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by Jenna Gilfillan, M.Ed. Co-owner of Arboro Empowered I'm calling AI a robot because it's cuter. Sorry; not sorry. AI - We can avoid it or embrace it, but it's not going anywhere. For me, I prefer a balanced approach of experimenting with it, testing its validity, and always ALWAYS questioning what I read. Out of curiosity, I wanted to know how 'the robot' would describe a strong tutoring program. I wanted to know how it would compare with pedagogical research and the psychology of learning. I also wanted to know if it matched up with Arboro's approach. Because I make a point to review algorithm-informed content with a critical-thinking lens, I realize that my results may be influenced by what AI has picked up as my own values. Knowing that, I always prompt with, " Show me your sources." In this case, I was happy to see that the primary source came from Stanford's NSSA Design Principles, a well-vetted and well-researched source in its own right. Whew. At least AI knows I have standards. I asked: "What are the 5 most important characteristics of high-quality tutoring?" Here's what it said: 1. Personalized Instruction High-quality tutors identify exactly what a student knows, where gaps exist, and what skills are ready to be learned next. Signs of quality: Ongoing assessment rather than guessing Instruction tailored to the student's level Flexible pacing Individualized goals A strong tutor doesn't simply reteach the classroom lesson—they target the specific barriers preventing progress. 2. Strong Relationships and Trust Signs of quality: Warm, encouraging interactions Respect for the student's personality and learning style Consistent attendance and reliability Genuine interest in the student's growth Research shows that student engagement and motivation often improve when a trusting relationship is established. 3. Explicit, Evidence-Based Teaching Effective tutors don't just provide answers. They model thinking, explain concepts clearly, and gradually transfer responsibility to the student. Signs of quality: Think-alouds and demonstrations Guided practice before independent work Frequent checks for understanding Use of proven instructional methods, particularly in reading and math Students should leave sessions understanding how to solve problems, not just with completed assignments. 4. Immediate Feedback and Active Practice Signs of quality: Students doing most of the thinking and work Immediate correction of misunderstandings Opportunities to apply new skills repeatedly Specific feedback ("Your evidence supports the claim, but let's strengthen the explanation.") The most effective sessions are active, not lecture-based. 5. Consistency and Progress Monitoring Even excellent tutoring has limited impact if it is sporadic or lacks clear goals. Signs of quality: Regular sessions Measurable learning objectives Tracking growth over time Communication with families about progress The strongest programs can answer the question: "How do we know this student is improving?" Synopsis Research on effective tutoring is remarkably consistent: the strongest tutoring programs focus less on flashy materials and more on how instruction is delivered. Ask yourself, Does the tutor know where my child is now, have a plan for where they're going, and regularly show evidence of progress? If the answer is yes—and the child enjoys working with the tutor—you've likely found a high-quality tutoring experience. My hot take: Not bad, AI, not bad. Since we know the data is solid- thanks, Stanford- let's break down how these show up at Arboro. For funsies, Lindsay and I went through each one and came up with an example from the past week that we got the chance to witness. Each drop-down has a little anecdote for ya. PS- We use the term coaching when talking about tutoring- same thing, different connotation-- after all, Simone, LeBron, Messi all have coaches don't they? Personalized Instruction at Arboro The first step for every parent seeking tutoring is to fill out this form (It's called the First Step Form). You'll notice we ask about interests. Personality matches matter too! An observation from last week: One of our partner specialists had her weekly appointment with one of her long-time students, a 9-year-old boy. He came in and was visibly having a hard day before arriving. He said to the specialist, "I just want to be outside!" She didn't hesitate and said, "Okay. Let's do our session outside." And off they went. You could see his frustration melting away as he stepped into Arboro's backyard. Strong Relationships & Trust at Arboro The mom of a teenage boy stopped me on her way out of a session, saying that they are going to take a break for a little while. She paused and said, "He's doing so well and has made a ton of progress." I told her, "That sounds like a good thing. Tutoring isn't supposed to last forever, just as long as needed." She smiled and said she couldn't believe that her son never once complained about coming to Arboro. We laughed about how the two of them were always having so much fun together, even when the topic was vowel patterns or comprehension questions. She told me she knows they will be back, even if it's to set up a way to maintain the progress. We agreed this was a success and said our bittersweet goodbyes. Moments later, the tutor came downstairs after gathering her materials. She walked into the room with a pout on her face, saying, "I did my job too well!" (cue tears emoji). Here's the thing about being a good teacher. You