the Youtube channel, Ask the Child Therapist. She also gives in-depth support to thousands of parents raising kids with anxiety or OCD through her books, courses in the AT Parenting Survival Online School and in her online membership AT Parenting Community. Her latest books include Crushing OCD Workbook for Kids and her memoir, Out of My Shell: Overcoming Social Anxiety from Childhood to Adulthood.Website: www.socialanxietyreality.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialanxietyreality/ About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

CALM AND CONNECTED - EPISODE 166How do you encourage your kids to be more independent? When do you as a parent step back to give them the space to step up? Lenore Skenazy joins Janine today to discuss some of these questions. They discuss: The importance of play and how it relieves stressBodily reaction to fear and avoidance to fearPlaying across mixed age groupsThe skills you learn when you play The Let Grow ProgramSetting tasks for your kids to do on their own without a parent there Passive kids and problem solving Kids having the concierge lifeHow Lenore likes to rest and relax About The Guest - Lenore SkenazyAfter her newspaper column “Why I Let My 9-Year-Old Ride the Subway Alone” created a media firestorm, Lenore got the nickname “America's Worst Mom.” (Google it!) She went on to write Free-Range Kids, the book-turned-movement that says our kids are smarter, safer, and stronger than our culture gives them credit for! Lenore has lectured everywhere from DreamWorks to Microsoft to Harvard Med School, Yale Child Study Center -- and the Bulgarian Happiness Festival! (For real.) On TV, you may have seen her on The Today Show, The Daily Show or her own reality show, World's Worst Mom. In 2017 Lenore co-founded Let Grow, the nonprofit promoting childhood independence, with three others, including Jonathan “The Anxious Generation” Haidt. She is its president. Lenore lives in New York City with her husband and beloved computer. Her children are gainfully employed. (Phew!) And, for the record, she used to write for Mad Magazine. Yep. MAD. But now she's so serious that here is her piece on "Independence as Therapy" in The New York Times. Website - https://letgrow.org/For parents: https://letgrow.org/program/parents-and-families/For schools/teachers/admins/counselors: https://letgrow.org/program/educators/For therapists: https://letgrow.org/program/independence-therapy/Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/759938234394061About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

CALM AND CONNECTED - EPISODE 165What does it mean to be a tech intentional family? Now phones, ipads and other forms of technology are in most areas of life. There's no size that fits all and what works for you and your family will look so different to your next door neighbor and the other parents you meet at the school gate. So where do you begin? In today's episode Janine speaks to Emily about:How to get a balance of technology in our homesHow to talk to your child about techMental health and bullying through techTalking our life out loud when we're using our techTexting your child at schoolBeing a role model with how you use techThe ‘I forgot' technique What Emily does to rest and relaxAbout The Guest - Emily CherkinEmily Cherkin, M.Ed., The Screentime Consultant, empowers parents to understand and balance family screentime by inspiring a movement around becoming tech-intentional. As a mother of two (12 & 16) and former teacher, she is intimately familiar with the daunting challenges facing families in today's highly digitized world. Emily's book, The Screentime Solution: A Judgment-Free Guide to Becoming a Tech-Intentional Family, was published in January 2024 by Greenleaf Book Group.LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-screentime-consultant-llc/Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thescreentimeconsultant/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thescreentimeconsultant/Twitter/X - https://twitter.com/ScreentimeLlcResources mentioned in the podcast episode:The Screentime Solution: A Judgment-Free Guide to Becoming a Tech-Intentional FamilyAmazon book page: https://www.amazon.com/Screentime-Solution-Judgment-Free-Becoming-Tech-Intentional/dp/B0CB9JS5KBAbout The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Play is such a powerful way for kids you learn ANYTHING including coping skills. Games can also be a way to help us learn and identify the feelings we have. Plus being a lot of fun along the way! In this episode Janine discusses 3 specific examples: Playing Jenga® - The use of jenga as a way of discussing feelings or getting to know you or your child betterMake your own board game - Using questions and ice breaker questions to make your own games. Whether that's using poster board or a piece of software online called Genially.Create a Cube - Print out a cube, build it, and write a coping strategy on each side. When you roll it, you have to do the coping strategy or activity you land on. There are lots more games and activities you could try that are available in the Coping Skills Hub. Learn more by visiting copingskillsforkids.com/hubAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Friendships are such a wonderful and special part of life. From memory making to going through the highs and lows with your peers makes life so much richer. As a child, learning social skills and how friendships fit is a huge learning curve as they go through their childhood and find their ‘people'. As a parent, how do you connect and how do you teach your kids basic social skills and about what a great friendship can be? Today Janine is joined by Caroline Maguire and in this episode they discuss:The importance of friendship How as a parent you connect with your childTalking about your friendships as part of teaching social skills Being a social spy What you want out of a friendshipThe power of role play gamesResilience and friendshipThe myths around best friendsHow Caroline rests and relaxesAbout The Guest - Caroline MaguireCaroline Maguire, ACCG, PCC, M.Ed., is an award-winning author, coach, teacher, and keynote speaker whose work has inspired important conversations about social skills, friendship and belonging. She earned her undergraduate degree at Trinity College and her Masters of Education at Lesley University. Caroline has been a rock for thousands of people who struggle to make friends. Her book “Why Will No One Play With Me?” has won several awards, including the Best Book Award from American Book Fest, Mom's Choice Award for Honoring Excellence, and Book Authority's award for Best ADHD Books of All Time. carolinemaguireauthor.comhttps://carolinemaguireauthor.com/strengthen-executive-function-skills-early-childhood/Caroline Maguire - YouTube Caroline Maguire - Facebook Caroline Maguire - Instagram —Resources mentioned in the podcast episode:Why Will No One Play with Me? By Caroline MaguireAbout The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

