SEARCH RESULTS

Written By:   Alyssa Rial , Program Coordinator, UCP of Central Florida This week, UCP was proud to be represented at the Florida Education Technology Conference, where our team engaged with cutting-edge educational tools, exchanged best practices with fellow educators, and gathered fresh ideas to strengthen teaching and learning across our schools. Thanks to the support of the Project ELEVATE Grant , UCP educators are able to attend impactful conferences like this one—experiences that provide valuable professional development while directly benefiting our students and classrooms. These opportunities allow our team to stay at the forefront of educational innovation and bring back strategies that enhance learning for all students. We were especially excited to send Dr. Shaunn Smith , Principal of our Immersive Learning Campus, alongside Billy Dyar , our Lead Tech Coach. Their shared commitment to innovation, collaboration, and continuous growth ensures that the knowledge gained doesn’t end when the conference does. Instead, it transforms into meaningful, actionable initiatives that support educators and elevate student experiences throughout UCP. As we reflect on this experience, we look forward to seeing how the ideas and inspiration from the conference will shape future programs and practices across our organization. This is what intentional investment, professional growth, and UCP teamwork in action truly look like

Written By:  Ann Lorraine Mistica , Educator, UCP of Central Florida UCP Seminole teachers recently participated in a meaningful professional development session focused on strengthening writing instruction through intentional lesson planning and standards alignment. The session was led by Principal Ms. Stacey Garzione  and Instructional Coach Ms. Jordan Kelly , who guided educators through best practices for effective writing instruction. During the learning experience, teachers explored how to thoughtfully plan and deliver writing lessons aligned to selected standards while collecting student work as evidence of learning. Educators examined student writing samples to identify indicators of mastery and discussed strategies to support student growth across skill levels. Collaboration was a key component of the session, as teachers engaged in reflective conversations and constructive feedback around instructional strategies, student outcomes, and expectations for high-quality writing. These discussions encouraged shared learning and reinforced a collective commitment to instructional excellence. This professional learning opportunity empowered teachers to refine their writing practices and ensured continued delivery of high-quality, standards-aligned instruction that supports student success at UCP Seminole.

Written By:  Ann Lorraine Mistica , Educator , UCP of Central Florida At UCP Seminole, growth and passion shine through the inspiring journeys of Ms. Nelida Gonzales and Ms. Victoria Alfes . Through UCP’s Pathway to Teacher, both educators stepped confidently into leadership roles, transforming their dedication into meaningful impact for the children they serve. Ms. Nelida Gonzales now leads the toddler classroom , creating a warm, nurturing environment where our youngest learners feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore the world around them. Her gentle guidance and enthusiasm help lay a strong foundation for early learning and development. Ms. Victoria Alfes has taken on the lead teacher role in the 1st and 2nd grade ESE classroom , where her commitment, patience, and advocacy empower students to grow academically and socially. Her classroom is a place where students are celebrated for their strengths and supported in reaching their full potential. Together, Ms. Gonzales and Ms. Alfes exemplify how UCP’s Pathway to Teacher helps dedicated paras blossom into confident educators—making a lasting difference in the lives of children every day.

Written By: Tania Villalón Rivera , Parent Engagement Coordinator, UCP of Central Florida The start of a new year is a wonderful opportunity to pause, reflect, and look ahead—and children benefit from this process just as much as adults do. Setting goals with kids helps them build confidence, responsibility, and a sense of purpose, while also strengthening family connections. When talking about goals with children, it’s helpful to keep them simple, positive, and age-appropriate. Instead of focusing on what they should “stop” doing, encourage goals that highlight growth, effort, and new habits. For younger children, goals might sound like “practice reading every night” or “use kind words with friends.” Older children may enjoy setting goals related to organization, friendships, learning new skills, or personal interests. Many families find it meaningful to turn goal-setting into a fun tradition. We love setting goals as a family and creating a “bucket list” to go along with them. Each year, we write down things we hope to accomplish as well as places we’d like to visit and activities we want to experience together. Organizing the list into categories—such as learning goals, family activities, and adventures—makes it easier to track and revisit throughout the year. When planning weekends, holidays, or school breaks, we often look back at the list for inspiration and ideas, which keeps our goals active and exciting. Make goal-setting a conversation rather than a lecture. Ask children what they are proud of from the past year and what they would like to work on next. This helps them feel ownership over their goals and teaches valuable reflection skills. Writing goals down, drawing pictures, or creating a visual chart can make the process engaging for all ages. It’s also important to remind children that goals are flexible. Setbacks are a natural part of learning, not failure. Celebrate effort and progress along the way, no matter how small, and check in regularly to see how things are going. Most importantly, model goal-setting as adults. When children see caregivers setting realistic goals and talking openly about challenges and successes, they learn that growth is a lifelong process. By welcoming the new year with shared goals and meaningful traditions, families can start the year feeling connected, hopeful, and ready to grow together.

