tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86824136657744037652024-03-19T02:46:26.790-05:00Parenting the Montessori WayVirginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-6559400836905149702021-01-25T16:01:00.000-06:002021-01-25T16:01:21.726-06:00Temper Tantrums, Whining and Begging...not fun for anyone. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQV6z6dJlNaLGXb7VEbb0RWxQBKJYrvIwD3UV_D55N8SWZCX0edeiniHhGcTqfknGYDLImlgnSDcALlGIPhSAqFYut4HjBaMzRQ9KHVYWLv-mZbIcrcjUP43oCQilb9TLklGJzFcOIcZgm/s1600/images.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="299" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQV6z6dJlNaLGXb7VEbb0RWxQBKJYrvIwD3UV_D55N8SWZCX0edeiniHhGcTqfknGYDLImlgnSDcALlGIPhSAqFYut4HjBaMzRQ9KHVYWLv-mZbIcrcjUP43oCQilb9TLklGJzFcOIcZgm/s200/images.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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We wonder, is it too much to ask our children to cooperate, to accept no as an answer, to understand they cannot always have what they want? </div>
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And yet for many of us, this is a daily struggle. The necessary tasks of life become a battle ground: getting dressed, putting away belongings, helping out around the house and brushing teeth.</div>
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At the grocery store we are begged for candy or toys, although we have said no many times. And the list goes on. </div>
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Lucky for us, there are some tried and true ideas that have worked for many parents. These are not magic (wouldn't that be great?), they require hard work, lots of patience and possibly most important of all, consistency. That last one was nearly my downfall. </div>
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Let's begin with one simple response to begging and pleading. We'll use the grocery store and asking for candy as an example. Now, of course, before we leave for the store we make sure we say that there will be no candy purchases made today. </div>
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As you begin to check out, the display of candy catches the child's eye. "Mom, look. That's my favorite candy! Can I have one? " "No, I told you, no candy at the store today." "But, mom, I really want one. I'll be good. The next time I won't ask, I promise." "I said, NO CANDY." Our patience is wearing thin at this point, and we often follow up with "How many times do I have to tell you, NO." Ah, and then the tears begin and the voice gets louder. People are starting to give us "that look". You know...why doesn't she control that kid look. And everything goes downhill from here, including threats of punishment when we get home, never getting candy again and increasing anger on both sides. </div>
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Instead, try this (I promise you it works!): "Mom, there's my favorite candy! Can I have one?" "Oh, I know you really like that candy. Today is the day we are not buying candy." " But I really, really want one."</div>
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Now, here is the magic: we choose a simple phrase to repeat every time the child argues, begs or whines. I like "I know." Some others are: I see. That's sad. Oh my. You get the idea. And we must say this with the most quiet, bored voice possible. No anger, no frustration, no sarcasm. This is the hard part. There may be a full fledged temper tantrum, but stick to the same words. If necessary, leave the store. Before long the child gets the idea that begging, pleading, anger and whining do not work. Children will only continue with behavior which gets a result. That result may be making the parent angry (I am powerful. I can make mom mad.) or getting the candy (Mom doesn't mean what she says) . </div>
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Another idea that can work wonders in some situations is to turn our no into yes. Now, that does not mean letting the child do whatever they want. Often we can rephrase our response to a request like this: </div>
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"Dad, can we go to the park and play ball?" Now it is not possible. You are busy, it is nearly dark and dinner is ready. Of course, no is the answer. Ah, but how about this: Yes, that would be a lot of fun. We can go to the park on Saturday morning. It should be a sunny day and I will be finished this job by then. Or would you rather go on Sunday? I can do either one. The child may say he wants to go now and we respond: I know. Me too! Would you like to go on Saturday or Sunday? Almost always the child will like having a choice and be understanding about the delay. Save the no for those times when there isn't an alternative. </div>
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"> You may leave questions and comments by clicking on the comment button at the bottom of the page. Have a great week!</span><br />
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Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-42600055880890450492021-01-11T08:55:00.001-06:002021-01-11T08:55:30.452-06:00Parenting with Montessori and Love and Logic<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTnJUFcrS1AKpAKlXIfUjpstnKsVKlMb6SgTYRHHzKVT-ItqxRyisjn50e6KuIf8SIN6BIXdwL6pf0KDCSbceikTZ0lT0oZ02XCYHGeq5hF7H35gM1Yury-g0kS2ySk9b0BGGc3IKDEH0a/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="191" data-original-width="263" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTnJUFcrS1AKpAKlXIfUjpstnKsVKlMb6SgTYRHHzKVT-ItqxRyisjn50e6KuIf8SIN6BIXdwL6pf0KDCSbceikTZ0lT0oZ02XCYHGeq5hF7H35gM1Yury-g0kS2ySk9b0BGGc3IKDEH0a/" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Many parents of AMCS students have attended our in person Parenting with Montessori and Love and Logic meetings. These two books are an excellent starting point for getting ideas that will make parenting effective, less stressful and even fun! As we are not able to have in person meetings at this time this online space will give us a format to get the same information with the opportunity to comment and ask questions. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We welcome your input and ideas. There will be a new post every two weeks beginning on January 18th with advance information on what will be discussed and resources you can use on your parenting journey. Our first post will address getting cooperation; a very important topic during these times. Have a great week!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><br /><p></p>Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-53667216457763650672020-12-10T17:35:00.000-06:002020-12-16T11:30:34.527-06:00Making Holidays Happy ....Can It Be Done, especially now!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTXd3z7AptnRU7yseT-d8Qgre03Pt1xUeUUVlNWqCRemDomvNzWWaGUClQbo2T_nvEXTiQ2CfEB8GOaKZEQNsRF_UbgQiwoPzQw456UmqQAyjeoB3Zz6xY3f2aqzcE-GrHytD-cYZ91RHO/s3886/20191207_155057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1712" data-original-width="3886" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTXd3z7AptnRU7yseT-d8Qgre03Pt1xUeUUVlNWqCRemDomvNzWWaGUClQbo2T_nvEXTiQ2CfEB8GOaKZEQNsRF_UbgQiwoPzQw456UmqQAyjeoB3Zz6xY3f2aqzcE-GrHytD-cYZ91RHO/s320/20191207_155057.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Is this the scene we all imagine when we think about the winter holidays? For most of in Houston that rarely (if ever) means snow and a blazing fire. </div>
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There are a few challenges that come with this time of year. If your family celebrates Christmas the rush of decorating, buying presents, finding a tree, hosting parties and family gatherings can be overwhelming, especially this year when gatherings may or may not be possible. If your family observes other holidays that do not occur in December it can be difficult to manage all of the excitement in the air. </div>
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Each family must choose how, if and when they participate in the holiday events. One thing that is common to all is the coming of winter. It is easy to decorate the home with winter in mind, to arrange a trip to ice skate or play in one of the "snow storms" that are set up around the city. All can enjoy the lights at the zoo, in our neighborhoods and at Discovery Green. </div>
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Of course there are many who are less fortunate, who find it difficult to put food on the table, to have warm clothing for their family, to provide even the most simple of toys. The joy of giving to others can bring a sense of belonging, of being of service, and feeling that we have done some good. Perhaps your family can do a food drive in the neighborhood, go through their toys and donate gently used but outgrown ones to charities. Children can raise money for the homeless and food banks. Simply baking some cookies and taking them to a lonely neighbor can lift our spirits and bring our families together. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">Take a winter walk on the beach, or go on a hunt for winter pictures, play board games, visit a park and roast marshmallows, sing, tell stories and gather together in person where possible, or virtually, to celebrate a season of family and caring for our fellow human beings. Most of all, remember that we really are one world. </div>
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Have a wonderful winter holiday. Look for another post in a week with a funny, true and workable solution to an overload of toys!</div>
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Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me. </div>
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Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-4361554605834385242020-10-07T09:58:00.000-05:002020-10-07T09:58:00.620-05:00Books for Parents!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fjxs8-vk1KP0ALaIuhlAmDJGFnMSRY4hB8gcY9yAfDWUClPjVmxEQ3LLU15C-GrzEmYOvt8QkFTSW2VvsCYn2niTzSm5jxZ7vtNkj_inW2LQWJnA6VIHSfd64sWv13T-WF17TTgjO9jq/s500/family-picnic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fjxs8-vk1KP0ALaIuhlAmDJGFnMSRY4hB8gcY9yAfDWUClPjVmxEQ3LLU15C-GrzEmYOvt8QkFTSW2VvsCYn2niTzSm5jxZ7vtNkj_inW2LQWJnA6VIHSfd64sWv13T-WF17TTgjO9jq/s320/family-picnic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> Welcome back to our parenting blog! Today I am posting a number of books that will give more insights into Montessori education, the Montessori child and some just for enjoyment of a glimpse into the child's world. You are always welcome to comment, ask questions or add ideas. <p></p><p>Learning about Montessori:</p><p><u>The Discovery of the Child</u></p><p> This is Dr. Montessori's own book which is an essential part of every teacher's education and training. We read and reread this brilliant insight into how children learn and grow. </p><p><u><br /></u></p><p><u>The Joyful Child: Montessori, Global Wisdom for Birth to Three</u>: Susan Mayclin Stephenson</p><p><u>Child of the World: Montessori, Global Wisdom for Ages 3-12:</u> Susan Mayclin Stephenson</p><p>These two books are a great introduction to Montessori and understanding the development of the young child. </p><p><u>Montessori Today:</u>Paula Polk Lillard </p><p>Looking at the benefits of a Montessori education and a readable and comprehensive overview of Montessori life. </p><p><br /></p><p>Books to enjoy:</p><p><u>You Can't Say You Can't Play:</u> Vivian Gussin Paley </p><p><u>The Girl With the Brown Crayon</u> Vivian Gussin Paley</p><p>Paley is a former teacher with a joyful and deep understanding of young children. She has written many books filled with humor and joy. </p><p>Some of these books are available in the public library and online (do a search).</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><h1 class="WorkMeta-title Alternative Alternative-title" itemprop="name" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #363636; font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Segoe, sans-serif; font-size: 1.3rem; line-height: 1.75rem; margin: 0px; max-width: 80%; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis;"><br /></h1>Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-72026543678184210762020-09-18T17:22:00.003-05:002020-09-18T19:42:04.455-05:00What is Montessori? For new and returning parents!<p> </p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Igqz43aoNNVcLIhjv-Oivx1NeKTm6U14_G02niYZkCGX7zsrjj2oxsdsLbxTfxBvLSuapKFkQRMeJq7-o0hvSuahy-yAJgFaYOBNaY7bkMGHcPuQ_NJIFf-F2rWwJOR_q0hyFOkJUYfi/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="690" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Igqz43aoNNVcLIhjv-Oivx1NeKTm6U14_G02niYZkCGX7zsrjj2oxsdsLbxTfxBvLSuapKFkQRMeJq7-o0hvSuahy-yAJgFaYOBNaY7bkMGHcPuQ_NJIFf-F2rWwJOR_q0hyFOkJUYfi/" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">This year we return to a very different experience for our students, parents and staff. Even as we navigate the best approach to provide the closest Montessori learning possible, there are challenges and necessary adaptations. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">Today I want to share with you an important part of my experience through over 40 years teaching and being an administrator in both public and private Montessori schools. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">If we return to Dr. Maria Montessori's teachings and her own knowledge of children we learn that every child has the same basic needs and interests. It is our responsibility not to put barrie</span><span style="font-size: small;">rs in the path of the child as they grow, learn and mature. Montessori called these needs the human tendencies. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">These are true for all children and adults everywhere.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Order: At home or at school, a sense of order helps the child to organize their thoughts, to feel secure and confident, to become more and more capable and independent. In the classroom, everything has a place and that place does not change. At home, the child's room can be set up to provide this benefit. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Communication: Communication comes in many forms: words, actions, symbols, signs, body language and behavior. In Montessori talking with friends when appropriate is encouraged. Teachers make time to talk with each child every day, to tell stories and share ideas. At home, family time together to talk, sing, play games and share a meal helps the child to feel valued and understood. Language is the tool of the intellect. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Orientation: This is the ability to fit in, to relate to a place or group. Orientation gives the child a sense of direction and belonging. If the child is disoriented he may be insecure and unsure of himself. In Montessori every child has grace and courtesy lessons that teach manners, respect and ways to resolve problems. These lessons are given as information, not as correction or disapproval. At home, helping your child to understand what is expected as a family member and how he or she can contribute to the good of the family will aid in achieving orientation.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Concentration: We all want our children to be able to concentrate. To build concentration skills it is important that the work is interesting and attractive to him. Montessori lessons are designed to build on the child's interests and abilities. At home, reducing outside interruptions will help develop the ability to focus. If you are reading with your child or engaged in a lesson or conversation giving full attention will demonstrate the importance of the book or task, and of course, show the child how important he or she is. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Repetition: Learning takes place through repetition. Children have a desire for perfection and for this reason it is important to allow time for repetition. As the child repeats the work they become more confident and ready to move on to the next challenge. Remember that when we try a new activity it takes time to feel confident and strong. Mistakes are just the steps to competence. We must honor the effort and not just the result as the child repeats any skill. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Perfection: </span>All human beings have the desire for perfection. We achieve perfection by practicing skills, following our abilities and interests, and staying with a task until we succeed. It is important that children have the time and support to work toward perfection. This will differ with every child and in every endeavor so patience on the part of adults while encouraging and supporting effort will be most helpful.</p><p>Exactness: The human tendency for exactness shows in our ability to do intricate work, to choose the right words when speaking, to follow a recipe, drive safely and in many other areas. Children develop this ability in the Montessori classroom with many activities which require increasing exactness, culminating in the ability to do complex math, solve difficult problems and be orderly and precise in their work. </p><p>Exploration: Young children are sensorial learners. At a very young age they will spend hours building towers with blocks, using clay, playing in the sand. In school many of the primary Montessori materials use this tendency to encourage exploration of size, sound, touch and weight. As they progress, later work encourages discovery of results of experimentation, exploration of the history of the world, the secrets of science and math. Without the tendency to explore mankind would not have progressed. </p><p>Abstraction: The human tendency to seek abstraction begins with a base in reality at the youngest ages. For this reason we offer only real information to the primary child. As the child forms a solid base in reality (no talking animals, etc.) the ability to begin thinking beyond what they know and move into the world of imagination and more complex creativity becomes possible.</p><p>Movement: Movement is essential for all humans. Children who are free to move about will show increased ability to concentrate and focus. In the Montessori classroom children are free to move about, to choose different kinds of work as long as they do not disturb others. In my early days of teaching I went to a child who was just wandering about and suggested he choose some work. This four year old replied "I am working. I am thinking about numbers." I learned a lot about movement from this young boy. As parents let's help our children to have activities every day that involve moving: gardening, playing ball, washing the car, cooking...all of these will built confidence and skill. </p><p>Work: Every human needs to engage their mind, body and spirit in a purpose. Work helps the child feel productive and useful and gives a sense of belonging. In Montessori we call our lessons work because we want the children to respect and enjoy work. As adults when we show respect and enthusiasm for our own work we teach a valuable lesson to the child. </p><p>Activity: This is a new dimension of work. Purposeful activity gives all people a sense of value and importance. Donating time to a cause, helping a neighbor, caring for someone who needs help, planting a garden...all of these are examples of how we build self esteem and confidence. Children can contribute to the good of the family. Even the youngest child can help in many ways. Think about calling these activities "contributions to our family" rather than "your job". These important activities are part of every classroom as the students care for plants and animals, clean up after lunch, keep their materials in a neat manner and enjoy being a real part of the school through their activity. In the adolescent community (middle school) the students take on projects and community activities which are the culmination of earlier work in the classrooms. </p><p>I hope this gives you a glimpse into the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori and her deep understanding of the needs of all humankind, especially children. </p><p>Next week I will post some books if you would like to explore the world of Montessori further. </p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 18pt;"><span style="font-size: small; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 18pt;"><br /></p>Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-3881798308785042992020-08-22T11:05:00.000-05:002020-08-22T11:05:35.576-05:00IDEAS TO GET THE MOST FROM LEARNING AT HOME<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRjzQXn_-zg5CbvBTzSzj1hbbs9ls1XprUh_OePe1QrH1zjL-CQ6tMZZIOS9VnRnga62Gs4DBvMpv4cEJTPTMegMga9-SVc-x4gzwEPQwcSK8H3iVyhuImKzvP1_RUyDPrJkslFJAInjd/s299/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRjzQXn_-zg5CbvBTzSzj1hbbs9ls1XprUh_OePe1QrH1zjL-CQ6tMZZIOS9VnRnga62Gs4DBvMpv4cEJTPTMegMga9-SVc-x4gzwEPQwcSK8H3iVyhuImKzvP1_RUyDPrJkslFJAInjd/s0/download.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a5442adb-7fff-e0f0-3be2-f4819509fc06"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We strongly encourage you to implement these ideas every day. Consistency is important in any educational experience, and especially now. It is important that you help your child realize that although they are at home it is a school experience. These suggestions will help your child to feel more as if they are in the actual classroom and will increase concentration and attention. </span> </p></span></div></blockquote><p> </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a5442adb-7fff-e0f0-3be2-f4819509fc06"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Make sure you know your child’s class schedule and set an alarm at least 15 minutes ahead so they can be ready on time. </b></span></p></span></div></blockquote><p><b> </b></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a5442adb-7fff-e0f0-3be2-f4819509fc06"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>A paper calendar with the days and times for class time noted and posted where it can be seen will help prepare your student. </b></span></p></span></div></blockquote><p><b> </b></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a5442adb-7fff-e0f0-3be2-f4819509fc06"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">It will help your child to be more attentive and prepared if they are wearing appropriate clothing: our school uniform or a nice tee shirt, pants, skirt, hair brushed, shoes on. Make it a pleasure to “get ready for school”. </span></b></p></span></div></blockquote><p><br /></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a5442adb-7fff-e0f0-3be2-f4819509fc06"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Have a regular, dedicated space with a desk or table, a comfortable chair, pencils and any other books or supplies the teacher has suggested. Try to keep this space the same every day. Have a dedicated place for materials to be kept between sessions.</b></span></p></span></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a5442adb-7fff-e0f0-3be2-f4819509fc06"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre;">/</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Be sure to keep distractions at a minimum. We know you are at home and there will be some disruption. Perhaps ask friends and family not to call during school time, turn off television, cell phones and music while your child is “at school.”</span></b></p></span></div></blockquote><p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a5442adb-7fff-e0f0-3be2-f4819509fc06"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>It will make the time for class more useful if your child uses the bathroom beforehand, and, depending on the specified time, is not hungry or thirsty. </b></span><span> </span></p></span></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a5442adb-7fff-e0f0-3be2-f4819509fc06"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b> </b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We know that you will join us in doing everything possible to help the children have the best possible experience. Please show a positive attitude toward the remote learning experience, emphasize the positive and know you are contributing greatly to your child’s education. Our faculty is working hard to achieve that same end. We are all in this together. </span></p><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></blockquote>Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-75346408077984931812020-08-20T17:00:00.000-05:002020-08-20T17:00:58.812-05:00Getting Outside....Safely<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVp_2TcxykPk59IqlSJsf-8tbrJxJ0zasBO0Y_0JzCH3CVftqeY_CcuQhnVuzWZID-9rMZuhyoUqoLs2Xmj5nzaf953BaCr_5lZYBYLCY2ZsR0geIiV6Xl6R-bpkygoh_e6zzcua4KLx6/s4414/20200329_103020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2298" data-original-width="4414" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVp_2TcxykPk59IqlSJsf-8tbrJxJ0zasBO0Y_0JzCH3CVftqeY_CcuQhnVuzWZID-9rMZuhyoUqoLs2Xmj5nzaf953BaCr_5lZYBYLCY2ZsR0geIiV6Xl6R-bpkygoh_e6zzcua4KLx6/w512-h266/20200329_103020.jpg" width="512" /></a></div> <p></p><p>Most of us are either at home or spending our days working. </p><p>Families are busy helping children with remote learning, navigating the pages of information about the virus, deciding what is safe to do, how to get groceries, manage changing finances and all of the other challenges we face together. </p><p>Children, especially young children, cannot really understand all of the changes in their lives, even with loving parents and teachers doing their best to support them. </p><p>An essential part of a healthy life for everyone is spending time in nature. Walking through a garden, observing birds and wildlife, listening to water create a musical backdrop to a stroll through a forest; these moments can make worry and fatigue fall away. </p><p>Finding these safe havens can be a challenge. We are fortunate that we have many parks and natural areas close by the Houston area where families can be safely distanced from others and be safely outdoors. Explore the options with your family and go experience some of the most beautiful and peaceful areas of our city.</p><p>It is good to be prepared. Bring snacks, drinks or even a full picnic. Pack hand sanitizers, masks for those that can wear them, wet washcloths in plastic bags, and sunscreen if needed. It is summer in Houston, after all. Make sure everyone uses the restroom before leaving to limit stops in public places. Go over the rules for safety and go have fun!</p><p>Most of the following places can be visited safely, especially if you go early in the day. I routinely walk at Mercer Botanic Gardens at 8 a.m. and am often the only person there. The picture at the top of the blog was taken there. </p><p><b>Mercer Botanic Gardens</b>: <a href="https://www.hcp4.net/parks/mercer/">https://www.hcp4.net/parks/mercer/</a></p><p>Miles of hiking trails, fountains, flowers, a children's garden, picnic tables and a playground make this a great place for family outings. If you are lucky you might see deer, rabbits, armadillos and lots of birds! Best of all...it is free. </p><p><b>Alexander Deussen Park: </b><a href="https://www.hcp1.net/Parks/AlexanderDeussen">https://www.hcp1.net/Parks/AlexanderDeussen</a></p><p>309 beautiful acres on Lake Houston with lots of room for bike riding, hiking, a duck pond, a dog park, fishing and boat ramps are all open and free. Lots of room to spread out, play ball, read and relax. </p><p><b>Houston Arboretum and Nature Center: <a href="https://houstonarboretum.org/">https://houstonarboretum.org/</a></b></p><p>A gem in the heart of Houston! Visit the web site for a map of the many trails. Be sure to check the link for restrictions due the Covid19 as they change frequently. </p><p><b>Brazos Bend State Park: </b><a href="https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/brazos-bend">https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/brazos-bend</a></p><p>Ready for a "wild" experience? Come hike the miles of trails, fish, picnic and see the wildlife. Alligators, birds and other animals are common sightings. Be sure to check out the link (more info !) for current information on restrictions due to Covid19. </p><p>For more places to get your nature on go to the Texas State Park website. </p><p>'Parks are listed by location and have full information. </p><p>Play safe! Let's get outdoors and have some fun!</p><p>Look for the next post for ideas on how to make being at home a positive experience. We are doing this together! </p>Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-79713909673985663762020-04-14T11:49:00.000-05:002020-04-14T11:49:31.227-05:00COOKING AT HOME...AND SOME NEW ART ACTIVITIES ON LINE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbAt-6a-JNjCz5siivmGCnqMXc0Z362GYjFhOmmQKAZGDe9Vuluiov1v9aacOagiXZoNLHOMA6rjfUFaBwPtJh9NB1HdTb4UHOaDnYoAKKq2nSleikdhjQl6G7HHrpw3IRu-X3zShqPg9o/s1600/2014-10-23+08.06.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbAt-6a-JNjCz5siivmGCnqMXc0Z362GYjFhOmmQKAZGDe9Vuluiov1v9aacOagiXZoNLHOMA6rjfUFaBwPtJh9NB1HdTb4UHOaDnYoAKKq2nSleikdhjQl6G7HHrpw3IRu-X3zShqPg9o/s320/2014-10-23+08.06.01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Most of us are at home with our families. Meals become an important part of the day; an opportunity to be together and nourish our bodies and our minds.<br />
