A New Path in Education

We always love hearing how our books support children and parents around the world. Recently, we spoke with a mom of three neurodivergent boys and the founder of Backyard Academy. Every day, she looks for creative ways to approach learning and parenting, and she shared with us how Alicia Ortego’s books have become a meaningful part of that journey.

In 2020, like many families, Amy Cope were faced with an impossible choice. With a newborn at home, chronic health concerns, and a son who struggled in virtual school, they decided to try homeschooling.

“Now, looking back at that time in our lives, we are thankful for that one positive aspect because we believe that the pandemic gave us the opportunity to explore homeschooling sooner than we would have otherwise, and we believe that it has been very important and necessary to our sons’ education and happiness.”

Educator behind Backyard Academy, a resource hub she created to support children with different learning needs. As both a teacher and a mother to three neurodivergent sons, her approach blends empathy, creativity, and flexibility.

Teaching Three Unique Learners

Homeschooling three neurodivergent children is not easy. Boys are autistic with a PDA profile (Pathological Demand Avoidance), and also live with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and ADHD.

She explains, “PDA is a profile of autism that is characterized by an extreme drive for autonomy and extreme sensitivity to demands—either internal or external. Basically, people with a PDA profile tend to resist and avoid ordinary demands in life and demands, both from themselves and their own bodies, as well as from others. These demands activate an extreme threat response and anxiety in their bodies which can look like refusal, anger, aggression, etc., but is truly anxiety and fear.”

To meet her children where they are uses a child-led, eclectic, and play-based approach.

“We homeschool in an eclectic, secular fashion, very play-based and child-led and centered. At times we follow an unconventional form of unschooling, as that works best for our kids and their needs.”

How Books Spark Connection and Growth

One of biggest priorities is building social-emotional learning into her children’s days. Books are a central tool in this process.

“We discovered Alicia Ortego’s books a year or so ago and they stood out for the simple and important message, bright and child-friendly illustrations, and the variety of examples provided in each book. Sometimes ‘simple’ concepts can be difficult for my kids to grasp, and these small details help to create a perfect opportunity for our kids to fully understand.”

She recalls one breakthrough moment: “My kids have found honesty to be a very difficult topic. Alicia Ortego’s book Honesty is My Superpower: A Kid’s Book About Telling the Truth and Overcoming Lying led to some great conversations. We were able to talk about the difference between telling the truth and lying, why lying is important, and how to be honest while still considering someone else’s feelings —probably the trickiest aspect for them.”

Seeing her children connect with the concept in a way that worked for them was “wonderful as a teacher and a parent.”

The Birth of Backyard Academy

Experiences inspired to launch Backyard Academy, where she creates multi-sensory, gamified resources for families and children of all abilities.

“I decided to create Backyard Academy after struggling to find resources that were appropriate for kids with scattered skills, different ages and abilities, and providing developmentally appropriate activities, games, worksheets, and lessons for kids who may need to learn remedial skills in a way that did not feel baby-ish.”

She designs resources that are flexible and engaging: “I wanted every child, including those that are reluctant learners, to find something fun and exciting at school. I think the key to teaching kids, especially those who are reluctant learners, is to find out what excites them, so I have done my best to create fun, multi-sensory, and gamified resources that teach educational skills on the sly.”

Advice for Other Parents

Contributor is passionate about sharing what she has learned with other families.

“If I had to give advice to others who are raising neurodivergent kids, I would encourage them to do lots of research. Learning about how much trauma neurodivergent kids can undergo in traditional schools and what that can look like made my husband and I passionate about preventing that for our own children.”

She emphasizes teamwork and open-mindedness:

• “Having neurodivergent kids has definitely been a matter of growth for my husband and I, as people and as parents, just as much as anyone else.”
• “Both partners, or anyone caring for the child, should both learn about the best ways to interact, teach, and connect with their children. Having only one parent/provider as the sole person learning creates a bigger burden on the partner, and the relationship. Learning together ensures that everyone is on the same page and ensures teamwork and respect.”

And to parents considering homeschooling, she offers reassurance:

“Most of all, I think it’s important to know that, even when you feel alone, even on your hardest days, there are other families out there, working away, doing the best they can with what they have, giving all the love, time, dedication and patience that they have, just like you. That this is hard, but that doing the right thing often is. You may feel alone, but you’re definitely not.”

A Shared Mission

Contributor’s journey shows the power of creativity, flexibility, and heart in education. Through Backyard Academy, she is building tools that respect every child’s individuality. Through Alicia Ortego’s books, she and her boys have found stories that make social-emotional concepts both accessible and meaningful.