Written By: Gabriella Oliveira, MSW, Clinical Counselor The holiday season can bring heightened emotions for children who are experiencing grief. While this time of year is often associated with celebration and family traditions, it can also amplify feelings of sadness, confusion, or longing when something meaningful has been lost. For children, grief does not always look like crying or openly expressing sadness. It may show up as increased irritability, emotional outbursts, withdrawal from peers, regression in behavior, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, or physical complaints such as headaches or stomachaches. Some children may appear unaffected on the surface, only to express their grief later through play, artwork, or questions that emerge unexpectedly. It is important to remember that grief is not limited to death. Children may grieve many types of losses, including the death of a loved one or pet, family separation, moving to a new home, changing schools, loss of friendships, or changes in family structure. These losses can feel just as significant and confusing for a child, especially during the holidays when routines and traditions may already feel different. Children often move in and out of grief, sometimes seeming “okay” one moment and overwhelmed the next. This fluctuation is a normal part of how children process big emotions. One of the most powerful ways adults can support grieving children is by modeling healthy and appropriate emotional processing. Children do not need perfect answers or for adults to shield them from difficult conversations. Often, they simply need us to stay present, listen, and respond honestly in age-appropriate ways. Avoiding their questions out of fear of saying the wrong thing can unintentionally send the message that grief is something to avoid or hide. Instead, acknowledging feelings, naming emotions, and showing that it is okay to talk about loss teaches children that grief is a  natural part of life  and something they do not have to face alone . It is also important to emphasize how valuable and meaningful memories can be for children who are grieving. Talking about a loved one, sharing stories, looking at photos, or continuing certain traditions can help children maintain a healthy connection to what they have lost. These memories are not something to push away; they are a source of comfort, identity, and love. Allowing children to remember, laugh, and even feel sad at the same time helps them understand that grief and joy can  coexist . As counselors at UCP, we are committed to supporting students as they navigate grief and loss within the school community. This support may include individual counseling sessions, check-ins with students throughout the school day, collaboration with families and teachers, and classroom-based social-emotional support. These are just some of the many ways our counseling team works to support the emotional well-being, resilience, and overall success of our students across UCP.

By: Danielle Waters, MA CCC-SLP For many parents, the idea of bringing more than one child to a therapy session can feel overwhelming. You may picture chaos, distractions, or added stress. But when done intentionally, involving siblings can turn what feels like a challenge into a meaningful advantage—for everyone. Why Sibling Participation Matters Siblings already know your child in ways therapists never fully can: their favorite games, what makes them laugh, and how to encourage them when they’re frustrated. When siblings participate in therapy in small, structured ways, it can: • Boost motivation: Children often try harder when a brother or sister is cheering them on or participating alongside them. • Encourage imitation: Kids naturally copy their siblings. A sibling can demonstrate a skill or behavior, making it easier for your child to understand and follow along. • Improve carryover at home: When siblings learn strategies during therapy, they can support practice during everyday routines—playtime, mealtime, or even during car rides. • Strengthen their bond: Working together toward small goals fosters teamwork and positive interactions, helping both children feel more connected. Making Sibling Involvement Successful Parents don’t need to bring siblings to every session. Even occasional participation can make a difference. Here are some simple ways siblings can be involved without overwhelming the session: Special helper roles: Siblings can be the “game chooser,” “card holder,” or “materials helper.” Modeling and turn-taking: Let siblings demonstrate a skill or take turns in an activity so the child in therapy can watch and learn. Short, focused participation: Involve siblings for the first or last 10 minutes to keep the session calm and purposeful. Positive reinforcement: Therapists can teach siblings simple ways to praise or encourage their brother or sister, helping everyone feel successful. Supporting Siblings Emotionally Brothers and sisters of children with disabilities often face their own unique challenges. Research consistently shows that siblings of children with disabilities experience a complex range of emotions. They may experience confusion, jealousy, resentment or anxiety, but at the same time develop empathy, patience and advocacy skills. Many siblings take great pride in being a “helper,” and this can boost their confidence and sense of belonging. Growing up with a sibling who has special needs often teaches kids to be more patient and understanding. Sometimes, these experiences even inspire them to choose helping professions when they’re older. The Big Picture When siblings are thoughtfully included, therapy becomes more than a weekly appointment—it becomes a family experience that builds connection, empathy, and shared progress. Siblings can pick up helpful strategies for interacting with their brother or sister, which can make their time together at home more positive and connected. Instead of being a distraction, siblings can be one of the most powerful tools in helping your child grow. Talk with your child’s SLP, PT, or OT about involving siblings in therapeutic sessions so they feel included and proud of the support they can provide their brother or sister. This not only strengthens their lifelong bond, but also creates fun, meaningful memories they can share together. And who knows—being part of the process might even inspire a future career interest for them!