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Children of all ages usually love to participate in the preparation of the food and even the youngest can help. In our Montessori classrooms lessons on peeling and chopping carrots and apples, peeling oranges, slicing hard boiled eggs and even baking are part of every day. <br />
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When given the title of "sous chef" helping takes on a different feeling. A stool for the younger child to reach the counter, or a low table if available is a great idea. Wearing an apron (or a dish towel around the waist adds importance to the activity. Don't be afraid to show your child how to use kitchen tools safely. At school we use a round tipped, serrated knife with a wooden handle and a sturdy cutting board. <br />
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If you wish, excellent child size tools and aprons are available at<br />
<a href="http://www.forsmallhands.com/">www.forsmallhands.com</a><br />
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So what to prepare? A few beginning places to look:<br />
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<a href="https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/packages/recipes-for-kids/cooking-with-kids/recipes-kids-can-make">https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/packages/recipes-for-kids/cooking-with-kids/recipes-kids-can-make</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/easy-recipes-for-kids-to-make-by-themselves/">https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/easy-recipes-for-kids-to-make-by-themselves/</a><br />
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<a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/68861692-nyt-cooking/930565-51-recipes-to-cook-with-your-kids">https://cooking.nytimes.com/68861692-nyt-cooking/930565-51-recipes-to-cook-with-your-kids</a><br />
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Or just make your child's own favorites: mac and cheese, tacos, kebabs, a fruit salad and of course, always, cookies.<br />
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The important thing is to have fun, relax, laugh and of course, everyone helps to clean up. Believe it or not, most children will enjoy that if it is a shared activity.<br />
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Happy Cooking!!!!<br />
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And here is a new link from our amazing Museum of Fine Arts Houston. <br />
<a href="https://www.mfah.org/blogs/inside-mfah/family-friendly-art-activities-at-home">https://www.mfah.org/blogs/inside-mfah/family-friendly-art-activities-at-home</a><br />
These are great ideas for all ages (including the adults in the family).<br />
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Stay well! <br />
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<br />Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-53736701978366557362020-04-08T17:12:00.000-05:002020-04-09T07:41:14.501-05:00Nurturing Our Mental Health and Stress <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD9KGjNUX3J7-XPUAYRF_gyAfrZPsnXgwM_xjLM0fm1dFctfPc1sH-njuA-2zE_xl4ZxLJHqpzzy7mlv9_KIjl0Zcc6Gr4_qE3KzQiYPlUo3fFOgJ80w3cxgauDOMWAbIl8yipR0KIpMFg/s1600/20200329_103029.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD9KGjNUX3J7-XPUAYRF_gyAfrZPsnXgwM_xjLM0fm1dFctfPc1sH-njuA-2zE_xl4ZxLJHqpzzy7mlv9_KIjl0Zcc6Gr4_qE3KzQiYPlUo3fFOgJ80w3cxgauDOMWAbIl8yipR0KIpMFg/s320/20200329_103029.mp4" width="320" /></a></div>
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This was shared with me by my daughter, Avia Benzion. She is a therapist specializing in stress and trauma.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">This is a helpful video on how to nurture our mental health during the pandemic from trauma research author Bessel van der Kolk, MD.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ny1hBwulGcA&feature=emb_share&fbclid=IwAR2PPJX83Er8vndfVnP7OOdMfTlybwbrsUmEv5X00j9h693rYo_LHIgvlhY">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ny1hBwulGcA&feature=emb_share&fbclid=IwAR2PPJX83Er8vndfVnP7OOdMfTlybwbrsUmEv5X00j9h693rYo_LHIgvlhY</a><br />
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There is additional helpful information on Dr Kolk's website (the link is at the start of the video).<br />
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Additionally it is very helpful to get out into nature safely.<br />
The short video above was taken at Mercer Arboretum, an uncrowded, beautiful and free spot to visit safely. I walk there early in the mornings (around 9 a.m.) and there have been very few people. Those who are have been courteous and will avoid walking anywhere close to others. The west side has paved trails, deer, rabbits, birds and squirrels. The east side has beautiful planted areas, a view of Cypress Creek, and an interesting children's area. At this time the playground, benches and tables are all off limits for safety and the park is closed on the weekends and open Monday through Friday. You can read more about Mercer at: <a href="https://www.hcp4.net/parks/mercer/">https://www.hcp4.net/parks/mercer/</a><br />
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If you can't get out, try this virtual link to the Dallas Arboretum which also has links to STEM activities for children. <a href="https://www.dallasarboretum.org/visitor-information/virtual-visit/">https://www.dallasarboretum.org/visitor-information/virtual-visit/</a><br />
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Do you do Yoga, Tai Chi, like to sing, play an instrument, cook, play board games or garden? Involve your children and have some relaxed, fun time together. We will all get through this, closer and better for the challenges.<br />
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Stay safe and well!<br />
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<br />Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-90982879242589740032020-03-30T09:30:00.002-05:002020-03-30T09:30:35.822-05:00Some Calming Moments for the Whole Family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0uJo00JQfD300TSS3BZXe0U6jJnih0HR_MGUVu9KYBlkVohEZX46mX3NSnTTwbad3Mt4iSnlgajos7wHk-MAE4whaAp8XgrtW7ml78fOu_xXmqEfXCKAnUdoe7Ba7ah6NL1tP1gXtvvKs/s1600/20200329_103020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="833" data-original-width="1600" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0uJo00JQfD300TSS3BZXe0U6jJnih0HR_MGUVu9KYBlkVohEZX46mX3NSnTTwbad3Mt4iSnlgajos7wHk-MAE4whaAp8XgrtW7ml78fOu_xXmqEfXCKAnUdoe7Ba7ah6NL1tP1gXtvvKs/s320/20200329_103020.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Good morning,<br />
As we all are adjusting to the challenges we face together I want to share a free resource for everyone.<br />
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Have you noticed the downward spiral of thoughts that can happen when you're worried, stressed, or nervous? </div>
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It’s common to fast forward into an unknown future and play out worst case scenarios in our mind. The antidote is to bring awareness to our thoughts and emotions, and return to presence. This helps recenter and stabilize us in times of uncertainty.</div>
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Calm.com is providing some peaceful tools for adults and children. </div>
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<a href="https://www.calm.com/blog/take-a-deep-breath">https://www.calm.com/blog/take-a-deep-breath</a></div>
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A walk outdoors, keeping your distance of course can be helpful. The photo above was taken at Mercer Arboretum, a free, uncrowded place of beauty. </div>
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<a href="https://www.hcp4.net/parks/mercer/">https://www.hcp4.net/parks/mercer/</a></div>
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Stay safe and well! </div>
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Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-47703254858487021942020-03-27T07:48:00.001-05:002020-03-27T07:48:49.820-05:00At home...making the most of the hours safely<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6sStCpUD2SrzY-yOPA8gAdPjNA_lpLYlxHw0iUnQTbme3dwXGQtv-dDn7Jf2h2LNgqNVsq3ubDz72tLGxRNlQNmw_4PpGcEBVqbnmlzkaHePUr2X9vtpxALwmPI-YSvE3ZIpylSPDv2h/s1600/IMG_3899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1138" data-original-width="1600" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6sStCpUD2SrzY-yOPA8gAdPjNA_lpLYlxHw0iUnQTbme3dwXGQtv-dDn7Jf2h2LNgqNVsq3ubDz72tLGxRNlQNmw_4PpGcEBVqbnmlzkaHePUr2X9vtpxALwmPI-YSvE3ZIpylSPDv2h/s320/IMG_3899.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Good morning (or afternoon) everyone,<br />
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I thought I would share this sweet photo of a dad and his son sharing a bit of food. It was his son's first taste of a s'more and he wasn't quite sure if he liked it! As it turned out, he did.<br />
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Especially in times of stress food can be a comfort for our families. Sharing the preparation of a meal and then sitting down together to eat helps us to feel connected and safe. Over the next few days I will be posting some ideas for easy snacks and meals you can prepare with simple ingredients. Encourage your whole family to get involved (after washing their hands for 20 seconds, of course.)<br />
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However, this morning I share with you a very important video from a physician who has taken the time to help us make sure the food we bring into our homes is not also bringing in sickness. Although it seems like a lot to trouble, the benefits will far outweigh the effort.<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjDuwc9KBps&t=8s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjDuwc9KBps&t=8s</a><br />
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Have a safe and pleasant day. Enjoy the lessons and suggestions our dedicated and hardworking teachers and administration have put together to help our children prosper and feel connected while we are apart. They will be in touch with each of you.<br />
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<br />Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-80552919057828545552020-03-23T19:28:00.001-05:002020-03-25T20:57:37.719-05:00Resources and Ideas for Parents During School Closing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">We know you are all trying your best to manage this situation, trying to balance work, home and everyone’s health and well being. Please use these ideas to help maintain you and your children’s lives as much as possible. Check back frequently as we will be adding information and ideas. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">First of all it is important to provide a variety of activities for the entire family. Doing this will reduce stress and worry and will feel more normal for everyone. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">We suggest having a somewhat regular schedule which incorporates all the essential elements of a child’s day: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">1.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Regular, healthy meals with as many family members present as possible</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">2.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Enough sleep, preceded by a pleasant nighttime routine, such as story time, quiet conversation and ideally no screen time, especially in the bedroom.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">3.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">A regular time for school work which will be available from AMCS to all parents</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">4.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Reading together for pleasure</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">5.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Time outdoors in a safe place: the home yard or patio, a walk in a public park remembering to stay 10 feet away from others and not use playground equipment, a small home garden and other outside chores such as washing the car, etc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">6.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Family board games can be relaxing, educational and fun. Have a regular time set aside at least several times a week.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">7.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Taking advantage of some of the special resources listed below. Virtual trips to the zoo, listening to stories read by librarians, authors and others, learning new songs in many languages, and many more. Please explore these resources and share with others by the internet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">8.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Take care not to expose your children (especially those under 12) to news stories and TV news. These are difficult to absorb and understand even for adults and can result in fear and anxiety. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">9.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Your children will miss their friends. If possible, Facetime chats with friends and relatives. This can be comforting and fun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">10.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;"> And of course, remember that adults that have been out in public need to wash and sanitize their hands and any materials brought in from outside as soon as arriving at home, including cell phones, mail and work materials. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Resources for children and parents:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">1.