Some Tips on Helping your Child Find Opportunities to Open Up More
January 26, 2020

As parents, one of our greatest desires is to foster open and honest communication with our children. However, in the midst of hectic schedules, digital distractions, and the natural reticence that often accompanies childhood and adolescence, creating opportunities for genuine connection can be a challenge.


If you find yourself struggling to get your child to open up and share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, you're not alone. The good news is, with a little creativity and a whole lot of patience, you can cultivate an environment that encourages emotional vulnerability and strengthens the parent-child bond.


Here are some tips to help your child feel more comfortable opening up:


Make it a judgment-free zone Children, especially teens, often clam up for fear of being criticized, lectured, or punished for their thoughts and feelings. Establish your home as a safe space where they can express themselves without fear of repercussions. Listen without judgment, and let them know that your love is unconditional.


Embrace spontaneity Some of the most profound conversations happen organically, not in scheduled "talk time." Be present and seize those spontaneous moments – in the car, during meal prep, or while taking a walk together. When your child seems open and chatty, lean in and engage.


Find common ground Identify shared interests or activities that you both enjoy, whether it's a favorite TV show, a sport, or a hobby. Bonding over these mutual passions can create a relaxed atmosphere that naturally lends itself to deeper conversations.


Encourage journaling For children who struggle to vocalize their thoughts and emotions, journaling can be a powerful outlet. Provide them with a private notebook or journal, and encourage them to use it as a safe space for self-expression.


Seek professional support In some cases, the guidance of a trained therapist or counselor can be invaluable in helping children and teens communicate more openly. Don't hesitate to seek professional support if you feel your child needs an objective third party to confide in.



Remember, opening up is a process, and progress may come in fits and starts. Be patient, consistent, and always lead with love and understanding. By creating a nurturing environment and fostering trust, you'll pave the way for deeper, more meaningful connections with your child – connections that will serve as a foundation for their emotional well-being and personal growth.

Meet our Recreational Therapist, Melissa Schreiber!

By MINDgarden • December 23, 2024
Hi! My name is Melissa Schreiber. I am a Recreational Therapist here at Kalasho Education & Youth Services. I’ve always believed that meaningful work starts with connection. It’s about understanding, supporting, and helping people grow—not just in their skills, but in their sense of purpose. That’s what drew me to MINDgarden, and it’s why I’m so passionate about what we do here. When I first started, I was inspired by our goal of creating spaces where kids can feel safe, valued, and empowered to share their ideas. In a world that often feels chaotic and disconnected, MINDgarden feels like a sanctuary where children can truly thrive. Being a recreational therapist has been an incredibly fulfilling and transformative journey. From the moment I stepped into the field in 2021, I knew it was the perfect fit for me. It is a career where I could combine my passion for helping others with my love for activities and mental health. I have the ability to use recreation as a therapeutic tool to enhance the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals facing various challenges. Through activities like group games, fitness, arts and crafts, and purposeful conversations, I help clients not only improve their mental health but also foster meaningful connections and build their self-esteem. As I look ahead, I am eager to keep moving forward and growing in this role.

Meet our Clinical Social Worker, Anna Smolinski!

By MINDgarden • December 16, 2024
Hi! My name is Anna Smolinski. I am a Social Worker here at Kalasho Education & Youth Services. At MINDgarden, I specialize in working with children and adolescents, offering therapeutic support that helps them rediscover hope and inner peace. My work is centered around offering a strengths-based approach, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy. As part of our comprehensive approach, we provide a variety of services, including individual therapy, group sessions, life skills training, art therapy and equestrian therapy. It’s truly a remarkable place where children can come in and relax utilizing different spaces. My favorite one is the library as you immediately feel relaxed seeing the cherry blossom trees and comfy bean chairs. Makes you want to sit and read. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work at MINDgarden is witnessing the transformative impact of Play Therapy and being able to relate to children on a personal level. As someone who has personally experienced the challenges of adapting to a new country, I can deeply empathize with the struggles that many of these children face. Culture shock and adjusting to a new world can be difficult. At MINDgarden, children get the opportunity to utilize a space that feels more like a sanctuary to come in and relax and utilize play therapy to talk through challenges. I feel truly honored to be a part of that. "Enter into children's play, and you will find the place where their minds, hearts, and souls meet." — Virginia Axline.
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