Did you know August 9th is Book Lovers Day? They say the 1st step in dealing with any problem is acknowledging there is a problem. Well I have made it known, over and over, I have a weakness for children's books. And especially on this #BookLoversDay I wouldn't think of trying to rein in my obsession! I got to thinking about fun activities families do during the summer and camping came to mind. Why? Because one of the de rigueur duties associated with camping is telling stories around the … [Read more...]
“S” is for Summer, Swimming and Safety!
“S” is for Summer, Swimming and Safety! What’s this? Could Teacher Karen have had a change in philosophy? NO! I’m still not fond of ‘letter of the day’ style of teaching for young children. I think it buys into the whole push-down academics model that is so prevalent right now. Kindergarteners and preschoolers should not be expected to master topics or skills that traditionally were reserved for later grades and older children. There are important, foundational steps and accomplishments young … [Read more...]
To Nap or Not To Nap: When & How
The topic: Nap time. Specifically when to be nap free. So I did an (unscientific) poll to find out when kiddos give up taking a nap. The results showed my children were on the early side, stopping before 2. The consensus was somewhere between 2-4 years of age. Mr Teacher Karen napped consistently throughout his kindergarten years and many parents posted comments that their older children napped well into their 3rd, 4th and 5th years too. It’s been too … [Read more...]
Parenting Advice: There’s a Time for Talking
Parenting is a job. Unfortunately it’s a job that doesn’t come with a manual and it’s a job that, during the years 0-5 especially, can be exhausting and challenging. Without extended family for support and guidance, it’s no wonder Moms and Dads look elsewhere for parenting advice. Parenting isn’t something everyone just knows how to do. Pediatricians Offer Parenting Advice... Parents of my Mom’s generation often looked to Dr Spock for parenting advice. His book, The Common Sense Book of Baby … [Read more...]
Screen Time: Dreaming of Toys Guest Post
How much screen time would you guess kiddos have each and every day? According to Childwise, a market research firm, children aged 5 to 16 spend an average of 6.5 hours/day in front of a screen compared with around 3 hours back in 1995. Does this concern you like it does me? I'm grateful for the following guest post--read on! Back in the Day... Though I’m loathe to admit it, I’m old enough (and have been for awhile) to tell stories that begin with, “When I was a kid…” but in this case … [Read more...]