Kong Academy Blogs
How To Teach Respect To Kids & Leading By Example
Teach your child the value of respect with practical tips and examples. Kong Academy is here to help.
The Benefits of Play for Child Development (Especially in a Screen-Filled World)
Screens aren't going anywhere but free play has benefits for child development including emotional skills, social skills, and long term mental health.
Modeling Compassion To Your Kids To Help Them Grow Into Compassionate Teens
Want a more compassionate, connected kid? Learn simple ways to model compassion at home and how Kong Academy helps it stick through play.
When Do Kids Start Sharing With Others?
Learn when kids begin sharing, why sharing is hard, and how Kong Academy teaches social skills through play, movement, and fun SEL-based activities.
Leverage The New Year To Help Kids Leave 2025 Behind & Start Fresh In 2026
Leverage The New Year To Help Kids Leave 2025 Behind & Start Fresh In 2026
12 Signs Your Kid Is Developing A Healthy Level Of Self-Respect
Is your child developing and growing stronger? Explore 12 signs of healthy self-respect and how play helps kids develop confidence and emotional skills.
Teaching Your Kids The Value Of Giving To Others Over The Holiday Season
Wondering how to shift your child’s focus from getting gifts to giving to others? Here’s a realistic, kid-friendly approach for the holiday season.
14 Communication Tips For Connecting More Deeply With Your Kid
Simple, realistic communication tips to help you connect more deeply with your kid, especially during big feelings, busy days, and tough moments.
10 Tips for Helping Kids Connect With Gratitude This Holiday Season
Kid-friendly gratitude tips that help families slow down, reconnect, and rediscover the joy of giving during the busy holiday season.
Is Your Kid Growing In Their Self Awareness? 11 Signs To Watch For In Kids 7-11
Wondering if your child is becoming more self aware? Here are the signs to watch for in ages 7–11 and how small moments can spark...
10 Minutes A Day To Calmer, More Confident Kids
Discover how just 10 minutes a day of play and movement can help kids feel calmer, stronger, and more confident—the Kong Academy way.
15 Screen-Free Play Ideas For Kids Under 10
Discover 15 creative screen-free play ideas for kids under 10! Boost imagination, confidence, and fun with Kong Academy’s active, movement-based games.
Helping Strong-Willed Kids Find Their Voice (Without Losing Yours)
Help your strong-willed child turn determination into confidence through play, guidance, and growth at Kong Academy’s Kids Club.
9 Kid-Friendly Strategies To Face Fear & Overcome Anxiety
9 Kid-Friendly Strategies To Face Fear & Overcome Anxiety Kids are natural adventurers, full of curiosity and boldness, often ready […]
6 Strategies To Model Prosocial Behaviors With Elementary School Kids
Discover strategies to model prosocial behaviors with kids ages 6–11 and learn how Kong Academy helps children grow empathy, kindness, and cooperation.
7 Critical Thinking Skills That Help Kids Mature With Greater Ease
7 Critical Thinking Skills That Help Kids Mature With Greater Ease Have you ever noticed how kids can solve the […]
Why Exercise & Movement Are Critical If You Believe You Have A Rebellious Child
Think you have a rebellious child? Learn how movement turns defiance into resilience with Kong Academy’s play-based approach.
What Can I Do To Help My 6 Year Old Make Friends?
What Can I Do To Help My 6 Year Old Make Friends? You know when your six-year-old comes home from […]
Why It’s Critical To Help Kids Learn Social Awareness
Why It’s Critical To Help Kids Learn Social Awareness You know that kid who blurts out the punchline before anyone […]
How Self-Management Skills Build Upon One Another So Kids Have An Easier Time Making Friends
Self management skills help children learn how to act in ways that make it easier for them to make friends
Why Self-Awareness Is A Key Skill For Elementary Kids To Learn
Self awareness is a foundation of emotional intelligence and is a key skill for your child to learn.
Why Physical Activity Is Social Emotional Learning’s Secret Superpower
It may look like just play but with physical activity kids are social emotional learning skills like patience, empathy and self control.
7 Qualities Of A Growth Mindset You Can Nurture With Different Experiences
Discover 7 powerful qualities of a growth mindset your child can build through play, challenge, and movement at camp, after school, or right from home.
How To Reduce Screentime So Kids Use Their Devices In The Best Ways Possible
Reduce screentime without battles. Help your child move, play, and grow with Kong Academy’s videos, camps, and after-school programs.
