In this episode, I talk with Dr. Roxanne Daleo, founder of MindWorks for Children, about how expressive arts and mind–body techniques can help anxious children reconnect with their inner strength and why these tools matter just as much for adults.

Roxanne shares her own journey from being misdiagnosed with a learning disability in second grade to graduating from Harvard and dedicating her life to helping children thrive. Along the way, she challenges our narrow definitions of intelligence and invites us to rethink how anxiety, learning, and creativity are deeply intertwined.

We explore how children absorb stress from the world around them, why traditional approaches often fall short, and how simple practices — art, breath, movement, imagination, and attention — can create profound shifts in confidence and self-worth.

Intelligence isn’t about fitting into a system — it’s about understanding how your mind works and giving yourself permission to access what’s already within you.

• Why most childhood anxiety is learned, not innate

• How labels and standardized testing can limit potential

• The role of expressive art as a pathway to emotional regulation

• Why relaxation is essential for learning and creativity

• How parents and educators can help children reframe self-talk and build resilience
  

Whether you’re a parent, educator, leader, or simply curious about how humans learn and adapt, this episode offers practical insights and a deeply compassionate perspective on unlocking potential — at any age.

About Dr. Roxanne Daleo

Renowned clinician, leader, and pioneer in Health Psychology, Dr. Roxie has an unwavering passion for helping children discover their inner resources and realize their own self-worth.

As a counselor in Pediatric Stress Management, specializing in anxious children, teacher and parent coaching. Her training from Harvard University and the Jung Institute combine evidence-based mind/body techniques with expressive arts and anchors her work in one of the most powerful methods for awakening natural healing within.

Her ground-breaking work as Founder of MindWorks for Children provides parents, caregivers and children with alternative solutions to alleviate stress and anxieties. Her use of art, music, guided imagery, and meditation programs allow children to access their own internal source of strength, love and innate gifts. Her objective is to support parents’ and teachers’ efforts to help children develop emotional and social intelligence.

You can connect with Roxanne on https://drroxannedaleo.com/roxie/ and YouTube.

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Mind Blend is all about real experiences and meaningful conversations—through sharing these insights, I hope to inspire and empower you as you navigate your unique journey.

I’d also love to hear from you! What resonated with you today? What topics or guests should we feature next? Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with me on LinkedIn @ ⁠karenkchong⁠ and @⁠Mind-Blend⁠

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Until next time, stay curious, keep exploring, and let’s continue to blend our minds and discover what’s possible.