Art is a wonderful medium for self-expression and learning. If you have a child with a learning disability, discovering art can mean a world of difference to their quality of life. Here are a few ways you can expose your child to art.
 
At Home
 
Introducing your child to art at home can be an effective starting point. Your child may be more at ease in their home, where you can set parameters that will keep them comfortable and stress free. Learning art at home can also let you control how your child discovers art. You might use YouTube, as well as child-friendly websites for instructions and guides. Developing a hobby room could aid in creating a safe space free of distraction and stress where they can best focus on creativity. Fill the room with a variety of art supplies to encourage your child to experiment in different styles. You could dedicate a wall or fixture to display their works. Choose surfaces that can be cleaned easily, and place storage boxes so that the room remains organized and spacious. A hobby room has the added benefit of containing the inevitable messes that come up during an art session.
 
Galleries and Museums
 
One excellent way to stimulate interest in art is through galleries and museums. This can be a highly visual approach, offering a wide range of different styles and artistic approaches. Museums and galleries can provide engaging lessons about the history of art in a way that is accessible and fun. Importantly, they encourage questions and curiosity that may creatively inspire and awaken a passion for art. Some establishments have their own workshops and events specially designed for children with learning disabilities, as well as programs that offer more sensory and visually oriented approaches to learning.
 
Art Therapy
 
Another route that could be taken is art therapy. This is a process that can take place in various settings and may prove beneficial in not only exposing your child to art, but in improving self-esteem and interpersonal skills. Art therapists are trained to nurture curiosity and encourage a full range of expression that may help develop better self-awareness and the processing of emotions. The environment that a trained therapist can create may aid in reducing stress and anxiety, as well as help improve focus. Many different types of art can be explored, from clay sculpting to coloring mandalas.
 
Art Classes
 
Finding classes that provide a safe and positive environment for children may also nurture interest in art. Children can thrive in places where they are able to make new friends and learn without pressure and stress. After-school pursuits may help in making learning about art fun and accessible, while also giving your child valuable experience in collaborating with others. Organizations like the Girl Scouts of America and the YMCA, as well as museums, offer opportunities for such creative pursuits. Consult with your local library or your child's school to see if there are other resources available.
 
Participate With Your Child
 
No matter how you expose your child to art, showing them support and love as they explore their creativity will be a fantastic way to motivate them. Encourage their creativity, demonstrate to them how proud you are of their effort and imagination, and participate alongside them whenever you can. Whether this is at a class or in their hobby room, it's the perfect opportunity to have fun while creating memories and learning more about your little one's imagination. This may also give you the chance to encourage your child to problem-solve through art while offering them a helping hand when needed. Be sure to show them how impressed you are by their choices, whether it's how they use a particular color or how they draw a specific object. Being on the receiving end of praise will offer a big boost to their sense of accomplishment and confidence.
 
Introducing your child to art can have a positive impact on how they express themselves. It may allow them to harness their imagination and deal with day-to-day challenges. In the process, art may help reduce anxiety, improve confidence, and give them a medium to comfortably communicate their feelings and thoughts.
 
Image Courtesy of Pixabay
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​Everyone wants their home to be safe, so it’s kind of scary to think of your home’s air being filled with harmful pollutants and allergens. Unfortunately, the reality is that these are all too common, causing poor indoor air quality that makes us sick. Children are especially susceptible, so parents need to be aware of the signs of pulmonary illness in children and how you can improve your indoor air quality to avoid these problems.
 
Air and Your Health

​Air is one of our most basic needs. Breathing fresh air keeps us healthy and helps children’s lungs and other organs develop properly. When the air we breathe is polluted, however, it can lead to asthma, allergies, and other pulmonary problems. According to a report by Reuters, children are at a greater risk from indoor allergens than adults because their airways are still developing and they often spend more time on the floor, closer to common sources of allergens.
 
So how do you know if your child’s cough or runny nose is just a cold or a sign of pulmonary illness? Look for warning signs that include ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, wheezing, episodes of rapid breathing and shortness of breath.
 
Aside from these chronic conditions, poor air quality also affects your energy level. When you have a harder time breathing, your lungs have to work extra hard and your brain may not be getting enough oxygen. But when you breathe cleaner air, all of your body’s systems function better so you have more energy and feel better overall.
 
How does indoor air get polluted, and what can you do about it?

​We tend to think of outdoor air pollutants as being harmful, but indoor sources of air pollution are just as harmful and are usually harder to spot than smog and smoke from car fumes. These are just a few of the most common factors that affect indoor air quality.