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;"> Free stories for ages up to 18 at Audible: </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.stories.audible.com&source=gmail&ust=1585095857929000&usg=AFQjCNGhb4_vEoNc6yB4kICJh7JMgQi6eA" href="http://www.stories.audible.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">www.stories.audible.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">2.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Scholastic Magazine Learn at Home: resources for families and teachers: </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.classroommagazines.scholastic.com/support/learnathome.html&source=gmail&ust=1585095857930000&usg=AFQjCNHK2VnfD8xf3FJ1uGeUpPS7PuHpNg" href="http://www.classroommagazines.scholastic.com/support/learnathome.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">www.classroommagazines.<wbr></wbr>scholastic.com/support/<wbr></wbr>learnathome.html</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">3.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">The Smithsonian Learning Lab: a deep source for science related activity and information: </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.learninglab.si.edu&source=gmail&ust=1585095857930000&usg=AFQjCNHbVAA1qdETWZjbpW6padoy-5hLAg" href="http://www.learninglab.si.edu/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">www.learninglab.si.edu</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">4.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Great Books Foundation: </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.cosmicbookshelf.com&source=gmail&ust=1585095857930000&usg=AFQjCNHlBa2WooHFsCQozevHKHMGo3XvfQ" href="http://www.cosmicbookshelf.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">www.cosmicbookshelf.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">5.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Visit the Houston Zoo on Facebook, live at 11 a.m. daily</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">6.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Stories read by KPRC staff: <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://click2houston.com&source=gmail&ust=1585095857930000&usg=AFQjCNEoSMF-L8eNWmoU4o-VLWG58ZuonQ" href="http://click2houston.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">click2houston.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">7.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">Thousands of songs and play ideas in many languages, all free </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.mamalisa.com&source=gmail&ust=1585095857930000&usg=AFQjCNEYzc0UxMv9gbBbV11_b6oj_bk9rg" href="http://www.mamalisa.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">www.mamalisa.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4667px;">8 Free books to read together or for children to read to you:</span><br />
<a href="https://portal.flyleafpublishing.com/">https://portal.flyleafpublishing.com/</a></div>
Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-28490171722962512302020-02-07T18:37:00.000-06:002020-02-07T18:37:03.247-06:00YOUR CHILD'S BRAIN AND ELECTRONIC MEDIA: the latest research and some good ideas. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Updated research information on how screen time changes the brains of our children and other information on the topic of technology.</div>
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The following link will take you to the article on the latest research:</div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2019/11/04/health/screen-time-lower-brain-development-preschoolers-wellness/index.html?fbclid=IwAR2gbIXXN4sY2sewjFgAgqjIU3x3g6_vulpJvhInQbkKgorJMsO8hG6CDyw">https://edition.cnn.com/2019/11/04/health/screen-time-lower-brain-development-preschoolers-wellness/index.html?fbclid=IwAR2gbIXXN4sY2sewjFgAgqjIU3x3g6_vulpJvhInQbkKgorJMsO8hG6CDyw</a></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">FAMILY IS THE MOST IMPORTANT INFLUENCE IN A CHILD'S LIFE, BUT TELEVISION, VIDEOS AND GAMES ARE NOT FAR BEHIND. THESE MEDIA CAN INFORM, ENTERTAIN, AND TEACH US. HOWEVER, SOME OF WHAT THEY TEACH MAY NOT BE THE THINGS YOU WANT YOUR CHILD TO LEARN. TV PROGRAMS, VIDEO GAMES AND COMMERCIALS OFTEN SHOW VIOLENCE, ALCOHOL OR DRUG USE, AND SEXUAL CONTENT THAT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN OR TEENS. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /><b>HOW SCREEN TIME AFFECTS YOUR CHILD</b>: THERE ARE MANY WAYS THAT MEDIA AFFECT YOUR CHILD'S LIFE. WHEN YOUR CHILD SITS DOWN TO AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE, CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Time</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Children in the United States watch over 6 hours of TV every day. Watching movies and playing video games only adds to time spent in front of a screen. It may be tempting to use television, movies, and video games to keep your child busy, but your child needs to spend as much time growing and learning as possible. Playing, reading, and spending time with friends and family are much healthier than sitting in front of a screen. Spending time in nature is a critical part of the development of the mind and body. Children do not learn how to interact and solve problems while watching a screen. They need real experience to learn these skills.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Nutrition</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Children who spend too much time in front of a screen are more likely to be overweight and weak. They do not spend as much time running, jumping, and getting the exercise they need. They also see many commercials for unhealthy foods, such as candy, snacks, sugary cereals, and drinks during children's programs. Commercials almost never give information about the foods children should eat to keep healthy.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Violence</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If your child watches 3 to 4 hours of non-educational TV per day, he will have seen about 8,000 murders on TV by the time he finishes grade school. Children who see violence on television may not understand that real violence hurts and kills people. Even if the "good guys" use violence, children may learn that it is okay to use force to handle aggression and settle disagreements. It is best not to let your child watch violent programs and cartoons. Video games often depict violence and criminal activity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Sex</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Television and video games expose children to adult behaviors but it usually does not show the risks and results of early sexual activity. On TV, sexual activity is shown as fun, exciting, and without any risks. Your child may copy what she sees on TV in order to feel more grown up. Woman are often depicted as sexual objects which gives both boys and girls negative ideas about gender. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Young people today are surrounded by messages that say drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes or cigars are normal activities. These messages don't say that alcohol and tobacco harm people and may lead to death. Beer and wine are some of the most advertised products on television. TV programs and commercials often show people who drink and smoke as healthy, energetic, sexy, and successful. It is up to you to teach your child the truth about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.<b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Commercials</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The average child sees more than <b><u>20,000 </u></b>commercials each year. Commercials are quick, fast-paced, and entertaining. After seeing the same commercials over and over, your child can easily remember a song, slogan, or catchy phrase. Ads may try to convince your child that having a certain toy or eating a certain food will make him happy or popular. Older children can begin to understand how ads use pictures, music, and sound to entertain. Kids need to know that ads try to convince people to buy things they may not need.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Brain development</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Please read the linked article above for the latest research. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no screen time at all for children age 2 or younger. For older children, the Academy recommends no more than 1 to 2 hours per day of educational, nonviolent programs and/or screen time of any sort. There is a growing body of evidence that suggest negative changes in the way the brain functions and develops in children who watch TV or other screens at an early age, or too much after age 2. Screen activities are increasingly linked to ADHD and other learning disabilities. Children of all ages are constantly learning new things. The first 2 years of life are especially important for the growth and development of your child's brain. During this time, children need good, positive interaction with other children and adults. Without this interaction children lack social skills and may become antisocial. The ability to concentrate, to draw conclusions and remember are also deeply affected. Older children need face to face interactions to develop confidence and social skills. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>What We Can Do</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As a parent, there are many ways you can help your child develop positive viewing habits. The following tips may help:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>1. Set limits</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Limit your child's use of TV, movies, and video and computer games to no more than 1 or 2 hours per day. Do not let your child watch TV while doing homework. Do not have a TV, computer or video games in the child's room. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>2. Plan your child's viewing</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Instead of flipping through channels, use a program guide and the TV ratings to help you and your child choose shows. Turn the TV on to watch the program you chose and turn it off when the program is over. Monitor what your child watches at the homes of friends and family. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>3. Watch TV with your child</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Whenever possible, watch TV with your child and talk about what you see. If your child is very young, she may not be able to tell the difference between a show, a commercial, a cartoon, or real life. Explain that characters on TV are make-believe and not real. Some "reality-based" programs may appear to be "real," but most of these shows focus on stories that will attract as many viewers as possible. Often these are stories about tragedy and violence. Much of their content is not appropriate for children. Young children may worry that what they see could happen to them or their family. News broadcasts also contain violent or inappropriate material. If your schedule prevents you from watching TV with your child, talk to her later about what she watched. Better yet, record the programs so that you can watch them with your child at a later time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">4. Find the right message</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Even a poor program can turn out to be a learning experience if you help your child find the right message. Some television programs may portray people as stereotypes. Talk with your child about the real-life roles of women, the elderly, and people of other races that may not be shown on television. Discuss ways that people are different and ways that we are the same. Help your child learn tolerance for others. Remember, if you don't agree with certain subject matter, you can either turn off the TV or explain why you object.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">5. Help your child resist commercials</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Don't expect your child to be able to resist ads for toys, candy, snacks, cereal, drinks, or new TV programs without your help. When your child asks for products advertised on TV, explain that the purpose of commercials is to make people want things they may not need. Limit the number of commercials your child sees by watching public television stations (PBS). You can also record programs and leave out the commercials or buy or rent children's videos.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">6. Give other options</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Watching TV can become a habit for your child. Help your child find other things to do with his time, such as the following:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>7. Set a good example</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You are the most important role model in your child's life. Limiting your own screen time and choosing programs carefully will help your child do the same.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>8. Express your views</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When you like or don't like something you see on television, make yourself heard. Write to the TV station, network, or the program's sponsor. Stations, networks, and sponsors pay attention to letters from the public. If you think a commercial is misleading, write down the product name, channel, and time you saw the commercial and describe your concerns. Call your local Better Business Bureau.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>9. </b> Install blocks on your TV to eliminate any possibility of your child watching inappropriate programming.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> By knowing how television affects your children and by setting limits, you can help make your child's screen experience snot only enjoyable, but healthy too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>10. </b> Decide if and when you want your child to have a cell phone. A good beginning option is a limited function phone such as Jitterbug. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.3333px;"><br /></span></span>Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-48859065044970893772020-01-15T15:57:00.001-06:002020-01-15T15:57:44.013-06:00Montessori and Paperwork....<blockquote style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" type="cite">