want to make your students feel comfortable and ready to learn. By doing that, you make connections with them and build a trusting relationship. Before you know it, you adore the kids as much as they adore you. This is why, as teachers, we are often brought to tears at the grocery store when a former student who is all grown up tells us what they remember about our class (spoiler- it's never about the content and always about a feeling). Explicit, Evidence-Based Teaching at Arboro You may have noticed that Arboro doesn't have screens outside of coworking for grown-ups. This is because we have a play-based, multi-sensory approach to teaching and learning. We do not have a website tutor for us. We do not follow a one-size-fits-all program. We know that different learners need different approaches and we are ready for it. The human-to-human connection is key to solidifying learning, especially for kids. What you will see is students using manipulatives, playing learning games with their coach, and even writing on the ground with chalk or throwing a ball while working on their skill development. Because our teachers use baseline and ongoing formative assesements to track the progress of their students, they are able to adjust and reteach as needed. Classroom teachers don't get to do this as much as they want to because they have more than a few students to support. Usually students benefit from both practice of grade-level material and a chance to fill in the gaps and strengthen the foundational skills that allow them to access grade-level understanding. We are constantly adjusting to the direct needs of our students. Last week I observed one of ours students sessions and saw that their routine was to start with a game-version of a skill review that was just challenging enough to be engaging. It was a practice of the skill they worked on the previous week. The child knew this was the routine and she started right away, giggling at each success along the way. After that, they moved on to their new skill, in this case, reading fluency. The teacher pre-selected a passage that was based on the child's reading level. She used a highlighter strip as a tool to keep track of her place. I was grinning ear to ear knowing where this child was a few months ago compared to the reader I was listening to then. The best part is that the kid knows it too! Immediate Feedback and Active Practice Tutoring time is not for lecturing. A session should have a balance of student talk, coach talk, and practice time. The coach's talk will be concise and offer prompts and guidance without doing the work for the child. The student talk should involve describing their thinking and asking questions. The practice time might be quiet, unless it's game-based! One of my favorite sessions to witness at Arboro is a strong-willed, charismatic 3rd grader who works best when she gets to the be teacher. The coach knows that when students can prove their understanding well enough to explain it to others, they are making their learning more concrete. Each session starts with a reminder that the student can help 'teach' but the coach gets to pick the focus area and is allowed to switch into coach mode at any time to offer guidance. They even came up with a funny way to switch 'modes' complete with sound effects and hand motions. There is no shortage of active learning and practice in their sessions and we can already see the growth she's making! Thanks for reading along, and don't forget to read stuff humans write sometimes too! Imperfect in Arboro, Jenna Arboro owners, Jenna and Lindsay - Not robots. Summer Small Group Coaching at Arboro 1:1 or Small Group Options Not sure which is best for your kid? Complete our (no obligation) First Step Form and we will help you find the right match. Arboro Accepts ESA+ Funds Readers, I could go on all day with examples of the magic we regularly get to see at Arboro. Share your thoughts in the comments using the prompts or with general feedback or questions. Which of these are most important to you? Which helped/helps you most as a learner? Which do you wish you had more of as a learner?

What is a third space? 1st space = home 2nd = work/school/etc. where you have specific expectations/obligations 3rd = a community space where you choose to spend time Yayyyy, you did it (no 'submit' button to look for). Thank you for your feedback. We can't wait to use it to make improvements! Pretty please add comments with additional information to give us more insight and suggestions. Want to help us even more? Comment below with an answer to this question: If you were to design an ideal third space for yourself in a town similar to Greensboro, what would you include?

Plus, summer opportunities for kids! Free! Raising Kids with Big Baffling Behaviors (for any parents, no matter how frequently or intensely they are baffled) Free! Which high school curriculum is best for your child? (for parents of 7th-9th graders) Free! Summer Reading Program!! earn fun prizes, visit fun places For the Little Ones and their Grown-Ups! Baby & Me Meetups facilitated by Greensboro's best baby & parenting experts $12/baby; $0 with Boro Plan June 4, 10-11am MusikGarten Saturdays $15 for Guests; $13.50 with Boro Plan Baby Music Class Toddler Music Class For Elementary & Middle School Kids Summer Experiences for Kids Fun & Educational Spanish Summer Camp- Elementary Chess Summer Camp- Elementary Be a Supporter of Arboro's Initiatives!! Donate today. Comment below: What other resources would empower you and your kids this summer?

