Boys Education Series

Strong relationships with trusted adults can play an important role in boys’ growth and development. Having supportive adults to turn to can help boys build confidence, navigate challenges, and feel comfortable seeking help when they need it.

In our latest Boys Education Series podcast, Dr. Brooklyn Raney, author of One Trusted Adult, discusses how boys build trust and connection and shares how parents and educators can help boys develop a strong network of supportive adults.

Time spent outdoors plays an important role in boys’ growth and development. From improving physical health to supporting focus, creativity, and emotional well-being, unstructured time in nature offers benefits that are increasingly important in today’s screen-filled world.

In our latest Boys Education Series article, Jr. K – Grade 4 Science Teacher Hans Rydquist explores how outdoor play supports boys’ health, learning, and social-emotional development, while also sharing practical ways families can help boys unplug and reconnect with the natural world.

From small daily changes to major milestones, transitions shape how boys grow, adapt, and build confidence throughout their school years. With thoughtful guidance, these moments can become meaningful opportunities for development.

In our latest Boys Education Series article, Associate Head of School Jen Beros shares some practical strategies parents can use to support their sons as they navigate the paths from early childhood through high school.

Understanding how boys learn is essential to helping them thrive in school and in life. From executive functioning to motivation and relationships, boys benefit when adults understand their unique developmental pathways.

In our latest Boys Education Series article, Upper School Dean of Students Betsy Coy explores how recognizing boys’ learning styles, offering appropriate support, and fostering strong relationships can empower them to grow with confidence, independence, and purpose.

Throughout our lives, mentors shape who we become. For boys, male mentors can play a unique role in helping them understand strength, compassion, and connection.

In our latest Boys Education Series article, middle school social studies teacher, class dean, and wrestling coach, Matt McCarter, explores how authentic relationships with male role models help boys build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.  

In our latest blog, Executive Director of the Young Entrepreneur Institute at University School Ilene Frankel shared her own journey to entrepreneurship, along with tips for parents to spark their own child’s entrepreneur spirit. In this episode, Associate Head of School Jen Beros discusses with Ilene how an entrepreneurial mindset is the spark behind creativity, resilience, and real-world problem solving – helping students turn creativity into action.

In our latest blog, University School Grades 3-4 Learning Specialist Emma Royan and Grades K-2 Learning Specialist Alyx Voytilla shared strategies to help parents recognize and nurture these crucial skills at home every day.

In this episode, Associate Head of School Jen Beros continues the conversation with Emma and Alyx as they dive deeper into how these "hidden keys" to success—like time management, organization, and self-regulation—can shape a child’s academic and personal growth.

In our latest blog, University School School Psychologist Erica Evert and School Counselor Leslie Muha shared strategies to help parents manage their worries while intentionally loosening the safety net, empowering children to grow into capable and self-reliant individuals.

In this episode, Jen Beros, Associate Head of School at University School, continues the conversation with Erica and Leslie, exploring how parents can balance safety and growth while fostering independence, confidence, and resilience in their children.

In our latest blog, Upper School English Teacher Kevin O’Brien shared insights on using mindfulness to help students build resilience and manage stress. In this episode, Jen Beros, Associate Head of School at University School, speaks with Kevin further about integrating practical mindfulness into daily routines. 

In our latest blog, University School Director of Technology and Libraries, Lisa Ulery, offered solutions to help balance your child’s technology usage. In this episode, Jen Beros, Associate Head of School at University School, speaks with Lisa further about how families and schools are working to help boys develop healthy relationships with technology.