What do you think of when you hear the word ‘gratitude'? Is gratitude something you display or practice each day? Practicing and looking for what's gone well in the day is a great routine to get into in order to get past the tougher moments. In this episode we discuss:What emotions we display when we aren't practicing gratitudeSaying the things we're grateful for out loud The power of JournalingLooking at the small things beyond the ‘To Do List' including:Nature Our friendships PetsWriting thank you notes to the people who you're thankful for Coping Skills for Adults: https://copingskillsforkids.com/coping-skills-for-adultsAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

During the week what physical exercise do you do? Or which would you like to do? Today Janine looks at movement coping styles, specifically big body movement and how exercise helps your mental health and not just your physical and cognitive functioning. Did you know that those who exercise have fewer days of poor mental health than those who don't exercise. But what is the best activity for you and your lifestyle?This episode discusses:Thinking about the exercise type that makes you feel relaxed, something that you want to do and is sustainable in the long term. The small day to day moments of movement, like kitchen dance parties Group exercise and the social side that can come from being with peopleHow exercise needs to bring joy to the personOther examples of physical exercise you could try. Coping Skills for Adults: https://copingskillsforkids.com/coping-skills-for-adultsAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

We don't always have the time to relax and stop during a busy day when we head to work or school. Today Janine encourages us to take mini mindful moments and use our senses to create some pause points. In this episode Janine discusses:Sight - noticing things around you that you wouldn't usually notice and look forTaste - taking a mindful sip, whether that's your first sip of coffee in the morning or a bite at meal timeListening - creating playlists for different moods and choosing when to put these on. Listening to audiobooks or podcastsThe book the Highly Sensitive Child by Elaine N. Aron, Ph.D.Thinking about what overwhelms you via your senses and how to mitigate overwhelmCoping Skills for Adults: https://copingskillsforkids.com/coping-skills-for-adultsAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Playing is one of the biggest stress relievers in adults just as much as kids. It can help us look at life differently, have a break from life, be creative and lift your mood. In this episode Janine mentions a book called Play by Stuart Brown and Christopher Vaughan and some of the areas of play which are helpful tips and reminders. In this episode Janine discusses:How play removes stress for adults as well as kidsThe importance of taking a ‘play break'How to integrate play in your day as an adult What a playful attitude can look like Thinking about what you enjoy and incorporating these back into life now.Coping Skills for Adults: https://copingskillsforkids.com/coping-skills-for-adultsAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

