There are some who argue that print is dead. I beg to differ! Despite shrinking advertising sponsors and the allure of online news, print journalism is alive and well, and very often available free of charge from your local newspaper publisher. For the teacher trying to steer away from worksheets, newspapers serve as a great hands-on resource that can enhance several cross-curricular lessons already in your plans. Read More
Do you give your kids an allowance? Do they understand what a budget is? Do they actually save some of their money? With the country just beginning its slow and hopefully upward journey from a deep recession, there is probably not a better time to have a discussion with your munchkins on the how, what, where, and why of all things money. Read More
The ability to think big as an adult, to be an idea person, is a gift that sometimes begins with the freedom to think big as a child. The chance to use all the couch cushions, the kitchen chairs, and every blanket in the linen closet, in order to turn the living room into a fortress, is an unparalleled opportunity to learn engineering strategies, cooperation skills and the priceless ability to gain intrinsic pride from an accomplishment. Read More
Have you ever considered using the Jabberwocky approach to writing in the classroom? It’s easy enough to launch a real study of Lewis Carroll’s work, with examinations of words and parts of speech, the history of it, and so on. But instead of going down the tried-and-true path, why not kick it up a notch? Read More
For the most part, my oldest daughter has always been what some may consider a “motivated” or “driven” child. However, I’m noticing that in her pre-teen years, she’s slipping ever so slightly. Although most would say her behavior is typical for her age, it’s still a bit worrisome to me. I try not to be the hovering parent who nags, but at the same time, what are the alternatives to make sure your child is getting done what needs to get done? Read More
