Author name: Devora Samet

(1-minute read) In Memory of Rabbi Meir Chaim Gutfreund zt”l Last night, just as I was about to begin teaching my course, I learned of the passing of Rabbi Meir Chaim Gutfreund zt”l. A Master Mechanech (educator), he epitomized warmth, caring, and a deep commitment to every student’s growth, both educationally and personally. Over 21 […]

(1-minute read) As parents, we hope for peace, joy, love, and happiness in our homes. At times though, we experience the opposite. If you’re experiencing a hostile environment at home, know that you can turn it around and create a positive, happy home. Here are three proven techniques to help turn hostility into harmony and

(45-second read) Question: I’m wondering what’s more effective for my teenage child: Short, frequent positive comments or a long Thank You speech? Answer: Short, positive comments throughout the day—like “I like how you problem-solved!” or “Thanks for helping clean up!”—work wonders because they offer real-time reinforcement. Kids thrive when they can immediately connect their actions

(1-minute read) Question: My kids have been in holiday/Yomtov mode for the past 4 weeks. How do I get them back on track without yelling at them and repeating myself again and again that they need to do homework, go to sleep on time, wake up early, and so forth? Answer: The shift from vacation

(30-second read) This past Rosh Hashana, a time for renewal and reflection, I heard something that resonated deeply within me. On this Yomtov (holiday), we have the tradition of dipping apples in honey, but it takes on a much deeper meaning. If all we need is a sweetener, why don’t we just dip the apple

(30-second read) Slouching Sitting Nicely Question: What do you do about a kid who is slouching in his seat at school? He does the same during homework and dinner… Answer: Fortunately, the solution is VERY SIMPLE! Here are the SIX STEPS we use to teach any behavior or social skill. I know it’s sounds almost

(1-minute read) Staying under the radar Being on the radar Question: What about the kids who are classroom troublemakers? How do we get them to start off the year right without getting into trouble? Answer: Very often, classroom troublemakers have a lot of spunk and personality. We don’t want to squelch that completely. However, neither

(1-minute read) Here is a social story for an incoming 9th grader who had to work hard on her school and home behavior, as well as her social skills, over the last few months in order to get accepted into a high school. I asked her to tell me which behaviors were a problem for

(2-minute read) Question: Hi Devora, I like the idea you presented in the last blog for the 9-year-old who was losing her camp stuff. I believe it truly works for kids that age and younger, and it feels very rewarding. My question is – how do we go about implementing this with an older student

(2-minute read) A couple summers ago, Malky, a 9-year-old student of mine kept losing her stuff. One day it was the towel and bathing suit, the next day it was the crocs, and the next day, nothing came home. How did we teach her to be responsible? There were several things we implemented simultaneously. Enjoy