• Your HVAC system - According to The Huffington Post, your heating and cooling system can leave traces of water that are ideal for mold and bacteria to breed. In general, running your AC is good for indoor air because it keeps it circulating, but you will run into problems if you have contaminated air ducts. Your heating system can also be a source of carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas.

 
Solution - Having your HVAC system serviced regularly and air ducts cleaned can take care of contaminated ducts. Keep your system doing its job by changing your air filter regularly, and be sure to get the appropriate-fitting air filter. You may also want to use an air purifier to clean the pollutants out of the air in your home. An air purifier can remove pollen, dust mites, mold, bacteria, and even smoke.

• Carpeting, furniture, and other fabrics - Any indoor fabrics are ideal for dust, pet dander and other invisible allergens to settle. Most people are typically aware of how carpeting and rugs attract allergens, but don’t forget overlooked fabrics such as curtains, bedding, furniture and pillows.

 
Solution - Develop a schedule for cleaning these surfaces regularly, including vacuuming frequently, dusting and washing bedding. In addition to your regular cleaning schedule, bring in a professional on occasion to get deep into carpeting and furniture to really remove those pollutants.

• Plumbing leaks and other sources of humidity - Excess humidity in your home causes growth of mold and mildew, which can make you sick. Common sources of water problems are leaky plumbing and moisture in bathrooms.

 
Solution - Fix leaks and remove any material that has been damaged by water. Reseal bathrooms with caulk, and caulk the exterior of your home as well, especially around windows and doors. You can also use a dehumidifier to control moisture and prevent future problems.
 
Polluted indoor air is a scary thing to consider, but the good news is you don’t have to live with it. Regular cleaning, along with troubleshooting leaks and maintaining your HVAC system, goes a long way toward eliminating allergens. Take these steps to clear your home’s air and keep your whole family breathing better.
 
Photo credit: Pexels
 

Safety Tips
 
Build a Fence
 
According to the National Autism Association, 49 percent of children with ASD have wandered from a safe setting and this makes outdoor play a potential risk. To help make sure your child is safe in your backyard, erect a fence.
 
Protect a Pool
Studies have shown that children with autism are at an increased risk of drowning, so it’s important to take precautions if you do have a pool. First, be sure your pool has an alarm that will alert you if someone enters the pool without your knowledge. Second, invest in some swim lessons.
 
Create a Soothing Area
 
Being outdoors and experiencing all the sights and sounds that go along with it can quickly cause over-stimulation. Make sure to create an outdoor space where your child can escape.
 
Sensory Play Ideas
 
Build a Sandbox
According to a study on sand-play, children who engaged in activities in sand saw an increase in verbal expression, were able to sustain long periods of social interaction and improved their abilities to be spontaneous and engage in novel play. Build your child a simple sandbox that they can spend time in.
 
Install a Hammock
Hammocks provide a wrap-around sensory feeling that helps children with autism re-center, not to mention the other benefits of swinging. You can purchase a stand with a hammock for a deck or patio, a hammock chair, or a portable hammock that you can use in the backyard and take to the park.
 
Plant a Garden
Gardening is a way that children can get valuable input into their muscles and joints. It’s also proven to help children increase their attention spans. Start with a small herb garden or a small vegetable garden, or find some flower seeds that you can plant and water together. Make it more special and purchase a set of matching gardening gloves for mom and child.
 
Ideas For Socialization
 
Stage a Play
A study in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that acting can help children with autism improve their social competency. In other words, they will be able to interact with their peers better. Get together a group of friends, gather up some costumes and put on a play. 
 
Sleep Under the Stars
Head to the backyard and pitch a tent for a night under the stars with the whole family. Spontaneous family time is great for some children with autism for others you’ll want to plan this in advance.
 
Have a Picnic Area
Invest in a backyard picnic table where you can enjoy picnics as a family, plan picnics with your child’s friends, or make messy outdoor art projects. Picnics are a great place for everyone to unplug and have quality time talking and laughing.
 
Make this summer about helping your child relax and recoup from the effects of time spent in a rigid classroom. You can do this by creating a thoughtful and engaging space, where they can relax and have fun. Next step? Invite a few friends over so your child has a chance to see that even though they have learning differences, they’re a lot like their pals. 

Learning to play an instrument is a wonderful way for students to express their creativity. But did you know that learning an instrument can build literacy and language skills as well? Studies show that children who take at least two years of music lessons have an enhanced ability to process language, which gives them an advantage when it comes to reading and
communication. If you are a teacher or parent who would like to offer your children the benefits of learning an instrument, here are a few things to know:

Playing Music Has Other Benefits Too

Music has some pretty positive effects on the learning and social abilities of children, but learning an instrument can have other benefits as well. The benefits of learning an instrument are varied and encompass quite a few emotional and physical aspects. Music can work to decrease stress levels, which will have significant positive impacts on your child’s physical health. Playing an instrument teaches children the importance of perseverance, discipline, and responsibility, all of which will help your child succeed in other areas of life as well.  The benefits of playing music are boundless for your children. From improving language skills to positively impacting mental health, learning to play an instrument is one of the most effective ways to help kids learn better, feel stronger and develop into well-rounded adults. So, make music a part of your child’s life and learning experience.

