When a parent frequently says, "Money doesn’t grow on trees, you know!" it may seem like a harmless way to teach kids the value of money, but it can have unintended effects on a child's development, including:

1. Instilling a Scarcity Mindset: Repeatedly hearing this phrase can lead children to develop a scarcity mindset, where they grow up believing that money is always scarce and hard to come by. This can affect their future financial habits, making them overly frugal, anxious about spending, or fearful of taking financial risks.
2. ​Creating Anxiety Around Finances: Children can internalize financial stress from parents, leading them to feel anxious about money even at a young age. This anxiety can carry into adulthood, affecting their confidence in managing finances and decision-making.
3. Reinforcing Negative Beliefs About Wealth: The message can unintentionally imply that money is inherently difficult to earn, making children feel that financial success is beyond their reach. This can limit their ambition or discourage them from pursuing lucrative opportunities, thinking they're unattainable.
4. Promoting Guilt About Spending: This phrase often comes up when children ask for something, leading them to feel guilty for wanting things or spending money. Over time, this can result in a reluctance to treat themselves or invest in their well-being, even when it’s affordable or necessary.
5. Impairing Their Understanding of Financial Management: Instead of teaching practical financial skills, such as budgeting or saving, this statement simply shuts down the conversation. Children miss the opportunity to learn about how money works and how to handle it responsibly.
6. Diminishing a Sense of Worth: If children perceive that their needs or desires are a financial burden, it can affect their self-esteem, leading them to feel unworthy of nice things or experiences.
7. Stifling Conversations About Money: It can discourage open dialogue about finances between parents and children. Instead of learning to discuss money matters openly and constructively, kids might feel that money is a taboo subject or something to worry about, not talk about.

​To foster a healthier approach, parents can focus on teaching financial literacy and responsibility through positive reinforcement and open conversations, helping kids develop a balanced, confident, and constructive attitude toward money. I also like Robert Kiyosaki’s approach of saying, 'How can we afford it?' instead of 'We can’t afford it.' This way, you get out of the scarcity mentality, and your mind will automatically start looking for ways to make it happen.

I recently had the privilege to interview Karin Freeland, a life coach, motivational speaker, and author who wrote the inspirational book Grab Life by the Dreams: The Essential Guide to Getting Unstuck and Living Your Purpose. Karin started her career as an actress, and as she says, she is no stranger to following her dreams. Around age 24, she was tired of waiting tables and decided to try a corporate career just for a year, save as much money as possible, and go back to acting full time. She started her corporate journey in sales, and after getting her first commission on a paycheck as a sales rep, she got addicted to the money drug really quickly. Long story short, Karin traded her personal goals and dreams for a comfortable salary, only to wake up one day and find herself in a midlife crisis. It impacted everything in her life – her marriage, her kids, her health, and her satisfaction with life. She had a massive hole in her soul that was gaping wide, and none of the purses, cars, and things fulfilled her anymore. Something was missing. She went on a self-discovery journey where she wanted to go back to her roots, her goals in life, and values.
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To get out of this hole, Karin said, "I realized that I wanted to start writing books, and it was really through the process of writing my first book that I started to get excited about life again." She eventually left the corporate career and started her own business to help other women achieve success without sacrifice.

This interview is packed with Karin’s personal stories and inspirational examples of her clients that will help you better understand how to:

✅ Lead a more balanced life - set healthy boundaries and let go of self-imposed expectations.
✅ Speak up for your needs - especially with your partner and how to stay in your “zone of genius” and outsource what you can.
✅ Achieve success on your terms - forget what society tells you is success and define your own values.

A lot of women fear that if they push back and say “No” to tasks and requests that can overwhelm them, they will miss something important. I love how Karin alleviated this fear by reminding us, "Lightning doesn’t strike once. If you are meant to do something, saying NO once will not cut off your opportunities."

