As we shift from the back-to-school season, it’s essential to focus on rest and recovery, not just for our children but for caregivers and educators as well. The start of a new school year involves considerable energy and effort, ensuring that students are well-prepared and attentive. However, this period also presents a valuable opportunity for parents and teachers to prioritize their own rejuvenation. Join us this month as we explore strategies for self-care, rediscovery, and renewal to help caregivers transition smoothly into this new season with renewed energy and focus.

In this episode, Mrs. Felicia Tubbs, the District Lead Middle School Counselor, and Ms. Patricia Durham, the Lead Elementary School Counselor from Forsyth County School District, discuss how extracurricular activities play a crucial role in student development. They highlight how these activities foster teamwork, socialization, and networking skills, offering valuable exposure and leadership opportunities. Building on previous discussions about phone safety and screen time, they provide guidance for parents on encouraging kids to engage in physical activities and connect with school staff, emphasizing the benefits of a balanced approach to screen use and active participation in school life.

In this episode, we welcome Mrs. Felicia Tubbs, Lead Middle School Counselor, and Ms. Patricia Durham, Lead Elementary School Counselor from Forsyth School District, to discuss strategies for a successful back-to-school transition. With absenteeism rates around 30% in North America, they share practical tips for parents, caregivers, and educators to support students returning to school. From the importance of regular attendance to effective ways to encourage students, their insights provide valuable guidance for ensuring students are prepared and motivated for the new school year.

In this episode, we catch up with our podcast's Host, Sasha,Shirena and Tracey as they share some of their own personal experiences and challenges in preparing children for the new school year. From adjusting to new routines to staying on top of school events and responsibilities, our Host discuss the trials and triumphs of getting kids back into a productive school mindset. They offer valuable perspectives on the importance of family support and the strategies that make the transition smoother for both children and parents.

In this discussion, the challenge of helping your child with homework when you may not have had similar support growing up. We’ll explore strategies for managing academic support despite personal limitations and unfamiliar materials. By sharing our own experiences and family stories, we aim to provide practical advice for parents to effectively support their children’s educational needs, fostering a positive learning environment at home.

As we kick off our back-to-school series, we're thrilled to welcome Dr. Karen Roseboro, Superintendent of Terrell County Schools in Northeast North Carolina. In our conversation, Dr. Roseboro will share her expertise on fostering school engagement and transitioning students smoothly from summer break to the classroom. She’ll discuss the significance of preparing children for this shift, emphasizing the role of family conversations and emotional readiness in ensuring a successful start to the new school year.

Special Guest: Kimberly Lilly, MS, NCC, LCMHC - Founder of Mannafull, Associate Pastor of the New Light Missionary Baptist Church Greensboro North Carolina

In this insightful discussion, Reverend Lilly reflects on the transformative experience of becoming a parent to twin daughters born prematurely and how it reshaped her understanding of faith and service. The challenges faced during her daughters’ early health struggles led to a profound personal awakening, merging her roles as an associate pastor and a mental health counselor. Reverend Lilly emphasizes that her counseling practice is rooted in a Christian framework, attracting clients who seek guidance that honors their faith. Yet, she remains open to working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the importance of compassion and understanding in the healing process. This narrative illustrates how personal trials can deepen one’s commitment to helping others find solace and strength in both faith and mental wellness.

Special Guest: Rev Dr. Cardes H Brown Jr New Light Missionary Baptist Church Greensboro NC.

This discussion with Pastor Cardes H Brown Jr. of New Light Missionary Baptist Church Greensboro NC, explores how faith-based communities and mental health professionals can collaborate to support individuals navigating mental health challenges. Recognizing that identity and belonging often influence mental wellness, the focus is on creating a space where diverse cultural and faith backgrounds are understood and valued. By fostering open dialogue and mutual respect, practitioners can address the unique needs of individuals within faith communities, helping them feel comfortable in their own skin. This partnership aims to dismantle stigma, promote holistic well-being, and reinforce the centrality of Christ in supporting mental health, ultimately building a more inclusive community.