Family Service Project Guidebook

Many families want to help kids understand the importance of acts of service and helping others in their community. But doing a service project as a family can feel overwhelming! Where do you start? What projects can kids participate in? How do you ensure that they’re getting the most out of the project, and that the project is really helpful to others? Download our quick guide with checklists, fill-in-the-blanks and example projects to build your own family service project. 

Limit Setting 101

Anyone who works with children must sometimes set limits. But many also struggle with this task. In this post, we discuss what limits are, why they're important, and how to set effective limits. 

Let's Take a Walk

Getting up and moving can be a great way to help restless kids manage their energy. What can be even more beneficial is combining movement with mindfulness.

Joy is a Snowman

Everyone needs some joy in their life! What’s great is that we can spread joy to others through acts of kindness. This activity gives children several prompts for spreading joy to those around them. 

Wishing Stars

We can’t predict the future, but we can have hopes and wishes for it. This fun paper-folding activity guides kids through thinking about their wishes and hopes for the upcoming year.

Three Wordless Children's Books about Kindness

For a mix on storytime, try wordless picture books that tell a whole story through illustrations. Here are three focused on kindness to consider!

My AccomplishMINT!

While it is important for students to receive recognition and encouragement from educators and caregivers, it is also important that they learn how to recognize and acknowledge their accomplishments on their own.

A Brain Book for Young Children

Read about our book, Your Brain, and the thought behind why we made it!

Four Today: A Reflection Activity

Ask a child what they did during the day, and you’ll often get, “I don’t know.” This free activity guides children through reflecting on their day.

Talk About It: A Conversation Starter Kit for Families

Ever have that “Sooo… how was your day?” conversation lull? We’ve all been there. That’s why we created “Talk About It! A Conversation Starter Kit for Families”. This digital download comes with conversation starters, tips for building great conversation, and even a template for a box so you can keep the cards on the table for easy conversation starters any time you’re gathered.  

Farm to Table: A Gratitude Activity

Combining food and gratitude, this activity teaches children how they can express gratitude for things that indirectly impact their daily lives. 

Gratitude Scavenger Hunt

It’s the season of gratitude! And what better way to focus on gratitude than to make it a fun game? Consider a gratitude scavenger hunt. Check out our ideas for how to help kids notice all the many things there are to be thankful for through this simple activity. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Responding to Big Behaviors in the Classroom

Every teacher will likely encounter big behaviors from time to time. Yelling, name calling, refusing to work… these are all typical classroom experiences. Here is a step-by-step guide to respond to big behavior in the classroom.

Understanding Two Types of Childhood Development

What should adults know about childhood development in order to best support students? In this post, we look at two different types of development. 

How to Re-Build Empathy after Covid

Over the last two years, children have experienced significant social isolation, which has kept many children from being able to practice a lot of basic social skills that are often done naturally in the classroom. How can we build back these critical skills? 

Make a Friendly Monster: A Free Collaboration Lesson

Make a Friendly Monster is a lesson about collaboration that allows students to practice working with a partner to create a fun friendly monster. The lesson also teaches students what it means to be a good partner.

When Kids are Disrespectful

Teachers are reporting an increase in disrespectful behavior. How do we create an environment of respect in our classrooms and schools? Consider these tips. 

Rewards and Consequences Reimagined

Rewards and consequences are often the cornerstone of behavior management. Who among us hasn’t bribed a child to do something or handed out a consequence for unwanted behavior? Yet today we’d like to talk about rewards and consequences… and how we can rethink them. 

Five Steps for Responding to Classroom Disruptions

Every teacher will likely encounter big behaviors from time to time. Yelling, name calling, refusing to work… these are all typical classroom experiences. Here is a step-by-step guide to respond to big behavior in the classroom.

Responding to Learning Loss (Without Shame!)

How should teachers consider responding to academic challenges? And can we do it without shaming children for what they haven’t learned yet? We sat down with Dr. Rhonda Vincent, director of educational program innovation here at Momentous Institute, to give us some insight. 

A Simple Self-Regulation Trick

Struggling with disruptive classroom behaviors? Here’s one strategy we love – it’s always available, costs nothing, and easily accessible for all children. Read on to learn more…

One Way to See Improvement This School Year

It’s easy to fall into the trap of seeing everything that’s going wrong. But sometimes we can spend so much time focused on what’s not working that we miss seeing success. Here’s one thing we like to keep in mind when it comes to behavior. 

Managing Stress: A Guide for Teachers

If you’re in a classroom with children all day, you already know – there’s no stress like a teacher’s stress. As we enter a new school year, it’s time to start thinking about a stress management strategy. The more you prepare for it, the better off you’ll be at handling it when it does come up.

What we Call Students Matters

What you call your students is what you want to elicit in them. That's why I think certain terms should be avoided, and others added to your teacher vocabulary. Consider these options.

A Second Grade Hispanic Changemakers Project

We sat down with Momentous School second grade teacher Brenda Ortega to explain this classroom Changemakers project.

The Case for an SEL Curriculum

We are in a unique moment in education – an experience none of us have ever seen before. And yet, we know that we can’t take the foot off the gas. So what can we do? We must be explicit about social emotional learning. 

How to Share What You’ve Read with Your Colleagues

Once you’ve read a book or article, you may find yourself wishing everyone at your workplace knew about it. Consider these tips for sharing what you’ve read in your workplace. 

What to Do on the First Day of School: Advice for New Teachers

If you’re a new teacher starting out, you may be wondering a very simple question: What do I actually DO on the first day of school? Read these tips. 

Building Expectations for a Smooth School Year

Everyone wants to have a smooth school year, with minimal disruptions and lots of learning and fun. This is possible! But in order to achieve it, you must have clear expectations.

Back to Basics: Important Reminders for Students on How to Do School Again

It’s always a great idea to remind students of the basics. But this year, it’s essential. When we say basics, we mean BASICS. Consider these prompts to help get students prepared for this new year. 

Building Relationships During the First Week of School

There is nothing – we repeat, nothing, more important to a successful school year than building safe relationships. Consider this first-week-of-school guide to setting the stage for safe relationships.

Setting Up Your Classroom, Part One: Guiding Principles

The setup and organization of a classroom is an essential part of learning. It’s so much more than just aesthetics – a classroom must be functional and support student’s learning. Here are a few guiding principles to setting up your classroom this year. 

Setting Up Your Classroom, Part Two: What to Include

In part two of our classroom setup advice, we take a look at what the most important components of a classroom include. 

Three Questions to Ask Yourself to Create a Healthy Work-Life Balance this School Year

A healthy work-life balance is essential for this new school year. Here are three questions to consider.

Two Children’s Books about Anxiety

Sometimes the easiest way to normalize and talk about a complex emotion is through stories. That’s why we like these two children’s books that can help kids navigate their anxieties and worries, one for younger kids and one for older kids.

When Kids Will Only Read Graphic Novels

Sound familiar? A child will no longer read anything except graphic novels. Should we care? Is reading considered reading, no matter what? We sat down with Momentous School Librarian, Stevie Lemons, to discuss.

History-Making Weekend for the AT&T Byron Nelson

Here are the highlights as we celebrate a full-throttle AT&T Byron Nelson golf tournament that crowned K.H. Lee as champion for the second year in a row!

Four New SEL Books from the Momentous School Librarian

Our Momentous School librarian is up to date on all the latest books, and while there are so many great books out there, she has four new books that you might not find yet on the latest book lists.

One Classic and One New Book from Dr. Laura Vogel

Dr. Laura Vogel, director of our therapeutic services team, recommends one classic and one new book for anyone interested in learning more about mental health. 

The Number One Way to Raise a Kid Who Reads

Momentous School librarian, Stevie Lemons, shares the number one way to raise a reader...

How to Help Kids Pick the Best Books at the Library or Bookstore

Stepping into a library or bookstore can be daunting, so we sat down with Stevie Lemons, the librarian at Momentous School, to help give us some insight on how to help kids pick the best books.

Six Books Recommended by Our Therapists, Teachers and Momentous Staff

Read along with us! Here are six SEL, education and mental health related books Momentous teachers, therapists and other members of our diverse team are reading this summer. 

Changemaker Reading Challenge

It's summertime and that means it's time for summer reading. Find out more about our Changemaker Reading Challenge!

Three Books about Big Feelings

Kids experiencing big feelings? We've all been there. Here are three books to read together that might help.

A Peek at Dr. Jessica Gomez's Bookshelf

Our executive director, Dr. Jessica Gomez is a book lover! Read on to find out what books are currently on her shelf. 

Reading with Kids: Turning any Book into a Social Emotional Lesson

You don’t need to update your entire children’s home library to have important social emotional conversations about books. Consider these prompts.

When I Grow Up, I Want to be a...

Read about a lovely conversation with an aspiring psychologist and Momentous Insitute student, Eleazar Rodriguez, and Dr. Jessica Gomez, Momentous Institute’s Executive Director.

Changemakers in Zambia

Read about the amazing work the Innovation & Impact team is doing in Zambia with the implementation of Changemakers. 

Letter from the Executive Director

Hear from Dr. Jessica Gomez on the three truths of Momentous Insitute as she completes her first year as Executive Director.

SEL Books Momentous Staff Read with Their Kids

Staff recommended, kid approved. Take a look at several different Social Emotional Learning (SEL) books that our Momentous Staff members have read with their own kids. 

How to Have a Conversation with Kids about What They are Reading

Don’t just stop at reading! Take it to the next level by having conversations with your child about what they’re reading. Here are a few conversation starters. 

Six Tips for Getting Reluctant Readers to Read

It’s not always easy to get kids to sit down and read. Here are six tips to help encourage the reader in your child.

Talking with Kids about Uvalde: A Step-by-Step Guide

It’s the conversation no parent ever wants to have. But in light of this week’s tragic school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, parents are once again faced with the agonizing task of explaining violence and tragedy to their children. 

Four Children's Books Discussing Violence

Helping children make sense of violence in the world is one of the hardest things an adult must do. For resources to talk to kids about violence and what we can do to make the world a less violent and more peaceful place, consider these four books. 

Getting a Mental Health Diagnosis for Kids, Part Four: Sharing the Results with the Child

In this four-part series, we discuss mental health diagnoses for children. In part four, sharing the results with the child.

Getting a Mental Health Diagnosis for Kids, Part Three: Testing and Results

In this four-part series, we discuss mental health diagnoses for children. In part three, the process of testing.

Getting a Mental Health Diagnosis for Kids, Part Two: To Test or Not to Test

In this four-part series, we discuss mental health diagnoses for children. In part two, understanding when to test a child.

Getting a Mental Health Diagnosis for Kids, Part One: Destigmatizing Diagnosis

In this four-part series, we discuss mental health diagnoses for children. In part one, the stigma and fear that surround a mental health diagnosis.  

My Mental Health Toolbox

Managing my mental health has been a journey and along the way I've gathered many tools to help. Read on to learn more about my mental health toolbox.

Four Simple Mental Health Concepts Kids Can Understand

Here are four easy things we can teach kids to help them understand and manage their social emotional and mental health. 

Support for Students with Challenging Behavior

We have created a free guide to building a collaborative process at your school for supporting teachers in their work with students exhibiting challenging behavior. Read more to learn how this process can help you. 

How To Help Kids Manage Impulses

If you’ve spent any time at all with children, you know they can be impulsive. Impulses are natural, and they can be controlled with practice. Consider these tips. 

