woman on computer

More Than a Calling: Smart Side Hustles for School Counselors

Being a school counselor is more than a job—it’s a calling. But let’s be real: calling doesn’t always pay the bills. With rising living costs, student loan debt, and often limited school budgets, many counselors are finding that a little extra income can go a long way. The good news? Your skills are highly marketable.…

boy scientist

The Growth Mindset and Success

Growth Mindset is the Key to Success Which statement describes what you believe:? You can learn new things but you really can’t change your IQ very much.  Your IQ is something that is just part of your DNA. You can not only learn new things but substantially change how intelligent you are. In her book…

kids and story time

1. Storytime with a Purpose: Using Picture Books to Teach Social-Emotional Skills

As an elementary school counselor, you have a powerful tool at your fingertips for teaching social-emotional learning (SEL): picture books! Stories captivate young minds, making it easier for children to understand and connect with important emotions, behaviors, and relationships. By using the medium of story, you can help students explore real-life social challenges in a…

Male Student Working At Desk In Chinese School Classroom

How Kids Can Use Self-Talk to Handle Big Emotions

What Is Self-Talk and Why Does It Matter?Every child has an inner voice—the thoughts that run through their minds as they navigate daily challenges, emotions, and relationships. Self-talk can be a powerful tool for emotional regulation, but it can also lead to distress when it becomes overwhelming or negative. While reading  Chatter: The Voice in…

girl crying

Brave New Beginnings: Easing Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common experience for many young children, especially in their early school years. It can be heart-wrenching for both parents and children, but with understanding, patience, and the right strategies, you can help students navigate these feelings successfully. What is Separation Anxiety? Separation anxiety is the fear or distress that children may…

boy with light bulb

Growing Self-Esteem in Schools: Simple Ways Counselors Can Make a Difference

What is Positive Self-Esteem? Positive self-esteem is a child’s belief in their own worth, abilities, and potential. It’s the confidence to take on challenges, the resilience to bounce back from setbacks, and the self-acceptance that fosters happiness and motivation. When students feel valued and capable, they are more likely to take risks, try new things,…

boy and girls celebrating

Loving the Skin You Are In: Promoting Positive Body Image in Elementary Students

In today’s world, where unrealistic beauty standards are constantly portrayed in media and social platforms, fostering a positive body image in children is more important than ever. As elementary school counselors, we have a unique opportunity to guide young students in embracing their bodies with confidence and self-love. How Counselors Can Help Students Develop a…

Two girls playing together with wooden toy blocks

Together We Shine: Teaching Cooperation in Elementary Schools

Most parents and teachers would agree that cooperation is a critical skill for life success that requires communication, empathy and respect. Even young children can begin to learn simple ways to cooperate. Learning to use cooperation in the classroom will eventually serve children well as adults. Elementary schools provide countless opportunities for students to work…

caring hands

A Surprising and Simple Way to Treat Anxiety and Depression

Mental health issues and especially depression and anxiety are at an all time high among young people. One of the impacts of Covid for many schools has been an increased number of students who are too anxious to even come to school, never mind to put forth their best effort at academics. School counselors are…

What People Say About The Wyatt Books

kind words from educators, parents, and kids!

"Going to kindergarten is a milestone for everyone and the beginning of the year is usually filled with excitement and angst.  Wyatt the Wonder Dog addresses the typical concerns that most children have in a sweet and relatable way.  Kindergarten really is fun!"

— Laura Uszenski
Kindergarten Teacher

"Wyatt the Wonder Dog Learns about Teamwork is another great example of helping kids improve their social skills.  It teaches kids the power of working together and how much better we are when we work as a community"

—Melissa Toren Hrin, Professional School Counselor
Beverly Cleary School, Portland, OR

"[Wyatt the Wonder Dog Learns about Mindset] This book is funny!  It's dogs doing things that only people do!  I learned to try new things."

— Samuel Traub
Age 6

Wyatt the Wonder Dog Learns about Giving is a delightful book that teaches kids (and reminds adults, as well) that generosity is possible no matter how old, young, rich or poor we are.  This is a powerful message and an engaging story that every child will love. 

~Jen McDonough, author of Living Beyond Rich

Wyatt the Wonder Dog Learns about Friendship teaches not only friendship and making connections, but also how to become successful at problem solving. Great for school counselors, teachers and families.  Bravo! 

Sharissa Shatten~ School Counselor

Feeling left out? Need help getting along with friends? Wyatt the Wonder Dog Learns about Cooperation weaves important life skills into engaging story telling. Join Wyatt as he learns how to be the superhero in his group of friends by using cooperation and compromise.

~MaryFrances Gonzalez MACCCSLP

Have you ever had a friend that did some things that you disagreed with? Wyatt does and he doesn't know what to do about it. Join Wyatt as he learns that being honest with his friend is the best and only way to solve the problem. A great story!

~Lynn Hughes M.Ed. school counselor

If you've ever lost your lunch money or misplaced your favorite toy, you can relate to Wyatt the Wonder Dog.  This adorable story offers simple, helpful ideas that kids and parents can use to make life less stressful and more fun!

~Erin K. Casey, author