Looking for a children’s book that blends coastal wildlife, science, and SEL? Meet Pip the Plover and the Dune Grass Path — available now on Amazon, plus a free Pip Coloring Pack.

Does your child cry at school drop-off? You’re not alone—separation tears are common, and they can be tough on both kids and parents. This post shares 6 healthy emotional support strategies and 3 common don’ts to help ease morning goodbyes, build resilience, and create calmer transitions for your child.

Excerpt:
When a child is both gifted and struggling, school can feel like a constant mismatch. A 7-year-old who taught himself the Russian alphabet at 2 may thrive on puzzles and advanced math at home, yet be seen as “defiant” or “refusing work” in class. For twice-exceptional kids, behavior is often communication — a signal of boredom, overwhelm, or sensory overload. In this Ask Kate, I share insights as a mom and special education teacher on why gifted children may struggle with social pragmatics, how uneven skills drive frustration, and what parents and teachers can do to make school days happier and more supportive.

Early readers wanted! Download your free ARC of Pip the Plover and the Dune Grass Path, a beautifully illustrated children’s book inspired by real coastal wildlife.

Discover how a simple bedtime gratitude ritual helped me and my daughter navigate a painful season—and how you can begin your own healing practice today. Learn more about the Garden of Gratitude journal.