Written by: Tania Villalón Rivera , Parents Engagement Coordinator, UCP of Central Florida The holidays can be a joyful yet hectic time, full of activities, family commitments, shopping, and the distractions of screens that pull both kids and adults away from what truly matters—time together. In the rush of the season, it’s easy to overlook that the most meaningful gift isn’t found in expensive presents but in the simple, warm moments shared with loved ones. This year, the goal is to create peaceful memories by managing holiday stress through the power of family time and connection. Keep Expectations Gentle Instead of chasing a “perfect” holiday, aim for a “good enough” one by trimming extra events, traditions, or travel that drain your energy. Discuss as a family what really matters this year—perhaps one or two special traditions or a relaxed day at home—and let those priorities guide your plans. Softening expectations helps reduce pressure and anxiety, opening space for connection. Protect Routines and Rest Maintaining steady routines like mealtimes, bedtimes, and quiet periods anchors the day and helps children feel secure, which can ease stress and melt down triggers. Build in small “reset moments” such as a short walk, reading together, or watching a funny movie to rejuvenate everyone’s mind and body. Cozy and Creative Family Moments Plan simple, low-pressure family activities focused on togetherness rather than perfection. A family pajama day with breakfast-for-dinner and a holiday movie everyone picks is an easy way to connect. Reading a holiday-themed book each night or camping out with blankets and flashlights offers cozy fun. Engage in creative crafts like making paper snowflakes, holiday cards, or decorating cookies together—activities that invite learning and joy through shared effort. Try building a blanket fort, creating a family scrapbook, or setting a daily family reading challenge to blend fun and growth. Kindness and Connection Spread the spirit of giving by choosing a small service project, such as donating gently used toys, baking for neighbors, or making cards for local nursing homes. Start a “kindness calendar” with daily acts of goodwill or keep a gratitude jar to share thankful thoughts together at the end of the break. These acts foster empathy and a sense of community, deepening bonds and adding heart to the season. Set Boundaries and Seek Support It’s okay to say no to obligations that conflict with your family’s needs. Reserve some days or evenings as “no extras” to simply enjoy home life together. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, relatives, or parent groups for emotional support and practical ideas. Sharing the challenges of the holidays reminds us that no one has to navigate them alone. By blending warmth, simplicity, and intention, the holiday season can shift from a harried race to a series of treasured moments. Embracing gentle expectations, steady rhythms, and meaningful traditions helps families slow down, breathe deeply, and create peaceful, joyful memories that last long after the season ends.