5 Strategies For Keeping Kids Busy In The Dog Days Of Summer
Looking for real strategies for keeping kids busy this summer? Discover 5 parent-approved ways to keep your child active and engaged without losing your mind.
10 Reasons Why Summer Boredom Is So Good For Kids To Overcome On Their Own
Is summer boredom bad for kids? Discover 10 benefits & how letting your child overcome it on their own builds creativity, confidence, and a growth...
5 Ways To Help Your Kid Feel Motivated To Stay Off Their Devices During Summer Break
5 Ways To Help Your Kid Feel Motivated To Stay Off Their Devices During Summer Break Spoiler alert: yelling “Put […]
Understanding The Link Between Kid’s Physical Activity & Social Emotional Learning
Kids are not meant to sit all day. Physical activity is a powerful tool that is part of the Social Emotional Learning process.
13 Creative Ways To Inspire Curiosity In Your Kids (That Actually Work)
Curiosity isn't gone, it just needs a spark. Discover ways to inspire curiosity in your kids that actually work.
9 Ways To Leverage Summer Fun To Help Kids Mature Before Going Back To School
When do follow these tips, you can make summer fun a vehicle for maturity. Leverage summer activities to help kids mature before going back to...
8 Ways Parents Can Support Deeply Feeling Kids While Protecting Their Sensitive Hearts
Deeply feeling kids need more than hugs and calm-down corners. Learn how to support sensitive, emotionally intense children while helping them build resilience, confidence, and...
10 Self Regulation Strategies For Busy On-The-Go Kids
These 10 self regulation strategies are made for real-life moments; perfect for busy, on-the-go kids (and the even busier parents trying to keep up with...
Setting Kids Up For A Great Summer Break So They Make The Most Of Their Time Off
Summer break feels long—for kids and parents. Here’s how to keep it fun, low-stress, and actually meaningful (even without a full-time camp).
Talking To Your Older Kids About The Importance Of Being A Strong Role Model For Their Younger Siblings
Teach older kids to be strong role models for their siblings. Guide them to lead with empathy, accountability, and everyday actions that matter.
10 Elements In Nature To Use As Role Models When Teaching Respect To Kids
Discover creative ways for teaching respect to kids using nature as a guide. From trees to ants, explore role models that spark empathy and wonder.
Teaching Kids Patience By Using Nature As A Teacher
Using nature as a teacher, Kong Academy helps kids develop patience and emotional regulation through play, movement, and outdoor problem-solving.
Exploring Skills To Help Kids Learn Emotional Regulation When They Are Young
Help your child build emotional regulation skills through movement, play, and fun. Discover how Kong Academy teaches big feelings in kid-friendly ways.
7 Growth Mindset Characteristics Your Kid Can Totally Build
A growth mindset is the belief that your abilities, intelligence and skills aren't fixed. For kids who are on emotional training wheels it's even more...
8 Heartfelt Ways Kids Can Give Thanks To Their Moms This Mother’s Day
Want heartfelt ways to teach kids gratitude this Mother’s Day? Kong Academy offers playful activities and meaningful ways to say “Thanks for all you do.”
“Oops, I Messed Up!” — What Kids With A Growth Mindset Know That Others Don’t
Kids with a growth mindset see their mistakes differently from other kids. They see mistakes as stepping stones, not as a failure.
Teaching Kids To Believe In Themselves Even When They Make Mistakes
When your child makes mistakes it is easy for them to lose confidence and give up. A "good job" won't teach them to believe in...
Level Up! Teaching Kids The Power Of Progress, Not Perfection
Teach kids how to level up in real life. We explore how to use the power of video games to meet real life challenges.
Why Is My Kid Mean To His Friends? (And How Can We Help?)
You might be worried when you see your child being mean to their friends. Find out how your child can understand the consequences of their...
My Kid Is Embarrassed Because They’re Uncoordinated, How Can I Help?
You can help your kid who is embarrassed because they're uncoordinated. Coordination is a skill that can be built with practice and patience.
From Screens to Scraped Knees: Why Kids Need the Outdoors More Than Ever
Kids today spend way more time indoors than they used to. But they need the outdoors more than ever.
Why Kong Academy’s Summer Camp is the Ultimate Summer Experience for Your Kid
Summer camps with Kong Academy are the answer to the inevitable "I'm boooored". Parents in the Seattle are will want to check this out.
When Your Outgoing Kid Struggles to Connect
Even friendly, outgoing kids don't easily connect with every kid. This can be confusing for your outgoing child.