Where do I even start when my kid’s behavior comes out of nowhere? Comfort and connection as tools for co-Regulation By Anna Thomas, LMFT “I am feeling overwhelmed and hurt by my kid’s screaming and it’s like 0 to 60 and I don’t know why.” “We’ve tried time-outs, reward charts, explaining the rules... Nothing is helping---well one thing is, but I’m realizing I’m starting to depend on the tablet more and more.” “I lost track of time after I got home. One of my kids was asking me to look at homework, the other two were fighting with each other, and I hadn’t eaten all day. It didn’t take five minutes for me to get into the house, give up and give in… I wish I could be a better parent–is it me or my kid or all of us?” Anna is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and play therapist who works in person with children, families, couples and parents at Carolina Pines Counseling Center in Greensboro. Working as a child and family therapist and just as a human being, I have seen and FELT the rollercoaster of disregulation (unstable emotional states). It can feel like a meta-game of Hide and Seek, Charades, and Catchphrase, trying to connect with kids. Our brains, nervous systems, and family relationships show up to play in these conversations and confessions. We seek solutions that both repair and change, leaving many attempts feeling like another loss rather than getting to celebrate with the winning team. It’s about learning how our bodies and behaviors impact one another. Robyn Goebbel wrote a book called: “Raising Kids with Big Baffling Behaviors.” Fitting, huh? It is helpful for me when I am puzzled by behaviors. She echoes something we all may need to hear. “All behavior makes sense.” Through a compassionate lens, Robyn provides helpful insight to the brain, relationships, and experiences (including through neurodivergence and trauma lenses) for kids, and caregivers. The book explores how emotional responses show up in our bodies. She points out that behaviors often indicate an underlying need someone expresses with their whole being. Her imagery of an Owl, a Watchdog, and a Possum, and where they are in the brain, helps grown-ups and children make sense of our regulation cues with our kids and experiences using tools within the realm of regulation! Big Baffling Behaviors offers strategies to guide where and how to get started when navigating a baffling behavior in a child. They invite us to start asking, “What’s the need?” Begin with basic needs- comfortability, connection. That leads us to ask, “Is it something that is related to their clothing, someone’s fight the other day, a recurring fear at night, or even the anticipation of change? Then what? Try co-regulation, a form of stewarding care through a call and response, providing and receiving care for another. Compassion can increase our ability to provide for the emotional needs of our kids each time we offer it to them. Let’s revist the quotes shared at the top of this blog post. How might co-regulation be used as a tool in those moments of overwhelm for the kids and the grown-ups? It’s what we would call the “bottom-up” approach, working with the limbic system in memory formation, emotional responses, and physical acts. Comfortability Find ways to co-direct their resources and choices for their physical bodies with food/drink, water/earth, and movement. There may be seasons of trial and error as you’re adjusting to their adjustments and your own awareness of identifying the present need. “I am feeling overwhelmed and hurt by my kid’s screaming, and it’s like 0 to 60, and I don’t know why.” Consider basic needs. When did they last eat? Did they stay up late last night? Are they worried about something? How can you offer compassion and empathy- offering a snuggle, a snack, a dance-off and then finding a way to remind them of their resilience? Connection Provide structure, routine, and predictability in your approach. This is one way trust is developed for increased curiosity and repair. “We’ve tried time-outs, reward charts, and explaining the rules. Nothing is helping---well one thing is, but I’m realizing I’m starting to depend on the tablet more and more.” How does connection show up in these expectations? Maybe it isn't. Are these expectations simple and measurable? Our capacity as parents to keep connection in mind when there seems to be a list of things that need to change can drag us down. Learning what motivates our kids also helps us to ask, What part of the brain (and age) is coming up with this idea? This can help us begin to try new structures, routines, and predictability to see what has improved and what needs adjusting. Sometimes you can plan ahead with research but other times, it’s like a “wild-card” day. I love using UNO® wild-cards for this purpose! When plans change for the day, I’ll say, “Oh! Wild card played!” as an opportunity to develop acceptance and learn flexibility, creatively and consistently. “I lost track of time after I got home. One of my kids was asking me to look at homework, the other two were fighting with each other, and I hadn’t eaten all day. It didn’t take five minutes for me to get into the house, give up and give in… I wish I could be a better parent–is it me or my kid or all of us?” What are you facing where you may need a grounding routine too? I think we can all benefit from a Mr. Roger’s ritual–change our shoes and fit, and it can change our whole mood. What change might help you in the first five minutes of getting home to prevent chaos from erupting? What do you need so that you can find an order to your kids’ needs? Once the chaos is underway, how do we interrupt it with connection- maybe it’s a calm approach and giving them a plan of the rest of the evening and how you’ll be in charge–but it could also be through an impromptu dance off where everyone is moving their bodies and bringing movement, humor, and celebration of creativity to get to that executive order (yours, theirs, and all y’alls!). As you become more connected in these moments, you’re also becoming a holder of their feelings, desires, concerns, and thoughts, which move you toward harmony and attunement. As things change and they grow, hopefully you notice you’re more interested, curious, engaged, creative, and potentially enjoying your kid in a way that you haven’t in a while or in a new way because of what is making more sense now. Your kid may feel the same way! You may also find some felt grief and loss in reflecting on what and how you’ve both grown. It all matters. I’m hosting a book talk for Robyn’s book and would love for you to meet you and have you join us in the discussion in whatever capacity is best for you. There are things mentioned in this blog that also may be what you’ve been doing, and you find it’s still not enough, please know there are professionals like speech, occupational, and play therapists who want to come alongside you! If you’re looking for something more therapeutic, let’s start a conversation about services for yourself, your child, or your family. We can discover wonder in the big baffles that exist. I know it’s in your child, and I believe it’s in you too. Let’s find it together! If you want a place to make sense the baffling behaviors you encounter or are interested in learning more about play therapy, Anna is currently accepting new clients and loves to help people (of all ages) grow from hope into connection. Anna recently moved here from the Chicagoland area but has roots in many places around the world. You can find her playing at www.carolinapinescounseling.org Get connected with Anna, and other parenting specialists by filling out this form! Comment below and tell us about a success or challenge you've faced with a baffling behavior.

