Stefanie Lachenauer—named New Jersey’s 2025 State Teacher of the Year—is offering a practical, accessible approach to mindfulness through her book, Let the Glitter Settle: Mindfulness for Teens.
Drawing on nearly two decades of classroom experience, Lachenauer’s work is rooted in trauma-informed practices and neuroscience-based strategies designed specifically for young people. Her goal is simple but urgent: give teens tools they can actually use in the middle of overwhelming moments, not just in theory but in real life.
The book’s title reflects a metaphor many young readers instantly understand. Lachenauer compares the teenage mind to a shaken jar of glitter—busy, chaotic, and difficult to settle. Through guided exercises and reflective prompts, she helps readers slow down, breathe, and allow that “glitter” to gradually fall, creating space for clarity and calm.
Unlike traditional self-help books, Let the Glitter Settle is designed to feel approachable and flexible. It blends elements of a journal, guidebook, and personal companion, encouraging teens to explore what works for them without pressure or judgment. From simple breathing techniques to mindfulness exercises that improve focus and emotional awareness, the book emphasizes small, manageable steps rather than overwhelming changes.
Lachenauer also addresses a critical gap in how mental health is often discussed with young people. While awareness campaigns can spark conversation, they don’t always provide actionable strategies. Her approach focuses on emotional regulation—helping teens recognize their feelings, understand them, and respond in healthier ways.
Importantly, the book extends its value beyond teen readers. Parents, educators, and counselors are also part of the intended audience, offering them insight into how to better support young people navigating stress, social pressures, and uncertainty. By creating a shared language around mindfulness, Lachenauer encourages stronger connections between teens and the adults in their lives.
As mental health challenges among adolescents continue to rise, resources like Let the Glitter Settle highlight the importance of practical, everyday support. Rather than waiting for a crisis, the book advocates for consistent care—small moments of pause that can make a lasting difference over time.
In a world that often feels fast and overwhelming, Lachenauer’s message is both simple and powerful: calm isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you practice.