How To Resolve A Temper Tantrum By Getting Your Kids Outside
Getting kids outside helps to resolve temper tantrums by calming your child, providing a distraction and allowing them to burn off frustration with movement.
15 Rainy Day Activities To Get Your Kid Moving (Without Losing Your Sanity)
Rainy days don't need to mean bored kids and stressed out parents. Here are 15 activities to get them moving and save your sanity.
Teaching Kids To Help Others & Becoming A Better Helper
Teach your kids to help others. Learn how children can assist parents, siblings, and friends in a kind way.
What Superheroes Can Teach Kids About Acts Of Kindness
Superheroes can teach kids how important kindness is. Despite their great powers superheroes still perform acts of kindness.
Conflict Resolution for Kids: Teaching Kids to Play Nice
Essential conflict resolution skills for kids. Learn how to guide children in resolving disagreements respectfully and effectively.
12 Communication Skills That Teach Kids Confidence & Self-Reliance
Discover communication skills every child needs. Learn simple ways parents and teachers can help kids express themselves and connect with others.
Embrace The Season By Teaching Kids The Power Of Sharing
Sharing is an important skill for children to develop. It will help them develop compassion, build friendships and empathy.
Teaching Kids Resilience By Using Words Like “Not Yet” Over “I Can’t”
Teach your child the power of "yet" over "can't." Help them embrace challenges and develop a growth mindset.
Goal Setting For Kids & New Year’s Resolutions
Teach your children effective goal-setting skills with fun examples and simple steps. Visit Kong Academy for more tips!
How Self-Awareness & Self-Control Grow Together for Kids
Self awareness and self control are critical life skills for your child. We show how these are connected and some strategies to help nurture these...
16 Growth Mindset Activities That Help Kids Become Confident & Self-Reliant
Help your kids develop a growth mindset, and they'll see challenges as opportunities, and bounce back from failure. Here are 16 growth mindset activities.
Fostering Generosity in Kids This Holiday Season
Hey Seattle parents! With the holidays upon us, it's the perfect time to nurture the spirit of generosity in our children. Not only does this...
Understanding The Pivotal Role Parents Play In Developing Gratitude For Kids
Parents can help to develop gratitude in kids, even starting at a young age. This will help them to become socially aware.
The Best 8 Brain Break Videos To Get Kids Moving From Ages 4-10
Here are the best 8 brain break videos kids will love! Minecraft, monsters, ninjas and more. Come check them out.
The Best 21 Brain Break Games For Kids With All Their Favorite Characters
Join us for 21 different brain break games featuring your favorite characters from Pokemon, Super Mario, Minecraft, and more.
Understanding Empathy Development Stages So You Know How Your Kids Are Doing
Understanding the stages of empathy development is crucial because it directly impacts children's ability to build and maintain relationships, collaborate with peers, and navigate social...
Movement Breaks To Limit Screen Time For Kids
Movement breaks help to limit your child's screen time. They provide a short burst of physical activity that improve focus, mood and physical fitness.
Teach Your Kids How To Resolve Conflicts Without Needing To Run To Mom Or Dad
If you teach your kids how to resolve conflicts without your help you'll empower them to solve problems independently and navigate challenging situations.
10 Ways To Teach Kids How To Turn “I Can’t Do It” Into “I Can Do It”
When you child is frustrated or lacks confidence you might hear "I can't do it" but with these 10 tips you can turn that into...
How To Teach Conflict Resolution Skills To Kids So They Get It
If it's fighting over toys, a disagreement on the playground or sibling rivalry, you'll need to teach your kids the skills they need for conflict...
4 Brain Breaks For Kindergartners + Videos To Get Them Engaged
Young children have shorter attention spans, so it's crucial to give them opportunities to take breaks and recharge. This is where brain breaks come in.
How To Help Your Child Become Mentally Strong And Resilient In Life
At Kong academy, we prepare children to be resilient and mentally strong. Having mental strength and a growth mindset sets children up in order to...
17 Decision-Making Skills For Kids Under 12 That Build Confidence & Independence
Making decisions is an important skill for your child. Here are some decision making skills that will build their confidence and help them become independent.
Teaching Kids How To Do Hard Things
Children develop resilience and perseverance as they tackle challenging tasks. These activities can help your child learn how to do hard things.
Teaching Empathy for Kids So They Hone The Skill While They’re Young
Empathy is an important, but difficult concept to teach your kids. It's important to start young so they can cultivate, curate and practice this skill.