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<span style="font-size: large;">What – No Briefcase? Montessori and Paperwork</span></h2>
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Please enjoy this insightful article that will be of interest to all AMCS parents. </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px;">Montessori parents are often bewildered by the lack of paperwork coming home with their child. There’s hardly any! So what does my child do all day? What can he be possibly learning?</span><br />
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For most of us our school experience was a blizzard of paper work – spaces to fill in, lines to write, dots to connect. Pages upon pages of busy work that hopefully conveyed to parents that we were learning. Much of it was redundant, boring and the waste of a good tree! But that was the measure for parents that learning was happening.</div>
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You’ve now entered a new universe when you chose a Montessori program. You didn’t choose Montessori because it resembled your learning experience but because it represented the learning experience you wished you’d been privileged to have. When you visit the environment your eyes feast on amazing materials – colors, shapes, complexities. Is this material really for my three year old or four year old – isosceles triangles, quatrefoils, reniform leaf shapes? Does he really touch it and feel it and use it? But when there is no paper trail coming home, you wonder!</div>
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Socrates said, “There is nothing in the mind that is not first in the hands.” And it is the touching of these concrete materials that begins the building of the mental processes in your child. Traditional education begins with intellectual development hoping to make the abstract concrete. Montessori education begins with the development and refining of the senses, allowing your child to build this concrete knowledge one step at a time until he is ready and poised to make the great intellectual leap into the abstract. In Montessori education, it is the child’s own developmental timetable that causes this explosion of solid (and unprecedented) learning to occur. It is not an artificial timetable based on age or calendar but a continual cultivation and development of the child’s growing intellectual power that is being fed day by day in a manner that allows your child to appropriate and practice the tools and skills that will form his intellectual abilities for a lifetime.</div>
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All this time the child is building within himself this intellectual capability. Montessori education is very much like the construction of a jetty. Rock after rock is submerged in the water, seemingly lost beneath the surface but then the day comes when the latest rocks begin to become visible and break the water’s plane. Your child is building a very concrete foundation for all further intellectual development one achievement at a time.</div>
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These processes and achievements, in many ways, are very private for your child. Your child often doesn’t speak of them – or want to speak of them until after (sometimes long after) they have become operative and well established in your child. It is not that they want to exclude you from their developmental journey but they guard it – not jealously – but protectively, as if speaking about it would jeopardize its development.</div>
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This is why your best ally in understanding your child’s development and progress is the teacher and not random pieces of paper that wend their way home. The teacher is a good guide to share with you your child’s progress because much of what the teacher does in the classroom is to observe and document this progress. Montessori education is never just a question of teaching or presenting materials but of presenting and teaching at the appropriate time and in the appropriate way. Each child has a different learning style – one size doesn’t fit all. And it is this different learning style of your child that is celebrated and used to your child’s advantage in the learning process.</div>
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It is not so much what is put into your child that creates this tremendous Montessori learning explosion but what comes out of your child – out from their personality, their talents, gifts, and temperament. Montessori is about aligning learning with the way your child learns. There may not be another time in his life where the whole world is bent to give him every advantage and opportunity to learn as quickly and as effortlessly as possible.</div>
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Every day your child is absorbing the whole world around him trying to make sense of it, trying to master the parts he can. And it is in his Montessori classroom that this world is made tangible and accessible. He can’t always tell you when he is going to make the discoveries that will propel him on to new and even more exciting discoveries. (“Did you know that three times two is the same as two times three? The windows are rectangles and so are the tables.”) Instead of being given the answers – which he would be expected to put down on paper – which could go home; he is given the questions and allowed to discover the answers for himself. This joy of discovery is hard to put on paper.</div>
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There are two ways better than paper to know what your child is learning. Ask his teacher. She has the great joy of daily watching the discoveries light up your child’s eyes, of watching your child work the challenges of learning and the joy that comes to your child from mastery. She is watching the emergence of your child’s personality, watching his character form and his intellect develop. When you are talking with the teacher listen to the excitement of her voice as she relates your child’s progress and read in her eyes the joy she shares in your child’s discoveries and accomplishments. Much better than paperwork.</div>
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Second, ask your child. But don’t ask him what he learned today – he may not be able to tell you (and it still may be private but he’ll share with you when he is ready.) Ask him what he sees out of the window. He may just read the street signs to you (which isn’t bad for a three year old.) Ask him about his friends. Ask him about colors or dinosaurs or cars – and then listen. He will tell you all kinds of things. He will use all kinds of words – vocabulary and concepts you didn’t even know he knew. And if you keep listening you’ll learn not only what he learned but you will set a pattern for conversation and discussion that will take you well beyond the teenage years – much more satisfying and important than paperwork.</div>
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Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-65114197204938380872019-11-12T21:30:00.000-06:002019-11-12T19:42:12.336-06:00How to Have Happier Holidays!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Holidays can be a time of family togetherness, a break in the routine of daily life and a celebration of special moments and events. Sometimes the stress of meeting expectations, the added work of preparation and the arrival of relatives and friends can lessen our appreciation for these events. </span></a><br />
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Children, especially those who struggle with change, will benefit from advance information about what will happen during the holiday. Reading books about the history of the event, telling stories from your childhood, and involving everyone in the preparation will reduce some of the apprehension and worry. </div>
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Focusing on the real message of the holiday instead of special meals and gifts will give everyone a joyful outlook. Play music and sing while doing the tasks around the house. Take pictures of the cleaning, cooking and shopping and make a collage of them to show all the family how joyful this time can be. </div>
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In my home there is a permanent picture wall with photos of family members, friends and special times. A frame above says: We Are Thankful. It started as a Thanksgiving reminder for our lives and now is a part of everyday. Create your own traditions!</div>
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In our beautifully diverse culture here in Houston we are fortunate to have a wide array of holidays and events which provide a rich source of knowledge for our children. It can be difficult with all of the media and retail focus on Christmas. If your family does not celebrate this holiday perhaps focusing on the winter aspects of this time would work. There are ice skating rinks, snow events where children can build a snowman, and lots of festive lights. The library has many books about winter. One I especially love is "The Mitten" by Jan Brett. It is the story of animals who take refuge from a snow storm in a lost mitten. Her web site has a print out of masks of all the animals and a question game to play. </div>
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<a href="http://www.janbrett.com/mitten_masks_main.htm">http://www.janbrett.com/mitten_masks_main.htm</a></div>
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She has written many charming books for young children. </div>
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A friend makes treats with her children and delivers them to neighbors and friends who celebrate Christmas. They try to make the treats with spices and recipes from their culture and include the recipe and the history of the food in the gift. </div>
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If we explore ways to lessen the commercial aspects of the holidays, focus on our family history and culture and remember that sharing and giving cross all cultures and borders, we will help our children to truly celebrate these special times. <br />
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I wish you a joyful winter holiday! Maybe making s'mores over a campfire!</div>
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Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-3117768100420978472019-11-11T12:01:00.000-06:002019-11-12T19:44:28.642-06:00The Art of Giving Gifts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Throughout the year we have many opportunities for gift giving: birthdays, holidays, as a thank you and just because we care about someone</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As we try to decide which gifts to give our children there are several things to consider:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What does the child want?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What is age and developmentally appropriate?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Can we afford it?</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So let's address each of these questions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What does the child want? Often television ads, movies and store displays convince children that getting that toy, game or costume will be fun and "everyone will have one".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But is this true? Most of these items are of short lived interest and with little play or educational value. They are only promoted to make money for the companies. Often these items are discarded after a short time, or they break or they are just not very interesting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What is age and developmentally appropriate? Sometimes children ask for things that will contribute nothing to their growth or to enjoyment or to knowledge. It is important to examine the real interests of the child and try to match that information to meaningful gifts. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Can we afford it? Wonderful gifts can be inexpensive, even without monetary cost. We should not spend large amounts of money on items that will be discarded, broken or even harmful. Instead let's think about the long term value of a gift. A bicycle, skates, a big set of building blocks or trains all are expensive but provide years of fun. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some ideas!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Gifts to grow the mind and body:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Books</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Art materials: crayons, paint, paper, glue, a box of collage materials (buttons, lace, string, etc.) An easel. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Garden tools and seeds</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blocks, Legos and other building materials</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A sand box and sand toys</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Science experiments</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Child size cooking implements, an apron and even a chef's hat</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bikes </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Scooters</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Skates</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Child size cleaning tools (yes, children like to clean!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Music: a cd player, cd's </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Music instruments: kazoo, rhythm instruments, harmonica, a drum, a recorder </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sports equipment: basketball goal and ball, baseball glove, bat and ball, ring toss, plastic horse shoes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Board games (especially cooperative ones)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Models of animals: these are great fun in conjunction with sand, blocks and clay activities</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These are all items that will be of great interest to all children, especially if the parents and other siblings are included in the activity. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are some resources for you to explore:</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.smallhands.com/">www.smallhands.com</a></div>
