Crochet & Community
Through learning crochet, young people gain an authentic sense of accomplishment, develop their fine motor skills, and form meaningful connections with a like-minded community.
Sneak Reading with Sneaky Readers
When my son was ten, he was a sneaky reading kid. It wasn’t uncommon for me to discover him sneak reading in the bathroom, planted on the toilet seat leaning over engrossed in a book as it rested on the floor when he should have been long asleep. How do kids get to be prolific readers, readers who just want to get lost in their books or who can’t climb out of them? Reading behavior, as with most behaviors, is learned. There are many ways to influence a child’s interest in reading.
Memorization is Crucial to Learning
Memorization is also beneficial for the brain. Engaging in the process of memorizing strengthens neural connections and improves cognitive functions such as focus, attention, and memory retention. It's a mental exercise that keeps the brain active and healthy, much like how physical exercise benefits the body.
Why cite sources?
Citations, bibliographies and footnotes are not “gotcha” moments. The next time you ask students to cite their sources, remind them, “You are an essential part of an intellectual community.” You might see their eyes light up.
Struggle Is Critical for Growth
Before you master balance and speed, you’re going to fall quite a few times. Then, all at once, you’ll find yourself upright and moving forward. Before you know it, it’s as though you were born on a bike! The wounds are healed, and the wind is in your hair.
Mindfulness & Scent
Our sense of smell has a remarkable influence on our emotions. Just a quick whiff of a favorite scent can bring a flood of positive feelings. Essential oils tap into this power, helping to soothe, energize, and uplift our mood naturally.
Written Feedback
Students need and deserve high-quality written feedback on their academic writing. The Writing Center at San José State University agrees. In her helpful guide titled “Providing Feedback on Student Writing,” Sara Cook explains that “the quantity of in-text marks matters.” She asserts that a lack of “in-text grammatical, mechanical, or stylistic marks” falsely communicates success.
Life Skills
Parents often ask me how they can help their children develop grit and self-confidence. Well, here’s a start. Help your child learn basic skills that will make them feel empowered and proud. Encourage your children to do more for others with these skills.
Slow Down and Breathe Deep
Ready…Set…Relax is an oldie, but a goodie. Published in 1997, it’s my favorite book of guided meditations for the classroom and home.
The Check-In
Check-ins result in meaningful reflections on learning experiences, the development of effective time management routines, and documenting student progress.
Apples & Peanut Butter
It’s important to offer students healthy snacks. My snack of choice are Granny Smith Apples, cut into wedges and served with an ample spoonful of peanut butter.
Digital Textbooks & Sleep
High School, Middle School and even Elementary students are completing many assignments on devices that emit blue light — a documented sleep disrupter.
Design Matters
Interior design matters. Learning spaces must entice, soothe, and inspire. Students need cozy places for reading, comfy seats for curling up, and ergonomic desks for comfortable computing.