Lessons from a Kindergarten Classroom on Conflict

Last week on live television, the nation watched something that unfolds every day in my kindergarten classroom. Something hurtful was said, someone had a reaction, and an action was taken. Y’all, let me tell you… this is what we go through every day in kindergarten. 

Three Things We Learned from Jon Batiste

We are so excited that Jon Batiste won big at the Grammy’s with his Album of the Year, We Are. In honor of this incredible album (that we’re all still singing and dancing along to) we wanted to share three things we learned from our time with Jon. 

Anxiety about Inflation? Try These Tips

Many of us are feeling the financial pinch related to inflation, rising gas prices and more. While it's easy to feel like inflation is something out of our control, there are things we can do to manage our stress and anxiety, as well as our finances, to make it through the tough times. 

A Little Hope Everyday

After two years of uncertainty, mostly due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it feels time to start looking forward again. Let's start by doing this exercise to think about a little hope everyday.

Empathy in a Time of War

During a time of war, conversations can focus on empathy and shared humanity. Read more...

How to Prepare Yourself for Conversations about War with Kids

Before having a conversation with kids about war, it is important to take care of your own emotions and mental health in order to make the conversations with kids successful.

10 Tips for Talking to Kids about War

Many parents are asking for support on how to talk to kids about the war in Ukraine and what kids are hearing and asking about war. Here are a few of my tips for how to have these conversations with kids. 

Talking about War in the Classroom

Momentous School teacher Anthony Castro shares how he broached the conversation about the Russia/Ukraine conflict in his third grade classroom. 

How I’m Managing My Own Mental Health When Things are Hard

The past few years have been incredibly overwhelming and scary for me, and while I am certainly not an expert in mental health and coping skills, I have found three things that work for me. Read on...

Why Negative Emotions Are Important

Dealing with negative emotions can be challenging, so for many of us, we'd rather ignore them. Let's take a look at why negative emotions are important and why it is important that we acknowledge and address them. 

Three Ingredients for Deep Friendships

Friendships can be hard to build, and sometimes even harder to maintain. Here are three ingredients that can build and sustain lasting friendships. 

Five Days of Kindness: A Free Kindness Lesson

Five Days of Kindness is a kindness lesson that aims to teach students the importance of choosing to be kind. The lesson also teaches students that they can work together to show kindness.

Finding Joy in the Dreary Months of Winter

In these dreary months of winter, how can we be intentional about seeking out joy? Try bringing more joy into your life with these joyful ideas. 

Let's Talk about Fight, Flight and Freeze

When we are faced with stress, we are impacted in primarily two places – the brain and the body. Let's take a look at these three common stress responses, fight, flight and freeze, and how they show up in our brain and body. 

Overwhelmed? Try this One Small Trick.

Who isn’t feeling overwhelmed these days? Here is just one tiny little trick that might help for those days when it all feels like too much. 

Self-Compassion When Things are Just Too Hard

Sometimes even basic self-care is too much when times are hard. So this week, let’s make it even simpler. Let’s focus on self-compassion.

X Marks the Goal: A Free Goal Setting Lesson

X Marks the Goal is a goal setting lesson that aims to teach students the importance of setting goals. The lesson also give students a tool to help them establish a plan for meeting their goals. Download your copy today for free.

Shy or Social Anxiety? How to Tell the Difference

How do we know when someone is experiencing a typical human experience – shyness, introversion – or when they may be suffering from clinical social anxiety? Let’s take a look. 

12 Days of Holiday Self-Care

Sing along with us as we find 12 ways to take care of ourselves this holiday season!

Not Another Holiday Checklist

We don’t need another holiday checklist reminding us to make the most of this season. So instead, we’d like to offer you a very different kind of holiday checklist.

How to Use Winter Break to Actually Rest and Recharge

The winter break is approaching, and I’ve been feeling more stressed than excited. I decided to ask some friends and teachers how they plan to recharge and find joy over the break. Read their tips to make the most of your time off!

Self-Care Snowflakes: A Self-Care Activity

Winter break is an exciting time, but it is also a good time for children to take some time to recharge their batteries. Everyone needs to practice self-care, including kids. This activity helps children practice self-care.

Should You Stay or Walk Away? (A Flowchart!)

Ever felt conflicted about whether you should stick with something or walk away? We’ve come up with a handy flowchart to help!

Professional Development or Professional Encouragement?

What if professional learning was more personal, focusing not just on new ideas and skills, but on encouragement? 

2021 Changing the Odds Highlights

2021 Changing the Odds was an unforgettable experience as we celebrated what it looks like to flourish together! Key speakers included: Jon Batiste, Cheryl Strayed, Ingrid Fetell Lee, and many others. Through creativity, joy, racial healing and other practices, we learned that humanity can flourish.

Feeling better...naturally!

The natural world has major benefits for our mental health. Check out how we've utilized the outdoors in our clinical work. 

Donor Spotlight

Read how The Addy Foundation has fortified efforts to add our Changemakers curriculum into more classrooms!

Letter from the Executive Director

Hear from Dr. Jessica Gomez as she shares how she's remained positive through the work of the staff, community and families we partner with! 

Family Facts: A Fun Get-To-Know-Each-Other Activity

This free activity book is for families to get to know each other better. Use it this holiday season to spark conversation!

I Celebrate: A Holiday Activity

This time of year, families are celebrating many different holidays. This activity lets students learn about the different holidays and traditions that their peers celebrate.

​When Kids are Anxious about Vaccines

Flu season, Covid tests, and now… the Covid vaccine, children everywhere are encountering shots and swabs that might leave some kids anxious or fearful. How can we help kids by making shots and routine medical procedures as easy and painless as possible?

Five Quick Self-Care Strategies

Here are five quick things you can try if you’re having a rough day, a stressful encounter with another person, or just need a general pick-me-up.

Fall Feelings

Use this fun 'Fall Feelings' activity to help kids learn more about feelings, specifically how there are A LOT of feelings.

Straw the Scared Scarecrow: A Free Feelings Workbook

Straw the Scared Scarecrow may be afraid of a lot of things, but he also wants to help kids understand that everyone feels scared sometimes. Learn more about straw in this free workbook.

Perseverance Pumpkin Patch: A Free Perseverance Lesson Plan

The ability to persevere in the face of a challenge is a skill that must be taught and practiced. This lesson contains a fun fall activity to help teach students about perseverance.

No Tricks, Only Treats of Kindness

It's Halloween season, and we have a fun way for kids to learn about kindness. This activity is a social emotional learning take on trick-or-treat: No Tricks, Only Treats of Kindness.

Slow it Down: A Self-Regulation Strategy

Next time you're feeling stressed, take a moment to check in with your body. You may notice that everything has sped way up. Try this simple strategy to calm your brain and body. 

You've Got This: A Self-Regulation Strategy

Building up your self-regulation toolbox helps you prepare in advance for the times when you feel dysregulated and need to self-regulate. Let's look at a self-regulation strategy we like to call, You've Got This!

Three, Two, One: A Self Regulation Strategy

Adults can feel dysregulated just like children can. Let's take a look at a self-regulation strategy that adults can use anytime they are feeling dysregulated. The strategy is called: Three, Two, One.

Three Easy Strategies for Sneaky, In-the-Moment Stress Management

Here are three quick, easy in-the-moment strategies to manage stress... that those around you won’t even notice you're doing. 

When September 11th Comes up in the Classroom

We are approaching the anniversary of September 11^th, and you may find yourself fielding questions from students and children.  We have compiled a list of helpful tips for navigating these conversations and answering tough questions they might have.

Honoring Your Feelings on September 11th

This year marks the 20^th anniversary of the September 11^th attacks. In this post we discuss three important things you can do to honor your feelings on September 11^th.

Coaching with a Social Emotional Approach

Schools and districts must renew their focus on how to prioritize social and emotional support for adults through coaching and professional learning. Read more about how a strong social emotional lens can support coaching practices and improve outcomes.

We All Have Expectations: A Free Safe Relationships Lesson Plan

This free lesson plan, We All Have Expectations, introduces students to classroom expectations and guides students through established expectations for both the teacher and the students/classroom. The lesson can be adapted to fit any elementary or middle school classroom.

How to Build Relationships with Students this School Year

Every year it is important to get started on the right foot with building relationships with students, but never more than this year. As students return to school, they will need explicit focus on relationships to help build a classroom environment where every student feels a deep sense of belonging and safety. 

Back-to-School Anxiety Tip: Worry One to Ten

In today's back-to-school anxiety tip, consider a worry chart where a child can track their worry on a scale of 1 to 10 and learn how to track and manage their anxiety. 

How to Include Families in School as Students Return to Classrooms

Last year was a breakthrough year on bridging the gap between school and home for many schools. As we head into a new year where most students will physically return to classrooms, we don’t want to lose this momentum! Here are a few tips for keeping families included in school as kids return to classrooms. 

Back-to-School Anxiety Tip: What Does the Worry Look Like?

In this back-to-school anxiety tip: one way to support children who have anxiety is to help the child identify what the worry looks like. 

Back-to-School Anxiety Tip: Use Story Books

One simple way to help children manage anxiety is to read about it! In this back-to-school anxiety tip, learn how to use story books to help manage worries. 

Six Ways to Build Emotional Safety this School Year

As students come back to classrooms this fall, safety will be on everyone’s mind. And while physical safety is very important, emotional safety must also be front of mind. Here are a couple ways to increase emotional safety for students this school year.

Back-to-School Anxiety Tip: Help Them Fill Their Own Toolbox

In this back-to-school anxiety tip, having children identify their own solutions to anxiety will be more effective than coming up with solutions for them. 

How to Prepare for a Safe School Year

Safety is on everyone’s mind as we start this new school year. We want to ensure that every student, teacher, school personnel and family member stays healthy this year as most students return to school full time for the first full school year since the pandemic began. 

Back to School Anxiety Tips: Draw Your Worry

In this back-to-school anxiety tip, you can help children manage their worry through a process called "externalization" to help them separate themselves from their anxiety. 

Teachers: How to Prioritize Your Own Mental Health This School Year

There’s no way to effectively support students if you’re feeling run down, overwhelmed or maxed out. As you return to school this year, consider these tips to prioritize your own wellbeing and mental health.

Back-to-School Anxiety Tip: Visualize the First Few Days

In this back-to-school anxiety tip learn how parents can support kids in getting ready for the first few days of school by helping them visualize it. 

Back-to-School Anxiety? Four Things to Know

After a year of shifts and adjustments, some kids may be feeling anxiety or worry about going back to school. These four things may be helpful to keep in mind.

Letter from the Executive Director

Hear from Dr. Jessica Gomez as she explains why her work with resilient families has inspired her to lead Momentous Institute into an exciting future.

How to Build Hope in 2021: Lessons from an Educator and a Therapist

Though it can feel intangible and complex, how can we encourage others and ourselves to build hope this year?

Terrell ISD Brings Changemakers into Classrooms

Check out the exciting work Terrell Independent School District is taking on as they add our Changemakers curriculum to classrooms this fall!

New Home, Same Mission at the AT&T Byron Nelson

Though the AT&T Byron Nelson had a new home in McKinney, TX in 2021, its commitment to change the odds for children through the work of Momentous Institute remained the same. Check out the highlights!

It’s Okay to Not Be Ready for the School Year

Teachers: it is okay not to feel ready, or even motivated at all, to go back to school. Here are five ways to help prepare for the work ahead – and maybe even gain a little motivation – as you get ready for another school year.