As Interviewee puts it: “The world is a tough place right now, but people like you make the world a better place.”

To explore her work, visit: Backyard Academy

Together, we can celebrate differences, nurture empathy, and create classrooms — at home or at school— where every child can thrive.

Helping children stay active and healthy often starts with sports. But deciding between individual or team sports can be tricky. Each type offers unique experiences and developmental benefits, but also has potential drawbacks. Understanding the differences can help you make informed choices based on your child’s personality, interests, and abilities.

What Are Individual Sports?

Individual sports are activities where a single athlete competes alone, relying mainly on their own skills, discipline, and focus. Success is measured by personal performance, such as time, score, or technique.

Examples of Individual Sports:

• Tennis: A racquet sport played one-on-one (singles) or in pairs (doubles). Players aim to hit the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court in a way that is difficult to return. For children, enrolling in a program specifically designed for tennis for kids can help them learn proper techniques, build coordination, and enjoy the game from the start.
• Swimming: Athletes compete in races in a pool, using strokes like freestyle, backstroke, and butterfly. Swimming improves endurance, strength, and overall fitness. Joining a swim school can provide structured lessons and a safe environment for children to develop skills and confidence in the water.
• Gymnastics: Involves routines on apparatus like the balance beam, uneven bars, or floor exercises. Gymnastics enhances flexibility, balance, strength, and concentration.
• Martial Arts: Disciplines like karate, judo, or taekwondo focus on combat techniques, forms, and self-defense. Martial arts teach discipline, self-control, and physical fitness.
• Archery: Involves shooting arrows at a target to score points. Archery improves focus, patience, and precision.
• Track and Field: Includes running, jumping, and throwing events. It builds speed, endurance, coordination, and competitiveness.
• Skateboarding: Performing tricks and maneuvers on a skateboard. It develops balance, creativity, and persistence.

Pros of Individual Sports:

• Builds self-discipline and personal responsibility
• Encourages self-motivation and independent progress
• Boosts confidence through personal achievement
• Focuses on refining skills and technique
• Flexible training schedules

Cons of Individual Sports:

• Limited social interaction
• Greater pressure on personal performance
• Motivation can be challenging without peers
• Less opportunity to learn teamwork

What Are Team Sports?

Team sports are games where kids play together, working as one to reach the same goal—like scoring points or winning a match. It’s not just about individual skills, but about learning how to support each other and succeed as a group.

Popular Team Sports for Kids

• Soccer – Two teams try to kick the ball into the opponent’s net. Great for building stamina, teamwork, and smart thinking on the go.
• Basketball – Players shoot the ball through the hoop to score points. This sport sharpens agility, coordination, and clear communication.
• Baseball – One team bats while the other fields. It teaches patience, focus, and how to rely on each other.
• Volleyball – Teams hit the ball back and forth over the net, aiming to land it on the other side. Perfect for quick reflexes, coordination, and group spirit.
• Ice Hockey – Played on skates with a puck and sticks. It’s all about speed, strategy, and sticking together.
• Football – Teams move the ball across the field to score touchdowns. Kids learn strength, teamwork, and strategy.

Why Team Sports Are Great

• Kids practice social and communication skills
• They learn leadership and cooperation
• Shared goals make challenges less stressful
• Regular training builds discipline
• Playing with friends keeps kids motivated and having fun

Supporting these skills off the field can be just as important. Listening is My Superpower helps children ages 3–8 learn how to follow instructions, stay focused, and practice active listening — skills that are essential in any team sport.

Challenges of Team Sports

• Success depends on the whole team, not just one player
• Less focus on individual progress
• Team conflicts or rivalries may appear
• Fixed schedules leave less flexibility

Teaching empathy and kindness helps children handle competition in a healthy way. Kindness is My Superpower shows kids how to be supportive teammates, respect others’ feelings, and build positive relationships both in sports and in everyday life.

How to Pick the Right Sport for Your Child

• Personality: Outgoing kids may love soccer or basketball, while more introverted ones might feel better in swimming or tennis.
• Physical strengths: Children with lots of energy may enjoy track, while those with balance and coordination can shine in gymnastics or basketball.
• Explore: Let kids try different sports before they choose their favorite.
• Fun first: If they enjoy the sport, they’ll want to keep playing.
• Balance: Think about time and energy. Team sports usually need regular practice, while individual sports can be more flexible.

Emotional Development Matters:
Alongside physical activity, it’s important for children to develop social-emotional skills. A recent release, Respect Is My Superpower by Alicia Ortego, gently teaches children about respect, manners, and building healthy friendships. This book complements sports by helping kids grow into responsible, attentive, and polite athletes—children who not only move skillfully but also respect others.