13 Social Skills Activities That Are Fun For Young Kids & Teach Valuable Lessons
Social skills are important for young kids to learn. They help your child form the foundation for communication, relationship building and emotion regulation.
12 Ways Kids Learn How To Be Independent
Teaching kids to be independent has many benefits. Here are some simple and effective ways to help kids learn to be independent.
10 Responsible Decision-Making Activities That All Kids Benefit From Knowing
Children benefit from decision making activities. Here are some activities to help children of all ages learn accountability, become resilient and adaptable.
Teaching Kids to Use an Anger Thermometer to Understand Their Feelings
An anger thermometer will help your children understand their feelings and regulate their emotions. It can be adapted to any emotion your child is feeling.
14 Self Confidence Boosting Activities That Kids Naturally Love
Boosting your child's self-confidence is crucial for their development and happiness. Fortunately, there are plenty of confidence building activities that not only help in nurturing...
How To Help Your Kid When They Tell You Their Emotions Are All Over The Place
When your child comes to you feeling emotionally overwhelmed, saying their emotions are all over the place, it's a critical moment for support and understanding....
Preparing Your Kid For End Of The School Year So They Keep Growing Over The Summer
As the school year winds down, every parent faces the same challenge: how to keep their child engaged and growing over the summer break. It...
9 Ways To Give Your Kid A Much Needed Brain Break So They Can Reset & Recharge
Giving your child a brain break is essential for helping them reset and recharge, especially after long periods of focused activity or learning. These short,...
How Children Learn The Very Best (With Less Struggles For Mom and Dad)
If you're like most parents or caregivers I know, you're probably on the lookout for ways to help your child learn and grow, without all...
Surviving the First Week Back to School: 5 Tips for Sanity
We spent the last few weeks sharing tips and tricks with you all on how to prep your kids and your family for the “Back...
Helping Kids With Social Awkwardness So They Have A Better Chance At Making Friends
We all want the best for our little ones, and one of the most heartwarming sights is seeing them surrounded by friends, giggling, and having...
Back 2 School: Crafting Healthy Habits for Back-To-School Success
After summer’s relaxed routines, the back-to-school rush often comes as a shock to our systems. Ours and our kids’ systems. The abrupt schedule change can...
How To Help Nervous Kids Be Ready To Go Back to School
The start of a new school year often ignites a blend of excitement and anxiety in students and parents alike. While the promise of new...
Back 2 School: How to say goodbye to your morning stress
We’ve all been there – kids running late, lunches still not packed, meltdowns over missing shoes. Mornings can feel frantic and stressful on the first...
Learning through Play: The Powerful Impact of Dolls
With the recent release of the new Barbie movie stirring up childhood memories for many of us, it's the perfect time to delve into the...
The Power of Repetition in Childhood Learning: Insights from Leading Experts
We all know how much our little ones adore repetition, right? It may leave us feeling “a tad exhausted” at times, but guess what? Researchers...
Fun Activities For Your Kid’s Next Play Date
Play dates are vital for the healthy development of our children. The social interactions allow kids to enhance their social skills, emotional regulation, and cognitive...
Successful Summer Routine: Align Summer Expectations with Your Kids
And with this exciting transition, it's important to address the potential misalignment of expectations between you and your kids. We all have our own ideas...
How To Make an Effective Apology & Better Your Relationships
Apologies play a really important role in building strong personal relationships. At Kong Academy, we believe in equipping children with the necessary tools to thrive...
Empowering Kids: Cultivating Independence in a Changing World
Over the years, many activities that were once considered “normal” for children have faced increased scrutiny and deemed unsafe or inappropriate. The Society of Research...
Mother’s Day Debrief : Let’s Be Real
I've had my fair share of less-than-stellar Mother's Days, where my hopes were crushed and I ended up feeling disappointed.
Motherhood and Overwhelm: Don’t Do Everything Yourself
Last year, I had an epiphany that our family only had a few summers left before our boys would go off to do their own...
Got A Kid Who’s Easily Discouraged?
Do you have a child who shies away from challenges or avoids trying new things? As a parent, it can be frustrating to see your...
No Screens at the Table
Resorting to screens when you go out to eat with your kids seems to be a tempting way to “keep the kids quiet”, which might...
More Risk Fewer Injuries
Last week we shared a little about Risk Play (read the blog post here). We told you that it is a developmental NEED in your...
What Freaks You Out?
You know the things that make you want to scream “STOOOOPPPPP IT RIGHT NOW” at the top of your lungs. Is it roughhousing in the...