Positive Discipline: The ABCs

Practicing positive discipline can be difficult, especially when a child is misbehaving and you need to correct the behavior immediately. The good news is that we have a tool to help in this type of situation - The ABCs.

When Time Outs Don't Work

If you find yourself hitting a dead end with time outs, it may be time to try something new. Read more about this time out alternative.

Positive Discipline: In The Moment Self-Regulation

Positive discipline, like most things, takes practice and patience. When a child misbehaves, it’s natural to feel upset. In this post we look at three ways you can self-regulate when a child misbehaves.

Managing Competition Between Siblings

Any parent of two or more children is more than familiar with sibling competition. It can be exhausting for parents, but it can provide valuable lessons for children.

Let's Talk About Positive Discipline

Positive and discipline are not two words that you normally see used together. Typically, discipline holds a heavy, negative connotation. However, we can follow three steps to help make discipline both effective and (relatively) painless. 

Three Things to Teach Kids About Feelings

Human beings have a lot of feelings. Knowing what to do with those feelings is what helps us become emotionally intelligent, self-compassionate, resilient human beings. And like many things, this starts young. So today we want to share three things we can teach children about their feelings. 

Goals for the Future

There is a moment, or perhaps many moments, when a parent looks at their child and thinks about what they want for their child’s future. And, most parents, whether consciously or not, have a list of goals for their child in each of these areas. So, today, let’s take time to write out that list.

Tips for Helping Kids Adjust to a New Baby

You just brought home a new little bundle of joy but suddenly your older child is exhibiting all kinds of out-of-character behavior. Here are a few tips to consider when introducing a new child into the family.

What Parents Should Know About Sensory Processing

Everything is new for children, and every new encounter is full of new sensations. In this post, we are going to take a look at the important role our senses and sensory input play in childhood development. 

How to Show Up for a Teenager who Wants Nothing to Do with You

It can be extremely challenging for parents when their precious angel children no longer seem to need them or even want to be around them. What is a parent to do when their child wants nothing to do with them? 

What Parents Should Know About Attachment

We know that attachment is the single greatest predictor of how well a child will do in life. In this post, we take a look at what that means for parents. 

Supporting Parents of LGBTQIA+ Youth

Just as LGBTQIA+ youth are on a journey, so are parents. A parent’s process can show up in different ways depending on the family. In this post, we talk about some of the common phrases we hear from parents plus some tips we encourage parents to consider. 

How to Create an Inclusive Environment for LGBTQIA+ Youth

In working with LGBTQIA+ youth, it’s important to create an environment of safety and belonging. Here are a few ways to help make an environment inclusive. 

When Teens Push Back

In the teen years, conflict is normal and to be expected. What parents should consider is to pick conflicts that will be productive. What does that mean? 

How to Help Kids Re-Enter the World After Covid

It can be challenging for kids to adjust back to social gatherings after a year-long break. These tips can help parents with slow-to-warm children re-enter the world. 

Do We Treat Ourselves as We Treat Others?

It often feels indulgent to treat myself with the compassion that I show others. I feel as though being hard on myself is the best way to better myself. In fact, research shows the opposite is true.

The Four Tasks of Mourning

Mourning is the task of processing the grief but how does someone mourn? How do we process grief?

Understanding Grief

Many of us described our emotions in the last year as sadness, disappointment, fear, anger, pain, anxiety or numbness. But underneath all of these feelings is something we don’t often name. Grief. 

Understanding Mourning

Grief is what we feel when we lose something. Mourning is the work we do to come out on the other side of the pain. Mourning is a task. It requires work. And it does not happen on its own.

Why We Need to Name Our Feelings

Emotions are complicated, and being able to examine and name our feelings is an important step in being emotionally intelligent and taking care of our own mental health. 

Do’s and Don’ts for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and to help guide impactful and meaningful change, we offer a list of “do’s and don’ts” for celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in your workplaces, schools and communities. 

The Science of Self-Care

If you want to know what type of self-care is going to be most effective and have the longest lasting results, let’s dive into the science.

Let's Make a Trauma Self-Care Plan

Trauma self-care is the act of caring for yourself while also caring for others. But we can only do it with a plan. Follow this downloadable guide to help you take care of your mental health. 

What is Secondary Trauma?

Today we want to explore a very important topic for anyone who works with children: secondary trauma. Read through to learn more about secondary trauma and how it shows up.

A Week of Wellness: A Free Mental Health Workbook

Taking time to focus on your mental health can be a daunting task so we've got you covered with this free mental health workbook.

Your Inner Critic is a Frenemy

We all have an inner critic that pipes up at the most inconvenient times. Let's talk about why you should treat that inner critic as a frenemy.

30 Small Things You Can Do Today to Support Your Own Mental Health

Take time to try out one or more of these strategies to build and strengthen your mental health and wellness. After all, the journey of strong mental health is made up of a million steps. 

How to Set Healthy Boundaries

How to set boundaries? Here are six tips that can help. 

When I Feel: A Free Mental Health Lesson Plan

This free lesson plan, When I Feel..., introduces students to the concept of mental health and helps them explore ways to manage their mental health. It can be adapted for any elementary or middle school classroom.

What is Compassion Fatigue?

Compassion fatigue is the cost of caring “too much”. It can occur as a result of helping, or wanting to help, those who are in need. But by identifying the signs early, teachers can be quick to respond in a resourceful way. 

Week of Wins

Celebrating the wins, not matter how big or small, is a great way to help manage your mental health. This post provides an activity to help you count the wins.

Let's Talk about Burnout

Burnout can drain you of your passion and enthusiasm for your job, or even for life in general. Burnout is kind of like a fire that is slowly extinguishing. Learn how to mitigate the risks of burnout and keep those flames ignited. 

You Are Doing Enough!

Sometimes you just need to be reminded that you are doing enough. So, consider this your reminder that, not matter what, you are doing enough.

The Small Things Add Up

Often when we feel like our mental health is not in the best place, we start looking for big things that could be causing us stress. When we aren't able to find a big issue that is causing the stress, it may be time to examine all of the small things because they could be adding up.  

Understanding Racial Trauma: A Conversation

In this conversation, we discuss racial trauma - what it is, how it manifests, and how we can move to a place of healing. 

Stop AAPI Hate: Resources for Supporting Conversations with Children

To assist with conversations about anti-Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) violence and hatred, we are sharing previous resources from other times we have addressed race and racism over the years. Click the links for more on each of these topics.

How to Talk to Kids About Violence Against the AAPI Community

Parents, teachers and those who work with children are eager for support in how to have tough conversations with children about race and racism that can help them understand the world and become advocates for a brighter future for new generations. We hope these tips help. 

How to Find the Right Therapist for You, Part Two

In this Q&A, we discuss picking a therapist and determining if they're a fit. 

How to Find the Right Therapist for You, Part One

In this Q&A, we discuss how to begin the process of choosing the therapist who can best support you in your mental health journey. 

When Does Trauma Show Up?

What is the average amount of time between an early life traumatic event and the manifestation of symptoms? The answer might surprise you. 

Changemaker Chronicle: A Free Changemaker Lesson Plan

This free lesson plan, Changemaker Chronicle, introduces students to what it means to be a changemaker and can be adapted to fit any elementary or middle school classroom. Age it up or down with your choice of books and vocabulary! 

Is This Something I Can Control?

We face stressors every day and sometimes when we face multiple stressors, we can become overwhelmed. A helpful tool for managing stress is to ask, "Is this something I can control?"

We Have to Pay Attention to Adult Mental Health if We Want to Help Children

In order to help children reach their full potential, they must have adults who take care of their own mental health needs.

Heroes of History: A Free Resilience Lesson Plan

This free lesson plan, Heroes of History, helps teach resilience to students and can be adapted to fit any elementary or middle school classroom. Age it up or down with your choice of books and vocabulary! 

Tu Cerebro Leído en Voz Alta

¿Busca datos cerebrales divertidos y fáciles para niños pequeños? Disfrute de esta lectura en voz alta de "Tu Cerebro".

Your Brain Under Stress

Let’s take a look at the neurobiology of stress. What happens to your brain under stress?

What is Mental Health?

Because social emotional health is the intersection of social emotional learning and mental health, we talk a lot about mental health. But, what is mental health and how does it fit into overall health?

What is the Difference between SEL and Social Emotional Health?

While the term social emotional learning, or SEL, has gained momentum, here at Momentous Institute, we continue to focus on the term social emotional health.

Our Favorite Social Justice Books

Here are a few of our favorite books about social justice issues, movements, and heroes. 

The Resilience of Families

Read what our therapists have observed from families during the pandemic and see how parents and children have shown resilience.

Changemakers Curriculum Launches

After six years of work to meet educators’ demand for social emotional learning best practices, our staff finalized the Changemakers Curriculum this summer. Check out the details here!

Showing Up for Educators

Learn about ways we have stayed dedicated to educators despite the changes of 2020 and head to the e-store to see all the products.

Donor Spotlight

The support of seven sponsors allowed our staff to create a menu of interactive webinars and reach over 2,500 educational professionals in the community! See the story here.

Letter from The Interim Executive Director

Hear from Kate Whidden, our Interim Executive Director, as she steps into her new role after 20 years with Momentous Institute.

Supporting Kids’ Mental Health this Holiday Season

There’s no question that the way we typically celebrate at this time of year will look very different. To make the most of the coming months, clinician Dena Kohleriter offers three tips that can help support children’s mental health as we navigate this time. 

Expressing Gratitude When Things Are Hard

Check out a few ways to practice gratitude with children even when hard things happen.

Classroom Portfolios, Part 1

This post from Momentous School 4^th grade teacher Katherine Probolous is the first part of a series on building student portfolios. 

"Your Brain" Read Aloud

Looking for fun, easy brain facts for young kids? Enjoy this read aloud of "Your Brain", available in print at momentousinstitute.org/shop. 

Teacher Spotlight: N.W. Harllee Teachers Welcome Students Back (Virtually)

Teachers across the country are navigating virtual back-to-school routines, so we caught up with two teachers at N.W. Harllee Early Childhood Learning Center in Dallas ISD to learn about what they’re doing to welcome students to the 2020-21 school year. 

How to Answer Kids’ Questions about COVID

As children head back to school this fall, many are asking questions that teachers may feel unprepared to answer. While we can’t provide a script for how to respond to each question a student may ask, here's some guidance on appropriate ways to handle these tough conversations. 

This Fall, Consistency is Key

While we can’t create consistency in this unpredictable world, we can create it where we have control – in the classroom (or virtual classroom).

Learning at School or Home: How to Prioritize Children's Mental Health

Regardless of the circumstances, the decision between virtual learning and in-person learning can be surrounded with anxiety and uncertainty.

How We Created a Bitmoji Classroom

Momentous School 4^th grade teachers share this back-to-school strategy designed to help teachers create a virtual classroom for distance learning.   

How to Help Students Adapt to Wearing a Mask

Many states and schools require or encourage people to wear a mask to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Here are seven quick tips to help students adapt. 

Partnering with Parents in the New Age of School

There’s never been a better opportunity for schools to capitalize on the partnership with parents as there is now. 

Reminding Students (and Ourselves!) How to Do School Again

Students coming back into the classroom this fall, or students logging on to virtual platforms, will need an even more intentional refresher course on how school works. And frankly, teachers probably will, too!

