Renton|Neighbor News|
The Power of Praise: Why It Matters for Students
In the bustling world of the classroom, praise is an often underestimated but incredibly powerful tool.

Swannee Rivers is a nationally credentialed Early Childhood Educator, author, mother, teacher, wife, motivational speaker, and community showcase developer whose work has inspired readers across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. A graduate of the University of Washington, she brings heart, advocacy, and authenticity to every project she touches.
Her published works span more than two decades and multiple genres—from investigative nonfiction to uplifting children’s literature. Her groundbreaking book Healthcare Under Duress (2003) gained international recognition for its bold stance against fraud in the healthcare industry and continues to be used in training programs for insurance institutions and community colleges throughout the Pacific Northwest. She is also the author of Hidden Treasures (2007), Cancer Journal for the Survivor in You (2003), Cancer Journal for the Survivor in You II (2009), and Parents Don’t Know Everything (2003).
Swannee’s storytelling has reached national audiences through her contributions to The Renton Reporter, The Seattle Times, Northwest Baby & Child, Campfire Girls National Campaign, and the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, where she also helped select incoming story submissions. Her work has appeared on Soap Opera Central, ConsumerReview.com, and in creative media collaborations such as New Play Media’s online Soap Opera Trivia Game. She has been featured in the documentary The Last Swing (2017) and appeared in a 2019 episode of Oxygen’s Criminal Confessions.
Her children’s book collection continues to grow with beloved titles including Fuzzy Ears and the Grocery Store Adventure (2020), Zack the Yak’s Mountaintop Adventure (2022), There’s a Purple Jelly Monster in My Tummy! (2022), Jake Robinson: The Smallest Hero (2024), Bobby Sue’s Hats (2025), and My Big Simple & Fabulous Coloring Book Series (2026).
Today, Swannee Rivers lives in Renton, Washington, where she continues creating stories that celebrate courage, curiosity, and the extraordinary beauty found in everyday life.
In the bustling world of the classroom, praise is an often underestimated but incredibly powerful tool.

Reading is a fundamental skill that opens doors to knowledge, imagination, and endless possibilities.
One of the greatest gifts parents can give their children is the ability to become independent.
The ability to speak up is an essential life skill that empowers individuals to express their thoughts, feelings, and needs.
Every classroom has its unique mix of personalities and needs, and among them, you might encounter a child who demands more attention.
Every educator knows the challenge of managing a classroom filled with young, energetic, and talkative students.
Nationally credentialed educator Swannee Rivers is back with another compelling literary journey—one that will leave readers intrigued.
Preschoolers are full of energy and curiosity, often finding it difficult to stay seated for extended periods.
Every educator has encountered the spirited child who seems to have "no" as their default response. This behavior is not uncommon.
Allowing young children to have a voice in what goes into their lunch not only empowers them but also teaches essential life skills.
The joy of seeing little ones sprint into the school gates with a smile on their face! Parents and educators, how can we maintain that joy?
Spring has finally arrived! The world is waking up from its winter slumber, bringing vibrant colors, fresh air, and countless opportunities
Mealtime at school should be a pleasant and nourishing experience for children, but what do you do when a Student Refuses to Eat at School?
In a classroom setting, you may encounter a student who constantly insists on being first—whether it's being the line leader.. But, what now
As the seasons change and bad weather sets in, parents and caregivers often face the challenge of keeping toddlers entertained indoors.
As any parent knows, children are often bursting with energy, ready to explore, play, and engage with the world around them.
As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, many people experience a shift in their mood and energy levels.
As the calendar flips to a new year, many people experience a powerful urge for change.
In a world that often feels overwhelmingly loud and chaotic, the concept of quietness can seem foreign or even uncomfortable.
In many communities, the image of friendly neighbors chatting over fences, sharing meals, and supporting one another has become rare.