This book asks the question if kids today are getting their fundamental need to belong, to be a valued member of a community, met. The need to belong is deeply written into our brain and body, when this need is not met physical and psychological well-being deteriorate. Researchers have concluded that “Not having a strong social support network is a risk factor for death as large as smoking more than fifteen cigarettes a day, and a greater risk factor than consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, not exercising, being obese or living in a highly polluted city.”

With over twenty years of experience as a teacher, behavior analyst, and consultant working with students with moderate to severe behavioral and mental health needs this book shares many examples and strategies for transformative educators to build inclusive communities that bring out the best in students. If you are passionate about social-emotional learning (SEL), trauma-informed practices, and equity this book shares a wealth of research and best practices.