Universal Mom®

Helping children and teens uncover their talents through the art of writing

Universal Mom® programs use the art of writing to help uncover the brilliance, talents, gifts and voice of children and teens, building healthy self-esteem and lasting confidence.

Explore the Programs
A new movement

Conscious connection, one story at a time


An awakening in the development of self-esteem and authentic self-expression for children and teens. Through my non-profit, The Self-Esteem Council, I have worked with young people for over twenty years, and I have watched students head off to college, lift their grades, build better relationships at home, and step into leadership at school.

These are the Writer’s Authentic Empowerment Programs for Children & Teens. They open young people up to their hidden treasures of love, compassion, trust, and non-judgment, while exploring gifts and talents they may not yet know they have. And they do it through the joy of creative writing.

What the programs build

Intentionally focused on your child


Every session is designed around the emotional, mental, and spiritual growth of the young writer.

  • Build healthy, foundational self-esteem
  • Value their own gifts and talents, and those of others
  • Honor differences with non-judgment
  • Set productive intentions and goals
  • Discover a new appreciation for writing
  • Feel seen, feel heard, and feel validated
  • Learn to ask “How can I serve?”
  • Move from “victim” to co-creator
  • Practice authentic productivity
  • Develop real time-management skills
  • Become internally motivated
  • Grow resistant to peer pressure
  • Stand against bullying, for themselves and others
  • Enjoy healthier relationships
By age and stage

A program shaped for every age


Three age groups, each meeting children and teens exactly where they are, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

8–11

Young Writers

Curiosity and confidence, discovering their voice through playful, guided writing.

12–14

Emerging Voices

Navigating change with self-worth, identity, and healthy connection at the center.

15–19

Rising Leaders

Purpose, direction, and leadership, writing the next chapter of who they become.

Our promise

Three Rules of Compassion


1

Judgement-Free Zone

2

We Celebrate Our & Others’ Writing

3

We Respect & Honor Confidentiality 100%

The curriculum

The Writing Empowerment modules


Each program runs 8 weeks, and families are welcome to repeat any program as many times as they like. New modules are added over time.

Start here

Introduction Program

The foundation, where young writers meet the tools, the rules of compassion, and their own voice.

Confidence

Building Self-Confidence for the Introvert or Extrovert

Meeting every temperament where it is and helping it shine.

Boundaries

The Power of “Yes” and “No”

Learning that healthy choices begin with honest, self-honoring boundaries.

Belonging

No Judgement Zone

Practicing acceptance of self and others as the ground for real connection.

Growth

Building Upon Experiences

Turning everyday moments into fuel for insight, resilience, and story.

Gratitude

The Power of “Thank You”

Discovering how gratitude reshapes relationships and the way we see ourselves.

Ruth Klein, founder of Universal Mom
About the founder

Created by Ruth Klein


The Universal Mom® programs come from someone who has seen real results with children and adults for over twenty years. The beliefs, the nurturing, the insight, the compassion, they make a difference, a big one.

  • Founder of the non-profit The Self-Esteem Council, in high schools for 22 years
  • Master Coach in personal development
  • Author of seven best-selling books
  • Thought leader and international speaker who writes her own and others’ speeches
  • An expert in shaping brands and messaging through the power of writing
  • A mom who knows how to raise children with self-confidence
More About Ruth
In their words

Success stories


I really appreciated your insights, and I cannot wait to see them start to work in my life. Thank you again, I loved listening to you speak!

Spencer, High School Senior

I never realized how essential these things are to being successful. I’ll set an intention for the day and model my day after it, and hopefully the day becomes more enjoyable. Thank you.

William, High School Senior

Thank you so much for speaking with us, it was truly an eye-opening experience. I feel like if I had known this last year, I would have been way less stressed.

Manpreet, High School Senior

I started the 20-minute power naps and, let me just say, they are extremely helpful to get through the day. I am very grateful for your tips.

Brandon, High School Senior

All the information was excellent, but the piece I most appreciated was that our intentions should always come from our hearts. That makes us honest people, which I value a lot.

Lauren, The Ford Dimension

I know I will carry your tips through the rest of my senior year, as well as through college and beyond.

Paola, High School Senior
Good to know

Frequently asked questions


How long are the Writing Empowerment Programs?

Each program runs 8 weeks, and you can repeat as many programs as you would like.

How many programs do you offer?

We begin with the Introduction Program. We also offer Writing Empowerment Programs focused on Leadership, Time Management, and Respect, with more specific programs on the way.

What if I can’t make the whole investment for my child?

We do have partial scholarships available, so please check in with us to see if you are eligible.

Are there snacks during the program? My child has allergies.

We always provide a questionnaire that asks about your child’s dietary restrictions ahead of time.

What if my child can’t make all 8 classes?

Each class is a stand-alone session, so if your child misses a class there are no make-ups.

Do you have a payment plan?

Yes. We are happy to share our payment plan, just email Ruth at [email protected] or call 310.741.1583.

Begin their story

Enroll your child or teen today


Give your child a place to feel seen, feel heard, and feel valued, and to discover the gifts already inside them. Partial scholarships and payment plans are available.

Questions?

We would love to hear from you


310.741.1583  ·  Fax: 310.573.0046
1626 Montana Ave, Suite 605, Santa Monica, CA 90403
[email protected]

Enrollment Form
Ruth Klein
Meet Ruth Klein

Brand visibility strategist, TV host, and master book coach helping experts turn their message into a book, a brand, and a lasting legacy.

Work With Me