Written by Anna O'Connor-Morin , Associate Superintendent of Education UCP Charter Schools Core literacy and numeracy skills form the foundation of all future learning, making them essential areas for parents to support at home. Literacy begins with exposure to rich language—reading aloud, discussing stories, and encouraging children to express their thoughts verbally or in writing. Numeracy thrives when children see numbers in real-life contexts, such as cooking, shopping, or measuring. By weaving reading, writing, and math into everyday activities, parents help build confident learners who understand how these skills apply beyond the classroom.  Ultimately, the goal is to help children become independent, self-directed learners. Parents can foster this independence by teaching planning and organization skills, such as using planners, setting goals, and reflecting on progress. Encouraging curiosity—asking open-ended questions, exploring interests, and allowing children to attempt challenges before stepping in—builds resilience and confidence. When children learn that they can take ownership of their learning, they develop strong habits that benefit them throughout school and into adulthood. Activities to do over holiday break  Here’s a curated list of fun, low-prep educational activities  parents can do with kids at home during the holidays. I grouped them by skill/subject to make browsing easier. Literacy & Language Story Basket:  Fill a basket with objects (toy car, feather, cup) and have your child pick three to create a story. Holiday Book Bingo:  Make a bingo card with reading-related tasks (read under a blanket, read aloud to a pet, read a poem). Letter Scavenger Hunt:  Hide magnetic letters or write letters on sticky notes around the house and have kids find and match them to words. Family Interview Project:  Kids interview relatives (in person or via video call) and write a short “bio.” Math & Logic Recipe Fractions:  Bake something together and talk about measuring, doubling, or halving a recipe. Board-Game Math:  Use games like Yahtzee, Uno, or Monopoly to practice counting, probability, and strategy. Shape Hunt:  Walk around the house identifying shapes and sorting objects by geometry features. Lego Symmetry Challenge:  Build half a structure and have your child build the mirror image. Science & Exploration Weather Journal:  Track daily temperature, sky conditions, or cloud types and graph them at the end of the break. Kitchen Chemistry:  Make homemade slime, vinegar-and-baking-soda volcanoes, or rock candy while discussing what’s happening. Nature Classification:  Collect leaves, rocks, or pinecones and sort them by size, texture, or type. Shadow Experiments:  Use a flashlight and toys to explore shadows and how they change with distance and angle. Creativity & Art Holiday Card Design:  Provide paper, markers, and templates for kids to design cards for family members. DIY Instruments:  Make rain sticks, drums, or rubber-band guitars and explore sound. Photography Walk:  Give kids a phone or small camera and assign themes (patterns, colors, textures). Build a Mini Museum:  Kids curate a “collection” of toys or found objects and create labels. Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving Puzzle Day:  Do jigsaw puzzles, Sudoku, or riddles together. STEM Building Challenge:  Create a bridge from straws, a tower from paper, or a boat from foil and test it. Escape-Room at Home:  Set up clues around the house leading to a final “treasure.” What Would You Do? Scenarios:  Present real-life dilemmas and discuss solutions. Social Studies & Culture Map the Holiday:  Look at a map or globe and learn about how different places celebrate holidays. Family History Timeline:  Create a timeline of family events with photos. International Recipe Night:  Cook a dish from another culture and talk about where it comes from. Community Helpers Letters:  Write thank-you notes to firefighters, postal workers, or nurses. Well-Being & Life Skills Mindfulness Minutes:  Try short guided breathing or gratitude journaling. Money Challenge:  Give kids a small “budget” to plan a family snack or activity. Declutter & Donate Day:  Sort toys and clothes to donate while discussing generosity. Mini Home Projects:  Teach kids to sew a button, plant a seed, or fix something small.