How and Why to Start Each Day with a Classroom Morning Meeting this Fall

When students start back at school this fall, creating a sense of belonging must be top priority.

Behaviors You May See at the Start of This School Year

Here are some behaviors we may see in children as we head back into classrooms this fall.

Three Tricks to Master Students’ Names in a Virtual Back-to-School World

Here are a few tips to get started learning student’s names if the school year starts with remote learning.

Thank you, Momentous School Teachers

From daily distance learning zoom sessions to birthday visits to a special drive-thru send-off, our teachers went above and beyond to make sure our students and their families were able to finish the year on a positive note.

Capitalizing Race

Momentous Institute has decided to capitalize all references to race including Black and White. Read more...

Lessons in Diversifying our School Library

Momentous School librarian Jennifer Grauberger shares her experiences in diversifying the school library to more accurately reflect the student population. 

How to Talk to White Children about Race

White parents must talk to their children about race in order to create a world where these conversations are no longer necessary. Here are a few suggestions on how to explain what is happening in today's headlines. 

Our Unwavering Commitment

There is no pathway towards a mentally healthy community without addressing systemic racism and the resulting racial trauma. This is not someone else’s fight. This is our collective fight. And we are committed for the long-haul.

Teaching from Home Strategy: Online Faculty Meetings

To help teachers and administrators handle the stresses of teaching from home, consider adding a social emotional component to your online faculty meetings. Here are a few tips!

Teaching from Home Strategy: Ask the Parents!

In this new age of teaching remotely, relationships between parents/caretakers and teachers have never been more intertwined. To capitalize on this new relationship, teachers can lean in to parents and ask how they'd like to be supported.

Teaching from Home Strategy: Individual Touchpoints

Having one-on-one connection with students can be tough during distance learning, but we have a few tips for setting up individual touchpoints.

Teaching from Home Strategy: Virtual Meeting Expectations

Every teacher has classroom expectations. As classrooms have shifted to online platforms, it is important to set expectations for distance learning.

Teaching from Home Strategy: Think 'Meal Prep'

Many people meal prep their meals for the week, why try 'meal prepping' lessons for the week!

Teaching from Home Strategy: Create a Daily Schedule - For Yourself

Creating a schedule for yourself is more important than ever when teaching from home. We have a few tips to help you get started creating your schedule. 

Teaching from Home Strategy: Virtual Recess

Students of all ages love recess, to give them some time to experience recess from home, try a virtual recess.

Teaching from Home Strategy: Virtual Office Hours

Even for classrooms as young as elementary school, virtual office hours can provide a great way for students and teachers to connect. 

Teaching from Home Strategy: Mindful Listening

Let's look at an easy mindfulness strategy that students can do from home: mindful listening.

Teaching from Home Strategy: Stretch it Out

Kids are currently spending more time on screens than they normally would in a classroom. Today's strategy looks at ways to get them up and moving.

Teaching from Home Strategy: Starfish Breathing

Starfish breathing is a quick breathing strategy that can easily be done via video chat.

Teaching from Home Strategy: Morning Meeting

Morning meetings help start the day and build a sense of community. Just because students and teachers aren't in the same room doesn't mean morning meeting can't happen!

Teaching from Home Strategy: Video Box Breathing

As teachers adapt to a new method of teaching, prioritizing social emotion learning in the absence of a classroom environment can be a challenge. We're here to provide some strategies that teachers can implement from their homes.

5 Ways to Build Resilience

Community resilience is always a characteristic of human communities, but what about you? When you turn your lens inward, how resilient are you?

Why Do Yoga During a Pandemic?

Dr. Aileen Fullchange explains why practicing yoga during a pandemic is a powerful tool for regulating emotions and managing stress.. 

School at Home Daily Tip: Don't Forget to Play

With all of the demands of schooling at home, it can be easy to lose sight of one very important thing: play. But we are here to remind you that play is very important. 

School at Home Daily Tip: Don’t Get Caught in Comparison

In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s easy to see what everyone else is doing. As a result, we often fall into the comparison trap. We're here to help you get out of that trap.

School at Home Daily Tip: Consult the Kids

Now that we've had some experience working at home with children, it's time to pause and reflect on what's working and what should be changed. Who should you ask to help you reevaluate? The kids!

School at Home Daily Tip: Call On Your Support Network

These days, as we practice social distancing and stay home to the extent possible, support from our network looks different. While calling on support networks is more challenging during this time, it’s also more important than ever. 

School at Home Daily Tip: Park on the Positive

It’s the start of a new week, and many parents have now been schooling at home for a week or more. Let’s take a moment today to pause the juggling and think about the positives. 

School At Home Daily Tip: Practice Emotional Regulation

Schooling at home during a global crisis has mostly likely caused at least one moment of stress or anxiety. This is perfectly natural but it’s also important that we manage our feelings during this challenging time.

School at Home Daily Tip: Create Routines

Kids thrive on routine. They need to know what to expect and what is expected of them. Routines help kids have a sense of control and predictability in their lives. 

School at Home Daily Tip: Scaffold

Builders often use scaffolding to allow workers to reach heights until the structure of the building is secure enough. Similarly, we can use scaffolding to help children increase their knowledge over time. 

School at Home Daily Tip: Check Your Expectations

Each day, we’re sharing tips to help families manage this new reality of school at home. Today’s tip is to check your expectations. 

School at Home Daily Tip: Acknowledge Your Feelings

COVID-19 has rearranged the way we live, and schooling at home is a new demand that thousands of families face. Each day, we'll share something you can do each day to manage anxiety and thrive in this new experience. Today's Tip: Acknowledge Your Feelings.

Prioritizing Self-Care as a Mom and Employee at Home During COVID-19

COVID-19 has dramatically changed the way we live, work and experience the world around us as we practice social distancing. Here are three ways I am prioritizing self-care as a full-time parent who is also working full-time from home.

Managing my Anxiety Disorder During a Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic is overwhelming and has left many feeling anxious. As someone diagnosed with anxiety, this pandemic can quickly feel like too much to handle. When I feel anxious, I have learned four techniques to help bring relief.

Four Fun Family Activities to Do at Home

The reality of COVID-19 is an unparalleled time in our country’s history to pause, spend quality time with our families and find creative ways to engage our children. Here are some top activities to have fun as a family:

Three Things on My Mind

Momentous School Principal Daniel Knoll shares what's currently most on his mind during this global pandemic. 

Three strategies for Fun Home Education

Here are some learning strategies to walk through together at home so you don’t just survive with your children, but thrive. 

What I Hope My Children Learn from these Uncertain Times

Social distancing allows children to learn a valuable lesson, maybe one of the most important lessons of their childhood. Read more.

Three Strategies to Survive and Thrive If Suddenly Faced with Homeschooling

In the United States, schools are closing at a rapid pace and parents are in uncharted waters to figure out how to homeschool their children. We’ve got three strategies that will help!

How to Talk to Children About Coronavirus

There’s no question that the Coronavirus COVID-19 is taking over our thoughts and conversations. This has left many parents wondering what they should say – and not say – to their children. Here are a few things to keep in mind in deciding what to share. 

Three Tips for Healthy Sleep

Tired children have a harder time focusing at school, regulating their emotions and interacting with their peers. We have three tips to help your children get healthy sleep.

Can a teacher Get Some Help Here?

Meet Ms. Garcia as she walks us through Momentous Institute’s Strategic Intervention Model that equipped her with tools to help her student, Sarah.

Therapy: One Size Does Not Fit All

Often, when we hear the word “therapy,” we think of a client lying on a couch answering questions about their mom. At Momentous Institute, therapy looks different. Find out how!

Watch Your Language

Language is powerful. It can build up or tear down, lift up or discourage. What if we all sought to find ways to change the labels surrounding others?

Donor Spotlight

Learn about our partnerships with Toyota and the National Center for Families Learning that will benefit the families of Momentous Institute!

2019 Changing the Odds recap

Recap 2019's Changing the Odds: Hidden Factors, which brought together internationally-renowned speakers to discuss key influences that affect children today.

Brain Basics

What does a child need to know about the brain? We break it down and share the three basics that we believe children should learn.

Three Strategies for Parents to Help Children Achieve at School (Without Homework!)

While homework aids students with repetition exercises and memory, it can often limit evening family time. These three strategies will help children succeed in school without homework.

Prioritizing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

As Momentous Institute continues to prioritize social emotional health across every program, find out how its internal focus on diversity, equity and inclusion is aligning on a deeper level with its mission.

Momentous Institute Partners with Southern Dallas

How did Momentous Institute use the game of golf to increase partnerships with Southern Dallas organizations? Check out all Momentous Institute has learned from collaborating with organizations like Bonton Farms beyond tournament week.

What is Social Emotional Health?

What is social emotional health and why does it matter? Learn more about why social emotional health is the heartbeat of Momentous Institute!

How to Help Children Celebrate the Differences

Parents understand it is important for children to celebrate the differences of others. Here are a few strategies that can help children value their unique friendships.

Momentous Institute Goes to Austin

Momentous Institute is passionate about being a leading voice for equipping educators with trauma-informed practices and had the opportunity in May to take part in advocating for Texas House Bill 18, which just passed in the Senate! Learn more about House Bill 18, how Momentous Institute is working with legislators and how social emotional health is being showcased throughout political platforms.

Donor Spotlight

Learn more about our partnerships with The Meadows Foundation and the N.W. Harllee Early Childhood Center. 

Brain Under Construction

When you ask a teenager, "Why did you DO that?" and you get the blank stare -- remember, their brain is still under construction. 

Beware the Four Horsemen

We've adapted Dr. Gottman's Four Horsemen metaphor for working with teenagers. Take a look!

The Benefits of Slacking Off

The amazing Dr. Christine Carter shares this guest post on why "slacking off" isn't such a bad idea. 

Upstairs and Downstairs Brain

What part of the brain is the child using? How can we help guide her through this situation? Dive into a little brain lesson with us!

Three Ways to Make Peace with Uncertainty

Anxious? Overwhelmed? Depressed by the news headlines? Here are three practices to help us deal with uncertainty. 

My Own Best Friend

Of course we are teaching our kids about how to be good friends. But are we teaching them to be good friends to themselves?

Dear White Teachers

Dear White Teachers, Are you like me, a white teacher in a classroom with mostly students of color? Do you feel secretly uncomfortable at the idea of talking about race in the classroom? Keep reading...

How our Own Attachment Style Impacts our Relationships

How are adult relationships impacted by our childhood attachment style? Read on to learn more. 

Three Strategies to Help Children Feel They Belong

Given its importance, how can we create environments where all children gain a sense of belonging? Here are three strategies that can help:

Equity: Why Talk About It with Children

Every child deserves the opportunity to be successful based on his or her unique gifts and talents, but not every child has equitable opportunities.

A Calm Down Space

Each classroom in our school has a space that is solely dedicated to helping children manage their own behavior. Learn more! 

It Just Takes 30 Seconds

"One of the most successful research-based strategies I used in my classroom was free and only took 30 seconds." Curious? Keep reading.

Mindfulness in the Classroom

Students at Momentous School engage in mindful breathing at least three times a day. How? Why? Watch this brief video to learn more. 

Gratitude Garden

Here’s one resolution you can make that will affect your emotional and physical health. It's easy, free, and makes you feel better instantly.

A-B-C Glee

A gratitude notebook full of happy things! What could be better?