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A great place for many of these items.</div>
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<a href="http://www.mamalisa.com/">www.mamalisa.com</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a web site for children's music and games</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://cooperativegames.com/">https://cooperativegames.com/</a></span></div>
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Many family friendly cooperative games...fun for all, even the adults. </div>
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A box with dress up clothes and hats: a firefighter's hat, a cowboy (or girl) hat, a chef's hat, and any interesting clothes and jewelry. Create a play! Invite the family to see it! </div>
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Hobby Lobby and Michaels and local dollar stores can be a great resource for art supplies, animal models, etc. </div>
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Have fun and help your child build a lifetime of creative play. </div>
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Please post your own ideas in the comments section of the blog!</div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-17734110164269470882019-10-02T11:43:00.000-05:002019-10-02T18:02:15.550-05:00It's Fall..A beautiful time to be outdoors!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBoAB6osGOacBZOp8idWINgd1-Y2Yr55JisrdaN4QgDCmZsuA_tZW3ln4FbqHX6tLrXbxdtG77XIqUJoUqxTFLK0AXLuFZUfmDekikFqgDwlV2-H9GjPdor7MTnRWKVsVEHn8EAnMATKcR/s1600/20171025_111107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBoAB6osGOacBZOp8idWINgd1-Y2Yr55JisrdaN4QgDCmZsuA_tZW3ln4FbqHX6tLrXbxdtG77XIqUJoUqxTFLK0AXLuFZUfmDekikFqgDwlV2-H9GjPdor7MTnRWKVsVEHn8EAnMATKcR/s200/20171025_111107.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At last we are approaching cooler weather, seeing changes in our trees and landscapes and a great opportunity to enjoy some of the activities with our children. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are just a few suggestions for spending some great family time together. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jesse Jones Park located just north of the Bush Airport has numerous events planned for the fall. Go to the web site at:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.hcp4.net/community/parks/jones">http://www.hcp4.net/community/parks/jones</a></span><br />
to get information on dates and events. All activities are free, the park has picnic areas, a great playground and miles of trails for hiking.<br />
Check out the Pioneer Day...it is a fun filled day in November with a model pioneer village and interactive demonstrations of cooking, gardening, blacksmith skills, churning butter, pumping water, washing cloths on a washboard, The volunteers are dressed in period costumes and pioneer games are available to play.<br />
Native American Heritage day gives an opportunity to take part in living history. Hear stories, see traditional dancing and demonstrations in the Okokisa-Ishtak Village in the park.<br />
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If you haven't visited our local jewel, Hermann Park lately, fall is a great time for a new adventure. Of course the zoo is always fun, but there is so much more. Hiking trails, the paddle boats on the lake, gardens and of course, the train are all waiting. Take a few minutes and plan an outing. <a href="https://www.hermannpark.org/">https://www.hermannpark.org/</a><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Galveston Island State Park </span><a href="http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/galveston-island" style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px; text-decoration-line: none;">http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/galveston-island</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Just a short trip down I45 and a day of beach, sun, sand and picnicking waits your family. For a small fee the day is yours. Grills and covered picnic tables are just steps from the beach and on the bay side of the park miles of trails and lots of beautiful birds will entertain you for hours. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">On the east end of Galveston Island there are miles of beaches, great fishing and the Galveston/Bolivar ferry. This free ferry ride goes to Bolivar Peninsula. You can park your car and walk onto the ferry for a round trip ride, or take your car aboard and explore the peninsula. Dolphins play alongside the ferries and gulls swoop down to catch bits of bread from the passengers. Great fun! </span><a href="http://www.galveston.com/galvestonferry/" style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px; text-decoration-line: none;"> http://www.galveston.com/galvestonferry/</a><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Brazos Bend State Park </span><a href="http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/brazos-bend" style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px; text-decoration-line: none;">http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/brazos-bend</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Screened in shelters and campsites are available if you would like to spend a few days with nature at its best. The George Observatory located in the park gives a stunning view of the night sky. More information is on the above web site. Hiking, fishing and alligator watching provide thrills and picnic areas and grills are ready when you are hungry. </span><br />
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Happy Fall!</div>
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<br />Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-59258868992206408902019-09-23T13:31:00.000-05:002019-08-22T17:13:27.576-05:00Help! My Child is Crying When We Come to School. <h2 style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; margin: 0px; position: relative;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">As loving parents we are excited for our children to come to school and we are worried when they cry, complain and are upset when they arrive at AMCS.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Understand that this is very normal behavior. Here are some tips that will help you and your child make this transition more easily. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">First of all, our teachers are prepared and knowledgeable in assisting children who are upset. We reassure them that their family will be back and that we understand they are sad. Then we help the child to become interested in some activities in the classroom. Usually it only takes a little while for an activity to catch their interest. The other children are quick to help comfort your child.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">At home you can help your child by talking to them about how the day will go. Assure them that you will be back after school and will be happy to see them. It is important to recognize their feelings. For example, telling the child not to cry will usually make things worse. Try instead to say things like "I see that you are sad." or "It's hard to leave mom (or dad), isn't it?" When the child knows you understand it is very helpful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Of course we feel some anxiety ourselves, so dealing with our own feelings so that the child doesn't pick up on our worries will make things easier. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;"> Try not to ask a lot of questions about their day. One way to encourage sharing is to begin by telling your child about your day. Did you enjoy your work? Perhaps you spent some time with a friend or relative. It is fine to say how happy you are to see your son or daughter, however telling them you were sad and missed them terribly can create guilty feelings and an increased desire to not go to school. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;"> I remember my son's first day at Montessori. He was three. This was the first time he had been away all day and I was worried and a bit sad. As John was getting out of car he turned, waved and said "Don't worry Mom, I'll be fine" Sometimes our children pick up on our anxiety!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;"> </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Make some plans for after school: a trip to the library or the park. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Read a special book or just go for a walk together. And remember.....this period will pass and school will become the happy place you are wanting for your student. </span></div>
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Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-922063284609090802019-09-23T12:13:00.000-05:002019-08-22T17:12:32.890-05:00Why Montessori<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjem5nid_N7uZJHoLhvghyphenhyphenevnvJDz_2s0VXgzX0IXnBAoCbmK1jWroPSnkR9-dOdCh8cPJII0bnl4V2a741U4uq01736ocLjrR6WJzFB5xpM0yjo10N7UFjHpNu1Ui0SXsRu6VsGIpny2rn/s1600/activity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="168" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjem5nid_N7uZJHoLhvghyphenhyphenevnvJDz_2s0VXgzX0IXnBAoCbmK1jWroPSnkR9-dOdCh8cPJII0bnl4V2a741U4uq01736ocLjrR6WJzFB5xpM0yjo10N7UFjHpNu1Ui0SXsRu6VsGIpny2rn/s200/activity.jpg" width="140" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "lucida handwriting"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Why Montessori?</span><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Montessori…your
children have the benefit of a free public charter school that provides the
lifelong benefits of this unique and proven method. Montessori gives students a love of learning,
a deep understanding of science, math and language, the ability to discover and
invent and a strong level of confidence and self control.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Here are some
facts that will show why Montessori is the best possible education for your
child and the importance of completing the primary, lower elementary and upper
elementary years at AMCS. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The primary
classroom: ages 3-6 years</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Primary
students stay with the same classmates and teacher for three years. During this time the teacher develops a deep
understanding of the students, how they learn and what their interests
are. The children form strong
friendships that sometimes last a lifetime.
With each year the children become more confident, self motivated and
eager to learn. The third year is the
most important of all. Much of the work
is completed in that last year. Math and
language lessons culminate in a real exploration built on the previous
years. Each student becomes a leader of
the class, helping the younger students and building confidence in their
ability to solve problems and be independent.
Each student progresses at his or her own pace with the teacher keeping
careful records of which lessons have been mastered. This allows the students to deeply explore
areas of interest while ensuring all of the necessary work is completed. The curriculum includes practical life,
music, geography art, science, botany, cultural studies, sensorial work which
is pre-math, language development, including reading and writing, math, using
the concrete materials to explore numbers, addition, subtraction,
multiplication and division as well as basic solid and plane geometric
figures. Each day there is opportunity
for new adventures in this rich world of learning.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Elementary Classroom:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Divided into lower elementary (ages 6-9) and upper elementary
(ages 9-11) this is the time for the student to use the skills and knowledge
from the primary classroom to move into deeper study of the world and
academics. This age child loves to work
in groups, to explore facts and information, to categorize and work extensively
in all areas. The materials are
comprehensive and exciting, giving the children keys to the history of our earth
and people. Books from our large library
encourage exploration of their interests.
Again, the students stay with the same teachers and classmates which
provides a deep understanding of each child and builds strong bonds. The teacher can truly develop a strategy to
maximize each student’s potential, guiding them through the lesson plans which
are made collaboratively and with an individualized understanding every
child. A true knowledge of how to work
together, to solve problems and to concentrate and focus develops because of
the unique nature of the curriculum, the attention of the carefully trained
teachers and the natural interest of the students in their work. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Adolescent community (ages 12-14) provides these young people opportunities to expand their earlier experience by creating viable projects which utilize all of the skills they have learned from their Montessori education. They collaborate on serious activities which benefit others, taking full charge of costs, solving problems and planning. Each day math, science, history, technology, music, art and language expand their understanding of the world and each other. Lasting friendships are formed with the experienced and understanding teachers who guide and encourage each step of the way to becoming an intelligent, hard-working and caring young adults. As they go on to high school and college all of this preparation and knowledge forms a solid base for success and continued learning with joy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Only with the full experience of the primary, elementary and adolescent classes can the true power of Montessori be obtained. Giving your children this amazing
opportunity to grow, learn and start on a lifetime of learning is a great
gift. </span></div>
<div class="Standard" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Our teachers and administrators form a deep bond with the
AMCS families; united in our common goal of having each child reach his or her
academic, social and personal potential.