What do you enjoy and makes you happy? Knowing what is really important to you, may be different to other people and how your mind and body works is really key to finding the best relaxation strategies for you. Some strategies will work some days and may work better on different days. Today in the episode we'll discuss the following strategies: Imagining your favorite placeTracing shapes and letters Body Scan/Muscle Relaxation Grounding techniquesLooking for different colors or shapesNaming things around youCoping Skills for Adults: https://copingskillsforkids.com/coping-skills-for-adultsAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Have you ever felt like you're in fight, flight and freeze mode? Does the situation you're facing feel really intense and you need to take a moment to pause? Whether high stress situations or whether you're doing a presentation, deep breathing strategies can help you get to the ‘rest and digest' space. In this episode Janine looks at deep breathing strategies and she discusses:What fight, flight and freeze mode is Getting to a place of ‘rest and digest'. Taking deep breaths and using your hands to help slow your breathing down. The difference 1 minute of doing an exercise can be Using deep breathing in a small or large group to bring in focus Breathing with numbers - 4, 7, 8 breathing How to check your energy And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

What does happy feel like? What about being nervous? Sad or excited? Learning to identify feelings is so important for kids - when kids can label their feelings, it's easier for them to self-regulate. One of the best ways to learn is through play, and you can work on feelings identification in fun and playful ways. In this episode Janine discusses:The importance of labeling our feelingsHow learning about feeling can be fun How to play games with your child to figure out what they are feelingThree games she likes to play:Feeling memory - a game with emoji'sHow would you feel?Feelings jengaHow to tap into playfulness on the Coping Skills Hub And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

How do we teach our children social and emotional awareness in a fun and play filled way? Eventually our children will become adults so when they walk out into the world, we want them to step into their lives as aware and in control of their emotions as possible. In this episode we discuss:The resources Yara has put together to support social and emotional learningThe importance of playing and therefore learning how to self regulate Crafts which help engage children in social awarenessHow kids cope with anger and the tools to help them while learning this emotionDifferent discipline options during transitional points How to manage your own emotions as a parent Communication points in your child's day so you can check inHow Yara relaxesAbout The Guest - Yara HabanbouYara Habanbou has experience in the field of education, and is deeply passionate about nurturing social-emotional skills in children, helping them grow not only as students but as kind, compassionate, and resilient individuals. She is the creator of seaofknowledge.org, where she shares tons of printables, ideas and activities to nurture kids' social skills as well as their academic skills.Website www.seaofknowledge.orgFacebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCarolineM Instagram @seaofknowledgeyara—Resources mentioned in the podcast episode:Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul by Stuart Brown and Christopher VaughanThe Power of Play - learning what comes naturally by David ElkindFree to Learn: Why Unleashing the Instinct to Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students for LifePlay=Learning: How Play Motivates and Enhances Children's Cognitive and Social-Emotional Growth Edited by Dorothy G. Singer, Roberta Michnick Golinkoff, and Kathy Hirsh-PasekCalm and Connected Ep 154: Ways to Connect with Kids and Teenshttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-154About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Building a strong connection with our children is really important and taking the time to invest in our relationships with them at each stage of childhood and into the teenage years. Today Janine considers the opportunities we create for them to share what they like and what you enjoy also in day to day life. How can we connect with our kids well so that when they face challenges or difficulties they feel like they can come speak with you, the parent? In this episode we discuss strategies for connecting well including:Word Games you can play together like ‘Would You Rather?'Playing board games together Playing video games together Cooking and baking togetherArts and craftsAn activity jar Geocaching Connecting through reading the same books your child reads/shows they watchAsking for youtube creator recommendations Sharing music togetherAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Have you noticed social skills missing in your kids? Caroline Maguire, author of Why Will No One Play With Me?, joins me to discuss how to support your child and build them up through play.Here's some of the areas we cover:The importance of playHow to play with your kids in a role play situationThe power of storytelling to explain social situations Debriefing with your kids and working on your bond togetherFinding the organic moments to talk to your kidsSupporting them through childhood playdates to teenage hangoutsFiguring out their baseline and strengths Using their interests to encourage and build them upThis is a clip from a live webinar. If you'd like to hear the whole interview, please join the Hub!About The Guest - Caroline maguireCaroline Maguire, is the founder of a revolutionary social emotional learning methodology that helps teach social skills to children, teenagers, and young adults. She holds a holds a Masters in Education degree with a concentration in SEL training and is the founder and director of The Fundamentals of ADHD Coaching for Families training curriculum at ADD Coach Academy (ADDCA). She is a former coach for the Hallowell Center in Sudbury, Massachusetts. She is the author of Why Will No One Play With Me?, the winner of the Best Parenting and Family Book 2020 as awarded by American Book Fest and co-collaborator on newly released HowToSel.com – a daily social emotional learning platform anyone can incorporate into daily life.Why Will No One Play With Me? The Play Better Plan To Help Children of All Ages Makes Friends and Thrive by Caroline Maguire, PCC, M.Ed.www.carolinemaguireauthor.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCarolineM Instagram https://www.instagram.com/authorcarolinecm/Twitter https://twitter.com/AuthorCarolineM Pinterest https://www.instagram.com/authorcarolinecm/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/authorcarolinecm/ About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Has your child hit their teenage years and puberty has started? Have you noticed their emotions are changing? What about their most extreme emotions? Do you find that your teenager can feel really angry at times?In today's episode, Janine unpacks some strategies to help you as parents support your teenager and how to develop that connection between yourself as the parent and them. Here's what Janine discusses in today's episode:Connection being key and your teen feeling heard How to notice emotions in their bodyBreathing exercisesMaking paper airplanesSqueezing dough or slimeCool compress on your neckDrinking cold water to regulate body temperatureTalking through what you can and can't controlChanneling energy into positive actionMaking a plan for your childResources Mentioned in the PodcastCoping Skills Community Hubhttps://copingskillsforkids.com/hubAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

