Years ago, Dr. Hodges recognized six core drivers of non-productive stress in children:

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• Misaligned Social-Emotional Programs  

• Forced, Insincere Social Engagement 

• Poor Literacy Instruction  

• Inadequate Sleep, Exercise, and Nutrition  

• Ineffective Adult Communication 

• Weak Adult Leadership 

 

Instead of addressing root causes, institutions and caregivers sought quick fixes—eliminating stress entirely, prioritizing medication and comfort, and sidestepping boundaries that cultivate resilience. Over time, this approach diminished children’s ability to develop fortitude and thrive. 

 

​There is quite clearly an adult knowledge and skill gap, which resulted in systemic neglect of kids foundational needs. Dr. Hodges champions a better way. Through Raising Moxie, she and her collaborators equip parents, educators, and professionals with evidence-based approaches that prioritize:  

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• Confident, compassionate adult leadership  

• Environments that foster emotional expression, physical health, and high-quality learning 

• Science-backed, practical approaches that honor developmental needs  

• A future-focused developmentally informed mindset in adults that safeguards children’s growth  

• Common sense, not empty trends

• Letting kids be kids—and ensuring adults step up as leaders.

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Through Raising Moxie, Dr. Hodges has helped parents, educators, and physicians implement science-aligned practices that transform how children learn, develop, and succeed.