Supporting the Whole Child: Behavior, Learning, and Mental Health at Home

Helping children thrive means paying attention to their behavior, learning, and mental health all at once. These areas are deeply connected, and supporting one often strengthens the others. Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in creating a home environment where children feel safe, understood, and encouraged to grow. On Saturday, January 10, 2026, Cedarbridge Church is hosting an in-person event designed to help families do just that. This event, called Supporting the Whole Child, offers practical strategies to improve your child’s well-being at home.

This post explains why focusing on the whole child matters and what you can expect from this valuable event. If you want to learn how to support your child’s behavior, learning, and mental health in a friendly and welcoming setting, keep reading.

Why Supporting the Whole Child Matters

Children do not separate their emotions, behavior, and learning into neat boxes. When a child struggles with anxiety or stress, it can affect how they behave and how well they learn. When behavior challenges arise, they often signal underlying emotional or mental health needs. Addressing these areas together helps children develop resilience and confidence.

Research shows that children who receive support in all these areas tend to perform better academically, have stronger relationships, and experience fewer mental health challenges later in life. Parents and caregivers who understand this connection can create routines and environments that promote balance and growth.

For example, a child who feels emotionally safe at home is more likely to focus on schoolwork and manage frustration without acting out. Simple changes like consistent routines, clear communication, and positive reinforcement can make a big difference.

What You Will Learn at the Event

The Supporting the Whole Child event is designed to give parents and caregivers practical tools and knowledge. The session will cover:

• Behavior strategies that encourage positive actions and reduce conflicts

• Learning support techniques to help children build confidence and skills

• Mental health awareness to recognize signs of stress, anxiety, or depression

• Ways to create a supportive home environment that nurtures emotional wellness

  
  

The event promises a friendly atmosphere where you can ask questions, share experiences, and connect with others who understand the challenges of parenting.

Creating a supportive home environment for children

Creating a supportive home environment helps children feel safe and ready to learn.

Meet the Experts Leading the Event

This event brings together three experienced professionals who specialize in child behavior, learning, and mental health:

• Marci Cochran, MSW, LCSW, LCAS

Founder and therapist at Growth Mindset Counseling, Marci uses evidence-based therapy to guide children, teens, and families toward emotional wellness. Her compassionate approach helps families navigate challenges with care.

• Faith Lam, M.Ed.

As the co-founder of Versademics, Faith focuses on empowering young learners through research-based academic support. She helps children build confidence and develop lifelong learning skills.

• Dr. Amanda Randall, Ed.D., BCBA-D

Founder of Go Beyond Abilities, Dr. Randall is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and educator. She teaches families and professionals how to use behavior science with kindness and purpose.

Together, they offer a well-rounded perspective on supporting children’s overall well-being.

Event Details and How to Register

• Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026

• Time: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM

• Location: Cedarbridge Church, 1400 Red Banks Rd, Greenville, NC 27858

• Cost: Free for all attendees

• Lunch and Childcare Provided!!

• Registration: Register here on Eventbrite

  
  

This event is sponsored by Cedarbridge Church and hosted by Go Beyond Abilities, Versademics, and Growth Mindset Counseling, PLLC. It is designed specifically for parents and caregivers who want to support their children’s behavior, learning, and mental health at home.

Practical Tips You Can Start Using Today

Even before attending, you can begin supporting your child’s whole well-being with these simple steps:

• Create predictable routines to help children feel secure and understand expectations.

• Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior instead of focusing only on mistakes.

• Talk openly about feelings to help children name and manage emotions.

• Set aside time for learning that matches your child’s interests and pace.

• Model healthy coping skills like deep breathing or taking breaks when stressed.

  
  

These small actions build a strong foundation for your child’s success and happiness.

Additional Resources

• Supporting Child and Student Social, Emotional, Behavioral, and Mental Health - This resource provides a comprehensive overview of strategies and practices to support the mental health and well-being of children and students.

• National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) Mental Health Resources - A collection of resources aimed at promoting mental health support in schools and communities.

• Child Mind Institute - Offers resources and information on children's mental health, including articles, guides, and expert advice.

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - Provides resources and information on children’s mental health and wellness, including programs and services available.