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    Parenting,  Special Topics

    REACH FOR THE GOAL!

    By Esther Jantzen, guest poster  A great thing to teach children is how to get something done. Often kids want to accomplish something, but they don’t know how to start or where to get supplies or what to do next. Yet reaching a goal is a satisfying adventure! The first step is to imagine it completed just the way you want it to be in your mind. Once you clearly know what you want, it’s easier to take the next action steps. Here are steps to…

  • Parenting,  Special Topics,  Thinking

    High Quality Compliments!

    by Esther Jantzen, guest poster Children thrive when grown-ups point out their good qualities and the things they are doing well. Compliments are some of the best gifts you can give your child. This activity teaches kids words they might not know. Here are several ways to do it: below are 45 words for positive traits. See if you can add 15 more to the list: Active, determined, kind, adventurous, energetic, lively, artistic, enthusiastic, loving, aware, expressive, observant, beautiful, forgiving, open, bold, friendly, patient, brave, generous,…

  • 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…