Tips on Encouraging Children to Join Co- Curricular Activities
Co-curricular activities are an effective extension of student learning and development beyond the regular school curriculum. A study conducted on the Gurukulam Schools in India...
School Success Starts with Names
The start of a new school year can feel overwhelming for kids with a classroom full of unfamiliar faces. However, we can ease this transition...
How Kids Develop Social & Emotional Competence As They Grow
As a parent, it’s incredible to witness how your kids grow. And while they grow in so many different ways, the development of social and...
5 Ways Families Can Be Helpers
November is always a welcomed reminder for gratitude and thankfulness. Looking back on the year as the days grow shorter gives us a chance to...
Help, my child is a perfectionist!
Many kids come across as being “perfectionist”, they don’t want to try new things and get really upset when the result they get does not...
Say how you feel and ask for what you need
Welcome everybody to Kong Academy! My name is Curt Jordan. I am the founder, and I’m here to talk to you today about the importance...
Kids Need Healthy Risk
A lot of times parents have this avoidance of risk because we want to keep our kids safe. That’s our job. We have to keep...
6 Important Life Skills Kids Learn By Playing Games
Teaching kids accountability isn't just about getting them to say sorry when they mess up. It's about instilling a mindset of responsibility, fairness, and integrity...
Parents: Talk to your Kids about their Strengths and Limitations!
Hello everybody. My name is Curt Jordan. Today, I wanted to talk to you about building your kids’ abilities to accurately assess their strengths versus...
Conflict Resolution
This morning we had an argument between Lucas and Danny, my partner’s sons. They were arguing about the fact that one of them was kicking...
One Simple Way to Avoid Power Struggles with Your Kid
If your kid is constantly fighting with you over every single decision you make, how are you supposed to deal with it? I’d suggest you...
How to Guide Kids to Be Helpers
What can you do if your kids are not as helpful as you want them to be (and let’s face it, most kids aren’t)? The...
Teaching Social Awareness To Kids Through Games & Play
In today's world, where connections and understanding between people are more important than ever, teaching your kids about social awareness is a big deal.
How Does A Growth Mindset Set Your Kids Up To Win In Life?
Have you ever caught yourself marveling at the boundless energy and curiosity of kids? They have this incredible ability to dream big.
Navigating Parenting in a High Achievement World
In our modern society, where achievement often overshadows individual growth, parents face the daunting task of balancing their child's developmental needs with external pressures for...
Building Resilience in kids: Simple strategies for stronger futures
Building Resilience in kids is essential for them to grow up to be happy and fulfilled. The world is full of uncertainties and challenges. The...
Confidence Building Activities For Kids
Confidence-building exercises are essential for kids to develop this crucial life skill at a younger age. We do not improve what we do not practice.
How a Family can beat the Winters Blues
You know the rainy season can be a challenge with its relentless drizzle and the sun going down at 4pm, but this time of year...
Our Secret Recipe for a Memorable Thanksgiving
Hey, there! Thanksgiving excitement in the air? It’s that special time of year when our homes brim with the laughter and chatter of loved ones.
Making the Most of Family Meal Times
Thanksgiving is coming up, and it gives us a chance to reflect on the value of family meals, why they are so special, and how...
Your Parent Guide Empowering Your Child to Stand Strong against Bullying
October’s cool breeze brings with it the vibrant changes of fall and an important reminder: it's Bullying Prevention Month. This period isn't just about acknowledging...
Expert Tips for a Safe & Magical Halloween for your Kids
Halloween represents a tremendous social and emotional learning opportunity. This night of frightful fun allows children to explore boundaries, experience responsibility, and practice social interactions....
How to Help Kids Face Their Fears: A Guide for Parents this Halloween
Halloween is right around the corner, a time filled with spooky decorations, eerie sounds, and the thrill of trick-or-treating. For some children, however, this season...
No Time, No Problem: Play Secrets for Busy Parents!
If you want a strong healthy relationship with your child then play with them. In today's fast-paced world, many parents find themselves caught in the...
Screen Time Danger: Are You Harming Your Child?
Want to know why kids today are struggling? Why behavioral problems are on the rise!?
Nurturing Kids in the Age of Achievement Pressure
If you want your child to succeed in their independence then keep reading, because every parent dreams of their child's success. We're inundated with stories...
Helping Kids Handle Big Emotions: A Parent’s Guide
As a parent, we have all dealt with our children experiencing “big feelings” like anger, excitement or frustration that they have trouble controlling. These intense...