The Heart of the School: What Makes a Great School Counselor?
I was recently at a luncheon talking with some elementary school principals about school counselors and an evaluation method they are required to complete yearly on school counselors. The instrument was so complex that they had to attend special training to learn to use it properly. The evaluation emphasized collecting data in order to prove the impact and success of the counselor.…
Closing the Chapter: Helping Students Say Goodbye with Heart
As the end of the school year approaches, students may experience a mix of excitement, nervousness, and even sadness. While they may look forward to summer break, they’re also saying goodbye to routines, classmates, and teachers that have been a consistent part of their lives for months. For elementary-age children, this transition can feel especially…
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. Extra income can provide financial flexibility, career security…
Back to School…Again? A Counselor’s Guide to Leveling Up Your Career
Here’s a little quiz for you: Answer True or False to the following questions: It’s a good idea to go back to school to earn another degree or certification if you want to change careers and go into a new field. It’s a good idea to go back to school to earn another degree or…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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!"
"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"
"[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."
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
