The MINDgarden Blog

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.

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.

Hi! My name is Sara Merditaj. I am the Executive Assistant here at Kalasho Education & Youth Services. What MINDgarden has to offer is amazing. I truly am humbled to be employed here. The center itself has energy full of zen. If I'm ever feeling stressed or going through the motions of life, there is always a place in this center that’ll calm me. My favorite is the Cherry Blossom Library. When the year of 2024 started my sister, cousins and I started our own book club. The books we choose are self-help, self-care and mental health centered books. A little bit of my background I come from an Albanian family. Being that my siblings and I are the first born generation in the United States, the American lifestyle was a culture shock to my Family. Mental health is looked down upon in our culture. We have dealt with a lot of childhood trauma that was not normal when seeing how modern Americans lived. Our culture was based on a very strict, patriarchal mentality. As I got wiser I came to realize that this has been causing generational mental health trauma. When I was child/adolescent, I always struggled with body image. I was called “fat” or a “fatso”. As you can imagine, this can take a toll on my mental health as a woman. When my sister, cousins and I started this book club there were so many books that really helped us with our inner trauma, understanding the emotions and the people we were surrounded by when growing up. My favorite book we read is called You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay. This book really helped dive into my brain and rewire my thinking as an adult. “You’re not a helpless victim of your own thoughts but rather a master of your own mind” - Louise Hay. When I enter MINDgarden everyday this is the quote that runs through my mind. This is a center for how we can all nurture our inner trauma particularly for the youth. The resources this center has to offer for children, especially children of refugees and or immigrants really holds a special place in my heart. I wish when I was younger that there was something like MINDgarden to help children who were struggling with mental health at a young age. I am excited to see what the future holds and to be a part of this community.

Hi! My name is Erica Gaston. I am a Social Worker here at Kalasho Education & Youth Services. Walking into MINDgarden for my interview, I was immediately overcome with emotion; I wanted to cry. The beauty of the facility moved me deeply. Marginalized populations usually do not get an opportunity to experience healing in such a lovely environment. Before my interview, I saw the philosophy of MINDgarden stated: “By weaving together the wisdom of traditional healing and the precision of evidence-based methods, we ensure that each child embarks on a well-rounded journey toward healing and growth.” I knew the organization aligned with my personal philosophy of helping children heal. The facility was top-tier for a serene healing environment geared towards our youth. The philosophy was close to my heart, and as if that wasn’t enough, I then met the team! Learning about the Kalasho family, my supervisor, and the team was the icing on an already beautiful cake. I am allotted the opportunity to work with people who have a purpose in life, similar to mine, to help others overcome the barriers they face. I feel blessed to be able to work with great people in a great environment. I am excited every day about the amazing work we will accomplish together.

MINDgarden: Cultivating Brighter Futures for Our Kids At its heart, MINDgarden isn’t just about teaching; it’s about nurturing. It’s about ensuring emotional literacy is as fundamental as learning to read and write. And here’s why it truly matters: • Mindfulness: It’s not just a trendy term; it’s about teaching our kids to savor every moment, finding joy in life's simplest pleasures. • Emotional Intelligence: Giving our children the vocabulary to express their feelings, and reassuring them that it’s okay to feel, and okay to share those feelings. • Resilience: Showing them that stumbling isn’t failing—it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and stand up even stronger. • Community and Connection: Helping them understand that while they are unique individuals, they are also part of a greater whole—a community where each person matters. Why MINDgarden is Essential Now, More Than Ever In a world that’s rapidly changing, our children face new and complex challenges. MINDgarden serves as a guiding light in these turbulent times, helping our kids navigate stress and anxiety, and find their footing in moments of chaos. It’s about laying a foundation so sturdy that no matter what life throws their way, they can weather the storm and emerge even stronger. Bringing MINDgarden to Life: Everyday Magic MINDgarden isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about finding magic in the little things: • Starting the Day Mindfully: Take a moment each morning to share a quiet moment with your child—watch the sunrise, or simply express gratitude for the day ahead. • Exploring Feelings Together: Create a ‘feeling wheel’ with your child, helping them understand the rich tapestry of emotions and empowering them to express themselves. • Stories of Strength: Bedtime isn’t just for fairy tales; share stories of real-life heroes who faced challenges head-on, inspiring resilience and determination. • Sprinkling Kindness: Encourage acts of kindness, no matter how small, showing them that even the tiniest gesture can make a big difference. The MINDgarden Journey: Walking Hand in Hand MINDgarden isn’t a solitary journey. It’s a path we walk together with our children, learning from each other every step of the way. By planting these seeds early on, we’re not just nurturing healthy minds; we’re fostering compassionate, resilient, and empathetic individuals prepared to tackle the world with open hearts. Let’s not just dream of a brighter future for our children; let’s lay the groundwork for it, one mindful step at a time. Welcome to MINDgarden—where every child’s journey to mental wellness begins.