Daily Recap

A daily recap is a simple way to add gratitude in at the end of each day.

Are You Grateful?

Gratitude is a learned trait. Are you modeling gratitude?

Three Holiday Strategies for Stressed-Out Parents

Thanks to Norman Rockwell and other idealistic portrayals of the holiday season, expectations for blissed-out perfection run high at this time of year. Reality, however, rarely measures up. Schedules are off, sugar intake is high, and Aunt Thelma is in town… Yikes!

Here are three strategies to help navigate holiday stressors. 

Our Thanksgiving Traditions

We reached out to everyone on the Momentous staff and asked what everyone does in their own families to show gratitude on Thanksgiving. Here are some of the responses.

Anti - "Black Friday"

There’s nothing wrong with a good Black Friday deal, but if you’re looking to avoid the crowds this year, we’ve got an Anti- "Black Friday" suggestion for you.

The Emotional Keyboard

We recently read Eric Jensen's book, "Teaching with Poverty in Mind". Find out more about why we love the concept of the emotional keyboard. 

The Link Between Healthy Food and Academic Performance

Nutrition is a vital part of a child's development. For children living in poverty, there are obstacles that prevent access to healthy food, which in turn affects their performance in school. 

Are Standardized Tests Biased Against Students in Poverty?

In this post, we discuss the inherent bias in standardized tests and how students' life experiences and socioeconomic situations affect their ability to perform on standardized tests.

Does it Cost More to Educate a Child in Poverty?

How much does it cost to educate a child in poverty? We break down school funding and look at the effect of poverty on education cost.

Working with Teens

Six strategies for maximizing the positive aspects of adolescence.

Three Things Every Adult Should Know About Poverty

Poverty is a complex issue with many layers. In this post we outline three main things that we believe every adult should understand about how poverty affects children. 

Poverty and the Brain

Statistics show that poverty has negative outcomes on children. We explore why this is by looking at how poverty impacts brain development. 

Avoiding the Poverty Language Traps

How we talk about poverty matters. In this post, we take a look at how we define and talk about poverty. 

Let's Talk About Poverty

This next series on our Momentous Institute blog will focus on poverty. Specifically, what impact does growing up in poverty have on children?

When Home is Not a Safe Place

Each year five million children witness domestic violence in the US. Our Associate Director of Development, Tania Loenneker, discusses how domestic violence affects children. 

Queen Bees and Wannabes: A Book Club Discussion

In preparation for our upcoming Changing the Odds conference, a group of us read Queen Bees and Wannabes by guest speaker Rosalind Wiseman. Here are some of our thoughts and a bit about why we love this book. 

Three Main Differences in How Boys and Girls Bully

Both boys and girls bully and are bullied. In this post, we take a look at some key differences in how boys and girls bully.

Jacob's New Dress

Jacob's New Dress is a children's book that explore what happens when a young boy wants to wear a dress to school. Read our review to find out what we love about this book.

Disarming the Nuclear Family

The family unit is an important part of the gender discussion. This week we're sharing an article from Willow McCormick about the importance of recognizing that not all students come from a traditional nuclear family.

My Princess Boy

Discussing gender equity with children is an important part of Social Emotional Health. My Princess Boy is a children's book that discusses the challenges a gender non-conforming child faces. Read our review to learn more. 

Kindness Calendar

Use a kindness calendar to encourage kids to keep kindness a regular part of their lives.

Siblings of Gender Fluid Children

When we have conversations about a gender fluid child, we have to remember that the child is a member of a family. In this post we are looking at how a gender fluid child's experience can impact their siblings.

Movie Review: Gender Revolution

Our content specialist, Michelle, recently watched a documentary called “Gender Revolution”. Read her thoughts about how the documentary shines a light on how gender (and conversations about gender) affects everyone from young children to adults.

What I Learned When I Lined Kids Up By Gender

Taylor Freeman shares a powerful story about a time when she asked students to line up by gender... and what she learned from it. 

When Very Young Children Question Gender Identity

Continuing our discussion about gender fluid children, we answer some common questions parents face when they have a very young child questioning their gender identity.

A Parenting Journey Through Gender Questioning

Parents of children who are transgender, gender fluid or gender questioning are on their own journey of acceptance. In this post we discuss that journey and the impact it can have. 

Let's Talk Terms

When we talk about sex, sexuality, and gender, there are a lot of terms to keep track of. Even those of us who work in this space are constantly learning new titles and terms. It can feel overwhelming to make sure we’re using the right language. Read more...

Movie Review: The Mask You Live In

Our office manager, Ashley, recently watched a documentary  called “The Mask You Live In.” Read her thoughts about how the documentary affected her as a parent to a six-year-old boy. 

Boy Brains and Girl Brains: What’s the Difference?

We are continuing our discussion about differences between boys and girls and how they learn. In this post we take a look at gender differences in the most important biological component: the brain.

How Girls Learn and Lead

For today’s blog post, I spoke with Jennifer Bartkowski, the CEO of Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas. Keep reading to learn more about how the Girls Scouts are working to empower young women.

How Boys and Girls are Doing in School

As we continue with our blog series on gender, we take a moment to assess how both boys and girls are currently doing in school. We've talked about the STEM gender gap, but what other gaps need attention?

Are Classrooms and Playgrounds Serving Girls and Boys Equally?

Spaces and places, and how we move within them, are deeply rooted in gender. In this post, guest author April Larremore asks if these spaces are serving boys and girls equally. Read more...

Young Men's Leadership Academy: An All Boys Middle School

Continuing to learn about how gender plays a role in education, I recently visited Young Men's Leadership Academy, and all-boys Middle School located in Southern Dallas. Read more about my visit.

Solar Prep: An All-Girls School Review

I recently toured Solar Preparatory School for Girls, an elementary school in the Dallas Independent School District. Read my thoughts about this amazing all-girls campus!

Are Girls More Empathetic Than Boys?

Research shows that females tend to have higher levels of empathy than males. Our research team was interested in whether the same was true for elementary school students and whether there was anything we could do to change this trajectory by intervening at a young age. Read more...

Seven Ways to Get Girls Interested in STEM

It is widely accepted that careers in STEM fields are dominated by men, and that women and girls do not pursue these fields at the same level as their male peers. Through my research and practices, I want to share seven ways to help girls gain interest in STEM. Read more...

“Future Husbands, Fathers and Leaders” - An All-Boys School Profile

Today's conversation is with Mr. Jim Taylor, director of admissions at Cistercian Preparatory School, a small, private, all-boys school in Irving, Texas. Read more about what makes a boy's school unique...

How Men and Women Respond to Stress

We often talk about the stress response "fight, flight or freeze". But there's a twist: it might not apply for women. Read more...

Gender Microaggressions - We're All Guilty of Them

Gender microaggressions are small, seemingly innocuous comments that can pile up over time and affect a person’s sense of self and identity. These microaggressions can become so commonplace that we don’t even notice them. Here are a few examples of common gender-related microaggressions... Read more.

Good Morning, Boys and Girls!

It’s common to walk into an elementary school classroom and hear a teacher say, “Good morning, boys and girls!”  Is there any harm in this approach? Let's take a look at the research. 

Why We Should Teach Kids About Gratitude

Ever heard the phrase "an attitude of gratitude"? Here's why it's important.

Let's Talk about Gender

In this next series on our blog, we will be exploring the topic of gender. We want to know what makes boys and girls different. How do they learn? How are they treated by adults? Join us as we explore a new series.

Teaching Young People How to Dream

"When I work with young Latinos from at-risk backgrounds, one of the themes that eventually arises are long-term goals. They are often asked to dream big – to consider options outside of their current environment or circumstances. This can be very challenging." Keep reading...

Prioritizing Students' Cultural Identity

This post comes from former Momentous School teacher, Jorgelina Marin, on helping students' develop a strong sense of self. 

Working with Undocumented Families

As adults, one of our first instincts is to protect and comfort children who are afraid. But that instinct can be challenging when a child’s fear is real, and there’s nothing we can do to protect them from it. One big area where we see this fear is around the topic of immigration. Keep reading...

Why Mindfulness is Essential for Racial Healing

"With great external work in society comes great work within ourselves, too. As we are confronted with emotions that seem too large to hold, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and to let rage drive us." Read more...

What About Reverse Racism?

Have you heard the term “reverse racism”? Let’s break it down.

“What’s Trust Got to Do with It?” Overcoming Barriers to Mental Health Access for African American Communities

In African American communities, you might hear phrases like, “Therapy is for White people” or “We don’t do therapy.” Read more about how to overcome barriers to mental health access for African American communities...

Make Space for Race

"Many educators, including myself, have failed to make the children we work with feel seen—because for many years, we have not acknowledged race as a fundamental element of identity.  We need to make space for race.  But how?" Read more...

Talking to Teens about Race

Parents have the opportunity to help teens explore these racial differences. It may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Keep reading...

The First Holiday Season After a Loss

Are you navigating your first holiday season since the loss of a loved one?

The Most Stressful Time of the Year

This time of year can be downright stressful. Here's how to manage.

On Raising Bi-Racial Children

Minerva Holmes asked her mixed-race family members to weigh in on what it's like growing up bi-racial. Here's what they had to say...

Authentic Diversity

Read our four considerations for creating meaningful diversity opportunities for children.

Language Matters

We make many assumptions about the race and ethnicity of others. Let's talk about some commonly misused and misunderstood identifiers. Keep reading...

When Kids Make Racist Comments

There’s nothing quite as upsetting or challenging as a child making a racist comment. How do we respond? Read more. 

An Airplane Ride

When adults go on an airplane, we understand why we’re lining up, or taking our shoes off. But a 2-year-old might find the whole thing a little crazy.

Talking about Race and Ethnicity in the Classroom

Misconceptions and misinformation can quickly become the norm if educators do not address differences within a classroom. Here are some tips for how teachers can be proactive in the process of talking about race and ethnicity in the classroom. 

How (and Why) to Talk to Kids About Race

Race is a topic that many parents shy away from. However, parents must realize that when nothing is said about race, a lot is actually being communicated.  Read more...

#Me Too: In Our Classrooms

"We were on a seventh grade class field trip. I don’t remember where. I do however, remember being in the elevator. He stood behind me and touched my body, without my consent." Read on...

Self-Care: My Top Three Suggestions

This is around the time of year when teachers start feeling overwhelmed. Here are Sandy Nobles’ top three self-care suggestions.

"Where are you From?" - An Introduction to Microaggressions

If you’ve been in any conversations about race, you’ve likely heard the term “microaggressions”. You may be wondering two things – what are they, and what is the big deal? Keep reading...

Why Stereotypes are Harmful

We all have stereotypes. But the reality is, they can be very harmful. Read on.

If Not Colorblindness... Then What?

We’ve talked about how the “colorblindness” approach is not the most helpful way to interact with people of different races and cultures. Now you may be wondering… but what is the best approach? 

I Don't Think of You as Black

A published letter from Naomi Tutu, daughter of South African president Desmond Tutu, further explains why her friend's comment, “I don’t think of you as Black” was offensive to her. Read the excerpt and reflect.

"I Don't See Color"

One pervasive approach to working in communities of color is the so-called “colorblind” approach. We’ve all heard the line, “I don’t see color.” 

But there’s a fatal flaw in this approach. 

What is White Privilege?

The term “white privilege” has entered the common vocabulary when discussing issues related to race. We hear it all the time, but today we want to take a minute to really explore the topic. What is “white privilege” and what can we do about it? 

