Eating dinner with the family has been shown to be helpful for children, but at least 1/3 of Americans rarely do so. Even if it is not possible to have a daily family dinner, there are alternatives that offer benefits to children. Other ways of attaining the dinner benefits include eating breakfast together, having a bedtime snack as a family, or scheduling a once a week Sunday dinner.
Board Games and Math Achievement
Research shows playing board games with kids have a major impact on math achievement. Dice and spinners strengthen understanding of probability and counting while games with money teach how to count and make change.
Extended Learning Time Parent Backlash
There has been a push by some to extend the school day. They call it ELT (Extended Learning Time). There is a growing backlash from parents that in fact find this to be a bad idea. They maintain that longer school days cut into family time, sports, theater activities and tire out kids. Those promoting this idea tend to be wealthy philanthropy organizations with big ideas about education and trying to push their ideas on middle class families who are on the receiving end. Kids need a chance to unwind and have free play. A 6-7 hour school day is more than enough time to get everything done that they should be doing. What do you think?
Quality Of Life
The quality of your children’s lives will be determined by the quality of the people in their lives.
Teacher Communication
When communicating with a teacher, keep the contact positive and professional. Share your child’s feelings, behaviors and/or your own observations politely. When teachers feel accused or blamed, they are more likely to focus on defending their actions instead of helping your child.
Social Interpersonal Learners
Social (interpersonal) learners prefer to learn in groups or with other people. They like social activities rather than doing their own thing. They typically like team sports.
Socialize Asperger’s Children
It’s important to get Asperger’s children to socialize as often as possible. Sports and play dates are great ways to get these kids included.
How You Say and What You Say
Teach your children that how you say something is as important as what you say.
Being Right & Being Popular
What is right isn’t always popular and what is popular isn’t always right.
Real Friend
A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.