We are truly a team united for the development of the future leaders of
our community and world and in the pursuit of joyful lifelong learning. </span></div>
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Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-320366364390788832019-04-09T12:22:00.002-05:002019-09-27T16:29:45.908-05:00Your Montessori Home<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaYQPflOiretJ9I3kc5AhdOznLceceEhVBw_tVdbiBjOt9xWuAPOel6e1lc0QDsVesiypJ9vyFHxzJaMFtRM-gbpJGJk9yNOgkSCWBXvEvhjs6a8AT49A4pF-xngN3cwACBOVZ-G5-t-z/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaYQPflOiretJ9I3kc5AhdOznLceceEhVBw_tVdbiBjOt9xWuAPOel6e1lc0QDsVesiypJ9vyFHxzJaMFtRM-gbpJGJk9yNOgkSCWBXvEvhjs6a8AT49A4pF-xngN3cwACBOVZ-G5-t-z/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Your child is thriving in the Montessori classroom. You see signs of increased independence, love of work and growing social skills. How do we prepare our homes to continue this great work of the child?<br />
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School and home are, and should be different. We do not need to create an academic world at home. Think how we would feel if we arrived home from a challenging job only to find our job has been recreated at home and we need to continue working that same way.<br />
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The 3-6 year old child can be summed up in this phrase: "Help me to help myself." This is the time for developing the mind and body for the great work to come. Independence grows as children learn to care for themselves and their home. Their intellect develops with stories, songs and books in the home, with toys that support their curiosity about how the world works. The strong sense of order that is part of this age is developed with a place for everything and everything in its place in the home. Concentration comes from time to contribute to the home and to have time to focus on their interests, So how can we create this in our homes?<br />
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Let's look at each room:<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>The living room: </b> A child size chair and table, a low shelf for books, a shelf for a few toys, perhaps a small lamp on the table. Toy boxes are not ideal as they cannot give the child a place for belongings.<br />
It is nice to have some art work displayed at the child's eye level. Be aware that if a television or other electronics are in use your child is absorbing what is being seen and heard, even if they appear to be not paying attention. Remember that for this age child only 1/2 hour a day of all screen time combined is a safe level.<br />
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<b>The kitchen: </b>This is an area of great interest. A small step stool to give access to the sink for hand washing and food preparation, a child size apron on a low hook, an area in the refrigerator with a small tray holding water and snacks, child size kitchen tools and a basket containing cloths for cleaning up spills all contribute to fun and a sense of independence. Low plates, flatware and glasses so the child can set the table.<br />
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<b>The bathroom: </b>A step stool for the sink and toilet, a small bar soap or a liquid dispenser that the child can operate, A low towel bar for hand and bath towels A basket or container for bath toys. Be sure your child can reach the toilet paper unassisted.<br />
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<b>The bedroom: </b>Be sure your child's bed is not too high to get into unassisted and easy to make up. Light blankets help with making the bed. A small flashlight for comfort in the dark. A bookshelf and perhaps a small rocking chair or other comfortable seat. Shelves for a few toys which can be rotated to help the child be organized. A low drawer for folded clothes and low hangers and hooks. A shoe rack. Televisions, cell phones and video games should never be in the bedroom. They are a distraction from relaxation and sleep.<br />
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<b>Outdoors: </b>Child size gardening tools and a watering can. A small bucket and sponge to help with washing the car or bikes. Sidewalk chalk in a basket. A parking spot for bikes and other riding toys.<br />
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These are a few beginning ideas to help your child's sense of independence and capability.<br />
Remember that this age child is working for the experience, not the result. Be sure to acknowledge the effort and not the result: "You made your bed! The pillow is at the top and your pajamas are put away. The blanket in on the bed. You are taking care of your room." Now the blanket is not smooth and is dragging on the floor, the pillow is crooked..and it is important not to correct at this point. It is helpful to show the child the first time, then let their observation gradually improve.<br />
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Giving all family members opportunities to contribute to the family and the home will result in increased confidence, eagerness to work and a strong connection to the family and the home. You are setting the stage for responsibility and joy in work...life skills that will be valuable all through life.<br />
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The next post will give ideas for the 7-15 year old! A very different child indeed.<br />
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<br />Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-48624362097507456162019-03-20T18:00:00.000-05:002019-03-20T16:14:08.941-05:00Spring time! Having fun the Montessori way.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJ4ZzkeAiae1JApkxGxBt4IlxdOzLsSG85XvJV4bqyvBIyJC2tdfH6wNCS6Ocp3_BDulR7_emKuY1-Gs8Hrca5rlTHDwybJbYUXt27pAehtfDjAFBXIiMVCVptrz2X8oNzztOBwTaqmI-/s1600/family-picnic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJ4ZzkeAiae1JApkxGxBt4IlxdOzLsSG85XvJV4bqyvBIyJC2tdfH6wNCS6Ocp3_BDulR7_emKuY1-Gs8Hrca5rlTHDwybJbYUXt27pAehtfDjAFBXIiMVCVptrz2X8oNzztOBwTaqmI-/s1600/family-picnic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Spring time...we all want this to be a time of fun and relaxation with our families and friends. We don't have to spend a lot of money, fight crowds of people or travel many miles to have a great time.<br />
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Picnics at nearby parks can be wonderful. Pack a lunch, grill a burger, go kayaking, hike or bike the trails, play games or read a book near a lake or under a tree. With a little planning you have all you need for days of family fun.<br />
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We are fortunate to have many beautiful and free places close by. Here are a few ideas to get you started.<br />
Alexander Deussen Park:<a href="https://www.blogger.com/%C2%A0http://hcp1.net/Parks/AlexanderDeussen.hiaspx"> http://hcp1.net/Parks/AlexanderDeussen.hiaspx</a><br />
Fishing, swimming, hiking, a great dog park, many playgrounds, kite flying, boating, picnic areas..this free park has it all. Lake Houston is at our doorstep...enjoy!<br />
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Jesse Jones Park:<a href="http://www.hcp4.net/community/parks/jones"> http://www.hcp4.net/community/parks/jones</a><br />
This treasure on the far north side of the city has a lot to offer. Visit the web site for a list of ongoing activities. Pontoon boat rides, a visit to a pioneer and Native American village, a nature center, miles of hike and bike trails and fishing in Cypress Creek, plus lots of playground and picnic opportunities will make any family happy.<br />
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Galveston Island State Park <a href="http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/galveston-island">http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/galveston-island</a><br />
Just a short trip down I45 and a day of beach, sun, sand and picnicking waits your family. For a small fee the day is yours. Grills and covered picnic tables are just steps from the beach and on the bay side of the park miles of trails and lots of beautiful birds will entertain you for hours. <br />
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On the east end of Galveston Island there are miles of beaches, great fishing and the Galveston/Bolivar ferry. This free ferry ride goes to Bolivar Peninsula. You can park your car and walk onto the ferry for a round trip ride, or take your car aboard and explore the peninsula. Dolphins play alongside the ferries and gulls swoop down to catch bits of bread from the passengers. Great fun! <a href="http://www.galveston.com/galvestonferry/"> http://www.galveston.com/galvestonferry/</a><br />
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Brazos Bend State Park <a href="http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/brazos-bend">http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/brazos-bend</a><br />
Screened in shelters and campsites are available if you would like to spend a few days with nature at its best. The George Observatory located in the park gives a stunning view of the night sky. More information is on the above web site. Hiking, fishing and alligator watching provide thrills and picnic areas and grills are ready when you are hungry. <br />
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These are just a few of the opportunities nearby. For the best time include the children in the planning. Older boys and girls can do research and plan the route to the park. Everyone can help pack supplies and food. The whole family can make a list of what to take along! Don't forget kites, balls, blankets, bubbles and books. The preparation for the outing can be as much fun as the trip.<br />
This is a good time to leave the electronic games at home, relax and enjoy this special time with the children!<br />
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HAPPY SPRING!Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-45694424393504988982019-02-28T10:38:00.000-06:002019-02-28T10:38:21.175-06:00Get Growing! Gardening with children.<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How gardening can affect the BRAIN:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> The wonder of
seeing a garden grow may spark your kids to ask questions like: Why do the
plants need sun? How does the plant “drink” water? Why are worms good for the
plants? Soon you will be talking about soil composition, photosynthesis and
more! Add a little </span><a href="http://www.pbs.org/parents/adventures-in-learning/2015/05/garden-math/" title="Garden Math"><span style="color: #203878; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">math while gardening</span></a><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> by measuring how
much </span><a href="http://www.pbs.org/parents/sid/activities/growing-plants/" title="Sid the Science Kid: Growing Plants Activity"><span style="color: #203878; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">plants are growing</span></a><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> from
week to week or counting the flowers on each plant. Supplement the experience
of gardening with </span><a href="http://www.pbs.org/parents/adventures-in-learning/2014/04/best-gardening-books-kids/" title="Best Gardening Books for Kids"><span style="color: #203878; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">books about plants</span></a><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, trips
to a botanical garden, or a photo journal of the plants that you are growing.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Once
you harvest your produce, think of all the brain-building vitamins, minerals
and nutrients your kids will be eating and how that will continue to boost
brain development. Foods like spinach, garlic and beets (which are all easy to
grow) have been shown to help with cognitive function and can give your kids an
advantage in their growth and development. Even if kids may not love the foods
they grow at first, teach them to keep tasting and trying and to train their
taste buds to enjoy the bounty of their garden.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How
gardening can affect the BODY:</span></b><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When
children participate in gardening, the fruits and vegetables that they are
inspired to eat will no doubt have a positive effect on their body. But the act
of gardening itself can also promote a healthy body. Kids LOVE to get their
hands and feet in the dirt, which can run counter to the modern parenting style
of compulsively keeping hands and surfaces cleaned and sanitized. However,
consider the “hygiene hypothesis,” a theory that a lack of childhood exposure
to germs actually increases a child’s susceptibility to diseases like asthma,
allergies and autoimmune conditions by suppressing the development of the
immune system. So getting dirty while gardening may actually strengthen a
child’s immunity and overall health.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">These
days all kids could benefit from a little more physical activity and sunshine
they’ll get while gardening. Activities like moving soil, carrying a heavy
watering can, digging in the dirt and pushing a wheelbarrow can promote gross
motor skills and overall strength for a more fit body. Plus, these activities,
known as “heavy work,” have been shown to help kids stay calm and focused.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How
gardening can affect the SOUL:</span></b><span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In this
electronic age, kids need time for meaningful family connection. Time in the
garden allows for team building and promotes communication skills. Planning a
garden, planting the seeds and watching them grow give kids a sense of purpose
and responsibility. Making sure that the plants get enough fertilizer, water
and sun fosters mindfulness. The concepts learned while gardening, like
composting food scraps for fertilizer or using gathered rainwater, can show
kids a deep respect and responsibility for taking care of our planet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5f5f5f; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Furthermore,
studies show that when children have contact with soil during activities like
digging and planting, they have improved moods, better learning experiences and
decreased anxiety. Most important, the self-esteem a child gets from eating a
perfect cucumber that he grew himself is priceless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Grow
hearts, bodies and minds</span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">
together!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-55026617362525804822019-02-14T13:15:00.002-06:002019-02-14T13:18:27.503-06:00Consequences Instead of Punishment: Building character and maturity <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6M9-HgGgTxpQucQ36NOKCRfMgMI0us50GrNv-OFV3seyeP81kNGCEAw1yFlF9Z6AsE3tX7YIQhcz0YZm-NsQxQo9hRQSIkGfF17oiKFcglo6pU-xKqP9YXf_wmA4PKGKuRNaHVs0yGJu/s1600/broken+bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="185" data-original-width="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6M9-HgGgTxpQucQ36NOKCRfMgMI0us50GrNv-OFV3seyeP81kNGCEAw1yFlF9Z6AsE3tX7YIQhcz0YZm-NsQxQo9hRQSIkGfF17oiKFcglo6pU-xKqP9YXf_wmA4PKGKuRNaHVs0yGJu/s1600/broken+bike.jpg" /></a></div>
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We have all been there...our child makes a poor choice and creates a problem for his or her self. We know we want them to learn an important lesson, but how to bring that about?<br />
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And what is the difference between consequence and punishment?<br />
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Punishment is often not related to the problem at all. For example...see the bike at the top of the page?<br />
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Mom and Dad finally bought the much wanted bike for their son. A designated place was marked off in the driveway (or garage) and the child was told: " When you are not on your bike it must be in its parking place and no where else.<br />