It is also important to remember that "My numbers on my paycheck do not define my worth." If you choose to take a break from a job and focus on your family, it is okay. If you continue to push and sink deeper into stress, "your body will rebel. The sooner you can start paying attention to those signs, the sooner you can prevent something catastrophic from happening." Ensure you have a solid financial plan that aligns with your life goals and provides security.
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Karin Freeland's personal journey is a powerful example of the potential for reinvention and personal growth. Her insights into balancing family and work, understanding personal values, and maintaining one's mental and physical health offer invaluable guidance for moms navigating the complexities of modern life. Whether you are seeking to set healthier boundaries, speak up for your needs, or redefine what success means to you, this interview with Karin can help light the way.

After attending an impressive black belt exam and award ceremony at Provident Charter School conducted by Grand Master Robert Zang, I was inspired to research further the benefits of martials arts.

Martial arts have long been celebrated for their physical and mental benefits. Among these, Taekwondo stands out as a discipline that not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters mental resilience, discipline, and self-confidence. For children with learning differences such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD, Taekwondo can be particularly beneficial. Here’s how:

1. Enhancing Focus and Concentration

One of the core elements of Taekwondo is the emphasis on focus and concentration. Children with ADHD often struggle with maintaining attention, but the structured environment of Taekwondo classes can help. The repetitive nature of practicing forms and techniques requires sustained attention, which can gradually improve a child's ability to focus in other areas of their life, including academics.

2. Building Self-Esteem and Confidence

Children with learning differences may experience feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem due to academic challenges. Taekwondo provides an opportunity for these children to excel in a different arena. Achieving new belts and mastering techniques can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-confidence. This newfound confidence can then translate into a more positive attitude towards school and learning.
 
3. Improving Physical Coordination and Motor Skills
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Dyslexia and dysgraphia are often accompanied by challenges with motor skills. Taekwondo’s emphasis on precise movements and coordination can help improve fine and gross motor skills. The practice of kicks, punches, and forms requires control and precision, which can help children develop better hand-eye coordination and overall motor skills.

4. Teaching Discipline and Routine

​Children with learning differences benefit from structure and routine. Taekwondo classes are highly structured and follow a consistent routine, which can be comforting for children who struggle with unpredictability. The discipline required in martial arts can also help children develop better organizational and time-management skills, which are crucial for academic success.
 
5. Providing a Healthy Outlet for Energy

Children with ADHD often have high energy levels and need a constructive outlet. Taekwondo offers a physically demanding activity that allows children to channel their energy in a positive way. Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of ADHD, such as impulsivity and hyperactivity.

6. Enhancing Social Skills and Teamwork

Taekwondo is often practiced in a group setting, providing children with opportunities to interact with peers and develop social skills. For children with learning differences, building friendships and social networks can be challenging. The supportive environment of a Taekwondo class can help children develop better communication skills and learn to work as part of a team.
 
7. Encouraging Perseverance and Resilience

Learning Taekwondo is not without its challenges. It requires perseverance and resilience—qualities that are valuable in both martial arts and academics. Children learn that progress comes through consistent effort and practice, teaching them the importance of persistence and hard work.

Conclusion

Taekwondo and other martial arts offer a unique blend of physical, mental, and social benefits that can be particularly advantageous for children with learning differences like dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD. By enhancing focus, building self-esteem, improving motor skills, teaching discipline, providing a healthy outlet for energy, enhancing social skills, and encouraging perseverance, Taekwondo can help these children thrive both in and out of school. 

The Children's Home is a beacon of hope and support for families with children who have medical and social needs. Ekaterina Konovalova at Trust Me Mom met with Bethany Bartilson, the Program Relations Manager at the Children's Home to learn more about the Children's Home unique programs and services, including world renown treatment for Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) and Dr. Christine Roman-Lantzy’s innovative treatment. 

A Hub of Specialized Care

Founded initially as an adoption agency, The Children's Home has grown into a multifaceted institution. The speaker in the video highlights several core programs:
 
Pediatric Specialty Hospital: A key component of the organization, this hospital offers specialized medical care to children who require a transitional phase before they can return home. Remarkably, the hospital ensures that families do not receive a bill for the services, relying instead on grants and fundraising efforts to cover costs.

Child's Way Daycare: For children who are medically fragile, Child's Way provides a safe and nurturing environment where they can receive necessary therapy services while their parents continue with their employment or education.
Pediatric View Program: This unique initiative focuses on children with cortical visual impairment. It aims to enhance their functional vision and overall quality of life through targeted interventions.

Comprehensive Therapy Services: The Children's Home boasts a robust therapy team that includes physical, occupational, speech, and developmental therapists, all dedicated to supporting each child’s individual needs.
Counseling Services: Beyond its roots in adoption services, the organization offers an extensive counseling program that supports not just children but also their families in various capacities.
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Family-Centric Facilities
Understanding the challenges that families face when their children require prolonged medical care, The Children's Home provides accommodations that allow families to stay close. These facilities include a family living area where families can stay for free, either in their child's room or in a dedicated living space, which includes amenities like a pumping room for nursing mothers and a playground for siblings.
 
Community Outreach and Support

The video emphasizes the organization’s commitment to community outreach, aiming to raise awareness about the extensive support services available. Families from not just Pennsylvania, but also from out of state, seek out The Children's Home for its specialized care and training, underscoring its reputation as a leader in pediatric health and wellness.
 
The Children's Home stands out as a vital resource for families navigating the complexities of raising children with special medical and social needs. By offering a range of services under one roof, the organization not only alleviates the financial burden on families but also ensures that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment.
 
For those interested in learning more about The Children's Home and its services, or for families in need of specialized care, the organization's doors are open, and its team ready to assist.

​Recently, I had the privilege of attending a dyslexia simulation at one of America’s leading specialized schools for dyslexia, Provident Charter School, which has two locations in Pennsylvania.
 
Dyslexia, a common learning difference that is commonly labeled as “disability” that affects reading, writing, and spelling skills, presents significant challenges for children in educational environments. Traditional classroom settings, often structured around reading-heavy activities, can inadvertently create stumbling blocks for students with dyslexia, leading to frustration and a lack of confidence.

The magic of dyslexia simulation is that it provides an opportunity for non-dyslexic parents, educators, and other stakeholders to understand the struggles and frustrations dyslexic kids experience firsthand. It was an extremely eye-opening experience; it helped attendees develop more empathy for dyslexic kids and even left some parents in tears. I heard people saying, “Wow, I didn’t know it was so hard for my kid,” “I just gave up because I couldn’t keep up with the assignment,” “I was afraid to look stupid,” and “I want to deflect attention from my inability to understand and complete the task; I would rather be the class clown than be labeled as stupid.”
 
My Experience of Going Through the Dyslexia Simulation
​The dyslexia simulation is designed to mimic the experience of having dyslexia, allowing parents, teachers, and peers to "walk in the shoes" of someone with this condition. Initially, all attendees heard an informative presentation about dyslexia myths, brain function in typical versus dyslexic individuals, and some heart-breaking statistics about the state of support for dyslexic students in the United States. I also learned that dyslexia is highly correlated with ADHD—25% to 40% of individuals with ADHD also have dyslexia, which makes learning in a traditional school environment even harder.

​After hearing a presentation by the school's CEO, our large group was split into three smaller groups, and we rotated among three classrooms, completing different school tasks like reading, writing, and spelling. The texts were encoded in a sort of gibberish language, there was a massive noise distraction, we underwent timed reading tasks under pressure, and attempted to write letters and numbers that were altered and encoded. Sometimes, we were not allowed to use our dominant hand. It was really hard! By the end of the second hour, our brains were fried. We were exhausted—just like your dyslexic child who spends over seven hours at school each day and then has to do homework.

​How Dyslexia Impacts Kids at School
 
The academic challenges that dyslexic kids face in typical schools often spill over into social and emotional realms. Students with dyslexia might feel isolated, misunderstood, or less capable than their peers. The stress of coping with their learning difficulties can lead to anxiety, low self-esteem, and in some cases, reluctance to participate in class activities.
 
What was also interesting to learn is that people with dyslexia typically have average or above-average intelligence levels. In fact, many gifted individuals at the tops of their fields are dyslexic. They might be slow readers, but they compensate with fast, creative thinking, often seeing “the big picture” and coming up with non-standard ideas to solve problems. I love that Provident Charter Schools celebrate kids with dyslexia and display photos of geniuses and celebrities to remind their students that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. There is a lot of understanding, compassion, and accommodation for kids at Provident, from daily Wilson reading instruction to helping kids with emotional regulation and sensory issues.

If you are a parent of a dyslexic child, please check out the International Dyslexia Association and its local chapters. For example, if you are based in Pennsylvania, check out the local PA chapter to find parent support groups and events PA Branch of the International Dyslexia Association.
 
Benefits of Dyslexia Simulations
 
Increased Empathy and Understanding: By experiencing firsthand the challenges of dyslexia, parents and teachers can develop greater empathy for children who struggle with it. This understanding is crucial in fostering a supportive environment both at home and in the classroom.
 
Tailored Teaching Strategies: Educators who understand the specific struggles of dyslexic students are better equipped to adapt their teaching methods. Techniques such as multisensory learning, where lessons are taught using visual, auditory, and tactile methods, can be incredibly effective.

​Advocacy and Awareness: Simulations can serve as powerful tools for advocacy, raising awareness among those who might not recognize the pervasive challenges faced by individuals with dyslexia. Increased awareness can lead to better funding and resources for programs tailored to dyslexic students.
 
Parental Engagement: For parents, these simulations are often revelatory, highlighting not just the academic hurdles but also the emotional toll that dyslexia can take on their children. This can lead to more engaged parenting, characterized by patience and a better understanding of their child's needs.

Conclusion
 
Dyslexia simulations are more than just educational tools; they are bridges to deeper comprehension and empathy. While they do not completely replicate the daily experiences of someone with dyslexia, they do provide a valuable glimpse into the challenges faced by these individuals. For parents and educators, this can be the key to unlocking a more supportive and effective approach to helping children with dyslexia navigate the world of learning. It was definitely an eye-opening experience for me, and I hope other parents will attend similar simulations to better understand and support our kids.

To learn more about dyslexia simulation, check out the video below. 

Ekaterina Konovalova from Trust Me Mom, sat down with Erica Schmith, the Director of Counseling and Family Support Services at The Children's Home, to dive deep into the world of adoption and foster care. Her extensive insights shed light on the processes, benefits, and significant aspects of ensuring the well-being of children within the system.

Understanding Different Adoption Routes

Erica explains that adoption can manifest in various forms, such as foster care adoption, infant adoption, international adoption, and private adoption through legal assistance. The Children's Home primarily focuses on foster care adoption, which incurs no cost to the adoptive family as these fees are covered by the state.
 
Requirements and Support for Adoptive Families

Prospective adoptive families undergo a rigorous preparation process, including training sessions, home studies, and evaluations to ensure stability in all aspects of their lives. Erika said, "We strive to find stable families, not perfect ones." The duration for adoption varies; domestic infant adoption may take several years, while foster care adoption could be completed between 6 to 18 months.
 
Benefits and Support for Adoptive Families

Families adopting through foster care receive comprehensive support, including free medical care, daily stipends for additional expenses, and college tuition waivers for children adopted after the age of 16. This robust support system underscores the commitment to the children’s long-term welfare.
 
Addressing Mental Health and Trauma

A significant portion of the children in foster care have experienced trauma, necessitating the availability of adoption-competent and trauma-informed therapists. The Children’s Home offers various counseling and support services tailored to meet these needs, including outpatient counseling, grief counseling, and marriage therapy. Erika stated it well in her interview that "Trauma and mental health are pivotal in the adoption world. It's vital that children receive the care they need, and that their families get support as well."
 
Other Ways to Support

Not everyone can adopt or foster a child, but there are numerous ways to support the work of organizations like the Children's Home. Donations, gift cards, or providing short-term respite care are invaluable contributions that support the mission.
 
Highlighting Real Stories of Change

Erica shares uplifting stories from the field: older youths finding forever homes, sibling groups being adopted together, and families embracing children with medical needs. These stories not only highlight the transformative impact of adoption and foster care but also the profound, rewarding journey for families and children alike.
 
This interview not only serves as a resource for those interested in adoption and foster care but also highlights the critical need for compassionate and capable families willing to make a difference in a child's life. For more information on how to get involved or learn more about adoption and foster care, visit the Children's Home website.

In this insightful video, Dr. Rachel Krenek, a seasoned expert in online virtual education, delves into the transformative world of virtual schooling. She offers a comprehensive overview of the benefits, challenges, and key considerations for parents contemplating this alternative educational path for their children.

The Versatility of Virtual Education

Dr. Krenek emphasizes that not all educational systems are suitable for every child, highlighting the need for parents to reassess their child’s educational environment, especially if the current setup isn't fostering success. Her professional journey from traditional classroom settings to a focus on alternative education through a doctorate in organizational leadership lends her insights substantial credibility.
 
Key Components of Virtual Schooling

Dr. Krenek delineates the primary differences between traditional education, homeschooling, and virtual schooling. She points out that virtual schools provide the structure of traditional education alongside the flexibility of homeschooling, effectively offering "the best of both worlds."
 
Accessibility and Support

A significant advantage of virtual schools, as noted by Dr. Krenek, is their ability to accommodate diverse learning needs, including students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans. These schools employ specialized technology to aid students with hearing or visual impairments and ensure that all students receive the necessary support to thrive.
 
Flexibility and Educational Integrity

Virtual schooling stands out for its flexibility, offering both synchronous (live classes) and asynchronous (independent work) learning options. Most virtual schools are free, generally funded by tax dollars, and Dr. Krenek stresses the importance of ensuring that any chosen program is properly accredited.
 
Socialization and Extracurricular Activities

Contrary to popular belief, virtual schooling does not isolate students. Dr. Krenek discusses the myriad socialization opportunities available through virtual clubs, peer tutoring, participation in district extracurricular activities, and regional events. These platforms help maintain an essential aspect of child development—social interaction.
 
Suitability and Personal Involvement

Virtual schooling requires a significant degree of personal motivation and discipline from students. It suits families looking for a more hands-on role in their children's education and those who appreciate a supportive home learning environment. However, it may not be ideal for students who struggle with self-motivation or independent learning.
 
This video serves as a valuable resource for families considering virtual schooling, providing them with a detailed understanding of what to expect and how to navigate the choices available.

​Kathy Dugat, a veteran educator with over three decades of experience in both private and public schooling, recently shared her inspiring journey and educational philosophy in this inspirational interview. 

Her story offers a treasure trove of wisdom for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about fostering a nurturing learning environment for children.
 
From the outset, Kathy was determined to make her mark. Initially embarking on a path in accounting, her love for children guided her towards education, leading her to pursue her studies at Texas A&M and later at Central Missouri State University. However, she underscores that her real education came from being in the classroom, where the dynamic needs of children provided her with the most valuable lessons.
 
Kathy's educational approach centers on recognizing each child as a unique individual, requiring personalized engagement to thrive. She emphasizes the importance of being equipped with a diverse set of resources, from colorful dice to various shapes and sizes of everyday items, which she creatively uses to connect with and inspire her students.
 
Creating a Supportive Environment
 
One of the cornerstones of Kathy's philosophy is the creation of a safe and welcoming environment, where children can shed their anxieties and open up to learning. She practices "Conscious Discipline," an approach grounded in the science of making children feel secure and valued. This method not only helps children relax but also enables them to engage with the learning process more effectively.
 
Kathy believes in preparing children not just for academic success but for life. She advocates for building a "toolbox" filled with skills that foster creativity, articulation, confidence, and compassion—traits that she insists are teachable through deliberate and thoughtful educational practices.
 
Strategies for Problem Solving
 
A practical aspect of Kathy's teaching strategy involves the establishment of clear, simple rules that encourage children to be safe, friendly, diligent, and resourceful. She highlights the effectiveness of having pre-set rules that help manage children's behavior through consistent reminders of their promises during daily interactions. This approach not only aids in immediate conflict resolution but also helps inculcate long-term problem-solving skills.
 
The Role of Educators and Parents
 
Kathy extends her insights to parents and fellow educators, stressing the importance of planning and communication in managing children's crises. By anticipating challenges and preparing responses, adults can provide quicker, more effective support when difficulties arise.
 
She also addresses the necessity of tailored approaches for different ages, illustrating how the same principles of problem-solving can be adapted from toddlers to teenagers, ensuring relevance across all stages of development.
 
In conclusion, Kathy Dugat's educational philosophy is a profound reminder of the impactful role educators and parents play in shaping children's lives. Her dedication to understanding and nurturing each child's individuality allows her to make a significant difference in their educational and personal development. Her strategies not only equip children with academic skills but also prepare them to face life's challenges with confidence and creativity. As she continues to share her insights, Kathy remains a beacon of inspiration for anyone involved in the noble task of educating the next generation.
 

Understanding School Phobia

In a compelling video discussion, Dr. Merenova, a seasoned school psychologist, addresses the critical issue of school refusal, commonly mislabeled by students as feeling like 'school is a prison.' With over two decades of experience, Dr. Merenova provides valuable insights for parents navigating this challenging situation.

Investigating the Root Causes
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Dr. Merenova stresses that when a child expresses reluctance to attend school, it might not always stem from a phobia of school itself. The underlying reasons can be diverse, including boredom, lack of confidence, or specific learning disabilities. She encourages parents to adopt a detective-like approach to uncover these underlying issues, rather than simply labeling the problem as school phobia.
 
The Role of Environment and Peer Influence

The psychologist highlights the significant impact of the environment on children's behavior, especially as peers become more influential around the age of 12. A nurturing and supportive environment at home and school can play a pivotal role in helping children overcome their reluctance to attend school.
 
Practical Steps for Parents

For children who feel trapped or overly constrained by the school environment, Dr. Merenova suggests several proactive strategies:
 
Engage in Dialogue: Open, empathetic conversations where children feel heard can illuminate specific issues they face at school, such as social anxieties or academic pressures.

Encourage Extra-Curricular Activities: Involving children in activities where they can excel helps build their self-esteem and offers a sense of achievement outside of the traditional classroom setting.

Build Self-Confidence: Developing a child’s confidence is crucial. Dr. Merenova notes that confident children are better equipped to handle challenges and integrate social cues more effectively.
Foster a Supportive Home Environment: Creating a positive home environment that celebrates small successes and provides emotional security can make school feel less daunting.

Professional Guidance: In cases where children show signs of severe anxiety or depression, Dr. Merenova recommends seeking a combination of therapy and medication. Collaboration with school professionals to tailor a specialized educational plan can also be beneficial.

Dr. Merenova 's advice offers a roadmap for parents dealing with the complex issue of school refusal. By understanding the specific reasons behind a child’s dread of school, parents can better support their child in overcoming these challenges. It’s about creating a supportive framework around the child, involving professional help when necessary, and ensuring that school becomes a place of growth rather than a place of fear.
 
This detailed discussion provides not only reassurance but also practical measures for parents feeling helpless in the face of their child's school-related struggles.