by, Jenna Gilfillan, M.Ed. An educator who loved her time teaching in both private and public schools. It's one of those parenting decisions that feels heavy. If you are exploring options beyond the public school you are zoned for, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed. Let your family values lead your choice and make sure you are informed. There is a ton of misinformation out there! Allow this blog post to help frame some of those tough choices. Consider this: What do you see as the purpose of school at this stage for your child? We know that at an early age, an academic foundation develops at school. In middle school years, students are practicing more independence and beginning to hone in on their interests and talents. In high school, the purpose shifts to readiness for life after high school. Social Influences No matter the school, there will be mostly thoughtful, kind kids and adults who are a positive and uplifting influence on your child. No matter the school, there will also be individuals who are more difficult, socially or otherwise. Things to remember You are your child's most significant influence. Not a teacher, a peer, or a school. They have been watching and learning from you since day one, and that will continue to be what matters most. Believe what you experience more than what you hear. Every school has disgruntled parents and satisfied parents. Go for a tour. Ask questions. See for yourself. Be able to articulate your 'why,' no matter the school you choose. What makes a school the best? This question does not have an answer because what is best varies depending on the needs and values of the family. Beware of promises of being the right fit for every child. Focus on what makes the biggest impact- teacher qualifications, intentional curriculum and teaching practices, individualized whole-child support, and a caring staff. Resist the distracting pressures of scarcity marketing tactics, the allure of beating waitlist odds, cosmetic appeal, or promises of unlimited resources. Below are some 'whys' shared by local parents. We intentionally selected the quotes that were examples of more common answers. Some of the quotes are paraphrased from more than one response about more than one school, but we were careful to maintain the integrity of each message. My kids attend two different schools because they benefit from different things. One daughter is at [private school] because they have a strong athletic and drama program. The other daughter is at [public school] because she wants to attend the same school as her neighborhood friends and is less interested in performing arts. Academically, they are both doing well and might end up at the same high school. We haven't figured that out yet. Our family is [charter school] because our neighbors told us that they love it, so we decided to try it as well. It goes up to 8th grade, so we don't have to worry about switching for middle school. We opted for [public school] because it's our neighborhood school, and it might not be perfect, what school is?, but it's important to us that she is immersed in the real world from an early age. We wouldn't change a thing. [Child's name] has friends with special needs and friends from various cultures- it's her norm, and we love it. Plus, she adores her teachers. I chose [a public school] because my child has special needs. They have additional support from specialists who are held accountable by state standards. I can't afford to pay for services like these privately. We chose [a private school] because our faith is an important part of our family, and it's important to us that our [a religion] values are part of their school experience as well. We invest in a [private] school because we want the best for our child. We are at [a public school] because [child's name] is a gifted learner. They need challenge and will benefit from the public school rigor, and especially the AG program. The [charter] school where my kids go is known for its academic rigor. I want my kids to have a strong academic foundation so they can get into a good college in the future. Questions to ask when touring schools: What is your student-to-teacher ratio? What certifications are required of your teachers? What curriculum do you use? Do teachers have autonomy to adjust the curricular materials to fit the needs of their students? How often do kids get time outside? What specialists do the kids experience? Do you offer specialized support for special needs or gifted learners? What extracurricular options are there? (Battle of the Books, after-school clubs, leadership opportunities, etc.) What safety protocols do you have in place? What technology is used by students? What additional costs can I expect, and are they required? Lunch, field trips, uniforms, donations, class events, parent association, after-school care, etc. What does parent involvement look like at your school? What is a typical schedule? What support is provided when a child needs extra help academically? What social-emotional or character education support is provided? If you want help talking it out, email hello@arboroempowered.com , and we can set you up with someone who can help. Our team is made up of teachers with experience in public, private, virtual, homeschool, and charter schools- so there is sure to be an advisor who works for you! Comment Below: What other questions are good to ask on tours? What other considerations make a difference to you when determining what school to attend?

