Courageous Kids: Mentoring by Michelle Hess

Kid Coaching

I specialize in working with students needing to discover the positives of who they are, in spite of challenges in school (by LD, ADD, uniqueness, intelligence etc.). Most kids when asked, “What good is there in ADD?” will reply “nothing!” Instead they are full of self-doubt, recrimination and negative talk. They become beaten down by trying to fit in a restrictive paradigm. These kids, full of many wonderful qualities and talents, need a new viewpoint.

Our coaching relationship focuses on bringing it all out in the open. We talk about what is really going on in their minds. Coaching kids has an element of guidance to it that is rarely present in adult coaching. I’ll present different options, ideas, and viewpoints so that your child has an EXPANDED awareness. When a student can articulate HOW they function best they are again in control of their loves. This builds confidence and helps students take action to allow them to be their true great selves.

I’m adamantly against environments, situations and learning institutions that result in a crushed spirit. A child is much too precious to allow that to happen. Most academic skills (not cognitive) can be learned anytime. Why crush a child’s spirit so that they learn the times tables? I just think that it is extremely counterproductive. We know too much about child development, how the brain learns best, accelerated learning techniques and motivation to think for one minute that “the old way” (read stifling) is even worth the cost and long and short term.

The most important element is that your child wants to partner with me in a coaching relationship. You can’t force it on them! It just won’t work. Ask your child to give it a try for a while and then if they don’t like it we’ll stop.

Older teen and college student college coaching is provided in one-on-one and small groups delivered by telephone.

Kids’ coaching is very unique and play oriented. We provide this one on one and in small groups (3-6) in person, usually revolving around a specific theme for a session (6-8 weeks).

Another option is parent coaching, where you and I co-create the solutions to you coaching your own child! Sound interesting? It is! And well worth it.