Has screen time invaded your kiddo's day again? We've just come off #ReadAcrossAmericaWeek with the #NationalDayOfUnplugging ending that week. There were probably lots and lots of activities, both inside and out, for your child to try. Now schools across the country have been shut down due to the coronavirus outbreak. With children remaining home you may have heard: There's NOTHING to DO.... ____I'm BORED!! (imagine whining on the 1st line; exasperation on the 2nd) Sure handing over a … [Read more...]
Space Travel 50 Years On
I was one of many Americans glued to the TV on July 20th 1969 watching and listening as Neil Armstrong stepped onto the moon’s surface. His “One small step” sentence summed up the feeling of monumental accomplishment not only for the USA but for the world. Fifty years on (I know how can it already be 50years?!) and space travel is still something humans are drawn to. Since that 1st landing and walking on the moon, astronauts have lived, for extended periods, in Space Stations. NASA seems to … [Read more...]
Book Lovers Day–My Perfect Excuse
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...]