January 2026

RESEARCH TO PRACTICE

The new year is typically a time that we hit reset and make resolutions or set intentions. I prefer the flexibility of intentions, rather than more rigorous, outcome driven resolutions.

Intention is the focus of attention.

Developed by David Rock and Dan Siegel, the Healthy Mind Platter is based on social neuroscience, clinical practice, behavioral research, and psychology. The framework speaks to me because it focuses on mental wellness through activities that create the balance our brains and relationships need for health and well-being.

• Focus Time: Engaging in goal-oriented tasks and brain challenges.

• Playtime: Pursuing creative endeavors and novel experiences.

• Connecting Time: Meaningfully connecting with people & nature.

• Physical Time: Moving your body with active or aerobic exercise.

• Time In: Practicing quiet reflection, mindfulness, or meditation.

• Downtime: Allowing for non-focused, day-dreaming & relaxation.

• Sleep Time: Giving yourself rest for recovery and rejuvenation.

These activities help to strengthen your brain’s internal connections and your connections with other people and the world around you. The time you spend on each is different for all of us and changes over time.

What better intention than to find your unique recipe for optimal mental health?

You can help your family members and/or students find their unique recipe as well! It’s no secret that the better we know ourselves, the more equipped we are to support the same in others.

FROM MY HEART

Gratitude is top of mind for me this month. As a college professor, the new year brings a new cohort of students, courses, and the opportunity to share my passion for Child and Family Development.

At a time when the news cycle can feel disheartening, my students bring a renewed sense of hope and optimism. Whether they are newcomers to this country, opening a home daycare, or attending college for the first time; they are seeking tools to be better teachers, parents, and community members. My students either want to give back the same positive experiences they had in childhood or, if they experienced adverse childhood experiences and trauma, they want to ensure things are better for the next generation.

I am opening my Spring semester classes with this video from Start Early and the message,

“No matter what happens in the world around me, I know that here is safe.”

We only have so much agency over what happens beyond our immediate community, which is why I am so grateful to be here, now, doing this work. I feel privileged to see my magic (or purpose) in action as I watch my students light up with a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference.

This month, I encourage you to look for those little moments of magic where your purpose shines and let them bring you hope as we ease into 2026.

🤍 Maureen