Jodie Maddox

I PARTNER with parents and schools.

I EMPOWER them to make decisions within their sphere of influence.

I PROVIDE reliable support, with effective strategies, to gain desired results.

Email jodiemaddoxicoach@gmail.com

Facebook Jodie Maddox - Parent Coach & Consultant

Instagram - jodiemaddoxparentcoach

Dear Friends,

I was listening to a well-known podcast the other day featuring a somewhat lovable celebrity; and he was all fired up on this particular day! This boisterous "Gen-X-er" was on a fiery rant about the "Gen-Z" generation and their inability to cope. Why are we hearing so much about teaching coping skills lately? Why the big focus on coping? Having a growth mindset? Helping kids tackle controversy? Why do we suddenly need to teach these things? Didn't these skills just "fall into place" for past generations? Why does this generation need so much support?

Coping skills are strategies that help individuals manage stress, navigate difficult emotions, and overcome challenges. Coping skills are crucial for resilience, emotional health, and overall well-being. This generation of children face unique challenges that undoubtedly have influenced their inability to develop coping skills at the same rate or pace as past generations.

Many factors contribute to the emotional struggles of this generation. Most notable is our growing dependence on technology, which has led to constant digital engagement versus organic, unscripted human conversation and problem-solving. The increased pressure felt by social media to be perfect and its impact on self-esteem, self-awareness, and identity. We could add to the list our fast-paced and structured lives that have contributed to decreased free play and critical thinking. Not to mention the heightened instructional pressure created by stressed school districts trying to address stagnant academic growth, a byproduct of a post-pandemic learning environment, which undoubtedly has left our children less equipped to handle challenges independently.

So, let's talk about our role as adults on this emotional roller coaster. What role have we played? How have we contributed to a generation struggling to feel confident and capable? We undoubtedly see, understand, and empathize with their stress, but is our awareness helpful? Have we helped them or held them back? It’s emotionally and cognitively exhausting to know when and how to intervene. When do we, as parents or educators, push kids to “power through,” and when do we pull back and alleviate some of the stress? If we want children and teenagers to learn resilience, don’t we first need to help them have the courage to do hard things? To take risks or attempt complex tasks without fear from failure, and how in the world do we begin to teach our kids how to be courageous?

As we prepare for a season of thankfulness, let's help connect gratitude with courage when developing a growth mindset. Recognizing what we are thankful for can give us the strength to face challenges with a positive mindset. When we appreciate what we have and who God has created us to be, resilience flows naturally from this virtuous state of mind. By teaching our children to embrace challenging situations with a grateful heart, we help cultivate inner peace and confidence, empowering bravery in uncertain situations.

Let's talk about doing hard things and being grateful for who we are and what we have while also helping our kids develop inner courage.

With A Grateful Heart,

Jodie Maddox Parent Coach and Education Consultant

Why is it important to teach children how to be courageous? Courage is an essential trait that fuels personal growth and helps us navigate life’s challenges. It’s more than just the ability to face our fears — it’s a key driver for adopting a growth mindset. Helping children and teens understand that attempting to do complex tasks, risk failure, or view obstacles as camouflaged opportunities are crucial steps to developing resilience and achieving the goals they desire for themselves.

Simply put, courage is the foundation of a growth mindset. Courage enables us to take risks, learn from mistakes, and develop grit. We can continuously evolve with courage, building the confidence to strive for personal and academic growth. Try implementing a few of these strategies to help plant seeds of courage within your child's coping toolbox.

Attitude of Gratitude

An attitude of gratitude helps teach courage by shifting focus from fear to appreciation, making challenges feel less intimidating. When we regularly acknowledge our strengths and the support around us, we become more confident in our ability to handle difficult situations.

Encourage Risk-Taking

Support your child in stepping out of their comfort zone. Praise their effort, whether trying a new activity, speaking in front of a group, or tackling a challenging school project. Focus on the process rather than the outcome—this teaches them that courage is about trying, even if they’re unsure of success.

Model Courage

Children learn by example, so be open about your experiences with fear. Share stories of when you faced something difficult and how you navigated the situation. Let them know you still get nervous and what you do to help calm your nerves or stress. Letting them witness that courage isn't the absence of fear can help your child understand that feeling uncertain is a normal response when trying new things.

Teach Problem-Solving

Lead with a question. Hold back from giving the answer, telling kids what to do, or providing advice. Ask them what they think they should do. What would they have done differently? What they noticed went well, or what needs to change. Encourage them to THINK for themselves. Encourage curiosity!!! When kids know how to problem-solve, they’re more likely to feel empowered to face fears and challenges head-on.

