• Special Topics

    SHOWTIME!

     by Esther Jantzen, guest poster Children love to show their parents or others what they’re doing and learning.  This activity is a way for family members, including the grown-ups, to demonstrate what they are interested in or enjoy. It helps kids become confident when they talk or perform in front of others. It’s wonderful to see the light in their faces when they feel successful! Here is a way to do this activity: 1) Plan a Family Show & Tell evening. Decide the date and time…

  • Special Topics

    Family Music Month

     By Esther Jantzen, guest poster Singing songs with kids is magical! Making music in any way stimulates the brain, brings happiness, and creates a sense of belonging. How about making your house a singing house regardless of how well any of you stay on pitch. Babies, toddlers, preschool children, elementary students, middle-school kids, high-schoolers all love to sing together. When you have time with your kids and want to do something fun, make music in your home. Whenever you get a chance, sing! Here ís what…

  • Parenting,  Special Topics

    FAMILY READING HOUR

    by Esther Jantzen, guest poster It’s great when children read about subjects that really interest them. Their knowledge and vocabulary expand. Kids start to read eagerly when they see their parents reading eagerly. So sit down and enjoy doing that together! Here’s an activity to try: 1) Plan a family time when you make independent reading important (when each person reads something they choose on their own). A weekend evening may work well, or try it on a slow summer day, after a holiday meal, on…