Combining Individual and Team Sports

Many families combine both types. For example, a child might play soccer during the school season (team sport) and take tennis or martial arts classes in the off-season (individual sport). This approach develops both personal discipline and social skills, creating a well-rounded athletic experience.

Conclusion

Individual and team sports each offer valuable experiences. Individual sports build self-reliance, confidence, and skill refinement, while team sports teach social interaction, collaboration, and leadership. By understanding your child’s personality, interests, and abilities, you can support them in finding the right sport—or combination of sports—to stay active, healthy, and happy.

Ultimately, the best sport is one your child loves, whether swinging a tennis racket solo or scoring goals with teammates. Encouragement, guidance, and flexibility ensure your child thrives on and off the field.

And finally, sports build the body, while books like Respect Is My Superpower by Alicia Ortego help build the heart. Together, physical activity and reading create a powerful synergy: exercise strengthens the body and character, while literature teaches kindness, respect, and true teamwork. Encouragement, guidance, and flexibility ensure your child thrives both on and off the field.

Raising children today is nothing like it was in the 90s. Children in the 90s spent the majority of their time playing outdoors with neighbors or going to the local library or the beach. In that era, screen time mostly centered around TV, cable, or video games.

But things are quite different in 2025. Kids are surrounded by screens, messages, and constant notifications.

Technology offers incredible benefits, such as access to learning tools, entertainment, and creative outlets.

On the other side of the coin, it hinders emotional growth. An article published in News-MedicalNet confirms this. It states that children who were more often given devices to cope with negative emotions showed less emotional self-control later on. That’s why nurturing emotional strength in the digital age is so important.

Here, we’ll share how you can nurture your child’s emotional intelligence in a world dominated by screens.

#1 Model the Emotional Skills You Want to See

The most impactful way to teach a child emotional intelligence is to model it yourself.

Children are observant. They learn how to manage their feelings and handle social situations by watching the adults in their lives.

An article published in Frontiers for Young Minds found that children are better at regulating their emotions when their parents use more strategies to manage their own emotions.

Your behavior, both in person and in your own use of technology, sets a critical emotional standard for your children. They not only mimic your actions, but also learn important lessons about how to experience and resolve an emotional event.

Part of this process involves deconstructing and verbalizing emotions. It is not enough for you to simply stay calm in a difficult moment. Rather, you must actively name your feelings out loud to teach children that all emotions are normal and manageable.

More than just talking it out, apologizing teaches a deep and meaningful lesson. When you lose your temper or make a mistake, apologizing sincerely teaches accountability and self-awareness.

#3 Set Healthy Screen Boundaries With Social Media Use

Social media can mess with a developing brain’s understanding of emotions and relationships.

Researchers of a study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that kids who frequently check social media experienced changes in the brain’s social reward and punishment centers.  

More than any other platform, Instagram is influencing children’s brains. One study revealed that excessive social media use can lead to mental health issues like depression, loneliness, and anxiety in adolescents. 

This concern is so real that teen mental health and Instagram litigation have come into the limelight for the wrong reasons.

According to TruLaw, these suits filed against Meta argue that the company intentionally designed features to maximize user engagement, specifically through social comparison. They further allege that the company did this even after knowing the potential harm to users’ mental health.

While the courts figure that out, you can teach your child to use these platforms mindfully.

Explain that people usually only share their highlight reels, not their struggles. When your teen sees everyone else looking perfect online, remind them that real life includes bad hair days, failed tests, and awkward moments for everyone.

Establish tech-free times and spaces in your home. This helps kids learn that they can survive without constant digital stimulation. Help them identify which accounts make them feel good about themselves and which ones don’t.  

#3 Encourage Real Connections

Online chats and messages can’t replace real-life connections.

When kids spend too much time communicating through screens, they can miss out on learning nonverbal cues like body language and facial expressions. These are a big part of emotional intelligence.

Rather than focusing on strict time limits, crowd back into essential offline activities that are vital for a child’s development.

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that rules focused on balance, content, and co-viewing are more beneficial for a child’s well-being. This is more effective than rules that only focus on the amount of time spent on screens.

Something as simple as a game night can naturally foster teamwork, sharing, and communication. Classic games like UNO or Go Fish are great for younger kids. They teach turn-taking and focus.

Board games like Candyland or Jenga also promote social interaction and problem-solving skills. These activities are not passive. They require children to engage with others directly.