Additional tips for giving summer slide the slip include:

· Asking your child’s teacher or tutor for suggested reading materials, resources, and information on summer programs

· Setting aside special, protected time for learning

· Providing reading comprehension practice in workbooks or online

· Pinpointing and practicing concepts your child had difficulty learning the previous year

· Practicing a few math problems each day

· Taking your child on weekly trips to the library

· Having your child tell you what he or she read and learned each day

Your child has innate potential and motivation to learn. Tap into it and create an academic achiever and lifelong learner. Don’t delay. Start today!

If you have ever taken a child to the toy store, you have probably dealt with several kinds of emotional outbursts including, pouting, temper tantrums, anger and just plain frustration. And I’m not just talking about the kids….

Kids love toys and they will probably see a number of toys that they feel like they can’t live without in just one visit. So are toys actually worth all this emotional stress of the ‘toy store visit’ and how can you make that visit a little more enjoyable?

The best toys actually engage in a child’s senses, sparks their imagination and encourages interaction with others instead of staring into a phone or computer screen. And educational play is essential to every area of a child’s growth and development because it strengthens and refines small and large motor skills so a child can grow and develop normally.

​For a baby, toys with contrasting colors can stimulate their developing vision and help build hand-eye coordination. For a toddler, shape sorting toys and Lego blocks provide the opportunity to learn more about colors and symmetry while developing their motor skills.

As a child approaches school age, it’s time to start learning about letters and numbers and the toys should help supplement this new way of learning in a fun way. Puzzles, puppets, and playdough can also help encourage creativity in addition to learning letters and numbers.


And how many toys have you actually bought that only get played with for just one day and then end up deep in the closet until it gets transferred to a donation center?  To give these toys a longer shelf life, start playing with the toy yourself right in front of the child. Eventually they will come sit right beside you out of curiosity and thus the inspiration of the previously ignored toy returns.


And then we have the actual dreaded trip to the toy store. First of all, map your route before entering the toy store. Go to the section of the store that is appropriate for your child’s age. At the same time, perhaps introduce the concept of “giving to others” to teach your child a valuable lesson of generosity along with purchasing a toy for their own enjoyment. You can also try going to the store for a “looking only” trip. This will teach your child that not every adventure is going to result in buying a toy. 

Education and technology do not necessarily go hand in hand. Give your child a break from technology and head to the store to choose your educational toys carefully. Social skills are going down the tubes because of children burying their heads in a tablet or video game. Education begins with the parent! And developing a child’s passion to learn creatively with appropriate educational toys, leads to a successful mind of the future.
​

By definition, the word “best” means, “of the most excellent, effective, or desirable type or quality.” If knowledge truly is power and “a child miseducated is a child lost” (John F. Kennedy), shouldn’t all children have the opportunity to receive an education of desirable type or quality, one that is effective for him or her, regardless of socioeconomic status?

Across the United States, millions of children are forced to attend schools that are of poor quality and that fail to meet their learning needs. Inferior education places these children at a disadvantage for obtaining their best possible future, at no fault of their own. Educational excellence should be possible for all children.
​
For decades, the public school system has monopolized education. The problem with a monopoly in education is no different than it is with any other type of monopoly. Monopolies create an inefficient allocation of resources. They attempt to prevent potential providers of the same or similar products and services from entering the competition. This has been the case in the quest for school choice.

The official mission of the U.S. Department of Education, as stated on its website, is to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access. Private school choice legislation was passed in 16 states in 2013.

​School choice programs vary, generally by state. Types of school choice programs include:

• school vouchers
• scholarship tax credits
• education savings accounts
• public charter schools

​John T. Walton said it best when he stated, “There is a growing acceptance and interest in publicly funded school choice as a catalyst for education reform in general and a way to empower parents to be education reformers.” Consequences accompany choices; and with school choice, those consequences benefit our children.

Do you feel like you are a broken record when it comes to telling your kids to study? And, how often do you see them wait until the night before it’s due to complete an assignment? And should you really help with homework?

The answers aren’t always cut and dry but here is a little clarification on the matter. 

​First of all – yes, you should help with homework but in a calm and cheerful way. Make positive comments along the way because you don’t want your child to associate studying and homework with arguments at home. In return they should display the same positive attitude towards their studies.

