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Thoughts and stories on learning and growth


Beyond the behavior
Sometimes you see a child do something we label as “disruptive.” A noise or joke at the wrong moment, suddenly getting angry, talking over others again and again. It appears to be attention-seeking, which often it is, but usually because the child simply doesn’t know how to ask for attention in a healthy way. In those moments, any attention, even negative attention, becomes better than none. Behavior is rarely the real problem. It’s a signal. A child saying, “ Something is go

Stef Renkens
5 days ago2 min read


The power of calm
“Your kid falls down, he doesn’t cry, he doesn’t know he’s hurt, he looks at you. If you don’t blink, he gets up. He’s fine.” This one line from The Diplomat stayed with me. Not because it’s a perfect metaphor, children are sometimes really hurt, but because it captures a beautiful truth about how strongly our presence shapes a child’s experience. When I first heard it, I immediately thought: “Yes! I always think this too!” It’s so familiar. At school, when a child trips o

Stef Renkens
Nov 172 min read


Calm Authority - Why children thrive when adults set clear boundaries from a place of calm
One of the most powerful qualities a teacher or parent can develop is calmness. Not the quiet, passive kind, but a deep, grounded sense of peace, a calmness that radiates trust. Children feel safest with adults who are clear, consistent, and truly present. They don’t need us to do everything right, but they do need us to stay steady, even when things get a little stormy. A key part of calmness is clarity. We don’t need to argue to be understood. A simple “no,” spoken with war

Stef Renkens
Jun 222 min read


Opinion
I’ve always found that forming a strong opinion can be a bit tricky. There are so many different perspectives on any given topic, and sometimes, I find myself seeing merit in multiple sides of the story. It’s not that I lack an opinion—it’s that I believe in the complexity of most issues, and I like to explore them from various angles. In this space, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on everything from current events to personal reflections, offering my perspective on things that m

Stef Renkens
May 51 min read


Creative works
Creative works come in many forms, each offering its own unique way to spark imagination, evoke emotions, and tell unforgettable stories. As someone who loves exploring different artistic mediums, I’ve always been drawn to how books, movies, art, and music all have the power to connect us to something deeper. From the pages of a gripping novel, the scenes of a thought-provoking film, or the brushstrokes of a stunning painting, to the melodies that move us and the lyrics that

Stef Renkens
May 51 min read


Travel
Travel has taken me to some incredible places, and along the way, I've gathered some stories I can’t wait to share. From unexpected adventures to funny mishaps, each trip has its own set of moments that are too good not to tell. In this blog, I’ll be sharing the real, unscripted side of travel—everything from quirky encounters with locals to the random surprises that always seem to happen when you're on the road. I hope these stories bring a little joy, a few laughs, and mayb

Stef Renkens
May 51 min read


Coaching & Personal Development
Coaching has become a powerful tool for growth, helping individuals unlock their potential, overcome obstacles, and achieve their personal and professional goals. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people through coaching and self-development, and I’m excited to share the knowledge and insights I’ve gathered along the way. In addition to my work as a coach, I’ve written a book and developed a coaching course, both of which are designed to help individuals navig

Stef Renkens
May 53 min read


Education
As a primary school teacher, I have witnessed firsthand how children’s development extends far beyond just academic achievements. While language and math are undeniably essential building blocks for learning, I believe that education should encompass a broader scope—one that fosters emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and personal growth. In this blog, I will be exploring a range of topics that reflect my passion for providing a well-rounded education for all students:

Stef Renkens
May 52 min read
Interested in going deeper?
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