Navigating the world of a child's mental health challenges can often feel like an uphill battle fraught with uncertainties and emotional turmoil. For parents and caregivers, it's a journey that demands unwavering strength, patience, and a deep well of support. In the midst of this complex landscape, having access to reliable resources and a compassionate community can be a true lifeline – a beacon of hope and empowerment amidst the storm. Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and Mental Health America (MHA) have emerged as pillars of support, dedicated to guiding families through this intricate maze. Their comprehensive approach leaves no stone unturned, offering a treasure trove of information, tools, and support tailored specifically for those touched by mental health challenges. NAMI, a powerhouse in the mental health advocacy realm, is renowned for its holistic approach. From early screening tools that aid in timely identification to transition guides that pave the way for a smoother transition into adulthood, their resources are meticulously crafted to support families at every stage of their journey. With a deep commitment to demystifying mental health conditions, NAMI's materials offer much-needed clarity and instill a sense of hope in parents and caregivers grappling with the complexities of these issues. Similarly, Mental Health America (MHA) stands as an unwavering pillar of support, dedicated to fostering understanding through education and advocacy. Their efforts extend far beyond just providing information; they actively connect families with local resources and communities, ensuring that no one feels alone in this journey. By building bridges and fostering a sense of belonging, MHA empowers families to embrace the challenges they face with renewed strength and resilience. This blog post aims to shine a spotlight on how these remarkable organizations can empower families facing mental health challenges with their children. We'll delve deep into their offerings, exploring a world of educational materials, community events, and practical support systems that can profoundly enhance understanding, foster acceptance, and provide a lifeline in times of need. Join us as we embark on this journey, peeling back the layers of the mental health support landscape. Discover how these invaluable resources can make a tangible difference in the lives of families navigating the intricate path of childhood mental health issues. Together, we'll uncover strategies for coping, avenues for growth, and a sense of community that can transform this arduous journey into one of hope, resilience, and empowerment.

The moment a child receives a mental health diagnosis can be earth-shattering for parents. A whirlwind of emotions – fear, guilt, sadness, and uncertainty – can consume even the strongest of souls. Yet, amidst the chaos, lies an opportunity for growth, healing, and unwavering love. Accepting a child's mental health condition is a journey, one that demands patience, resilience, and an open heart. In those initial moments after the diagnosis, it's natural to feel overwhelmed, even paralyzed by the weight of it all. Questions race through the mind: "What does this mean for their future?" "How will this impact our family?" "Where do we go from here?" These doubts and worries are valid, reflecting the depth of a parent's love and concern for their child's well-being. However, it's crucial to remember that a diagnosis is not a life sentence; it's a starting point, a road map that can guide families towards a better understanding and the resources they need to support their child's unique needs. Embracing the diagnosis, though challenging, can open doors to a world of support, empowerment, and hope. The path forward may seem daunting, but parents need not walk it alone. Organizations like NAMI and Mental Health America offer a wealth of educational materials, support groups, and guidance to help families navigate this new terrain. By connecting with others who have walked a similar path, parents can find solace, wisdom, and a sense of community that can be invaluable in the healing process. As parents embark on this journey, it's essential to practice self-compassion. Feelings of guilt, anger, and even denial are natural reactions, but they do not define the unwavering love that exists between parent and child. Seeking professional support, whether through therapy or counseling, can provide a safe space to process these emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Ultimately, coming to terms with a child's mental health diagnosis is a testament to the strength of the family bond. It's an opportunity to redefine what it means to be a parent, to embrace vulnerability and growth, and to create an environment where a child can thrive despite their challenges. With time, patience, and the right support systems in place, families can emerge from this journey more resilient, more empowered, and more deeply connected than ever before.

Meet Sue: An Interview with a MINDgarden Volunteer In the heart of a vibrant community garden stands MINDgarden, a sanctuary where the healing powers of nature intertwine with mental health support. Here, amidst lush greenery and blooming flowers, volunteers like Sue dedicate their time and energy to creating a space that nurtures not just plants but also the minds and spirits of those in need. As we sit down with Sue, her warm smile and infectious enthusiasm immediately put us at ease. She's been volunteering at MINDgarden for over three years now, and her passion for the organization's mission is palpable. "MINDgarden is truly a special place," Sue begins. "It's more than just a garden; it's a community, a safe haven where people can connect with nature, with themselves, and with others who understand the challenges of mental health." Sue's own journey with mental health has been a winding road, one that has taught her the importance of self-care, compassion, and the transformative power of nature. "Gardening has always been my escape," she says. "There's something incredibly grounding about getting your hands in the soil, nurturing new life, and being surrounded by the beauty of nature." At MINDgarden, Sue's role extends far beyond tending to the plants. She's a listening ear, a supportive presence, and a guiding force for those who seek solace within the garden's walls. "We have regular gardening sessions, but we also offer workshops, support groups, and even art therapy activities," she explains. "The goal is to create a holistic environment that nourishes the mind, body, and soul." One of the most rewarding aspects of her volunteer work, Sue shares, is witnessing the transformative impact MINDgarden has on its participants. "I've seen people come in feeling defeated, overwhelmed, and disconnected, only to leave with a renewed sense of hope and purpose," she says. "There's something incredibly powerful about the simple act of getting your hands dirty and nurturing new life." As our conversation draws to a close, Sue's infectious enthusiasm leaves us feeling inspired and hopeful. "MINDgarden is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the healing power of nature," she says. "I'm honored to be a part of this incredible community and to play a small role in helping others find their way back to themselves." In a world where mental health challenges can often feel isolating, MINDgarden stands as a beacon of hope, a reminder that we are all connected, and that healing can blossom in the most unexpected of places – even in the fertile soil of a community garden.