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 aboutDoubting yourself and OCDContamination and germs and OCDReligion and OCDHarm and OCD Hiding symptoms and coping strategiesGetting diagnosedHow Marin likes to rest and relaxAbout The Guest - Marin CanadayMarin 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.comFacebook - My Little OCD Monster https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090423289366Resources 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 HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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' strategyImagining 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 classroomCalming Jars with glitter and glue Feelings Thermometers Take 5 to Calm Down Resources Mentioned in the PodcastCoping Skills Community Hubhttps://copingskillsforkids.com/hubAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 schoolHow difficult transition can be for parents as well as childrenWhat comments from family may or may not be helpful‘Transistionitis' - a phrase Caroline has come up with to describe the time before starting schoolTips on how to speak about going to school and what may be at a school settingDoes 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 relaxesAbout The Guest - Caroline AllenCaroline 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.ukResources mentioned: Delving a Little Deeper' (accessed from the website), which is for those wanting a little more theory. Instagram - @turninglittlestonesAbout The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 trickyHow to create a plan for when you're outItems which are helpful to have in your ‘on the go' bag. IncludingPens and pencils Notebooks and coloring books Music FidgetsVisual 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 PodcastCoping Skills Community Hubhttps://copingskillsforkids.com/hubAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 pathwaysHow development impacts our brain pathways Why Rebecca wrote Back on TrackThe impact of the pandemic on development Why having an action plan to help children is importantWhat developmental markers look like in childhood and as your child heads towards adolescence Sensory development in children and how the senses affects our decisionThe effects of tiredness on the brainThe 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 JacksonDr. 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 HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 itMoments 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 affirmationsImagining your favorite placeReading your favorite poem or quote Spending time with animalsStacking coping skills How these strategies can be used by children tooResources mentioned in the podcast:Superbetter: The Power of Living Gamefully by Jane McGonigalJon Cunha's interview on the Calm and Connected Podcast: https://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-88Coping Skills Community Hubhttps://copingskillsforkids.com/hubAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 doesThe beauty of having a multidisciplinary team and how to support the kids in your lives How does our brains work and what hormones are releasedTechniques for self regulationThe power of sound and movement and self regulationUsing temperature for self regulationFinding evidence based practice rather than what social media tells usHow Dr. Varleisha rests and relaxesAnd 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/drvarleishaX: https://x.com/drvarleishaOther 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 Garnerhttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-99Ryan Judd:https://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-116Lynne Kenneyhttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-106About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 sonsWhat it means to be highly sensitiveWhat high sensitivity is notHow it can be misdiagnosed as something elseHow to determine if my child is highly sensitiveWhat support to put around your familyHow Maureen rests and relaxesAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!About The Guest - MaureenMaureen 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/sensitivekids1Other resources: https://www.thehighlysensitivechild.com/About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 FidgetsFidgets are tools, not toysThe different types of FidgetsHow you can make cost-effective Fidgets from a pool noodleUsing Velcro and fabrics as tactile toolsFidgets which are available buyMy own FidgetMentioned in podcast:Calm and Connected Podcast about Coping Skills Toolkit at Dollar Treehttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-127Coping Skills Quiet Fidgethttps://copingskillsforkids.com/fidgetsAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 