"Just shower the people you love with love
Show them the way that you feel"

Shower the People by James Taylor

Hi Reader,

As the school year winds down, motivation gets… tricky.
Kids are tired. Parents and Teachers are tired. Everyone’s just done.

Let’s talk motivation—quick refresher first:

• Intrinsic motivation = doing something because it feels good or meaningful (think: reading for fun, finishing a puzzle just to see it complete).
• Extrinsic motivation = doing something for a reward or to avoid a consequence (think: earning a prize, collecting points, or avoiding a timeout).

Intrinsic motivation is what most people are aiming for. It’s what we hope kids will develop long-term. But in the last few weeks of school? It’s okay to lean on the extrinsic stuff.

If your child is dragging their feet, or struggling to stay regulated- a sticker chart, countdown calendar, or even “Friday ice cream if we have a good week” might be just what they need.

They’ve worked hard—especially if they just made it through state testing. You might not see their scores for months, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to celebrate. Showing up, trying their best, and following directions through a high-pressure milestone? That’s a big deal. 🎉

And here’s the thing: this is a transitional time. Once summer hits and routines shift, you can reset and return to your usual parenting style. Extrinsic tools aren’t forever—they’re just scaffolding to get through the finish line.

Just remember: you’re still in charge.

If you find yourself begging or negotiating every morning, it’s a sign to pause and regroup. These plans work best when you set them up ahead of time—before the resistance kicks in. That way, you can calmly decide what to implement as behaviors or challenges pop up.

You’ve got this. One day at a time—and yes, one sticker at a time if needed. 😊

What's New?

🍎 Last Chance!: Get your ticket to the Get Ready for Kindergarten here. Can't make it this time? Click here if you're interested in a future workshop in Charlotte or a virtual workshop. I also host private workshops for groups of 5 or more.

✏️ Testing: Once a year I harness all my guilt from quitting teaching and go in to proctor state tests. In many states, volunteers are required to ensure there is a compliant testing sight and students are supported. It's not a fun volunteer job, but it's so necessary. It's also a huge moral boost to any kids that know you in that classroom. I usually bring Oreos to reward to class after I'm done. If your child's school is asking for proctors and testing support, see if you can sign up. It's really needed.

Things I Love

🦊 Nonfiction: I've been using these nonfiction readers with one of my first grade tutoring buddies. Great for K-2, these set of 12 books has vibrant pictures, a parent guide in the front, and lots of interesting animals.

📚 Screen free Summer Reading: Hot Dots are back! I remember using these in elementary school. Your child reads a work and then presses the pen on a "hot dot" to see if they got it right. There are versions for pre-k, k, and 1st grader. Great way to reinforce phonics skills and reading without downloading an app.

💍 Officiant Gown: I'm officiating my best friend's wedding this summer. I'm so honored to do this! Of course, now I'm on the hunt for the perfect dress that looks nice, but also isn't too distracting in her wedding photos. I'm thinking about this one, this, or this (we love a $78 gown!). Have you officiated a wedding before? All tips and scripts of what to say appreciated!!

Have a great week, and remember- you deserve an ice cream too 😜🍦