How to Unite with Your Partner Around Family Meals Is this a familiar scene in your household? One partner calls out, “What’s for dinner tonight?”  The other freezes— “I thought you were in charge tonight,”  or “Why is it always my job to figure it out?”  Sometimes there’s silence. Sometimes there’s a full-blown argument. And sometimes, there’s just quiet resentment, two people scrolling their phones on opposite ends of the couch. Sound familiar? This daily dinnertime dilemma shows up in nearly every household I work with. While it might look like a fight about food or logistics, it’s rarely about dinner itself. It’s usually about feeling unseen, unappreciated, and disconnected  from your partner. You can download all the meal-planning apps, hold family meetings, share grocery lists, and swap recipes, but if you don’t address the emotional layer  underneath, the tension will keep showing up—sometimes at dinner, sometimes elsewhere. At its core, this conversation is about partnership . It’s about how two people who love each other navigate the stress and decision fatigue of modern family life and how they respond when they feel overwhelmed, unheard, or unacknowledged. Follow these four steps to reconnect with your partner and collaborate to feed your family. Step 1: Notice the Pattern—Make It the Problem (Not Your Partner) First, take a step back and recognize that this “what’s for dinner?” spiral is a pattern . It’s not a reflection of your worth or your partner’s intentions. You’re both on the same team, fighting against this pesky dynamic that hijacks your evenings. Give it a name: The Dinner Monster, The Taco Tuesday Trap, or even The Script. The goal is to externalize the problem so you can approach it together, instead of villainizing your partner. Whoever notices the pattern first says something like, “Hey, I think we’re in the Dinner Script again.”  When that happens, the other person’s job is to pause, take a breath, take a walk, or take a moment to reset. That brief pause can be the difference between a night of resentment and a night of reconnection. Step 2: Give Each Other the Gift of Infinite Requests Here’s a mindset shift that can change everything: You and your partner both get to make as many requests as you want.  And you both get to say no  as much as you need. This takes away the pressure of guessing, resenting, or silently keeping score. It allows for openness, boundaries, and honest communication. For example, if you ask for help coming up with a plan for dinner and the response is “no” (boundary), you might respond with “I’m not able to do it alone tonight, so I’d like to eat leftovers or canned soup from the pantry” (boundary).  When you stop assuming your partner should just know  what you need, and instead make clear, kind requests, you create opportunities for teamwork and understanding. Turn the question into a clear request. Instead of, “What’s for dinner?” , try: “Can you please make dinner tonight?” “I need help getting groceries this week. Can you take that on?” “I’m out of ideas and feeling overwhelmed. Could we brainstorm together after the kids go to bed?” Step 3: Talk About the Feelings Underneath If you notice the old pattern creeping in, pause and check in with yourself. Then name what’s really happening emotionally. That could sound like: “Hey, I realize I was snarky when I asked about dinner. I think underneath that, I just feel really exhausted and alone right now.” Or: “When I heard your tone, I felt hurt, like you didn’t see all that I’ve already done today to keep our family running.” Naming emotions doesn’t make you weak. It creates space for empathy and teamwork. When one person softens, the other usually follows. Step 4: Notice What Shifts Change doesn’t happen overnight, but when you start showing up differently, your partner often will too. You might notice that conversations feel lighter, or that you can actually laugh about dinner again. You might start to feel like teammates rather than adversaries , keeping score. The goal isn’t to have perfect communication or flawless meal planning. The goal is to bring back connection and shared responsibility, to feel like you’re in it together. When You Need More Support For some couples, these patterns feel so entrenched that even small changes feel impossible, or you’ve tried these steps and struggled with them. That’s where couples counseling can help. Therapy offers a safe space to unpack the underlying dynamics that keep you stuck in the same fights, to practice new communication skills, and to rebuild trust and teamwork around the everyday moments—like dinner—that often hold so much emotional weight. C omment below: What works well for you when it comes to communicating with your partner? What do you hope to do better? Written by Laurel Sisler, LCSW, LCAS, CCS Laurel is a therapist based in Greensboro, NC, who works virtually with individuals and couples across North Carolina. She helps partners navigate the stress of modern family life, improve communication, and reconnect with each other and themselves. Laurel is currently accepting new clients. Reply to this email to get connected. www.laurelsislertherapy.com   Join Laurel for the Getting Your Pink Back Paint Party inspired by her previous post.

Guest Blog Contributor: Laurel Sisler, LCSW , LCAS, CCS Laurel Sisler, LCSW, LCAS, CCS of Laurel Sisler Therapy Or maybe your color isn’t pink anymore. Maybe it’s neon green, black, or a bright fuchsia that makes you feel alive again. Did you know flamingos lose their pink color while caring for their babies—and slowly regain it as their chicks grow? Their famous blush comes from pigments in their food, but when they’re nurturing, they give that color away. They pour all their energy into their young—and, for a while, they fade. Sound familiar? Parenthood has a way of pulling our energy outward—toward nap schedules, school forms, sports practices, and the invisible work of keeping everyone afloat. It’s beautiful, meaningful, and relentless. And somewhere in that swirl, many of us notice we’ve lost a little of our color too. Our “pink” might not show on the outside, but we feel it: less laughter, fewer creative outlets, a shorter fuse, or a nagging sense of disconnection from ourselves. If that resonates—you’re not alone. And like the flamingo, you can get your color back. When the Color Fades Modern parenting can feel like a marathon you never trained for. Between work, home life, relationships, and your kids’ emotional needs, it’s easy to lose touch with who you were—or who you’re becoming. For many parents, especially mothers, the mental load  feels endless. The scheduling, worrying, remembering—it all adds up. Even when we’re running on empty, we keep giving, because we love deeply and want our kids to thrive. But constantly pouring from an empty cup takes a toll. Over time, our spark—the sense of joy, creativity, and energy that makes us feel like us —starts to dim. It’s not selfish to want that spark back. It’s essential. The Color Returns Slowly Just like the flamingo, our color comes back in small, steady ways. It might start with saying no to something that drains you, walking alone for ten quiet minutes, or picking up a hobby that has nothing to do with being a parent. For others, it means setting firmer boundaries, finding therapy, or rebuilding friendships that remind you who you are. These small steps refill your tank and model something powerful for your kids—that adults deserve full, colorful lives too. How to Start Getting Your Color Back 1. Reconnect with what lights you up.  