Copecakes

Hungry for a strategy to build coping skills? Whip up some copecakes!

Think about the Kids

In the coming weeks, we will share strategies about how to have these difficult conversations with kids. But before any conversations take place, let’s do some reflecting about race and the children in our lives.

Take in the Good

We've all done it: focused all of our energy on that one negative comment rather than the 100 positive comments. Dr. Rick Hanson explains why.

It Starts Here

Before we go any further on discussions about race, we have to talk about the starting line. 

Let's Talk About Race

Like with all things, silence speaks loudly. When we don’t talk about subjects that matter, we’re explicitly making a choice to be silent.

So, let’s talk about race.

Be Awesome and Love Kids

For some back-to-school motivation, watch this story of how relationships make all the difference. 

Tour Momentous School

Make yourself comfortable and enjoy this full tour of our elementary lab school, where we focus on social emotional health in concert with rigorous academics.

Building Excitement for the School Year

It’s back to school season, which means teachers everywhere are setting up classrooms and getting ready for the new year. At Momentous School, August means home visits: a week-long excursion visiting every student in his/her home. Keep reading...

Why Hope Matters for Children and Families in Poverty

Our Changing the Odds speaker, Valerie Maholmes, shares a guest blog post about why hope matters. Keep reading...

Summer Reading Goes Digital

The students at Momentous School are hard at work on their summer reading. And we know they're enjoying it, because we can see their progress! Read more about how we went digital with summer reading...

Flip the Cafeteria

We made an intentional shift in the way our cafeteria works and it’s made a world of difference. Keep reading...

Closing Circle

Here's how we end every day at Momentous School. 

Ready to Quit: A Teacher's Reflection on the Most Challenging Student of her Career

"It wasn't too far into the year when Cristina considered quitting her job. She loves teaching and knows that it's her passion in life. But this student had pushed so many buttons that she thought it might be time to walk away." Read more...

Morning Meeting

Want to know how we start every day at Momentous School?

What Kind of Teacher do you Want?

Teachers often set expectations for students. But another step is sometimes left out: expectations for the teacher. Read more!

The Happiest Classroom

We don't like to play favorites, but... we do love this classroom! Join us for the next stop on our tour of Momentous School. 

A Classroom Set-Up for Success

Want more parent involvement? Try a Parent Center.

We’re big on parent involvement at Momentous School. Learn about how we involve families in our school community through our Parent Center. 

Build a Sensory Wall in your School

Ever heard a teacher say, "Please don't touch the walls"?  At Momentous School, we say, "Go ahead! Touch the walls!"

Joy in our Hearts: A Parent Engagement Art Project

As part of our tour of Momentous School, read about our huge entry art project designed by school families.

A Peek Inside Momentous School

Want to know more about what happens in our elementary school? Join us as we showcase our work and strategies in action. 

Our Most Recommended Books - By Age!

No one has time to read hundreds of books, especially parents! We've narrowed it to one recommended book for each period of adolescence. Plus - our favorite book for kids at each age, too!

Our Favorite Parenting Resources

The Breathing Stick

Our P.E. teacher shares an amazingly simple breathing tool. You'll love it!

Making Sense of Sensory Processing

Sensory Processing can be a difficult topic to understand. This guest post from Dr. Jamie Chaves at The Center for Connection takes a deeper look. 

Huddle Up!

Technology and Parenting

Technology isn't going away, but childhood is. This post is a friendly reminder to put away your phone and be present with your children. 

Language

Our Huddle Up team members weigh in on how they use language in their program with teenagers.

Make a Choice

This may be the oldest trick in the book, but...

Tantrums!

You're wandering the aisles at the grocery store. Then, it happens. The tantrum. 

Have Fun

Let’s be honest – kids don’t need another boring adult telling them what to do.

Blended Families

In this post, we discuss how to manage romantic relationships when children are involved. Keep reading...

Believe in the Good

If we were to think that the kids were bad or broken, they would know. Read more...

What is Attunement?

There's one very important concept we want everyone to know: attunement. What is attunement, and what do you need to know about it?

Positivity Ratio

We love the idea from Dr. Gottman about the magic ratio of positivity to negativity. 

The YES Challenge

Take the YES challenge with your teenager. Let us know your results!

Your Kid Wants a Cell Phone. Now What?

The time has come. Your child is asking for her own cell phone. What do you do next?

Love Lens

There are really two ways to navigate the world. We can move away from things we fear, or we can move towards things we love.

Flash Forward

It's so easy to get caught up in the daily work of raising teenagers that we forget to look forward. Keep reading...

Flashback

Inside your teenager is the sweet little girl she once was. Take a moment to remember that. 

Avoid Catastrophizing

"If your teenager fails a test, that doesn’t mean she will never go to college. If your teenager gets in a fight, that doesn’t mean he’ll end up in prison." Keep reading...

It's Not Personal

If teenagers have a superpower, it’s the ability to shoot a dagger right where it hurts. Say it with us now. It's not personal. 

Posture of Curiosity

This one tiny step can completely change an interaction with a teenager. 

Mischievous Moose

Our second grade teachers share about their new classroom visitor.

Worship the Word Count

"How was your day?" "Fine." - Sound familiar? Read on...

The Consultant

So you're trying to connect with a teenager and getting nowhere. Try putting her in the role of consultant! 

I Wonder

Got a teenager who won't talk? Try this simple strategy!

The Real Facebook

Is social media becoming a huge part of your teens' social world? Try this activity to connect with them.

Hug Your Monster

Don't run away from your monster. Hug it instead!

Besties with the Bumps

The teenager years are a time to reframe our thinking on failure and struggle...

Making Sense of the Terrible Teens

The idea of dealing with adolescents can often be daunting for parents and educators. We'd like to reframe how we think about teenagers. Read on...

Why are Relationships So Important?

Safe, predictable, nurturing and loving relationships, especially in the early years of childhood, are critical. Why?

We're So Excited!

It's here! Our favorite week of the year!

Toxic Stress and Sensory Processing Disorder

Most of us experience stress on a daily basis, and our bodies are designed to handle small amounts of stress. But what happens when our bodies and brains experience stress on a frequent, ongoing basis, or when stress is severe? Read this guest post from Dr. Jamie Chaves to learn more. 

Growing Your Compassion Circle

Attachment from the Inside Out

Summer Rose loves the movie "Inside Out" and thinks it paints a great picture of attachment. Read on...

Mindfulness and Compassion in a Time of Great Grief

In a moment of quiet between the pain, anger, and sadness, take a moment to send compassionate, loving energy toward yourself, someone you love, or perhaps someone who needs love dearly.

Vision Statements

Momentous School families write vision statements for their children. Watch this video to learn about the incredible impact this has on our families and teachers.

Don't Put the Dis in your Ability

The incredibly inspirational Lizzie Velasquez shares this guest post on advice for parents of children with disabilities. Read on...

When Attachment is Disrupted

We know that a secure attachment is best for children, but what happens when they don’t have that? What does that look like for children, and how can we, as adults who work with children, care for and connect with these kids?

When Parents and Kids are Separated

Some children need extra support when they're facing a separation from their parents, even if it's just a brief time away. Read on for strategies on how to ease the separation. 

The Power of Viral Compassion

Dacher Keltner, author of The Power Paradox: How We Gain and Lose Influence contributes this guest blog on Viral Compassion. Keep reading... 

How to Talk to Your Kids About the Dallas Shooting

Michelle Kinder shares her thoughts on talking to children about recent events in this editorial on time.com. 

3 Terrible Things the Election is Teaching Your Child

Read Michelle Kinder's post in TIME on terrible things the election is teaching children, and how to counter them. 

When Bad Things Happen in the News

In light of last night's tragic violence in Dallas, we are re-posting this article with advice for talking to children about bad things in the news. 

Attachment with Dr. Tina Payne Bryson

The wonderful Dr. Tina Payne Bryson shares about attachment in this guest video blog post. Take a look!

What is Attachment?

Learn more about the single greatest predictor of success for children in this deep dive into attachment. 

Book Review: Self-Compassion

Read our book review of Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Dr. Kristin Neff.

Six Ways to Be Kinder to Yourself

Guest Melissa Marks Garner offers 6 tips to soften your inner critic and be kinder to yourself. Keep reading...

Skyping with Susan Kaiser Greenland: Questions and Extensions

Dive deeper into our relationship with Susan Kaiser Greenland by reading about our recent Skype session. 

Our Work with Susan Kaiser Greenland

Our Director of Education Sandy Nobles shares more about our in-depth work with Susan Kaiser Greenland. Read more...

Is Your Problem-Focused View Robbing You of Energy?

Michelle Kinder has a tool that has changed the way she and her team operated. Read on...

How I Learned to Stop Yelling

Learn how one teacher overcame the urge to yell when frustrated, and how that impacted her classroom. 

Meditation for the Rest of Us

"I used to have a picture in my mind of what a meditator looked like. I am not that woman. Not by a long shot. But I do meditate every day and here’s why."

Self Care... Why Care?

Extending care to others usually comes easily to most people. But we can run ourselves ragged if ALL we do is care for others.

Know Your Triggers

If self-care was as simple as getting a manicure when you’re stressed out, we’d all be in good shape. But it’s not. Keep reading...

Self-Care

If you’re operating out of stress, frustration, and anxiety, you’re not going to be able to be that calm, collected and caring adult that the children need from you. Join us as we dive into the topic of self-care.

Our ADHD

There are many ways to think about ADHD, but here's another one. 

On Raising Boys in this World

We've talked about raising girls. But there's a lot to say about raising boys, too. Dr. Matt Leahy weighs in.

My Kids Aren't Following Directions

Wouldn’t it be nice if we gave directions and our kids followed them… the first time…every time? Now come back to reality. Let's chat about kids who aren't following directions. 

Questioning Authority: A Conversation

Should we tell our children what to do? Should we let them make their own decisions? Read our back and forth conversation about allowing children to question authority. 

On Raising Girls in this World

Raising a girl to be strong, competent and engaged can feel like a daunting task. These strategies might help. 

A Reminder

Sometimes I need this reminder, so I wanted to share it in case others needed reminding, too.

Helping Children Transition Through Big Changes

Moving to a new house? Switching schools? How can we help children transition through these big changes in life? Keep reading...

Is It Snooping?

When a child is old enough to access technology, gets a cell phone of her own and starts signing up for social media accounts, many parents wonder how to monitor. Read her text messages? Know her Facebook password? Here's our advice.

When Kids Want to Talk

We know that trying to fix our children's problems for them doesn't usually work. So what should we do when they want to talk?

Inspire for Contribution

We want kids to understand that the goal of learning is to use what they know to help others and make the world a better place.

How to Help Kids Navigate Two Cultures

Raising children with two cultures is both an amazing opportunity and an occasional challenge. Read more...

How Do I Use Consequences?

A reader wrote in to ask us how to set appropriate consequences for her children. Read our response...

How to Help Children Cope with Grief

Helping children cope with grief can be one of the hardest challenges we face as adults. Here is a breakdown by age that can help you connect at an appropriate level.

How to Un-Spoil a Child

Let's talk about how to raise a child to be un-spoiled, and how to un-spoil a child who we accidentally let go down the wrong path a little too long. 

How to Help a Child Deal with Anger

You probably haven't thought about anger like this before. 

How to Talk to Teens about Drinking

How to talk to teens about drinking, PLUS - what to do when they slip up. Keep reading...