studentsFeelings and emotional regulationHow a counselor works out which student to support for the yearKeeping the lines of communication open between the counselor and parentsOrganizational tips for counselors Impact, a school's counseling membership service which Rachel runsHow Rachel rests and relaxesAbout The Guest - Rachel DavisRachel 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/impactAbout The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 141Sexual 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 areaThe catalyst for sharing her experienceThe abuse and eventual suicide of Rehtaeh Parsons and Audrey PottCyber 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 ClubsWhat parents can do to support their child at homeHow Meghan rests and relaxesAbout The Guest - Meghan Joyce TozerMeghan 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.comIG: www.instagram.com/meghanjoycetozerMeghan 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 HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 bookThe biggest mistakes parents make when discussing big topicsHow 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 makeWays to fess up and repair your relationship with each otherHow do you start talking with your kids on these big topicsHow kids realize they can help and teach you tooBooks which can be helpful tools Navigating your child's friendships and bullying How Dr Robyn rests and relaxesAnd 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: @DrRobynSilvermanDr 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/1728246989About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social Media Instagram: @copingskillsforkids Facebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 adultingWhat “taking care of business” means with the 3 B's; Body, belongings, billsWhat it means to be an adultThe negative side of standing under the monkey bars, waiting to catch your childHow can parents best support their children going into young adulthood?Using everyday activities as a way to practice being an adultWhy ‘Don't talk to strangers' is bad advice for childrenModeling behavior to show your kids you don't have everything figured out eitherHow Julie rests and relaxesAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About the Guest - Julie Lythcott-HaimsJulie 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 - @jlythcotthaimsAbout The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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.comEncourage Play - https://www.encourageplay.comInterested 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-versionSocial Skills for Kids - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/encourage-play/products/social-skills-for-kids-workbook Connect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 backgroundWhy it helps to work alongside different types of therapists What differences therapists have noticed since COVIDLanguage skills and self regulation skills in children after covidThe challenges of moving from elementary to middle schoolOur thoughts on teachersStrategies that are helpful for children's behavior and self regulationThe proprioception and vestibular systemsWhat 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 - ClaireClaire 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.comInstagram - https://instagram.com/insptreehouse/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/inspired.treehouse/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheinspiredtreehousePinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/inspiredtreehou/The Therapist Informed Classroom - self-paced, email-based course https://theinspiredtreehouse.com/the-therapist-informed-classroomAbout The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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.comEncourage Play - https://www.encourageplay.comInterested 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-versionSocial Skills for Kids - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/encourage-play/products/social-skills-for-kids-workbook Connect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: 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 benefitsCreate visual reminders like cue cardsMake a plan before anything happens or escalatesThe importance of debriefing Create a calm area or spaceHave an ‘on-the-go' calm down kitYour mindset matters too - as the adult, parent or guardianYour actions make such a difference, how important modeling isHow the Coping Skills for Kids Resource Library Community Hub can help you find coping skillsVisit The Resource Library Community Hub - https://copingskillsforkids.com/hubAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

