How We Help Children Change

First and foremost our number one goal for kids we work with, all kids we work with, is to produce “self-efficacy”. By that we mean, “self-reliance”, “persistence”, “courage to endure adversity”, “resilience”, and “confidence”. In order to achieve this we believe we must focus on certain aspects of a child’s makeup. Primary in our focus… Continue reading How We Help Children Change

Identifying Signs of Anger

“If you are patient in one moment of anger you will avoid 100 days of sorrow.” Confuscious Many people who have not learned to understand anger within themselves struggle to recognize it as it approaches, only becoming aware once it has exploded and become overwhelming. Learning to identify anger as it begins to escalate is… Continue reading Identifying Signs of Anger

Thoughts on “Goodness”

Einstein said: “The most important human endeavor is the striving for morality in our actions. Our inner balance and even our very existence depend on it. Only morality in our actions can give beauty and dignity to our lives”. Goodness: A recent survey completed by State Farm Insurance Co. took a look at America’s “moral”… Continue reading Thoughts on “Goodness”

Assertiveness: Acting in Your Own Best Interest

The American Heritage Dictionary defines assertiveness as expressing oneself confidently. It is the balance of looking after your own needs and boundaries, while also respecting those of others There are 3 basic styles of interpersonal behavior and communication styles: 1. Aggressive: Blaming, accusing, threatening, abrasiveness. Does not respect the boundaries of others. 2. Passive: Subject… Continue reading Assertiveness: Acting in Your Own Best Interest

The Morals of Chess

Something I read recently amazed me as to its application in what we try to impart to kids in our programs. Remarkably, it was written in 1779 by Ben Franklin: this is paraphrased from “The Morals of Chess” Foresight: Look into the future and consider the consequences. Think about the real advantages to yourself, than… Continue reading The Morals of Chess

Feeling Good About Yourself

What is your most valuable possession? No, it’s not your stereo, your bicycle, your stamp collection or anything else that money can buy. It is your SELF – your good opinion about yourself. SELF is the feeling inside that says, “I really like myself!” Developing self helps you face whatever life throws at you. Many… Continue reading Feeling Good About Yourself

Anger and Self Talk

Self-talk is that “little voice inside your head”. It is what you tell yourself about yourself, or about a situation. Self-talk can be positive, like when you tell yourself “I can do this” to help you get through something you’re nervous about. Or, it can be negative, like when you tell yourself “I’m so stupid”… Continue reading Anger and Self Talk