So You Think Your Kid is Being Bullied...

As parents, our first instinct might be to take over and solve this issue for our children. Read this post for a different method for handling bullying. 

Too Much Pressure

Do you have a child who is constantly stressed out? Consider these tips.

How to Help Kids with Anxiety

When working with kids with anxiety, our goal shouldn't be to get rid of it altogether, but we definitely want to give kids tools to help them channel it. Keep reading...

When Bad Things Happen in the News

What do I tell my kid when bad things happen in the news? How much is too much? Should I not say anything? Answers to your pressing questions about talking to kids about current events.

Help! I Think my Child is in an Abusive Relationship.

If you think someone you love is in an abusive relationship, keep reading...

How to Talk to Kids about Healthy Relationships

This post is part of our “I’m Stumped: Our Answers to Your Common Parenting Dilemmas” series.

How to Avoid those Dreaded Power Struggles

We've all been there. The dreaded power struggle. Here's how to avoid the land of "Because I said so."

How to Talk to Your Kids About Divorce (Part Two)

Part two of "How to Talk to Your Kids About Divorce" focuses on the ongoing relationship with your co-parent and children.

How to Talk to Your Kids About Divorce (Part One)

In this two-part post, we'll share strategies for supporting your children through your divorce.

Help! My Child is Lying to Me.

Part of our "I'm Stumped" series - read this post on how to respond when your child tells you a lie.

I'm Stumped: Our Answers to Your Common Parenting Dilemmas

We are excited to launch a new series on the blog. Send us your toughest parenting questions!

Hug the Monkey

Our dear friend, Dr. Rick Hanson, shares this wonderful guest blog post. Read on!

Change of Scenery

This is a very, very simple trick for helping kids when they get stuck. 

“I Dunno”

Have you ever asked a child, “Why did you do that?” or “How do you feel about that?” Has the response ever been, “I dunno”? A blank stare? 

Rollercoaster

Former Momentous Institute therapist shares an art project that helps kids identify their feelings.

Flash Focus on Trauma

The stories shared here will change the way you view difficult children and will give you new insight into the children you work with.

Book Review: The Mindful Child, by Susan Kaiser Greenland

The Mindful Child by Susan Kaiser Greenland is one of our very favorite books. Read our review!

Model It!

You know what kids are hearing louder than our words? Our actions.

Predictability is Key

Here’s a simple piece of advice when working with kids who have experienced trauma.

Time In

Next time a timeout is in order, think about trying a time in instead.

You Have a Choice

This simple strategy can diffuse tension, break free from power struggles, and even help solve behavioral issues.

Myths of the Adolescent Brain

Do you work with adolescents? Have you bought into the “raging hormones” myth?

Try Try Again

On the first week of school, we did something a little crazy. We set up an activity that we knew the kids would fail.

Dr. Nadine Burke Harris

We love this TED talk from Dr. Nadine Burke Harris about trauma and health.

When Trauma Bubbles Up

You get that feeling in your throat. You don’t know what to say or do. Ask him follow-up questions? Send him to the counselor? Change the subject?

Kindness Challenge

Take it beyond teaching kindness - try this activity to put kindness into action.

When Failure Feels Like the End of the World

Many of us are able to bounce back from failure. But for kids who are in trauma, failure can sometimes feel like the end of the world.

Chase the Why

It's not what's wrong with you, it's what's happened to you. Keep reading...

Transition Time

Transitions can be tricky. Especially for kids who have experienced trauma. Try these simple strategies to help.

The ACE study

The rougher your childhood is, the more challenges you’ll face later in life. This is the premise behind the ACE study. What is it? Learn more...

Trauma in Hiding

It has been estimated that each year, over one million children in the United States are misdiagnosed with a mental illness that could be better explained by trauma.

What is Trauma?

We’re diving into a series on trauma. We hope to give you a greater understanding of trauma and how it might be affecting the children you work with.

How to Manage Test-Taking Anxiety

Our response to a question via Twitter on how to manage test-taking anxiety. Read our tips!

The Tooth

Read our book review of The Tooth by Avi Slovdovnick, and check out the video!

You Sit on WHAT?

We previously got rid of chairs in one of our classrooms. What? Keep reading!

Tell Me a Story

This is a great tool to use for any big experience – the holidays, a trip, a new house, a new baby, a doctor’s appointment.

My Family's Wish for Me

What does my family hope for me? Momentous School students find out.

The Most Magnificent Thing

Have you ever had a wonderful idea? You can just picture it in your head – it’s going to be amazing! Then you go to execute your idea, and – well…

Our Growing Brains

"We were blown away by their responses." Read more about this amazing brain project!

How to Take the Grrrr Out of Anger

Do you have a child who struggles with anger? Check out this must read book.

Write it Down!

When kids have a hard time verbalizing their behavior, try this strategy from our therapeutic group leader, Eric.

How to Manage Attention-Seeking Behavior

We’ve all been there. A child acts out just to get your attention. What do you do?

Family Flag

A family flag can help identify values and help children have a stronger sense of self. Read on…

Keys to Friendship

If we want kids to be good friends, we have to teach them what makes someone a good friend. Try this!

The Most Important Classroom Display

There’s one thing that is found in every single classroom in our school. Read on to learn about the most important classroom display.

Mask

Kids have different parts of themselves that they show to others. Use this strategy to help learn more about a child's complex self.

Family Facts

Go back to the basics with this simple, yet powerful, family activity.

Changing the Odds Recap (Part Two)

Time for a recap on day two of our Changing the Odds Conference!

Changing the Odds Recap (Part One)

We are all feeling inspired from an amazing two days of learning! Read the recap on day one of the Changing the Odds Conference.

What's in Your Bag?

Have a child fill a bag with a special item from home. Read more...

Kids Talk: Breathing

Because sometimes we feel frust-url-rated!

Self-Portraits

One way to show a child that he is seen and understood is to have him create a self-portrait. Read more...

Find Your Mantra

Lessons learned from the little engine that could... Read more.

Quitting vs. Failure

What do you do when your 8-year old decides she no longer likes soccer halfway through the season? Do you ask her to stick it out so that she’s not a quitter? Do you teach her to follow through with her commitments? Do you let her walk away?

Hope in Moments of Despair

The goal is to help families find hope in moments of despair. Read on...

Shield

What are your child's super special strengths? Try this activity to find out!

Stuck

There are plenty of books about persisting with something and thinking outside the box, but few as funny and creative as Stuck. Read our review!

Praise the Process

Perhaps the simplest way to build resilience in kids is to just switch our language. Try this!

A Perfectly Messed Up Story

Kids will love this funny read-aloud book about a kid named Louie whose story just keeps getting ruined. Poor Louie! He can’t tell his story because it keeps getting messed up. Keep reading...

Time Capsule

We all want our children to be kind and successful, and yet we often don’t fully articulate those visions. Try this!

Ish

Do you know a kid who gives up when things aren't working out for him? Read "Ish" and remind him that just because we didn't get it right the first time, we definitely shouldn't give up.

Why Should We Teach Kids About Resilience?

There's no way to protect children from encountering obstacles. The best we can do is teach them how to overcome challenges, learn from them, and grow stronger as a result.

Kids Talk: Kindness

Who better to explain kindness than Momentous School student Camila? Couldn't have explained it better ourselves.

The Invisible Boy

So-called "invisible" kids are all around us. How can we help them have the happy ending this story gives us?

Why I Banned the Word Easy

I know "easy" isn't a bad word in the traditional sense. But here's why I banned it in my classroom.

Treat Everyone Like a Beautiful Butterfly

"We have to treat everyone like they are the butterfly, not the ugly caterpillar." Read this post from Momentous School Music Teacher Kevin Roberts about a lesson in kindness.

Lend a Hand

These poems about giving are sure to leave kids feeling inspired.

Caught Being Kind

How often do we call attention to kindness? Try this simple strategy!

"Kindness Comes Backs To You"

"Kindness comes backs to you." Let Leo and Kyndall teach you about the importance of kindness in this adorable video.

The Three Gates

A simple tool to encourage kind words is to see if the words would get past the three gates.

How Full is your Bucket?

One of our favorite books about kindness and treating other people with respect!

Four Keys to Kindness

An 8-year-old shares her four keys to kindness. Too cute!

Home Visits

Momentous School teachers visit each student in his/her home at the start of the school year. Watch this video to learn more about the impact that home visits make on the kids, parents, and teachers all year long.

Magic Kindness Carrier

It's important to teach kindness to young children, but finding ways to be kind can be tricky. Try this: Make a magic wand.... Read more.

Why Should We Teach Kids About Kindness?

The answer to this question seems pretty obvious. But read on to see why kindness is so important to teach kids.

Empathy Treasure Box

We love this short video that showcases a fun and easy activity that can help build empathy with kids.

Sesame Street: Empathy

Check out this great Sesame Street video on empathy. Perfect for teaching empathy to kids!

Empathy Guessing Game

This is a simple game that can be played anywhere, any time with no props! Read on...

Empathy Sing Along

Don't blame us if this empathy song gets stuck in your head!

How to Build Empathy in Kids Who Have Experienced Trauma

Kids who have experienced trauma or neglect may have a more difficult time empathizing with others. Read on for strategies.

Those Shoes

Those Shoes is a great book to help teach the concept of empathy. Check out our review.

What is Empathy?

Momentous Institute staff and students share their definition of empathy in this video. Take a look!

Talk About It

Research tells us that kids who engage in meaningful conversations about emotional experiences have higher levels of empathy. Read more...

Empathy in the Real World

We love this story of empathy in the real world.

Kids Talk: Empathy

What is empathy? Delilah, an 8-year old and second grade student at Momentous School can tell you!

Well Wishes

Kids always notice when another student in class is absent. So try building upon that. Send well wishes!

Empathy vs. Sympathy

We love love love this animated video from Brené Brown about the difference between empathy and sympathy.

Why Should We Teach Kids About Empathy?

We’re raising tomorrow’s adults. What kind of friend do you want to be surrounded by? What kind of employee do you want to hire?

Perspective Lens

Get yourself a large magnifying glass and use it as your "perspective lens" to help kids see another person's perspective.

How Would Someone Feel If...

How would someone feel if he found out that his best friend was moving to a new city far away? Try this and other questions to help kids think about another person's perspective.

Blind Lego

For a great game that helps develop perspective taking, look no further than your mismatched Lego collection.

Seven Blind Mice

Like the seven blind mice, kids need to learn the important lesson that we don't always see things in the same ways as others, but that another person's perspective is just as important as our own.

Reset

Stop the cycle of winning/losing a battle. Introduce the reset and stop the battle right in its tracks.

Battleship

Remember the game Battleship? Take the game to a new level by building in some perspective-taking questions.

Zoom

Just when you think you know where you are, the perspective changes. Check out our book review for Zoom by Istvan Banyai.

Name Change

Try this simple name change trick to have a deep, rich conversation with a child.

The Magic Sunglasses

Perspective taking is all about looking at things in a different way. Sometimes that can be really, really difficult for kids. The magic sunglasses are a concrete way to get the idea through to them, and it makes a huge difference.

Instead of Truth with a capital T...

Often kids see the world in black and white. Encouraging a child to think about a different perspective can help.

Hey, Little Ant

Looking for a great book about perspective taking? "Hey, Little Ant" is just what you need. Read our book review!

Why Should We Teach Kids About Perspective Taking?

