Welcome back to another episode of Counselor Chat! Today, I’m thrilled to share a conversation with the one and only Julia Cook. Julia is a former counselor and celebrated author whose books like My Mouth Is a Volcano and Tattle Tongue are staples on school counseling shelves across the nation. In this episode, Julia shares her journey from writing her first book to creating a collection that’s been translated into nine languages and used in schools worldwide.

We explore:

• Julia’s creative process and her shift from SEL to teaching "Great People Skills (GPS)."
• How her books evolve with student needs, ensuring inclusivity and relevance.
• Practical, hands-on strategies for engaging students and teaching essential life skills.
• The launch of Julia’s new platform, Cookie Bites, offering videos, activities, and resources for counselors and educators.
• Julia’s new book, I Am Vape, addressing vaping prevention for younger students.

This episode is packed with actionable tips, inspiration, and a giveaway you won’t want to miss!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. The Evolution of Julia’s Books: How feedback from counselors helps her refine her stories to fit the needs of today’s students.
2. Concrete Teaching Strategies: Learn how visuals and metaphors, like root beer floats and racetracks, help kids grasp challenging concepts like test anxiety and self-regulation.
3. The Power of Adaptation: Why it’s essential for educators and resources to grow alongside the ever-changing needs of students.
4. Practical Tools with Cookie Bites: Discover a treasure trove of resources, from grab-and-go activities to videos, designed to make your counseling life easier.

Giveaway Details:

Want to win a signed copy of Julia’s new book I Am Vape? Here’s how:

1. Forward this episode to five colleagues and CC Carol (carol@counselingessentials.org).
2. The first five listeners to send their emails will win!

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Cookie Bites by Julia Cook: Cookie Bites Website
• Counseling Essentials Resources: Counseling Essentials
• Julia’s New Book, I Am Vape: Learn more about vaping prevention for young students.
• School Visits and Workshops with Julia Cook: Email Julia at julia@juliacookonline.com.

Stay Connected:

• Follow Carol on Instagram and Facebook: @CounselingEssentials
• Visit the Counselor Chat podcast page: Counseling Essentials Podcast

Final Thoughts:

Julia reminds us of the importance of laughter, adaptability, and connection in school counseling. Whether it’s a poopy day or a cookie day, stay focused on the impact you make in students’ lives. You’re doing amazing work, counselor rock stars!

Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode. Until next time, keep spreading joy and making a difference!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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Connect with Carol:

• TpT Store
• Counseling Essentials Website
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• Facebook
• Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group
• Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group
• High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

Mentioned in this episode:

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