What did you love before life got busy—music, writing, movement, art? Even a few minutes a week can make a difference. Or try something new—a pottery class, hiking group, or language course. The only rule: it should feel like you , not your “parent” role. 2. Lighten the load.  Parenting comes with invisible labor—responsibility, vigilance, worry. Have honest conversations with your partner or co-parent about sharing that load. Tools like T he Fair Play Deck  by Eve Rodsky can help. Remember: “good enough” is often good enough. 3. Find your people.  Parenting can be isolating. Seek community—not just with other parents, but in spaces that center your interests. Book clubs, yoga studios, hiking groups—all count. Or you can join our upcoming “ Get Your Pink Back ” event —a creative, grown-ups-only evening designed to help parents reconnect with themselves through art and reflection. 4. Set boundaries.  Boundaries aren’t selfish—they protect what matters. They might look like saying no to a volunteer role, blocking off 30 minutes for yourself, or asking for help before burnout hits. 5. Care for your mental health.  Many parents struggle with anxiety, depression, or burnout. Therapy can help you process guilt, identity changes, or overwhelm. You don’t have to be in crisis to seek support—it’s a sign of strength. If you’re in the Greensboro area, local therapist and parent Laurel Sisler  is accepting new clients and helping adults rediscover joy, balance, and color in their lives. You can also explore listings through Psychology Today or ask your primary care provider for referrals. Join Us: “ Get Your Pink Back ” Social for Parents At this community event, you’ll have space to slow down, create, and reconnect with yourself through a fun paint-by-numbers activity designed by local artist Emily Vidovich . Led by therapist Laurel Sisler , we’ll reflect on: Setting boundaries that support balance Lightening the mental load (and the guilt that can come with it) Finding connection and support Accessing local mental health resources Expect laughter, reflection, and the reminder that it’s okay to take up space in your own life again. A Gentle Reminder Getting your pink back isn’t about returning to who you were before kids—it’s about becoming the most vibrant version of who you are now. Growth changes our color; wisdom deepens it. So, what’s your shade today? Coral, turquoise, lavender, or something new entirely? Whatever it is, it’s yours—and it’s beautiful. Because the world is brighter when you’re in full color. Interested in therapy, a conversa tion, or knowing more about Laurel? Email us at hello@arboroempowered.com and we will get you connected! Laurel is currently accepting new clients in Greensboro, NC. She specializes in life's transitions, anxiety, relationships, parenting, trauma, and substance misuse. Comment below: What shade are you feeling now? What did you read from Laurel that resonated with you?

by Rachel Burgess, OTR/L Pediatric Occupational Therapist and Arboro Coach, Rachel Burgess, OTR/L As a pediatric occupational therapist, I often hear from parents who say things like: “I know fine motor skills are important, but I’m not sure what to actually do at home.” The good news? You don’t need special equipment, worksheets, or a Pinterest-worthy craft station to help your child strengthen their hands. You just need a little intention—and a little play. Here’s what I recommend to the families I work with when they want to support fine motor development in fun, meaningful ways at home. 1. Start with Core Strength and Posture Fine motor skills don’t begin at the fingertips—they actually start at the core . When kids have a strong, stable trunk and shoulder girdle, they’re able to control their hand and finger movements with greater precision. Try This: Animal walks (bear, crab, frog) Playing on their belly (coloring or puzzles in prone) Climbing, crawling, or yoga for kids These types of “whole body” movements set the stage for more controlled fine motor work. 2. Offer Hands-On Play That Builds Hand Strength Before we ask kids to hold a pencil, we need to give them chances to squeeze, pinch, press, and pull . These types of resistance-based activities strengthen the small muscles of the hands. Try This: Squish playdough or therapy putty Use tongs or tweezers to sort small objects Squeeze water from sponges or spray bottles Activities like scooping, stirring, and pretend play with dough help strengthen hand muscles—without your child even realizing they’re working. 3. Look for Pincer Grasp Moments in Everyday Life The pincer grasp (thumb and index finger working together) is what helps kids pick up coins, hold a crayon, zip their coat, and peel stickers.  The more opportunities a child has to isolate fingers and refine grasp patterns, the better. You don’t need flashcards—just tiny objects and curious fingers.   Try This: Offer small items like beads, buttons, or cereal to pick up and sort. Use stickers, velcro, or mini clothespins Set up simple fine motor bins for sorting, poking, or peeling The goal? Short bursts of practice that feel like play, not pressure. . 4. Encourage Two-Handed Tasks Many everyday tasks—like cutting with scissors, writing, or tying shoes—require both hands to work together smoothly. This ability, called bilateral coordination , is an important part of fine motor development. And the good news? It can be built through simple, playful activities. Try this: Encourage clapping games, stringing beads, and using lacing cards. Set up obstacle courses that involve crawling or reaching across the body. Have them draw a large rainbow across a piece of paper using one hand without switching hands in the middle—this promotes crossing midline. 5. Keep Things Low-Pressure and Consistent The best way to support fine motor skills? Stay playful. Kids build confidence and coordination over time—not through drills, but through repeated, engaging opportunities.   Try This: Set aside 10 minutes each day for “hands-on play” Rotate materials weekly to keep things fresh Praise effort: “Wow, your fingers worked hard on that!” Final Thoughts Fine motor development doesn’t have to happen at a desk. In fact, some of the most effective strategies are playful, purposeful, and happen during everyday routines. As an OT, I always encourage parents to think less about perfection and more about participation. The goal is to give your child chances to explore, try, and grow—at their own pace, with your support. When to Reach Out If you notice that your child is consistently struggling with tasks like cutting, holding a pencil, or using utensils—or if they avoid fine motor activities altogether—it may be time to consult with an occupational therapist. Early support can make a world of difference. Email hello@arboroempowered.com to set up a screening or consultation today! Comment below! What fine motor activities are difficult for your child? What fine motor tasks does your child enjoy?