Written by Katie Folsom, Administrative Assistant/Receptionist at UCP of Central Florida, West Orange When I first came across the job listing for an Administrative Assistant/Receptionist at UCP of Central Florida in April 2021, I was between jobs and looking for a fresh start. At the time, my son Connor was three years old and had recently been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder with Speech Delay. Like many parents navigating this new world, I was searching for the right support and therapy options for him, especially during the uncertainty of the Covid pandemic. UCP had come up often in the Facebook groups I followed, praised for its dedication and care, but I hadn’t seriously considered it as a place for Connor’s therapy or schooling. With a degree in Elementary Education but no plans to teach, I was still drawn to working in schools. Seeing the UCP job listing felt like an opportunity to be part of something meaningful. Little did I know, this job would become the start of a personal and professional journey that would change both my life and Connor’s. Discovering UCP and Finding Hope for Connor Starting at UCP opened my eyes to the many ways the organization supports children with special needs. Connor’s diagnosis was still fresh, and he didn’t qualify for an Individualized Education Program (IEP). After aging out of Early Steps, he wasn’t receiving therapy, which was a concern since his autism didn’t fit the typical profile. He was always just on the edge of qualifying for additional services, making it hard to find the right support. The team at UCP’s West Orange campus helped clarify the difference between medical therapy and charter therapy, which was a turning point for us. By summer 2021, Connor began receiving speech and occupational therapy at the UCP therapy clinic. We also enrolled him in preschool for the 2021-2022 school year. At that time, he spoke only 20 to 30 words, struggled to hold a writing utensil, and lacked confidence in playground activities and peer interactions. Connor gaining confidence at UCP West Orange campus Watching Progress Grow Over Time Nearly five years later, Connor is now in second grade and thriving. His speech has improved dramatically, and he has developed fine motor skills that once seemed out of reach. He climbs playground equipment with confidence and interacts more comfortably with his classmates. These changes didn’t happen overnight. They are the result of consistent therapy, patient teachers, and a supportive environment tailored to his unique needs. My role at UCP has also evolved. I am now an Enrollment Specialist, and I use Connor’s story during tours to show families the real progress their children can make here. Sharing our experience helps parents see that UCP is not just a school or therapy center, it’s a community that understands the challenges and celebrates every milestone. What Makes UCP Different UCP’s approach stands out because it focuses on the whole child. Here are some key aspects that make a difference: Individualized Support Every child receives a plan tailored to their strengths and challenges. This means therapy and education are customized, not one-size-fits-all. Integrated Therapy and Education Speech, occupational, and physical therapies are available on-site and coordinated with classroom activities, ensuring consistency and reinforcement. Experienced and Caring Staff Therapists and teachers work closely with families, providing guidance and encouragement every step of the way. Community and Inclusion UCP fosters an environment where children feel safe and included, helping build social skills and friendships. Practical Tips for Parents Navigating Autism Services Based on our journey, here are some practical tips for parents seeking support for their children: Ask Questions About Therapy Options Understand the difference between medical and charter therapy. Some services may be more accessible or better suited to your child’s needs. Look Beyond Diagnoses Autism presents differently in every child. Don’t be discouraged if your child doesn’t fit a typical profile or qualify for certain programs. Stay Involved and Advocate Be your child’s strongest advocate. Attend meetings, ask for updates, and share your observations with therapists and teachers. Seek Community Support Join local or online groups to connect with other families. Sharing experiences can provide valuable insights and emotional support. Celebrate Small Wins Progress may be slow and steady. Recognize every step forward, no matter how small. How My Role Helps Families Today As an Enrollment Specialist, I guide families through the process of joining UCP. I understand their hopes and concerns because I’ve lived them. Sharing Connor’s story helps families feel hopeful and informed. I explain how therapy and education work together here and what they can expect. I also help families navigate paperwork, schedules, and resources, making the transition smoother. Being part of this process is rewarding because I see firsthand how UCP changes lives. Looking Ahead with Confidence Connor’s journey shows that with the right support, children with autism can make meaningful progress. UCP provides a place where children are understood, supported, and encouraged to grow. My experience has taught me that hope and persistence matter just as much as therapy techniques. If you are a parent or caregiver searching for options, I encourage you to explore what UCP offers. Every child deserves a chance to reach their potential, and sometimes that chance begins with a single step, like applying for a job or enrolling in a school. Your next step could be reaching out to UCP to learn more about their programs. Whether you are looking for therapy, schooling, or community support, there is a place here for your family.

Written by: Dr. Karyn Scott, Director of Curriculum & Instruction, K-12 The school year has started , and the daily routine is shifting from summer activities. We all know that when children come to school every day and on time, they set themselves up for success. Each day builds on the last, and missing even a little time can make it harder for them to keep up. Arriving on time also means they can enjoy a healthy school breakfast, which helps them focus and have the energy they need to learn. Being at school every day also gives children a chance to spend time with friends and build strong peer relationships. These social connections are important for learning teamwork, building confidence, and feeling a sense of belonging. When children are in class from the very start of the day, they are part of the morning activities, classroom discussions, and special moments that can’t be repeated later. Good attendance also teaches life habits like responsibility, time management, and commitment. Plus, eating lunch at school with classmates helps your child stay fueled for the rest of the day while building friendships and sharing experiences. We know mornings can be busy, but your efforts to get your child to school on time every day make a big difference. Together, we can help your child build a strong foundation for learning, relationships, and lifelong success.

