Dr. Laura Konigsberg, Author at Turning Point School

Executive Functioning: How Much Do We Help?

October 7, 2019 | Dr. Laura Konigsberg

We have our executive functioning to thank for having the ability to multitask when necessary, plan ahead, get back on track in the wake of unending distractions, and display self-control through the many twists and turns in our days. Children need to develop these skills, too, in order to become successful students—from preschool to graduate school—and, eventually, productive and efficient adults.

The Neuroscience of Giving

September 23, 2019 | Dr. Laura Konigsberg

Giving inspires gratitude, which in turn makes us more likely to take better care of ourselves, to be more optimistic, and to feel better about our lives.

Climate Change: Impact and Importance

September 16, 2019 | Dr. Laura Konigsberg

The overwhelming state of climate change can shut us down in denial or despair, but we must find the courage to educate ourselves and our children about it, take action and inspire our children to take action, and support initiatives that will slow down or reverse the damage to our planet that is occurring with increased speed as each year passes.

How We Inspire Meaningful Learning

September 9, 2019 | Dr. Laura Konigsberg

At Turning Point School, we know the best way to optimize meaningful learning involves considering and attending to all facets of our students’ well-being – intellectual, social, physical, ethical, and emotional. By inspiring and challenging each student to find their unique equation within these five areas, we help them discover the core elements that fuel motivation and success.

A Positive Equation for the Year

August 27, 2019 | Dr. Laura Konigsberg

Our strengths-based approach to teaching and learning focuses on each student’s unique “positive equation for achievement” that helps them pursue increasingly challenging goals, perform better, and persist longer on challenges. It helps them navigate difficult situations more resiliently and inspires them to share their authentic selves and genuine talents with others. It is a profound marker of future success of all kinds, and creates the traits we want to see in those who will, one day in the not-too-distant future, inherit our planet.

Year-End Wishes

June 18, 2019 | Dr. Laura Konigsberg

Research shows that gratitude fosters resilience during transitions. When I look back at the year and reflect upon the many successes, I feel deep gratitude for everyone in our Turning Point community. I am honored to be among your children, who inspire me to be the best version of myself. I am grateful for all the support of our wonderful parents, who entrust us with your children each day. And I am grateful to work with a talented, dedicated, intelligent, faculty and staff committed to honing their craft and knowing our students deeply—resulting in a transformational educational experience for all.

Perfectionism and Resilience

May 28, 2019 | Dr. Laura Konigsberg

Mindfulness and meditation can help us stay present by letting go of the way we think things should be and rather experiencing them as they are. One thing I love about meditation is the directive to “begin again.” Each moment meditating gives us the chance to learn how to begin anew when we get distracted and return to observing what is going on in our mind.

Summer Community Read

May 20, 2019 | Dr. Laura Konigsberg

This year's Summer Community Read is Second Nature: How Parents Can Use Neuroscience to Help Kids Develop Empathy, Creativity, and Self-Control. At Turning Point, we use research-based methodologies to shape our pedagogy and programming, so we are always eager to learn more about how neuroscience can translate into better teaching and parenting, and in this case, “to raise a successful child who can make a positive difference in the world.”

Maintaining Dignity, Integrity, and Community in the Discipline Process

May 6, 2019 | Dr. Laura Konigsberg

Discipline rooted in "learning" can help children find a positive sense of independence and identity. At Turning Point, we connect our Primary Montessori roots through the Elementary and Middle School years in order to honor each child’s individual path and nurture her/his sense of self-respect and responsibility. This holistic approach requires continual modeling, explicit teaching, and tireless encouragement of a growth mindset as children grow and develop within a community they hold dear.

Innovative Learning Through Visual Arts

April 23, 2019 | Dr. Laura Konigsberg

Arts bring so much to the learning process. Beyond the appreciation of beauty and opportunities for personal expression, the arts also demonstrate more than one solution to a problem, as well as the value of asking questions and seeing multiple perspectives.