It's Simple. Be Kind

Emotions are very high, but before I get started I have a disclaimer: THIS BLOG IS NOT ABOUT EITHER PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE...this is about us as parents. I have seen countless posts saying "Now what do I tell my children?" and I can't help but feel compelled to answer that and offer a few humble suggestions. First things first, it's safe to say some of us are very emotional today. When our emotions get the best of us we tend to do and say things we may regret later...or maybe not...but  I've seen more foul language on my face book news feed than a Tarantino movie!!  Your message will resonate more without the insults, foul language, and all the name calling I am seeing today. The next time you want to resort to name calling- and I tell this to the students I speak to all the time- stop for a moment, take a deep breath- ask yourself would I want someone to call me this?? or better yet...how would you feel if someone spoke to my child this way?? This is a frien...

1.    Know if you are in a protected class.  Protected classes are covered under Title 7 of Federal law and include:   race, color, national origin, religion, sex (or gender), age (over 40), and disability. Anti-discrimination laws only regard unequal or unfair treatment as unlawful discrimination when the victim is a member of a defined group known as a protected class. 2.    Consult your employee handbook (if one exists).  If you are a member of a protected class or not, what is company policy regarding harassment, retaliation, etc.  Can you file a harassment complaint?  Are there time restraints? 3.    If you are being harassed, keep a record of all interactions, including who, when, how, why.  Keep the notes in a safe place, not at work.  Keep them in a separate notebook or on a computer you take with you each day when you leave work.  If the notes are left at work, they may be viewed by other...

Every so often I come across a great book list. This is one of my most frequently asked questions- " Can you recommend a book for my son/daughter?" This is one of the newer lists I have found. I like that this list includes books about bravery. Think about it...It's hard even as adults to be that one person to stand up! Bravery goes along with being a bystander and teaching our children to do the right thing when a situation arises. There is one book missing from this list that I love " A Girl With a Cape, " but for the most part it is right on!  Let me know what you and your children think of these books! The link to the book list: http://qz.com/788526/29-books-you-can-read-to-your-kids-if-you-want-them-to-be-kind-and-brave/ Until next time, "Be Kind. Make a Difference!" Mrs. Illinois International 2016

Sometimes bullying can escalate to the point where legal action may be necessary. This can be costly and very time-consuming. I truly feel this final recourse should be limited only  to situations when all other cooperative and peaceful attempts at resolution have been unsuccessful, requests for intervention have been unmet by the school, and / or if your child’s life is in danger.  Working out the issue BEFORE it gets to this point will be much easier on your child as well as everyone involved! I am not an attorney (that legal advice will be coming soon) BUT in the case where it is your only option I have some advice for you. 1.       Know the Laws in Your State As you can imagine laws vary from state to state. Some laws are very detailed, while others have some room for improvement. StopBullying. Gov has a great website that lists each states law on bullying and harassment. Laws only = Dark Green, Policy only = Light Green, Both Law ...

Every child has the right to go to school to learn, grow, and flourish in a safe environment. Every parent deserves peace of mind that when they send their child away, they will be looked after, taken care of and respected. Every educator should feel they are equipped with the tools to be a major factor in putting an end to bullying in their classrooms and schools. Since the beginning of my blogs and videos I’ve received messages weekly from parents, teachers, and children themselves- asking for advice. I, in no way, claim to be an education professional, nor do I claim to know all the answers to the questions with which I am faced. I do, however, know how to help you find them. Some of the common concerns I see repeatedly are “My child is being bullied. I have told the school and they do nothing to stop it.” Or “I am a teacher and I feel we need better policies set in place to help students that are being bullied- I feel like my hands are tied. What are some cheap ways to i...

Since being crowned Mrs. Illinois International 5 months ago, I have attended over 42 appearances - not only in Illinois, but also in different states as well.  Every single time I leave an event, no matter what the cause, I leave with a sense of wanting to be EVEN MORE involved than just "making an appearance." I am SO inspired and most of the time I spend the drive home in silence brainstorming what MORE can I do for the cause, for the organization and the people they serve. I truly believe I was blessed with this opportunity not to parade around the state with a beautiful crown, but because I am meant for something so much bigger. It is my absolute pleasure to bring attention to the MANY amazing non-profits changing the lives of thousands every single day with their selfless service. This week I was invited to visit the Bridge Teen Center . They are a non-profit community center for students 7th - 12th grade. When I say this is one of the most beautiful facilities I ...