support for kids with big feelings and big behaviors

Afterschool and summer programs are serving increasing numbers of kids with disabilities, trauma, and mental health challenges. Staff manage bigger behaviors with less support and little specialized training.

many programs are stuck in survival mode

The Village Well helps expanded learning programs create calmer, safer, more inclusive environments where all kids participate and thrive. We help staff gain the skills and confidence to support kids with big feelings and big behaviors. Our work is grounded in youth development, brain science, and cultural wisdom from the diverse communities we serve.

outcomes

Fewer behavioral crises and power struggles

Staff who feel confident, calm, and supported

Reduced staff burnout and turnover

Increased belonging for kids with disabilities

Stronger relationships between youth and adults

More participation, learning, and joy

Safer, more connected program environments

Practical systems that actually work

learn more about The Village Well

learn more about our services

book a consultation

families and parenting groups

We do a limited amount of work directly supporting parents and families with kids with disabilities.

This includes parenting coaching, and workshops for parent-teacher associations, employee resource groups, and family service nonprofits.

schedule a coaching consultation

expanded learning programs

We partner with after school and summer programs to build staff capacity, strengthen program quality, and create inclusive environments where all youth can thrive.

learn more

our partners

testimonials

I notice more about myself in the moment and am able to self-reflect and notice when I am feeling depleted. Even naming that has been helpful. Allowing myself to be human has created space for my kids to be human. The struggle against the tendency to be perfect is so real. Grateful for this course!

- Laura R.
This was a very good course. We all think that we are either expert parents or that we don't have enough time for this. But if you want to get out of your rut and become a more mindful parent, I would highly recommend their courses.

- Jamie R.
Tremendous job Village Well team! I really appreciate what you’ve created and I gained so much. I hope I can look back years from now and know this is where my parenting journey made a breakthrough and I continue to expand as the mother I strive to be.

- Nikki T.
I learned that there are accessible tools to use to be a better parent and have a better relationship with my child. It was also comforting to know that I'm not alone. There are other parents like me who want to become better parents than the ones who raised us.

- Jennielyn D.
Over the last six weeks times during our day that used to be a battle don't feel like that any more. For example, bed time does not feel like a battle time of trying to get William down. It also helps to recognize what he is seeking so we can respond in a way that makes better sense rather than everyone getting triggered.

- Megan T.
The Village Well gave our team the gifts of confidence and hope. Staff who felt defeated now feel capable and supported. We’ve seen stronger relationships, fewer power struggles, and more kids with disabilities truly included in our program.

- Vicky C.

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support for kids with big feelings and big behaviors

outcomes

families and parenting groups

expanded learning programs

I notice more about myself in the moment and am able to self-reflect and notice when I am feeling depleted. Even naming that has been helpful. Allowing myself to be human has created space for my kids to be human. The struggle against the tendency to be perfect is so real. Grateful for this course!

This was a very good course. We all think that we are either expert parents or that we don't have enough time for this. But if you want to get out of your rut and become a more mindful parent, I would highly recommend their courses.

Tremendous job Village Well team! I really appreciate what you’ve created and I gained so much. I hope I can look back years from now and know this is where my parenting journey made a breakthrough and I continue to expand as the mother I strive to be.

I learned that there are accessible tools to use to be a better parent and have a better relationship with my child. It was also comforting to know that I'm not alone. There are other parents like me who want to become better parents than the ones who raised us.

The Village Well gave our team the gifts of confidence and hope. Staff who felt defeated now feel capable and supported. We’ve seen stronger relationships, fewer power struggles, and more kids with disabilities truly included in our program.