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We Have Hope

We Have Hope

By: Love Your School West Virginia
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Summary

Every Family Should Be Able To Answer The Question, “Do You Love Your School?” With A Resounding “YES!”When it comes to education in West Virginia, families have so many possibilities… We’re here to help families explore the many school options available and celebrate each one through creative storytelling, relevant and fun resources, and practical support so every family can love their school!© 2023 We Have Hope
Episodes
  • 111. How Squiggle Squad Reinvents Handwriting Education
    Apr 30 2026

    Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post:

    Holly Britton, founder of Squiggle Squad, discusses the importance of handwriting as a foundational skill for children's learning, its connection to cognitive development, and practical strategies for effective handwriting instruction.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00 Introduction to Handwriting Challenges
    • 03:06 Rethinking Handwriting as a Tool
    • 05:48 The Cognitive vs. Mechanical Aspects of Writing
    • 08:39 The Importance of Handwriting in Education
    • 11:33 Squiggle Squad: A New Approach to Handwriting
    • 14:21 Developmentally Appropriate Handwriting Instruction
    • 17:12 The Progression of Handwriting Skills
    • 19:57 Addressing Learning Differences in Handwriting
    • 19:59 The Importance of Early Handwriting Instruction
    • 23:37 Group vs. Individual Instruction in Handwriting
    • 26:42 Connecting Handwriting with Thought Expression
    • 28:39 The Neurological Connection of Handwriting
    • 33:15 Resources for Handwriting Instruction
    • 36:34 The Impact of Technology on Writing Skills
    • 38:33 Hope for the Future of Handwriting Education
    • 41:13 We Have Hope Kim Outro.mp3


    Episode Highlights:

    • The importance of handwriting as a tool for thought
    • Motor skills development and age-appropriate instruction
    • The systemic issues in handwriting education and teacher training
    • The science behind handwriting and cognitive development

    Quotes:

    • "If your hand can't flow, your thoughts can't."
    • "Handwriting is the base unit for writing."
    • "Writing your thoughts out is incredibly powerful."

    More on Holly Britton and Squiggle Squad:

    • Squiggle Squad Website - https://squigglesquad.com
    • Holly's Substack on Science of Handwriting - https://hollyonsgood.substack.com


    More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

    • Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
    • Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
    • www.loveyourschool.org
    • Visit our Facebook HERE!
    • Visit our Instagram HERE!

    This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.


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    42 mins
  • 110. The Power of Myofunctional Therapy
    Apr 10 2026

    In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews Laura Foster, the owner of Family First Myology. They discuss the concept of myology, which is the study of muscle function, particularly in relation to myofunctional therapy. Laura explains how this therapy can help improve oral and facial muscle function, which in turn can enhance airway health and overall well-being. The conversation delves into the connections between sleep disorders, behavior issues in children, and the importance of early intervention. Laura shares insights on how myofunctional therapy can benefit both children and adults, the structure of therapy sessions, and the collaborative efforts with other health professionals. The episode emphasizes the need for awareness and education regarding myofunctional disorders and the hope that comes with effective therapy.


    Chapters:

    • 00:00 Introduction to Myology and Its Importance
    • 03:09 Understanding Myofunctional Therapy
    • 05:35 The Connection Between Sleep and Behavior
    • 08:44 Identifying Myofunctional Disorders
    • 11:29 The Role of Myofunctional Therapy in Children
    • 14:09 Therapy Sessions and Progress Tracking
    • 16:59 Collaboration with Other Health Professionals
    • 19:51 Insurance and Accessibility of Services
    • 22:18 The Importance of Early Intervention
    • 24:53 Hope and Healing Through Myofunctional Therapy
    • 42:24 We Have Hope Kim Outro.mp3


    Episode Highlights:

    • Myology is the study of muscle function, particularly in the mouth and face.
    • Myofunctional therapy can improve airway health and overall function.
    • Sleep disorders can significantly impact children's behavior and cognitive function.
    • Chronic congestion and mouth breathing are red flags for myofunctional disorders.
    • Myofunctional therapy is suitable for children aged four and up.
    • Therapy sessions typically last 30-45 minutes and focus on muscle exercises.
    • Collaboration with pediatricians and other health professionals is essential for comprehensive care.
    • Insurance coverage for myofunctional therapy can be limited, but options exist.
    • Early intervention is crucial for preventing long-term health issues.
    • There is hope for better health through myofunctional therapy, which can lead to significant improvements in quality of life.


    More on Family First Myology:

    • Phone: (304) 627-4329
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573731564275
    • Email: familyfirstmyology@gmail.com


    More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

    • Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
    • Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
    • www.loveyourschool.org
    • Visit our Facebook HERE!
    • Visit our Instagram HERE!

    This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.


    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • 109. Transforming History Through Gaming
    Mar 31 2026

    Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post:

    In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews Zack Edwards, the creator of Historical Conquest and Xogos Gaming. They discuss the journey of creating an educational game that makes history engaging and fun for students. Zack shares his experiences with the game’s development, its mechanics, and how it fosters family engagement. The conversation also touches on the importance of parental involvement, the digital evolution of educational games, and the hope for a better future through learning and connection.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00 Introduction to Historical Conquest and Xogos Gaming
    • 06:17 Understanding Game Mechanics and Learning
    • 11:20 The Importance of Retention in Learning
    • 18:20 Creating a Safe and Engaging Gaming Environment
    • 26:01 Gaming as a Tool for Engagement
    • 32:11 Addressing Learning Loss Through Gaming
    • 38:39 Creating a Hopeful Future Through Family Engagement
    • 44:22 We Have Hope Kim Outro.mp3

    Episode Highlights:

    • Zack hated history in school due to poor teaching methods.
    • Creating a project can make learning more engaging.
    • Historical Conquest merges fun and education effectively.
    • The game is designed to be played in 30 minutes to an hour.
    • Parental involvement is crucial for children's learning.
    • The digital platform Xogos Gaming enhances accessibility.
    • Incentives for learning include earning coins through gameplay.
    • The platform aims to create a safe environment for kids.
    • Hope is essential for a better future in education.
    • Games can help prevent learning loss during summer breaks.


    More on The Good and The Beautiful:

    • Website: Historical Conquest
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoricalConquest/
    • Email: historicalconquest@gmail.com
    • Youtube: Historical Conquest Channel

    More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

    • Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
    • Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
    • www.loveyourschool.org
    • Visit our Facebook HERE!
    • Visit our Instagram HERE!

    This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.


    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
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