News, Tips & More
Your Presence is the Present
Hi, Spring has its way of making us think. The temperature changes. The buds blossom. The heaviness of winter starts to lift. And for educators and parents, spring brings a quiet reminder: This is a good time to reconnect. Not by becoming a calmer, wiser, more...
Plan to Purposeful Pesach
Hi, It’s the time of year that is oh so busy— cleaning the chometz crumbs and eliminating it completely, running around to a million errands, outfitting the entire clan for a new season, turning over the kitchen and cooking up Yom Tov meals and desserts, all while...
Planning to Plan
Hi, Last week, my daughter asked if she could go to his friend's house after school. "Sure," I said. "What's your plan?" She looked at me like I'd asked her to solve quantum physics. "My... plan?" "Exactly. You have homework, you need to set the supper table, and...
Executive Function – The Brain’s CEO
Hi, To all new subscribers: Welcome to the SMARTIE Buddy Newsletter, brimming with strategies that bring clarity and practicality! Today I’ll address two questions we got: Here's one: As a classroom teacher, I have many students who are struggling with organization:...
Play Time Recommendations
Hi, Black Friday is here, and as coaches and educators dedicated to helping every struggling student find their breakthrough, we know that the right tools can make all the difference. This Black Friday, I’m sharing educational games, toys, and tools that are on sale....
Growing with Hearts
Hi, The beauty of discovery lies not just in the outcome, but in the journey and the little milestones. This week, I witnessed a simple but inspiring example of how children learn when given the right encouragement. Week One: Drawing a Heart I showed my daughter how...
New Year, New Me
Welcome, Hope you had a beautiful Yom Tov. Today, everyone is saying "New Year, New Me" with enthusiasm. The uncomfortable truth: How many of us prefer to pull the covers over our heads? 🙈🙈🙈 Wishing to fly to Florida rather than to our regular work schedule. (With no...
The Flexible Yom Tov
Hi, It’s the time of year that is simply beautiful— upgraded seudas in a decorated Sukkah under star-filled nights, and fun-filled Chol Hamoed trips with the entire clan. As a parent, though, Yomim Tovim is tough, too. You want to ‘‘make memories” and share the beauty...
Back to School Tips to Start Strong
Hi, Hope you’ve had a wonderful weekend soaking up the last warm rays of sunshine. Big week up ahead… I’m looking forward to returning to school (no other choice 😉)—ah, the September air! Fresh inspiration, enthusiastic students to welcome and start the year with the...
Brain Blog
The last day of school is right around the corner, and the school year is over. Packed schedules and hectic days often present additional challenges. Join me as I describe two kids' personalities, taking apart their behaviors and preferences. Then, we'll replace...