We get asked all the time for links to items found at Arboro or recommendations to support a family member. This is a start to an evolving list of products you can easily purchase online. For in-person shopping, we are 'retiring' products that are available on Amazon so that we can focus our attention on supporting local suppliers and makers! Therefore, we are sharing this list as a collection of frequently recommended items. Bookmark this link for holiday and special occasion shopping! Categories via this link: Babies & Toddlers, Kids, Teens, Grown-Ups, Sensory Seekers , Books Comment below: What else should we add? Tell us what and why!

If you've been following my "Where in the world?" posts on social media, you know that I am an experience enthusiast. I want to do what I can to foster curiosity and creativity in my kids to help them grow into well-rounded, relatable, equipped individuals. Summer is full of possibilities for both planned and unplanned growth. Read on for 5 experiences I want for my kids and all kids this summer. Warning: I am a known research geek, so you'll find links that expand on the topics as you read. My son, Leo, getting his wings on his first flight at age 2. Get out of town- An overlooked way to improve students’ academics is to travel. When students can make connections with what they learn, it instantly affects their understanding and motivation to learn. When kids are about to picture a setting or scenario described in a math word problem or science experiment in connection to an experience they’ve had, the hurdle of making sense of it is removed. Exposure to various environments and experiences increases vocabulary and helps new friends relate to one another.  Tips: Take the train! Pop over to the next town and discover it together.  Greensboro's nickname is the 'Gate City' because of its historical role in connecting cities via the rails. You don't have to go far to gain a new outlook. What experiences are new for your family? Maybe visit a new park, a farm, or take the bus downtown and hop on the free trolley. Looking for a bigger adventure? Perhaps taking advantage of some of the lower-cost airfares in Greensboro to places like NYC, Orlando, or Connecticut could offer a novel experience for the whole family. Don't be afraid to take the little ones internationally too. There is a whole world out there, and the value of immersing yourself in another country's language and culture is life-changing. Skill development - Summer Slide is a term used to describe the loss of learning over the summer months because, if you don’t use it, you can lose it. Have no fear! Summer Slide can be avoided and even turned into a Summer Climb!  Use the summer months to fill in learning gaps so your child can kick off the next year with confidence. Some families like to keep skills fresh through new experiences, others prefer to delegate learning fun with academic coaching , which, when done right, involves fun games that incorporate academic skills.  Check out what our friends Dr. and Dr. Dovico have to say on the topic! Unstructured play - Many families, especially those with working parents, fill their summer with camps, many of which are highly structured and scheduled.  Camps are wonderful, and my kids are signed up for several. To balance it out, kids also need to have time to learn how to entertain themselves.  Kids, like grown-ups, need downtime. Often, parents feel the urge to squeeze as much as possible into summer vacation.  The next time you feel obligated to add more, more more... remind yourself that when kids get time to be bored, it opens the door to creativity and innovation.  Give yourself permission to think ‘Less is more’ and see unscheduled days as valuable as days with a plan.  Tip: Resist the urge to solve your child’s boredom for them. Make some materials available, suggest a couple of choices, and let them take it from there. Check out this blog post I wrote a couple of years ago called Embrace Boredom for more information.   Talent Discovery- The best way for students to figure out what they are good at is to be exposed to various hobbies.  Sports are great for staying healthy and valuing teamwork, but kids need more than sports to remain well-rounded.  Their undeveloped or undiscovered talent could be art, learning an instrument or language, acting, working with animals, cooking, gardening, learning a game like chess or Mahjong, Lego building, sewing, or even entrepreneurship.  The only way to find out is to explore and try them out! It’s not uncommon for kids to tie their identity to their sport, but this can be limiting socially and is more likely to end abruptly due to an injury, unsuccessful tryout, or, for most, graduation.  Arboro coach and counselor, Christine-Evette Ngeve shares her experience with an athletic identity in this blog post. Family Bonding- Put away devices and plan time to be present. Make eye contact, give your full attention, and give kids a choice about how you spend time together. You might take a hike in the woods, enjoy a picnic at the park, or even discover a talent together! Take time to give individual, uninterrupted attention. Kids are constantly evolving, so think of your time together to get to know them in this stage of their life. Ask questions. Be curious.  Skip judgment and critiques. Show them that they can trust you and count on you as they navigate their ever-changing development.  Adolescence is an especially challenging time for many parent-child relationships. This article offers helpful tips for navigating this stage of parenting such as : "When appropriate, it’s helpful to include adolescents in decision-making about family rules, such as discussions to decide on a reasonable curfew." Thanks for geeking out with me! Imperfect in Arboro, Jenna Jenna Giilfillan, Co-Owner of Arboro What else would you add to this list? What unplanned (neighborhood fun, at-home project, family bonding...) summer experience do you still remember from when you were a kid? Comment below!

