The spoken word is the primary tool adults use to educate, motivate, and positively influence the social and emotional health of children and youth. In the dynamic learning environments emerging from our pandemic experience, the use of language that provides adults with the highest potential impact on learning, behavior and emotional state has never been more important. In this workshop, parents and helping adults will learn the three pillars of "Wonder Words" to elevate the critical tool of verbally engaging with kids: 1) Word choice; 2) Delivery style and 3) Context. Strategies for building emotionally safe environments, boosting motivation, shaping behavior, developing effective academic habits, and promoting resilience will be shared and practiced. Participants will walk away from this learning experience with practices they can apply immediately to respond to all the needs and opportunities children and youth will bring to our ever-changing home and learning contexts.

Presented by Frank Kros, MSW, JD, Kros Learning Group