Being able to take someone else’s perspective is a precursor to empathy. Before we can really understand and empathize with another, we must first be able to step into their shoes and see the world from their point of view. What does that mean? Read on.

Ripple's Effect

"A kid who reads this book can think about how happiness can help him overcome whatever shark he’s facing – whether it’s a bully, a negative person, or a toxic relationship. Happiness is contagious!" Read more in this book review of "Ripple's Effect."

A Terrible Thing Happened

It would be wonderful if we lived in a world where we didn’t need this book. But because terrible things do happen, "A Terrible Thing Happened" is incredibly helpful. Read our review of this book for children who have witnessed violence or trauma.

Home Away from Home

Our students spend more time in our classroom than they do even with their own families. How can we make this home away from home a comfortable place? Try this simple idea from our fourth grade teacher, Kim Robinson.

Got Stress?

Feeling stressed about stress? Watch these stress management techniques -- perfect for sharing with children!

Stress and the Brain

What does stress do to our brain, and how does it affect children? Watch this video to find out.

What is Your Cat Hair?

Why on Earth are we talking about cat hair? We promise this is relevant. Watch this short video to learn more about how a cat hair has anything to do with stress.

Building a Championship Team

All year long my fifth grade class talks about champions. What is a champion? Are champions only athletes? Are champions only famous people? Heavens no! All of us can be champions!

How Schools Kill Creativity

In the number one most viewed TED talk of all time, Sir Ken Robinson argues that schools are killing creativity. Read on to learn more about this message, and a chance to hear from Robinson in person!

My Best Mistake

Instead of returning an assignment with a bunch of red marks, try this strategy to help build grit.

A Day in the Life of Momentous School

What makes Momentous School so unique? Experience a day in the life with this video.

Get Your Grit Score

Has all this talk about grit made you wonder how gritty you are? Get your grit score!

The Gift of Failure

Get a sneak peek of this soon-to-be-released book: "The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed"

Three Little Words

Michelle Kinder shares three little words that get a ton of play in her household. You'll love this simple strategy, or rather, Jedi mind trick!

Yes ... D'Oh! ... YET

"As I’m sure you can guess, many of the teenagers don’t mind talking about what they did well, but they often shut down when asked about the frustrations. Although we honor their resistance to sharing, we also invite them to learn grit." Read more...

Why Should We Teach Kids About Grit?

What is all the buzz around the word grit? And why should we teach children about it?

Social Emotional Health... in college

A Momentous Institute intern asks her fellow college students about social emotional health. What does she discover in their responses? Read on.

The Ripple Effect

The work we do as therapists is difficult. But little moments make it all worth it. Summer Rose shares about one such moment.

Outlook: Positive

Our outlook on life gives us the flexibility to bounce back and keep moving. It gives us the vision to try again or in another way. Keep reading...

A Beautiful Oops

We LOVE this book for young readers about how to transform a mistake into something wonderful.

Take a Walk of Wonders

Our brain needs training to zero in on the positive things around us. Here's one easy activity!

Toss That Thought!

It can be hard to be optimistic when negative thoughts are weighing us down. Sometimes kids need a way to get rid of the negativity before they can move on.

Create an Optimistic Bulletin Board

A simple way to encourage optimism in your classroom or home!

Turn a Mountain into a Molehill

Next time you're with a child who has made a mountain our of a molehill, try these questions to bring him back down to reality.

Why Should We Teach Kids About Optimism?

Optimists see the glass as half-full. But what does this really mean? And why should we care? Read on.

Appreciations

Momentous School teacher Jennifer Hartmann shares a strategy she uses to help kids express their appreciation for each other.

The Book of Awesome

If gratitude is about appreciating the small things, the author of "The Book of Awesome" is the most grateful person ever.

Grati-Toad

Use the adorable toad as a way to help kids express gratitude... or rather, grati-TOAD.

A Second Grade Service Project: The School Gratitude Tree

Momentous School teachers Sarah and Rene think that every school should have a gratitude tree. Read on to see why.

Gratitude Stone

Take a quick moment to pass the gratitude stone.

Say Yes!

Can you give "yes" a more prominent place in your vocabulary?

Gratitude Journals

Momentous School first grade teacher Ashley Stephenson shares about her class' gratitude journals in this short video.

Gratitude Chain

Try this fun activity to help cultivate gratitude.

Art Transitions

Watch this short video to see Momentous School art teacher using mindfulness to help with the transition back to class.

Slowly Slowly Slowly Said the Sloth

Try this simple activity to help kids focus and take a minute to slow down.

Ribbon Wave

Kids can go from zero to 60 in no time at all. But the reverse? Not quite so fast. Try this activity to help kids focus and calm down.

Color Your Emotions

This simple art project can help kids build up the brain-body connection and get in touch with their emotions.

Inside the Principal's Office

Watch this short video on how Momentous School's principal, Sandy Nobles, uses social emotional health strategies to reinforce positive discipline.

What Does It Mean To Be Present?

Check out this book review on "What Does It Mean To Be Present?" It has valuable lessons for kids and adults alike.

Your Personal Weather Report

“How are you feeling right now? What is the weather inside you like?"

Mindful Observation

Learn how Momentous School teacher used mindful observation with her fifth grade scientists.

Mindful Practices

A quick intro to how one Momentous School teacher uses mindful practices in her classroom.

Senses Journal

A senses journal is a great way to get kids to pay mindful attention to the world around them.

Mindful Eating

An easy way to incorporate mindfulness into daily life is to take ordinary, daily activities and do them mindfully. Try mindful eating!

Mindfulness 101

When we practice mindfulness, we are happier, healthier and have improved overall well-being. Sounds pretty great, right? Read on for more.

No Ordinary Apple

We love this colorful book about eating mindfully. Read the full book review of "No Ordinary Apple".

Bubbles

Learn how to use bubbles as a tool for impulse control.

New Rule

Here’s a simple activity you can try to encourage focus and impulse control. We call it New Rule.

Pass the Cup

Watch this video to learn about an impulse control group activity called Pass the Cup.

Why We Should Teach Kids About Impulse Control

Children who can control their impulses are more independent, have more friends, develop broader vocabularies, feel more confident, and make better choices. Read on for more about why we should teach kids about impulse control.

Video Roundup: Feelings

Here's a roundup of some of our favorite videos about feelings, from who else? The brilliant minds at Sesame Street.

Top Five

What are five things that can turn your mood around when you're feeling down?

How Children Succeed

Read our book review on Paul Tough's bestseller, "How Children Succeed"

Steps and Stones

The anger is back! Read our review of Steps and Stones, by the author of Anh's Anger.

What to Do When you Worry Too Much

The book "What to Do When you Worry Too Much" might help the worrier in your life.

Worry Dolls

Here's a simple strategy you can use to help a child who sometimes becomes consumed with worry.

Visiting Feelings

Here's our book review on Lauren Rubenstein's "Visiting Feelings". This is a great book to read with children to help them understand that feelings come and go!

Relaxing Your Heart

What do we do when we have strong feelings? Check out this post about controlling our heartbeat in order to control our feelings.

Emotions Melt Away

Sometimes children get stuck in a feeling and have a hard time moving on. It’s important to teach kids that feelings can melt away. Here’s a really visual way to drive that lesson home for kids.

Anh's Anger

Read our book review of "Anh's Anger" by Gail Silver.

The Feelings Thermometer

When a child is stuck in a feeling, it can be hard for them to even imagine feeling any differently. Enter the feelings thermometer.

Cup and Saucer

We love the idea of the cup a saucer, a simple way to think about managing emotions.

Sometimes I'm Bombaloo

Check out our book review of the children's book "Sometimes I'm Bombaloo" by Rachel Vail.

Calm Down Basket

We’ve all been there – overcome with emotion, angry, frustrated. Enter the calm-down basket. You'll want to build your own immediately! Read on.

Bedtime Bubbles

Help a child release a worry and receive a joy with this simple activity.

Color Your Brain

Try this art project to help kids talk about their feelings.

The Happy or The Grumpy

Instead of, "You seem really grumpy today," try, "The grumpy seems to be big and in charge right now." Read on to see how to use the idea of externalizing behavior to help kids with their feelings.

Clouds and Emotions Change

Sometimes kids think their emotions are permanent. Use this simple analogy to help them understand that they're not actually going to feel sad FOREVER.

Why We Should Teach Kids About Feelings

Feelings are a normal part of being human. One of the most important things we can teach children is how to deal with their feelings appropriately.

Bunny Breath

What kid doesn't love pretending to be an animal? Here's a quick breathing activity that kids will love. Read on to learn about bunny breath.

Hoberman Sphere

The Hoberman Sphere is one of our favorite tools for teaching kids about breathing. Check it out!

The Eric

Momentous School student Eric leads us in a very quick breathing exercise in this short video.

Moody Cow Meditates

You'll love Moody Cow and his grandfather in this great book that teaches about mindfulness. Read the full review!

Balloon Arms

Our Pre-K Teacher, Cristina Garcia, leads us through a breathing activity called Balloon Arms in this short video. Check it out!

The Pinwheel

Try this simple strategy to help kids understand their breath.

Intro to Breathing

Momentous School PreK-3 year old teacher Juanita Cabrales talks about introducing mindful breathing with her three-year-old students in this video.

Breathing Check-In

Have you thought about your own breathing lately? Let's all take a quick break and check in with ourselves.

Belly Breathing

Here's a simple, concrete way to help kids understand breath and experience deep, belly breathing.

Why We Should Teach Kids About Breathing

Breathing is something that we do all day, every day. Why would kids need to know about it? Read on to learn some of the benefits of teaching kids about their breath.

Rubber Band Brain

Our brains are like a rubber band. The more we practice, the more it can stretch and grow. Use actual rubber bands to help kids understand this important concept. Read on.

Get Moving!

We all know about the value of exercise, but how can we get kids moving? Try one of these three strategies.

A Walk in the Rain with a Brain

No brain is the best. So says this delightful childrens' book. Read the full review!

How to Make a Brain Hat, Part Two

Here's another version of the brain hat. Grab your caulk and get to work making this fun project!

Fantastic Elastic Brain

Did you know your brain can stretch and grow your whole life? Kids will learn all about the brain with this fun book. Read the full book review!

How to Make a Brain Hat

What's cooler than a brain hat? Well, pretty much nothing.

Mindful Analogies

Momentous Institute Psychologist Dr. Matt Leahy discusses using mindful analogies to answer the question, "Why am I in therapy?"

Family Core Values, Part Two

How do we talk about core values with the families at Momentous School? Read this post from first grade teacher Ashley Stephenson.

The Whole-Brain Child

The Whole-Brain Child is one of our favorite books for anyone who works with kids. Read this quick review, and then grab a copy and read the whole thing!

Brain City

Just like cities are made up of small and large buildings, so are our brains! Read how one Momentous School teacher got creative with this idea and created Brain City.

Family Core Values, Part One

How can an understanding of core values help guide families to success in a therapeutic setting?

Our Model of Social Emotional Health

Our work at Momentous Institute is based upon a model we developed for social emotional health. Read this post to learn about what steps are involved in building and repairing social emotional health in children.

The Power of Yet

One simple three-letter word can totally transform a message and encourage kids to keep trying. Read on to learn more about this magic word!

Create Your Own Glitter Jar

A simple art project that teaches us about the brain and helps us calm down? Sign us up! Read on to learn how to make your very own glitter jar.