To teach your child good study habits, have them set aside a special time every day for their work. Set a goal to start and finish within a certain time and divide big assignments in to smaller more workable tasks for them. You might also divide their time into different categories like reviewing, reading, and then on-going projects. Make sure you form a check list as they complete each task to give them a sense of accomplishment.
​

Staying on task now, will help your child stay ahead of the curve before the work assignments become more challenging. Starting good study habits early will also allow for a successful transition to college and help them see a bright positive future that’s just within their reach.  
 

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”—Benjamin Franklin

While Benjamin Franklin was not speaking of back safety when he made this statement, it certainly can be applied to the subject. It is much easier to prevent back injury than it is to correct it once it has occurred.

In 2001, more than 7,000 emergency room visits were related to backpacks and book bags. According to the U.S. Consumer Product and Safety Commission, half of these injuries occurred in elementary and middle school students, ages 5 to 14 years old. The average student carries a back pack weighing approximately 25% of his body weight. A back pack should weigh no more than 15%, approximately one-sixth, of the body weight. Anything more is too heavy and can result in problems with the neck and/or back, in addition to causing fatigue, muscle soreness, discomfort, and back pain.

Keep your children safe by following these suggestions from AOTA, The American Occupational Therapy Association:

• Select a backpack that is the proper size for your child. The height of the backpack should extend from approximately 2 inches below the shoulder blades to waist level, or slightly above waist level.
  
  
• Wear well-padded shoulder straps on both shoulders. Doing so helps ensure that the weight of the backpack is balanced evenly.
  
  
• Load heavier items closest to your child's back, distribute the weight evenly, and balance the items so your child can stand up straight.
  
  
• Wear the hip belt, if the backpack has one. Doing so can improve balance and minimize strain on neck and shoulder muscles.
  
  
• Check to ensure that the backpack weighs no more than 15% of your child's body weight. If it does, eliminate unnecessary contents. Only have your child take necessary items to school. Consider using a book bag on wheels, if necessary.
  
  

Back pain is generally associated with a specific event. However, it is usually the culmination of years of straining, lifting, twisting, repetitive tasks, and awkward postures. Our children will use backpacks for several years, from elementary school through college, and even beyond. Educate your child on proper backpack usage, being sure to explain how to properly pack, weigh, and wear a backpack to prevent back injury.  Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

September 10th is almost here!  Just 5 more days.

And our current leaders:

Number of Mastered Skills

1. Nadia  (150)
2. Ava
3. Sai
4. Amelia
5. Lily
6. Noah
7. Chloe
8. Lucas B
9. Owen
10. William

Number of Questions Answered

1. Nadia  (5020)
2. Sai
3. Ava
4. Emma
5. Lisa
6. Lily
7. Lucas S
8. Madison
9. Andrew P
10. Lucas B

Keep it up!!

To make lunch more inviting, let the kids help with preparation. Mix things up a bit by alternating sandwiches with wraps, pita pockets, or crackers. Include hummus, avocado, or pesto as tasty dipping sauces for chicken nuggets, as well as for veggie sticks. Cut sandwiches, fruits, and veggies in different shapes for added interest and fun.

​Making daily lunches need not be mundane. The key to packing a perfect lunch is to make it bright and colorful with lots of fresh fruits and veggies, paired with nuts and whole grains for fiber and energy. Keep these simple rules of thumb in mind, and a healthy lunch is in the bag!

The critical thinking skills from these tests have actually been used throughout our lives. So why is there a push to remove or replace these tests, especially if it measures academic achievement?

​One reason may be that many students simply do not perform well under timed and pressured tests like this. They may be smart and understand the content, but for some reason it didn’t come across on the test. Many students also develop ‘test anxiety’ which will cause their focus to go elsewhere. Teachers also have the pressure of getting their students ready for the exams and then end up focusing too much on teaching for the actual test instead of working on a student’s overall learning potential.

On the other hand, the standardized test can help to see if a child is at the appropriate grade level or how he or she is performing compared to other children in their school, their state and even in the country. Without standardized testing, we cannot make the necessary comparisons that impact student achievement. Teachers can also use these tests to make decisions about what happens in their classrooms.

The United States is the only advanced country to rely on these standardized tests. Other nations use performance based assessments to evaluate their students on the basis of their work such as essays, projects and activities.
​
So what is the correct answer for standardized testing? Does the U.S. place too much importance on the test or do you think it can be ‘tweaked’? There should be a clear standard for measuring academic performance but at the same time, there should be a way to encourage excellence.

​So do you say “Yes to the Test”?

1. