I received an email from a student who felt they were two different people – one side of them is their school self, the other side is their home self. I could relate to this student as I remember my ‘school self’ being self conscious...
As the end of May approaches parents and their children may become stressed as they anticipate the mandatory standardized testing called EQAO for all students in Ontario public funded schools. When we think of tests we think ‘study’. The EQAO is not that kind of...
I believe mental health affects every aspect of a young person’s life, including their self-talk, relationships and sense of well-being. Without the ability to self regulate, deal with day-to-day stressors and manage emotions, they will struggle when faced with challenging circumstances and overwhelming emotions. Stress, worry...
Q: I often feel I can't speak my mind because people will make fun of me. I feel like I am two different people. One side of me is my 'school-self' and my other side is my 'home-self'. A: I think that we can all relate to...
It’s common for adults to start off a new year thinking about the things they want to change and commit to. I think one of the healthiest commitments we can make is improving our children’s mental well-being. Here are 5 Simple Tips to help you make...
As parents and guardians we want our young people to have fun while still teaching them how to be responsible, resilient and confident people. We want to teach them skills and give them experiences that will develop traits essential to their success and happiness. We want them to thrive. Between trying to balance...
Young people have more demands on their attention than ever before. Juggling school, extra-curricular activities and constant interaction with technology, they need to be able to make good decisions, despite any stressful situations that may come up in their lives. Student stress is prevalent in schools....
We have heard so much lately about how sugar is causing health challenges in our young people. I believe it is also affecting their emotional and mental wellbeing. When I started limiting my sugar intake about 10 years ago I noticed that my mental clarity improved...
Gratitude is a powerful character trait! Studies have shown that even small expressions of gratitude can increase optimism, positivity and connectedness. These are essential in developing strong character and healthy well being in young people. Learning how to see beyond challenges and to focus on what we...
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