Written By: Elise Hartigan, MSW , Curriculum & Instruction Autism Specialist The TEACCH Method is a structured teaching approach designed to support individuals with autism and other exceptionalities. It focuses on creating clear, predictable environments that promote independence and reduce anxiety. This year, UCP introduced the TEACCH framework across its ESE More Supportive Classrooms (MSCs) to strengthen consistency, student engagement, and self-directed learning. Visual Schedules A key part of the TEACCH Method is the use of visual schedules. These schedules help students understand the sequence of their day, what activities are coming next, and when transitions will occur. In the MSC classrooms at UCP, students follow individualized or group visual schedules that include pictures, symbols, or written words depending on their developmental level. Teachers review the schedule each morning and provide visual or verbal cues during transitions. This structure allows students to anticipate what comes next, which reduces frustration and helps them feel secure and in control. Promoting Independence Another essential feature of TEACCH is promoting independence. Classrooms are arranged with clearly defined work areas, visual boundaries, and labeled materials. Students learn to complete tasks with minimal adult assistance by following step-by-step visual instructions or task systems. For example, an independent workstation might include color-coded bins that guide a student through a sequence of activities from “left to right”, a hallmark of TEACCH organization. Over time, this consistent routine builds confidence, responsibility, and problem-solving skills. At UCP, the TEACCH Method aligns well with the school’s mission to support every learner through individualized instruction and structured support. Teachers have received training and ongoing coaching to ensure fidelity of implementation. Already, classrooms are seeing improvements in student independence, smoother transitions, and increased engagement, demonstrating how TEACCH is helping students reach their fullest potential.

Written By:   Tania Villalon Rivera , Parent Engagement Coordinator, UCP of Central Florida Gratitude is one of those values that can truly shape who we are. When kids learn to be thankful for what they have, they grow into happier, more empathetic, and grounded people. It helps them see what’s good in their lives, focus on the positive, and feel more connected to others. Gratitude teaches all of us to move from “I need more” to “I have enough.” But in today’s world, entitlement can sneak in pretty easily. With so much instant satisfaction around us, it’s easy for both kids and adults to fall into the “I deserve this” mentality. As parents, we might unintentionally feed that mindset when we try to give our children everything or protect them from every little frustration. Even with the best intentions, we risk robbing them of the pride that comes from effort and the joy that comes from appreciation. The truth is, gratitude isn't something that comes naturally—it’s something we practice and model. And that’s good news, because it means we have lots of everyday opportunities to nurture it. Intentional ways to encourage gratitude: 1. Show them what thankfulness looks like Kids learn by watching what we do more than by hearing what we say. So go ahead and let them see you being thankful—thank your partner for cooking dinner, tell a teacher you appreciate their hard work, or talk about something good that happened in your day. Consistent modeling sends a clear message: gratitude is part of daily life, not just for special occasions. 2. Make reflection a family habit Try adding a quick “thankful check‑in” to your routine—maybe during family dinners or bedtime. Share one or two good things that happened that day and invite everyone else to do the same. This simple ritual shifts focus onto the positives and builds an atmosphere of appreciation at home. 3. Encourage giving, not just getting Helping kids give back teaches them that gratitude often leads to generosity. Donate gently used toys, volunteer together, or bake cookies for a neighbor. Those small acts help children connect kindness with happiness, and they start to understand that being thankful often inspires us to help others. 4. Use stories to spark conversations Books are great tools for talking about gratitude. Choose stories where characters show kindness or learn the value of appreciation, then chat about why those moments matter. It’s an easy way to explore big ideas that kids can relate to. 5. Keep gifts simple and meaningful There’s nothing wrong with rewarding your child, but when presents pile up, appreciation can fade. Focus on experiences instead—baking together, taking a family walk, or going to the park. Memories last longer than things, and they tend to strengthen gratitude in a more lasting way. 6. Notice effort and intention When your child shows kindness or works hard at something, acknowledge it. Instead of only praising results, celebrate the effort, thoughtfulness, or creativity they put in. This helps kids see that gratitude extends beyond success—it’s also about recognizing care, time, and heart. The more we weave gratitude into daily life, the more natural it becomes. It’s not just about saying “thank you”—it’s about slowing down, noticing the good, and feeling connected to others. Let's raise a generation that values effort, kindness, and appreciation—not only for what they have, but for the joy they can bring into the world.