I felt that the lessons and ideas given to my child to help him with his negative/ perfectionist thoughts made perfect sense and were very practical for an eight-year-old.  It is my sincere hope that he is able to continue to use the helpful strategies learned in class in his day-to-day life.  Thank you. ~Cassandra Green, Rockburn Elementary School parent

We're so excited that our son is participating in this very important class. We just know it will do him wonders. He was very excited about it after the first class.

I think this is a very useful program for children.  It provides children with tools to use in everyday life.  …  [My daughter] has been able to speak up about her feelings.  She is able to say no more often to her friends. … If you could change something about this program, what would it be?  Have it as a mandatory program in the school system.  ~ Pam Colbert, Elkridge ES parent

 

My daughter is starting to think of others and is able to think about what she is saying, and how what she says effects herself and others.

He now tries to control himself when he would normally get angry or frustrated. He has been happier and feeling better about himself.

She is saying more positive things. It’s a good tool for parents too.

He is open to discussing his feelings. He now recognizes negative thoughts.

She has corrected herself when saying she can’t do something, which was great.

He seemed to enjoy every class. We will continue to practice what he learned...

I am utilizing the information from your workshops in my daily discipline and things are going much better...I have the knowledge to do it the right way now. Thanks for everything! Theresa

I’m so glad I enrolled Isabel in this program.  Isabel reminds herself to “smash” those ANTs when she’s having negative thoughts.  She’s thinking more positively and is in more control of her emotions. 

~Veterans Elementary School Parent

Recess squabbles, cafeteria dynamics, cooperative learning groups, organized sports teams....Your children are involved witha variety ofsocial interactions day-in day-out. Why not help them sail through these different scenarios with more confidence and ease. Smashing Ants is a terrific program for your child's personal growth and development. It worked for my daughter, and most importantly she loved every minute of it!

Life today is hectic and demanding.  Our children are faced with challenges far beyond what we faced at their age.  As parents, we guide, teach, and nurture them to the best of our ability.  My hope is that my children continue to grow in their independent ability to problem solve tricky situations, and have resilience when faced with such challenges.  As much as I’d like to shield them from any hurt or hardship, I know that is unreasonable. Smashing Ants is an amazing program by which our children can feel empowered when dealing with awkward social situations.  Nancy Sheain has developed a program which helped my daughter learn strategies to better cope with uncomfortable situations.  Nancy has a meaningful curriculum, pertinent to children’s needs. My daughter learned tools to help her identify her feelings, but even better, how to deal with those feelings in a productive way.  Margot cooperated with others in small groups to act out vignettes based on a problematic scenario.  She loved connecting with other children to develop and plan their very own original skit!  This experience is something she will remember for a long, long time!  I can’t say enough great things about Nancy and her Smashing Ants program!

~Beth Hardon, St. Johns Parish Day School Parent

 

I know Syndney loves this class and she has used some of the strategies in her world.  She also shares some skills with her friends and family.  [My daughter] is able to calm down and think before reacting.   ~ Dave White

 

I think it’s a great way for kids to learn how to learn self control and have self esteem.  My child now tries to make negatives into positives.  ~ Lisa Pearce

 

Every child could benefit from this program! The stills taught are invaluable. I observed the Smashing Ants program from a parents' prospective. As children progressed, they began to recognize anxiety-provoking situation and learn methods to minimize their anxiety. Nancy Sheain's classes help kids build skills they will need throughout life!

~Kristie Lockwood, St. Johns Parish Day School Parent

Very pleased with the program, parent involvement.  I have seen him think more about what he is doing (after he clearly has an ANT) and recover more quickly thereafter.  ~ Diana Zambidis

Dear Nancy,

I want to sincerely thank you for providing me with the tools to help build my relationship with my step-daughter. I have tried going to family counseling with her previously, but nothing has worked to improve our relationship as well as the knowledge, experience and wisdom you have shared with me over this past year.

You have given me loving strategies and tools that really work and help me to parent from a position of love , strength and empathy.

You have literally helped to save my sanity and my marriage!

I also know she will grow to be a better person and have a bright future because of what you have taught me. Thank you so much! You are worth you weight in gold!

~TJ, Mother and Step-Mom of four great kids