June 19, 2013

A Very Special Meetup

I was excited yesterday to receive a message from Barbara Gruener, a school counselor, and the author of the amazing blog The Corner on Character.

She was in the St. Louis area attending the Character Education Conference and wanted to know if I  had time to meetup with her.  Well, of course I did!

We had lunch today and it was such a treat to chat with her about our common interests not only in working with children but also in growing up on a farm. Barbara is a high energy person with such a passion for children. Even though we only spent an hour together I feel as if I've known her a very long time.

Barbara was so gracious to give me a set of her Character Cards. I can't wait to use them!















The hostess at Cracker Barrel was kind enough to take our photo together so we can both document this special occasion.

June 11, 2013

Wholehearted Parenting – Play is the Work of Children…The Ins and Outs of Play Therapy

We often trivialize play and only view it as something kids do. We’re right, not only do kids play, but they’re experts at it. We also know that “play is the work of children”, according to the developmental psychologist Jean Piaget.

Play therapy offers a view into a child’s world. Play therapists are specially trained therapists, who incorporate techniques to help children express their feelings and adjust to life’s difficulties. Children, who benefit from play therapy, might be experiencing a divorce, death, health issues, school, family or friendship issues.

I hope you will take the time to listen to my conversation with Bonnie Compton APRN, BC, CPNP, host of Wholehearted Parenting as we discuss the benefit of play therapy for children. You’ll learn what play therapy is and how it may help your child.