Blog

Effective communication forms the foundation of a child’s academic success, social relationships, and emotional well-being. However, for many children, mastering these skills presents a significant challenge.  According to recent data, nearly 1 in 12 U.S. children aged 3–17 has experienced a disorder related to voice, speech, language, or swallowing within the past year. Among them, […]

Some children move through the world with nonstop energy that rarely seems to slow down. They bounce, fidget, tap their feet, or speak out when quiet is expected. These behaviors can feel overwhelming for parents, teachers, and caregivers trying to create calm.  Is the child being defiant or simply overstimulated? Are they anxious, under-challenged, or […]

Why Books Matter in Teaching Kids About Differences Teaching kids to celebrate differences through books is one of the most effective and natural ways to build a more inclusive future. Stories have long served as windows into other lives, cultures, and perspectives. When children read books that highlight diversity, inclusion, and empathy, they begin to […]

Technology often gets a bad rap when it comes to its effects on children, including issues related to screen time, cyberbullying, and online distractions. While these concerns are valid, these misconceptions should not overshadow its incredible potential to enhance education, creativity and well-being for your child when used responsibly and mindfully. When used appropriately, technology […]

In today’s classrooms and after-school programs across America, teachers and educators are constantly looking for effective ways to support children’s social-emotional learning (SEL). Alicia Ortego’s My Superpower books have become a favorite tool for many educators to encourage kindness, mindfulness, confidence, and other important values in young learners. Here are some real-world-inspired ways teachers and […]

Kindness isn’t just a feel-good concept – it’s a force that shapes communities, builds bridges between people, and even rewires the brain for empathy and connection. From small children to grown adults, acts of kindness – both given and received – leave lasting impressions. At Alicia Ortego, we explore values like kindness through storytelling. Today, […]