Research Snapshot by, Jenna Gilfillan, M.Ed. My first teaching job was at Brooks Global Studies. At the time, it was "Brooks Global Studies Extended-Year Magnet School." A mouthful, I know. We had about a month off in the summer, and the point was to minimize the "summer slide." No, it's not a type of warm-weather playground equipment. This slide is a regression, or sliding back, of learning that can take place over the summer. When students are keeping their skills fresh every day in class, they are making tangible progress in their achievement. When summer hits, the way they spend their time makes all the difference in what happens to that progress. The good news is that students can flip the slide into a climb! Experiences that create memories students can use to make connections when they read are endlessly valuable. There are plenty of ways to keep skills fresh in fun ways using everyday experiences like cooking, discussing schedules, and exercising. Summer is also the perfect time to seamlessly practice academic skills in authentic ways - think about all the math and writing that can go into setting up a good old-fashioned lemonade stand! Read on for a three-part research collection related to the topic of Summer Slide. If your child ended the last school year a bit behind, we recommend academic coaching (tutoring) to set them up for success as they kick off the next school year. Don't worry- at Arboro, it's lots of fun thanks to our amazing team. Fill out this form to get started. Sprouts and Buds: Ages 5-Teens 1.  Summer Learning Loss: What We Know and What We're Learning This article from NWEA provides a comprehensive overview of recent research on summer learning loss.  2.  Tips for Preventing 'Summer Slide' Practical advice for parents to keep their children academically engaged during the summer.  3.  Beware the Summer Slide Two University of Miami professors provide tips on how parents can help their children continue to learn during the summer and be ready for the school year. Sooner is always better! What are some fun ways your family keeps academic skills fresh over the summer? Comment below!

Hi! I’m Bridgette Clyne, founder of Mahjong Mingle. I can’t wait to teach you American Mahjong at Arboro Empowered — whether you’re a total beginner or know a bit about the game, you’re in for a night of fun! Mahjong Mingle in Action About Bridgette: When I'm not talking tiles with new friends or playing a game of Mahj with old ones, I'm busy as a mom to three precious boys. As a twin mom and an active member of Greensboro Mothers of Multiples, life is never dull! A dear friend and fellow twin mom, Erica Castillo, introduced me to the game — and it was love at first “Mahjong!” I adore how Mahjong brings friends together and keeps us present in the moment. Mahjong brings friends together and keeps us present in the moment. Once I was hooked, I did what any Millennial would do — fell down the Instagram rabbit hole! I saw Mahjong lessons, parties, leagues, and tournaments popping up all over the Southeast. That’s when I knew I wanted to help bring the joy of Mahjong to Greensboro. The History Behind Mahjong: As a lifelong student, I love hobbies that give me lots to learn about. The history and culture behind Mahjong provide just that for me. Mahjong has deep, winding cultural roots that originated in China in the mid-to-late 1800s, around the Yangtze River Delta. In her best-selling book Mahjong: A Chinese Game and the Making of Modern American Culture , Author Annelise Heinz says there are more than 40 iterations of the game worldwide.  My focus is on American Mahjong, which traces its unique identity to the Jewish American community. In 1937, a group of Jewish American women in New York City founded the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) to standardize the game’s rules and scoring. It is important to me to teach with authenticity, and I am committed to respecting and acknowledging the history behind the game.  About Mahjong 101 & 102: The mission of Mahjong Mingle is to spread the love of Mahjong around Greensboro, NC & the Triad area. I could not be more thrilled to do that next at Arboro Empowered. If you’ve ever stepped foot in Arboro Empowered, you know how cozy and inviting it feels — warm lighting, comfy seating, and a relaxed vibe that makes you want to stay awhile. You’ll be welcomed with light refreshments and beverages — grab some snacks, settle in, and get ready to have fun! Mahjong 101 is perfect for beginners — no experience needed! The environment is relaxed and fun (no pop quizzes here!). You'll learn about the tiles, how to read the NMJL card, how to pick a focus/line, and the steps of the Charleston. We’ll also cover how to set up a game and deal out the tiles. You will complete a full game by the end of the lesson. Mahjong 102 builds on what you learned in 101. We will take a deeper dive into the NMJL card — exploring patterns and specifics — and practice building hands. We’ll spend time doing Charleston drills to speed up your decision-making. You’ll finish feeling more confident after playing 2-3 full games. This class does require some prior knowledge — either from Mahjong 101 or independent play. Come Learn & Play: I am teaching two Mahjong 101 sessions, 3/26 and 4/2 at 6:00pm. Mahjong 102 will follow on 4/9 at 6:00pm. Spots are limited to 12 for each session, so text a friend and grab your seats now! Choose your date and buy your tickets here: https://www.arboroempowered.com/book-a-class   What is your favorite game and what do you love about it? Comment below!