Celebrate Small Wins

Look for progress, not perfection. Help kids know their strengths and what comes naturally to them. Recognize their courage, no matter how small. When we feel confident, we feel like taking risks. Over time, celebrating these small victories helps build confidence, resilience, and independence.

Together, these actions can help nurture a child’s inner strength, teaching them that courage is about effort, perseverance, and the willingness to face the unknown.

Let's talk about brain health! For parents, focusing on brain health means supporting their child’s ability to learn, adapt, manage stress, and have the courage to try hard things. Habits like good nutrition, physical activity, quality sleep, and emotional support create a foundation for optimal brain function and resilience.

Did you know your brain has a built-in “happy pharmacy”? There are four main chemicals — dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphin — that work together to make you feel joy, satisfaction, and connection. Here’s a breakdown of each and tips to naturally boost them:

1. Dopamine: Known as the “reward chemical,” dopamine gives you that feeling of accomplishment when you achieve a goal, big or small. Setting and completing tasks, even just making your bed, releases dopamine, providing a satisfying sense of progress.

2. Oxytocin: Often called the “love hormone,” oxytocin fosters bonding and trust. Positive social interactions, hugs, or even a quick pet cuddle can trigger oxytocin, strengthening your sense of connection and belonging.

3. Serotonin: This “mood stabilizer” is linked to feelings of happiness and calm. Activities like sun exposure, exercise, and practicing gratitude can naturally boost serotonin levels, helping reduce stress and improve your outlook.

4. Endorphins: These are your body’s natural painkillers, released during exercise, laughter, or even while eating dark chocolate! Endorphins help manage pain and elevate your mood, making you feel energized and resilient.

You can tap into these natural mood boosters for a happier, healthier life by incorporating simple, intentional habits into your day.

** Matt Kandler, Founder - Happyfeed, happyfeed.co

Here are five signs that you may benefit from hiring a parent coach:

1. Frequent Parenting Conflicts: If you and your spouse, ex-spouse, or other caregivers are consistently clashing over how to raise your child, it may be time to seek professional guidance. A parent coach can help align your approaches, develop joint strategies, and create more harmony within the family.

2. Chronic Behavioral Issues: If your child’s behavior is becoming increasingly challenging to manage—defiance, tantrums, or struggles with routines—a parent coach can offer support, strategies, and guidance on addressing these challenges effectively and constructively.

3. Feeling Overwhelmed or Burned Out: Parenting can be exhausting, and if you find yourself constantly feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or even burned out, a parent coach can provide emotional support, practical guidance, and tools to manage your well-being while parenting.

4. Your child has a diagnosed need or disability: If your child has been diagnosed with a disability or chronic illness, is neurodiverse, or has special needs, a parent coach can help you gain valuable knowledge, connect with necessary therapists and guidance, and gain valuable insight into your child's condition and unique needs.

5. Navigating Major Life Transitions: Divorce, remarriage, relocation, new school, or a new baby can disrupt family dynamics. A parent coach can guide you through these transitions, helping you and your children adjust to new routines, roles, and expectations.

Hiring a parent coach can provide tailored support and practical strategies to help you grow as a parent and create the balanced family life you desire.

Contact me today for your free consultation at jodiemaddoxicoach@gmail.com

Instructional coaching can benefit teachers at any stage of their careers, from novice educators to seasoned professionals.

1. Novice Teachers: Those who are new to the profession can benefit from instructional coaching to develop foundational teaching skills, classroom management techniques, and instructional strategies.

2. Teachers Seeking Growth: Educators who are motivated to improve their teaching practice and expand their instructional repertoire can benefit from coaching to refine their skills and implement new teaching methods.

3. Teachers Facing Challenges: Educators who encounter specific classroom challenges, such as addressing diverse student needs, managing behavior, or implementing new curriculum standards, can receive targeted support and guidance through instructional coaching.

4. Teachers in Transition: Teachers transitioning to new grade levels, subjects, or instructional roles may benefit from coaching to navigate the challenges associated with these transitions and adapt their teaching approaches accordingly.

Let's work together to make a difference for teachers and kids! For a description and a full list of topics I am currently offering, click here.

Email: jodiemaddoxicoach@gmail.com
Website: jodiemaddoxicoach.com
Phone: (913)908-8220
Facebook: facebook.com/Jodiemaddox-ParentCoach&consultant