We’re living in a time when bullying, discrimination, and dehumanization are on full display—in schools, online, and even in positions of power. But what scares me more than the actions of bullies... is the silence of bystanders.

Recently, I heard a story that stopped me in my tracks. It’s a powerful example of how the bystander effect can condition us to prioritize self-preservation over doing the right thing.

A woman shared her experience from when she was sixteen years old. She walked into her classroom to find the desks arranged in a circle, and in the center sat a fishbowl on a desk. Her teacher gave strict instructions:

“Sit down. Shut up. You are not allowed to move or speak. Anyone who does will immediately fail this class.”

Then, he pulled the fish out of the bowl and placed it on the desk.
And walked out.

All the students were frozen in fear—paralyzed by the threat of failure. They watched as the fish gasped for air. No one wanted to fail. But no one wanted to let the fi...

Have you seen Disney’s new movie, “Encanto''? I’ve seen it about five times so far. I love it! It has a message that we don’t talk about openly - toxic families and the black sheep in each family. 

Really, this movie has many people talking and I’ve seen many reels and videos regarding Bruno. 

Yes, Bruno. 

You see, we all have Bruno in our families. If you think about it, Bruno is anyone who has spoken up or called someone out for something they shouldn’t be doing. 

Bruno is anyone who calls out an issue or gives a warning about something they foresee coming. Bruno is the person who tells their boss to do something about a toxic work environment. He is the family member who tells everyone they should do something about the uncle or cousin who keeps putting themselves in situations that hurt the entire family. 

When Bruno speaks up it’s because he sees everything going on with a clear vision. He doesn’t allow his relationship ties to block what’s going on. 

And the thing is that w...

 School is a whirlwind of styles, brands, and ever-changing trends—today it’s all about those chunky sneakers, and tomorrow it’ll be something else! But as parents, we know that the “right” friends don’t come with a price tag or a label. The friendships that truly enrich our kids’ lives are based on character, kindness, and fun—not on what’s in their closet. Let’s help our kids spot the difference between true friends and “trend friends”!

Why “Who You Are” Trumps “What You Wear”

In a world full of marketing and “must-haves,” it’s easy for kids to feel like they need to dress or accessorize a certain way to fit in. But focusing on material things can lead them down a shallow path. Instead, let's guide them to look for friends who value their quirks, cheer for their wins, and support them in times that even the coolest sneakers won’t fix.

Here are some traits that matter way more than what someone’s wearing

Kindness Over Coolness. Friends who are kind and respectful will stand by ...

In today’s world, kids have more information at their fingertips than we ever did. A quick search can answer nearly any question (well, except “why do you still have to make your bed if you’re just going to mess it up again?”). But with endless information comes an endless need for critical thinking—and not just the kind that gets them out of a chore! We’re talking about spotting facts, asking the right questions, and avoiding the “sharing-is-caring” approach regarding misinformation.

Why Critical Thinking Matters (Especially Now)

With social media, endless streaming, and chat groups, kids are bombarded with messages from every direction—messages that sometimes claim to be facts but have the credibility of, well, that kid who said he could actually fly off the swing set. Critical thinking is the ultimate superpower, one that’ll help our kids grow into adults who think things through instead of just going with the flow.

Teaching kids to evaluate information helps them in so many ways...

As summer fades and the back-to-school season approaches, both parents and kids often face a mix of excitement and anxiety. The start of a new school year brings the promise of fresh beginnings, but it can also present challenges that can feel overwhelming for both children and their families. From adjusting to new routines to managing social dynamics and academic pressures, the transition back to school is a significant period that requires careful navigation.

Here’s how you can help your child overcome these hurdles and ensure a successful start to the school year.

1. Establish a Routine Early

One of the biggest challenges kids face when returning to school is adjusting to a new schedule. Over the summer, bedtimes often get later, and mornings become more relaxed. However, as the school year begins, it’s important to reestablish a routine.

Tips:

• Start early: Begin transitioning your child back to a school schedule a couple of weeks before school starts. Gradually move bedtime ...

According to the International Women's Day (IWD) website, "...today, March 8, is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality."

How can we do this?

✅ Vote against laws that hold women back

✅ Mentor girls and women

✅ Support victims of any type of abuse

✅ Stop victim shaming

✅ Support and/or donate to a female business owner

✅ Support and/or donate towards a female student's tuition expenses

✅ Educate yourself about women's history

✅ Pay women fair and competitive wages for their work

But, there's more you could do to ensure that we DO NOT pass on old customs that reinforce inequality. 

Be mindful of how you treat your sons and daughters. 

Watch your words. Sometimes, when we tell our children that they can or cannot do things, we are unconsciously giving advice based on how we were raised and based on the expectations of others rather than from our children. ...

I’m sure that you’ve heard the phrase 'snitches get stitches.' I want you to really think about what that means.

You see, I think that people don’t understand what snitching really is when someone is seeking safety.

Bystander intervention has been found to be less common than expected. Many students witness bullying incidents but do not report them or intervene. Schools and organizations are working to educate students about the importance of standing up against bullying.

Unfortunately, I believe that bystanders choose not to act because the 'snitches get stitches' culture is so prevalent, and whether you know it or not, you and I have at one point or another supported that belief.

You see, there is great fear in REPORTING something out of concern that you will be seen as 'the snitch.'

I can think of several movies where a tragedy has happened, and the members of the community are still apprehensive or completely against reporting the perpetrator. The apprehension comes from fear ...

How are you doing with the school season starting up again? 

You know, I’ve been thinking a lot about kids’ behaviors because they’re definitely different than when you and I were growing up. I mean…they don’t do much outside!

That’s so weird to me. I actually kicked my two teens out of the house for an hour hoping they would take a walk or come up with some type of activity to spend the hour. 

Do you know what they did? 

THEY SAT AT THE FRONT DOOR. THE. ENTIRE. HOUR!

Can you believe that?!

And, YES! I took their devices. 

You see, studies show that being outside for at least 15 minutes around nature helps increase high energy and reduces depression, anxiety, and many other negative mental health effects.

Kids are spending too much time indoors, particularly in their bedrooms. Without having exposure to natural vitamin D (sunlight) and mixing that with always being in front of a screen, kids are more prone to developing social anxiety, depression, and other negative mental he...