When you are stressed, anxious or perhaps angry and need to calm down, what techniques do you use? There are so many out there, from yoga, meditation, exercise and mindfulness but today I will be speaking to my guest Andrea about one which you'll love if you sit on the creative side of life. It's a mix of art and mindfulness and it's called ‘Zentangle'. The topics we cover in this episode are;What social anxiety actually isHow the pandemic affected children with social anxiety differentlyHow Andrea came to find mindful artWhat is Zentanglement? How Andrea's website helps mental health and is backed up by scienceMindfulness and how it has grown in popularity over the yearsWhat is the Zentangle method? What does it look like?Don't dismiss a tile by its final design - take it one step at a timeThe benefits of Zentangle Andrea's introductory course on ZentangleHow Andrea likes to unwind—About The Guest - Andrea SantogrossoAndrea Santogrosso has been an educator for 12 years, teaching Visual Arts and Special Education. She is also a Certified Zentangle Teacher and founder of the Children's art blog, Lightly Sketched. Her mission is to provide an innovative outlet for children who may be experiencing mental health issues. She is passionate about helping kids deal with their emotions in creative ways, and drawing Zentangles is an exercise that she recommends they add to their coping toolkit. She has seen the transformative nature of creativity in the lives of so many of her students and witnessed it in her own life through her eldest daughter, who has anxiety. She currently lives in Toronto, Canada with her husband, 2 loving daughters, and their dog, Marshmallow. Website - https://lightlysketched.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lightlysketched/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lightlysketchedYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbb1JC5LX4sEwOkF2dXt3APinterest - https://www.pinterest.ca/lightlysketched/_created/About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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.comEncourage Play - https://www.encourageplay.comInterested 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-versionSocial Skills for Kids - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/encourage-play/products/social-skills-for-kids-workbook Connect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Today's installment of my book series covers the book ‘The Highly Sensitive Child' by Elaine N. Aron, Ph.D. I read this book over COVID and it totally changed the way I look at kids, how to spot what's going on with them in order to help them. In this episode, I go over the 4 areas in which high sensitivity presents itself so you can better see if your child is highly sensitive. The topics I cover in this episode are:High sensitivity in childrenThe D.O.E.S acronymThe high sensitivity screeningWorking through the book as a parent with high sensitivityHow the book works through different developmental stagesIf you want to suggest a book to me, then you can do so here - https://www.instagram.com/copingskillsforkids/Book recommendation: The Highly Sensitive Child: Helping our children thrive when the world overwhelms them by Elaine N. Aron, Ph.D.https://hsperson.com/The Highly Sensitive Childhttps://www.thehighlysensitivechild.com/And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Have you ever considered a different educational style for your children besides the conventional method? If so, perhaps you have heard of the Montessori method. It is based on self-directed activity, hands-on learning and collaborative play. In Montessori classrooms children make creative choices in their learning, while the classroom and the highly trained teacher offer age-appropriate activities to guide the process. In this episode, I spoke to Montessori Home Consultant, Jeanne-Marie Paynel about the benefits of this education style. The topics we cover in this episode are;Jeanne's backgroundCo-working nursery spacesWho is Doctor Montessori?What we used to think of new born babies brainsHow we see children and education nowThe differences of a Montessori school and conventional educationMixed age classes and the benefits“Help me to do it by myself” the Montessori MotoWhy the Montessori method doesn't use a cribGetting your child to help with food prepThe red flags to look out for when finding a Montessori schoolAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Guest - Jeanne-Marie PaynelJeanne-Marie Paynel, M.Ed, is a Parenting Mentor, Montessori Home Consultant, and Doula supporting parents to confidently raise the next generation of good-hearted humans. She's the host of The Art of Parenting podcast and founder of Your Parenting Mentor where she guides expectant parents, caregivers, and parents of young children to better prepare their homes and themselves for their children to thrive during the first six crucial years of life. She believes that a supportive and peaceful home atmosphere will allow every child to flourish as an independent, confident and capable learner. She combines her many passions to serve her community: Montessori, RIE, Conscious Parenting, Positive Discipline, and Mindfulness. Her mission is to help parents appreciate the true importance of their role - not as servants or teachers, but as supporters and guides of their children's natural development.Website - https://voilamontessori.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jeannemariepaynel/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jeannemariepaynel.yourparentingmentorYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1J0xiJZgzhF2z6TQig3tiwCalm and Connected Podcast episodes mentioned:Ned Johnsonhttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-124Nicole Schwarzhttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-97Sarah Moorehttps://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-125About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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.comEncourage Play - https://www.encourageplay.comInterested 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-versionSocial Skills for Kids - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/encourage-play/products/social-skills-for-kids-workbook Connect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

