Heart-Centered Connections Seven Essential Skills for Helping Neurodiverse and Marginalized Children Thrive

Heart-Centered Connections teaches the best practices to support kids who are misunderstood and marginalized—those who are neurodivergent, have a learning disability, or are trauma survivors. Based on decades of groundbreaking research with over 1,000 child-serving professionals—principals, teachers, foster care program directors, social workers, and parents—Dr. Niki Elliott offers seven pillars to help create environments where kids can achieve their full potential. You will learn how to increase your ability to handle stress so you remain composed when a child acts out; establish stronger bonds even with kids who seem defiant; teach in ways that create joy and confidence; design neuroinclusive environments where youth of all abilities flourish; view children from a new perspective with choice and dignity; and help settle their nervous system so they can focus and learn. Dr. Elliott offers clear guidance - when safety, compassion, and trust come first, real learning can begin.