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One day the boy was in a hurry to get inside and he left the bike in the middle of the driveway. Sadly, a delivery truck did not see it and ran over it.<br />
Oh, the wailing and tears. "Dad, dad my bike is ruined. I love that bike so much."<br />
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So the punishment response might be: "See I told you what would happen if you left that bike in the wrong place. And now it is ruined and you don't have a bike. You need to pay attention when I tell you something. You will have no TV for two weeks. Maybe that will teach you to be more responsible."<br />
As understandable is the parents anger, this punishment and response is not the best way to get the result of better behavior. It is not directly related to the mistake.<br />
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Now for the consequence response: Oh, my son. I know how much that bike means to you. You really love having it, don't you?" This is empathy and sympathy, but NOT approval of the mistake.<br />
The boy gets that Dad understands how upset he is and replies:<br />
"Can I have another bike, please, please?" Of course we might want to reply, "No way. You left it out and now it is gone."<br />
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So try this: " Yes, you can have another bike. How do you plan to pay for it?" This puts the problem back in the child's lap. He will probably say that he doesn't have any money. Responding with "Well we can talk about some ways for you to earn money. And you have some money from your birthday." It may take a long time for the money to accumulate (and the parent can chip in after a while or offer payment for extra jobs around the home). This is a real consequence of the child's actions. It is a lesson that is fair, delivered without anger, and gives him a way to right the wrong. From this he will learn responsibility, the advantages of hard work, and that his parents are fair and reasonable, but follow through when mistakes are made.<br />
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As with all new things, it may take a while to get comfortable with this approach, but the dividends are worth it. The time to teach responsibility is when the child is young. These are what we call affordable mistakes, mistakes that do not have dire results. We want our children to learn these lessons before the teen years, when mistakes and errors in judgement can have serious consequences and even life changing problems.<br />
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<br />Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-68553714373983304182018-12-11T06:47:00.000-06:002018-12-18T08:55:15.505-06:00Too Many Toys...A Fun Solution!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Presents from parents, grandparents, birthdays, holidays.....sometimes the number of toys can overwhelm the most organized of homes. What to do? </div>
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I'll share with you an idea from my daughter that not only worked, but was fun, taught some excellent lessons and was done without too much time, work and money.</div>
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Step 1. In a kind and gentle way talk with your family. Point out that we have many things we have outgrown, no longer use or just don't like. Suggest that everyone go through their belongings (including toys) and choose anything that is no longer wanted or needed. Have everyone bring the items together in one place. This is a great time for parents to choose some of their own belongings they no longer need or want. </div>
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Step 2. Choose a charity to donate the items, explaining that another family will be able to use these, then pack them up and take to the donation site. Make it a fun trip and talk about how happy this will make someone. Make sure your child goes along and helps carry the items. This will make them feel a part of the gift to others.</div>
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Step 3. Purchase a large cabinet to be kept in an out of the way place. The garage is great, or an unused closet will work. </div>
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Step 4. Tell the child "This going to be your toy store." Then let the child choose from their toys (with your help) to go into the cabinet. Make sure the remaining toys are neatly arranged on shelves or in boxes in their room or where ever they keep their toys. A sign on the cabinet door "Tom's Toy Store", using your child's name of course, is a great touch. </div>
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Step 5. Arrange the chosen toys in the cabinet by category (puzzles, games, dolls, trucks, etc.) </div>
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Step 6. Tell the child that the store is open once a week (or two weeks) and they can visit then and purchase a toy by returning one of the toys they have kept out. </div>
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This is fun, keeps the number of toys manageable, and teaches the child to make good choices. Another benefit is that the toys are used more and are cared for more carefully. </div>
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A little planning and effort can make a big difference! Enjoy!</div>
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Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8682413665774403765.post-50694590767991466112018-04-06T10:17:00.003-05:002020-02-07T15:57:41.266-06:00The Brain Changing Power of Conversation<br />
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The Brain-Changing Power of Conversation</h1>
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Interplay between parents and children ignites the brain and boosts its response to language, spurring lasting literacy skills</div>
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<picture style="box-sizing: inherit;" title="Young girl smiles up at her mother"><source media="(min-width: 550px)" srcset="https://www.gse.harvard.edu/sites/default/files//styles/landscape__1000x500/public/banner/1500x750_conversation.jpg?itok=ACsnsg4L&timestamp=1518611711 1x" style="box-sizing: inherit;"></source><source media="(min-width: 0)" srcset="https://www.gse.harvard.edu/sites/default/files//styles/landscape__535x300/public/banner/1500x750_conversation.jpg?itok=Q5HGIl3M&timestamp=1518611711 1x" style="box-sizing: inherit;"></source><img alt="Young girl smiles up at her mother" src="https://www.gse.harvard.edu/sites/default/files//styles/landscape__1000x500/public/banner/1500x750_conversation.jpg?itok=ACsnsg4L&timestamp=1518611711" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" title="Young girl smiles up at her mother" /></picture></div>
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For parents, childcare providers, and early educators, new research describes a simple and powerful way to build children’s brains: talk with them, early and often.</div>
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A study in <a href="http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0956797617742725" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;"><em style="box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Psychological Science</em></a> shows how conversation — the interplay between a parent or caregiver and a child — ignites the language centers in a child’s brain. It’s the first study to show a relationship between the words children hear at home and the growth of their neural processing capacities — showing, in effect, that how parents talk to their children changes children’s brains.</div>
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Don't just talk to your child; talk <em style="box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">with</em> your child. The interaction, more than the number of words a child hears, creates measurable changes in the brain and sets the stage for strong literacy skills in school.</div>
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This new work — led by Harvard and MIT Ph.D. student <a href="https://scholar.harvard.edu/rachelromeo" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">Rachel Romeo</a>, with coauthors at both of those institutions and the University of Pennsylvania — builds on what researchers have long known about the connections between “home language environment” and children’s cognitive development, literacy and language growth, and verbal ability.</div>
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In the wake of a <a href="http://products.brookespublishing.com/Meaningful-Differences-in-the-Everyday-Experience-of-Young-American-Children-P14.aspx" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">1995 study</a> that found a dramatic gap in the number of words heard by high- and low-income children — the so-called <a href="https://www.leadersproject.org/2013/03/17/meaningful-differences-in-the-everyday-experience-of-young-american-children/" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">30 million word gap</a> — much attention has been given to efforts to enrich kids’ language exposure. But recent work has added nuance, showing that it’s <a href="https://www.gse.harvard.edu/node/451331" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">not so much the quantity of words children hear as the quality</a> that matters.</div>
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The new findings replicate that behavioral research on quality over quantity and <em style="box-sizing: inherit; line-height: inherit;">extend</em> it by showing the effects in the brain. “Specifically, after we equate for socioeconomic status, we find that the sheer number of words spoken by an adult was not related to children's neural processing of language, but that the number of conversational turns was,” says Romeo. “And that neural response, in turn, predicted children's language skills. It really is the quality of language exposure that matters, over and above the quantity of words dumped onto a child.” </div>
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What Parents and Early Educators Should Know</div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 12px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 5px;">From infancy, parents should look for chances to have conversations with their child — even if it's just responding to coos or gurgles. </li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 12px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 5px;">Conversational interplay between caregiver and child is enough to transform the biology of kids' brains. The quality of these exchanges is more important than the quantity of words children hear.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 12px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 5px;">Conversation drives literacy skills and cognitive development across all socioeconomic levels, regardless parents' income or education. It's a powerful, actionable, and simple tool for all parents to use.</li>
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The Science</h3>
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Researchers used highly faithful audio recorders — a system called Language Environment Analysis (known as LENA) — to capture every word spoken or heard by 36 4–6 year olds from various socioeconomic backgrounds over two full days. The recordings were analyzed to measure the number of words spoken by each child, the number of words spoken to each child, and the number of conversational turns — back-and-forth exchanges initiated by either adult or child.</div>
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Comparing those measurements with brain scans of the individual children, the analysis found that differences in the number of conversational turns accounted for differences in brain physiology, as well as for differences in language skills including vocabulary, grammar, and verbal reasoning.</div>
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Read the <a href="http://news.mit.edu/2018/conversation-boost-childrens-brain-response-language-0214" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">MIT News story</a> for a fuller summary of the research. (Authors on the paper include <a href="https://www.gse.harvard.edu/node/422741" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">Meredith Rowe</a> of the <a href="http://www.gse.harvard.edu/" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">Harvard Graduate School of Education</a>, whose behavioral work has shown the importance of parent-child interplay; <a href="https://www.gse.harvard.edu/faculty/martin-west" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">Martin West</a> of HGSE, and senior author <a href="https://mcgovern.mit.edu/principal-investigators/john-gabrieli" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">John Gabrieli</a> of MIT.)</div>
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The Takeaways</h3>
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The “conversational turns” are key here, the researchers say. Conversational interplay — a verbal version of the <a href="https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/17/11/how-caregivers-can-boost-young-brains" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">serve-and-return</a> caregiving that helps kids thrive — “involves not only a linguistic exchange, but also a social interaction that we know is crucial to cognitive development as well,” Romeo says.</div>
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This work suggests how important it is that caregivers “not just talk to your child, but talk with them,” says Romeo. “Even from infancy, we can consider children to be conversational partners. Obviously, a ‘conversation’ looks very different with much younger children: with infants, it might be taking turns exchanging giggles or coos; with toddlers, it might be repeating and expanding their sentences; and with older children, it might be asking ‘who, what, where, and how’ questions.</div>
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“Either way, it seems to be the interaction that best supports children's language skills and the underlying neural development.”</div>
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"Obviously, a ‘conversation’ looks very different with much younger children: with infants, it might be taking turns exchanging giggles or coos; with toddlers, it might be repeating and expanding their sentences; and with older children, it might be asking ‘who, what, where, and how’ questions. Either way, it seems to be the interaction that best supports children's language skills and the underlying neural development."</div>
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Importantly, this research finds effects across all socioeconomic levels. “We found that the brains of children from lower-income families benefitted from conversational interplay just as much as the brains of children from higher income families,” says Gabrieli, the Grover Hermann Professor of Health Sciences and Technology at MIT and an investigator at the <a href="https://mcgovern.mit.edu/" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">McGovern Institute for Brain Research</a>. Conversing often with one’s children is “strikingly helpful” regardless of income and educational background, he says. As Gabrieli told the MIT News Office, “It’s almost magical how parental conversation appears to influence the biological growth of the brain.”</div>
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Gabrieli, Rowe, and other researchers are exploring ways to make these findings — and the actionable takeaways about the importance of conversation — accessible to all families. “Part of this is <a href="https://www.gse.harvard.edu/node/492851" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #a51c30; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.2s;">public health communication</a>, but I expect that more direct forms of support will be needed to promote this and help parents change conversational habits,” Gabrieli says. “It is hard for all of us to change any habit."</div>
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Virginia Stautingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07923296780667533405noreply@blogger.com0