This episode is the second installment of my book recommendation series. This week I want to focus on books dealing with anger since I have seen a lot of kids showing up to school with big emotions like anger lately. It is an emotion we have all felt many times, but we're not always sure about how to deal with it so perhaps a bit of light reading can help! The topics I cover in this episode are:Don't Rant and Rave on Wednesdays by Adolph Moser Angry Octopus by Lori Lite and Max Stasuyk Progressive relaxation techniquesDeep breathing techniquesWhen I Feel Angry by Cornelia Maude Spelman Staying safe while having big emotions How to Take The Grrrr Out of Anger by Elizabeth Verdick and Marjorie Lisovskis Chillax!: How Ernie Learns to Chill Out, Relax and Take Charge of His Anger by Marcella Marino Craver Other podcast episodes that will help with big emotions like angerIf you want to suggest a book to me, then you can do so here - https://www.instagram.com/copingskillsforkids/And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

When was the last time you had a dedicated playtime with your child? Life gets so busy so we can't blame parents for not being able to squeeze this in-between school, dinnertime, sports or dance at the weekend but it is vital to a child's development. Kim Feeney is the guest on this episode, she is a licensed independent social worker and a registered play therapist supervisor. I wanted to discuss playtime with her and how to build a connection with your child. The topics we cover in this episode are:Why play matters so much?The benefits of having a dedicated playtime with your kidsHow to set up a dedicated playtime with your kidsValidating your child during playtimeThe four crucial C's; Connection, Capable, Count, Courage Modeling the courage to be imperfectHow can we build empathy with sibling relationships?How Kim relaxes and rechargesAbout The Guest - Kim Feeney, LICSWKim Feeney is a licensed independent social worker and a registered play therapist supervisor in Davenport, IA. She has over ten years of experience helping children and families lead healthier emotional lives so that they can effectively cope with big emotions. Believing all behavior is purpose-driven, she works with parents and children to find alternative ways to meet social and behavioral needs.Website - https://www.butterflybeginningscounseling.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/butterflybeginFacebook - www.facebook.com/butterflybeginningscounselingFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/coachingcaregivers/6 Ways Parents Can Help Their Kids Cope With Big Emotions: www.butterflybeginningscounseling.com/copingParenting class- Being With https://www.butterflybeginningscounseling.com/beingwith/Book- Emily's Emotional Empathy. https://fanatic4feelings.myshopify.com/products/copy-of-emilys-emotional-empathy-softcoverAbout The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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.comEncourage Play - https://www.encourageplay.comInterested 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-versionSocial Skills for Kids - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/encourage-play/products/social-skills-for-kids-workbook Connect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

I have always been a reader ever since I was a child but sometimes life gets in the way and I have found I don't make much time for it so I used a recent vacation to spark my love for pleasurable reading again. After posting about this on Instagram, I was really inspired by one of my comments; to make a list of books to read over the summer and start a podcast series about it!The topics I cover in this episode are:I start with 2 book recommendations, one for fun and one for workBook 1 - The Book of Awesome by Neil PascrichaA gratitude practice and seeing the beauty in the small stuffBook 2 - Your Turn, How to be an Adult by Julie Lythcott-HaimsMy favorite parts of this book, especially lessons learned when things don't go to planIf you want to suggest a book to me, then you can do so here - https://www.instagram.com/copingskillsforkids/And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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/newsletterIf 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/hubIf 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/copingskillsforkidsConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