A Little Effort Goes a Long Way

Banning screens or going completely tech-free is an unrealistic way to nurture emotional intelligence in kids in the digital age. Instead, the goal should be to teach balance and build resilience, so they can thrive in a world where technology is part of everyday life.

Follow these tips, and you’ll help your children develop skills that will serve them for a lifetime. Eventually, your children can grow into empathetic and emotionally strong individuals who know how to navigate the digital world without losing touch with what matters. That is, human connection, understanding, and compassion.

Building this support network takes time, effort, and planning, but the benefits are immeasurable. Children who grow up with strong support networks are more resilient, confident, and successful in all areas of life. Parents who have comprehensive support systems are less stressed, more confident, and better able to enjoy the parenting journey.

Why Doesn’t My Child Respect Me?

Have you ever asked yourself: “Why is my child ignoring my words?” or “Why do they disrespect my boundaries?”
You’re not alone. Many parents and educators struggle with the same question — how to teach kids respect without turning every conversation into a power struggle.

In today’s fast-moving world, children are growing up surrounded by messages that challenge authority, personal space, and property. And while curiosity and independence are valuable, learning to balance those traits with kindness, empathy, and discipline is essential.

Respect Starts With Us

The first step in how to teach kids to be respectful is understanding what respect really means. According to Brightwheel, respect is treating others with kindness, even if we don’t always agree with them. It includes listening, using polite words, and taking care of others’ belongings.

Signs your child doesn’t respect you might include constant interruptions, ignoring instructions, or damaging property. But these are often signs of untaught, not unteachable behavior.
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5 Powerful Tips to Teach Respect Without Lecturing

1. Be a Role Model
Children learn by watching. Use respectful language even during disagreements. Let them see how you speak with kindness and firmness at the same time.

2. Set Clear Boundaries and Consequences
Discipline is not punishment — it’s teaching. According to Focus on the Family, clear expectations and consistent consequences help kids understand limits.

3. Teach Them to Respect Other People’s Property
When kids help clean up or return borrowed items, they learn responsibility. Practice with phrases like: “We take care of things that don’t belong to us.”

4. Use Books to Spark Conversations
Books like My Superpower Books Collection teach values like kindness, patience, and respect through relatable stories. These tools are especially helpful for visual and emotional learners.

5. Encourage Reflection, Not Just Obedience
Ask open-ended questions:

• How would you feel if someone spoke to you like that?
• What could you do differently next time?

More tips like these can be found in our article: Emotional Intelligence for Kids: A Guide to Raising Emotionally Intelligent Children

Build Respect One Day at a Time

Respect isn’t taught in one conversation—it’s built through daily actions. Whether you’re teaching a classroom of preschoolers or guiding your child at home, the key is consistency, empathy, and a little creativity.

Looking for more ways to support emotional growth? Explore our My Superpower Books Collection — a heartfelt series that teaches children core values like gratitude, patience, kindness, and respect in a playful and engaging way.

Also check out:

• How to Teach Gratitude to Kids
• Kindness Activities for Preschoolers

External Resources We Recommend:

• Empowering Parents – 9 Ways to Change Your Child’s Attitude
• Positive Parenting Solutions – Teaching Kids Respect

“Why Is My Child Struggling Socially?”

From schoolyards to birthday parties, social challenges are common among children. Whether it’s struggling to make friends, share toys, or manage big emotions, many parents wonder how to help their children grow into kind and confident communicators.

That’s where social skills activities for kids come in. These playful, hands-on tools make learning cooperation, empathy, and communication fun—especially for children ages 6–11.

Play Your Way to Better Communication

Social skills are more than just saying “please” and “thank you.” They include reading facial expressions, listening, problem-solving, and handling conflict. According to Positive Action, these skills can be taught just like math or reading—through practice, repetition, and encouragement.

Here’s why social learning matters:

• It boosts emotional intelligence
• It reduces behavior issues
• It supports school success
• It improves mental health and peer relationships

Some kids may need extra help—especially those with autism. That’s why we’ve included simple and supportive social skills activities for kids with autism, too.

6 Social Skills Activities Kids Actually Enjoy

These fun, evidence-based games and social skills worksheets can be adapted for kids ages 6–7, 10–11, or any elementary age group:

1. Emotion Charades (Emotional Intelligence Game)
Kids draw cards with emotions like “confused,” “excited,” or “nervous” and act them out. This helps them understand non-verbal cues and builds empathy.

2. Compliment Circle (Group Sharing Game)
Each child gives a genuine compliment to the person next to them. Builds confidence, kindness, and awareness.