This week, Janine speaks to Suzanne Tucker a Parent Educator about the do's, don't's, the should's and shame that comes with parenting. Suzanne started Generation Mindful as she saw societal problems within herself and her own family, as well as in friends and family and she knew something needed to change. Listen into this episode to make yourself feel a whole lot better about living life as a parent! The topics we cover in this episode are;Suzanne's backgroundShame free parenting The difficulties of using the word “should”Name it, feel it, heal itDoctor Stuart Brown and his research on playParent guilt and shame of not being perfectGetting children to understand every emotion is okayYou can be complete and growing at the same timeWhat coping skills Suzanne uses for herselfAnd remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Guest - Suzanne TuckerSuzanne Tucker has been a physical therapist, Parent Educator, and Certified Educator of Infant Massage for more than 25 years. She's a mom of four and the founder of Generation Mindful, an international community bringing early emotional education and positive child rearing practices into the mainstream for young families and early childhood classrooms. Suzanne believes the most impactful thing we can do as a society to bring about a more peaceful and compassionate world is to evolve the way we discipline our children, replacing fear and shame with practices that nurture safety and connection. Website - www.genmindful.comInstagram - Instagram.com/GenerationMindfulFacebook - Facebook.com/GenMindfulTwitter -Twitter.com/Gen_MindfulAbout The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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.comEncourage Play - https://www.encourageplay.comInterested 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-versionSocial Skills for Kids - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/encourage-play/products/social-skills-for-kids-workbook Connect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Throughout your life growing up, have you ever come up against a problem you just couldn't solve? We learn very valuable skills at school but we don't learn every single skill needed for everyday life so in this episode, I teach you some hands-on ways to practice problem solving with your child. The topics I cover in this episode are:The 5 steps to problem solvingThe benefits of learning and playing simultaneouslyA newspaper and tape challenge - what is it? The interesting side to different children groups doing the same exerciseMy second strategy with play dough and toothpicksPracticing smaller problems help with bigger problems in real lifeProblem Solving Steps from Encourage Playhttps://www.encourageplay.com/blog/a-simple-5-step-process-for-problem-solvingCreative Problem Solving Prompts - Calm and Connected Podcast 102https://www.janinehalloran.com/podcast/calm-and-connected-episode-102And remember, do not forget about yourself, take a few minutes for you and have a little fun!—About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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.comEncourage Play - https://www.encourageplay.comInterested 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-versionSocial Skills for Kids - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/encourage-play/products/social-skills-for-kids-workbookConnect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay

Firstly I want to pre-warn you that my guest Elliot Kallen and I discuss the topic of suicide. This might be an uncomfortable topic for you or perhaps younger ears are listening so please click play with care. Sometimes life throws us the most difficult of situations which stop us in our tracks and make us believe it's too difficult to carry on. This was the unfortunate case for Elliot Kallen's son and in turn for Elliot himself. But the impressive resilience of human beings allowed Elliot to carry on past his heart ache in order to help other families in similar situations so they wouldn't have to feel the pain he went through. The strength he possesses is nothing short of amazing so I encourage you to listen to Elliot's story and how he can help you and your child through depression. The topics we cover in this episode are;Elliot tells the story of how his company 'A Brighter Day' got startedHow his business evolved to support more people through COVIDElliot explains how his company has partnered with BetterHelp to offer free therapy to teenagersHow his company are looking at other organizations like AA to replicate the help but for depression What signs should we be looking out for with depression in teenagers?Parents can have great intentions but sometimes make bad decisionsSocial media and how it affects your teenagerHow a conversation over dinner can helpOpening up to your kids and being vulnerableTools and strategies that teenagers can use for stress and depression Elliot's own coping skillsAbout The Guest - Elliot KallenElliot brings 25 years of leadership and management experience from the business sector to his role at A Brighter Day. He co-founded A Brighter Day in 2016 with his wife Tammy after the loss of their son Jake, to support young adults in their transition to adulthood and to help prevent teen suicide. Elliot formerly served as Board President of The Boys and Girls Club of the Diablo Valley, and remains actively involved today. He has helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for this organization, which is on the front lines in providing athletic, social and cultural programming to the children of Diablo Valley. Elliot is also active with The Fallen Heroes Charity.Website - http://www.abrighterday.info/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/abrighterdaycharity/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/uniteforabrighterday/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCix1ywbqDiVW2VvKhMFMlwLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliotkallen/Email - Elliot@abrighterday.infoPhone - If you need to call him (as a parent) - 510 206 1103About The Host - Janine HalloranJanine 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.comEncourage Play - https://www.encourageplay.comInterested 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-versionSocial Skills for Kids - https://store.copingskillsforkids.com/collections/encourage-play/products/social-skills-for-kids-workbook Connect with Janine on Social MediaInstagram: @copingskillsforkidsFacebook: facebook.com/copingskillsforkids and facebook.com/encourageplayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JanineHalloranEncouragePlay