3. Role-Playing Scenarios
Act out scenes like “asking to join a game,” “dealing with teasing,” or “apologizing.” Perfect for building problem-solving skills and emotional regulation.

4. Social Story Time
Read books like those in the My Superpower Series to spark conversation. Stories like Kindness is My Superpower or Breathing is My Superpower help kids learn emotional control and respect through storytelling.

5. Freeze and Share (Movement + Talk Game)
Play music, let kids dance, then freeze and answer a question like “What makes a good friend?” Great for energetic learners!

6. Printable PDF Worksheets
Use our free or low-cost social skills worksheets (PDF) for kids to practice real-life conversations, matching emotions, and more. Browse our article on Social Skills for Kids for printable options.

Need help for kids on the autism spectrum? Try visuals, turn-taking games, and feelings charts. These gentle tools help kids gain confidence at their own pace.

Build Social Smarts with Games and Heart

Helping kids thrive socially doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it should be fun! Use these social skills activities for today’s kids, ages 6–7 or 10–11, during family time, in classrooms, or small group work. Whether you’re a teacher or a parent, you can make a huge difference.

Looking for workbooks? Try combining our Superpower Book Series with journaling or drawing activities.

Download our free “9-Day Social Skills Challenge for Kids” PDF

Explore more helpful reads:

• Respect for Kids: How to Teach It Without Lectures
• Gratitude Activities for Children
• Kindness Activities for Preschoolers

External Resources to Explore:

• Parenting Science – Social Skills Activities
• The Pathway 2 Success – Social Skills for Elementary
• Mental Health Center Kids – Activities & Games

Ever feel like you’re talking to a brick wall when trying to get your toddler or 6-year-old to listen? You’re not alone. Many parents struggle with how to get kids to listen the first time without yelling or repeating themselves endlessly. The good news? Listening is a skill that can be taught with the right strategies. In this article, you’ll discover 10 respectful and effective ways to make kids listen — from preschoolers to kindergarteners and beyond.

1. Get on Their Level . Want to know how to make a 3-year-old listen? Start by getting down to their eye level. This simple act shows respect and ensures they feel seen and heard. When you speak face-to-face, children are more likely to pay attention and understand what you’re saying.

2. Say Their Name First Before giving an instruction, say your child’s name and wait for eye contact. Whether you’re dealing with a 4-year-old or a 7-year-old, this helps break distractions and prepares their brain to listen.

3. Use Fewer Words Young children, especially toddlers and preschoolers, can get overwhelmed by too many words. Keep your instructions short and clear. Instead of saying, “Please go to your room and pick up all the toys, then come set the table,” try, “Pick up your toys now.”

4. Make It Fun If you’re wondering how to get a 6-year-old to listen, turn your request into a game or challenge. Try saying, “Can you pick up the toys before the timer rings?” Kids respond better when the task feels like play.

5. Offer Choices When kids feel in control, they’re more likely to cooperate. Offer two acceptable choices: “Do you want to brush your teeth first or put on pajamas?” This strategy works wonders for toddlers and older children alike.

6. Follow Through With Calm Consistency What to do when kids don’t listen? Calmly follow through with consequences. If you’ve said it’s time to leave the park in 5 minutes, stick to it. Consistency builds trust and respect.

7. Use Positive Language Instead of saying, “Don’t run,” try, “Please walk.” Positive instructions are easier for young minds to follow. Plus, they create a more encouraging tone.

8. Create Routines and Signals Predictability helps kids know what to expect. Establishing routines —especially in the morning or bedtime — reduces the need for constant reminders. Visual charts or songs can help preschoolers and kindergarteners stay on track.

9. Model Good Listening Children learn by example. Show them how to listen by giving them your full attention when they talk. Put away your phone, make eye contact, and respond thoughtfully.

10. Connect Before You Direct Before asking your child to do something, take a moment to connect. A quick hug, a smile, or a shared laugh can go a long way. When kids feel connected, they’re more willing to cooperate.

Bonus Tip: Use “My Superpower Books” Teaching listening skills is easier with engaging stories. “My Superpower Books” introduces kids to emotional intelligence, respect, and the power of listening — all in a fun, relatable way. It’s a great tool for parents and teachers looking to build character from the inside out.

Helpful Resources

• Positive Parenting Solutions
• First Five Years

More from Alicia Ortego: How to Teach Kids to Read

Learning how to get kids to listen doesn’t have to mean raising your voice or feeling frustrated. By using respectful, consistent, and engaging strategies, you can teach your child to listen the first time. Try these tips, share the article with fellow parents, and don’t forget to explore our My Superpower Books for more character-building fun. Got your own listening tip? Leave a comment below!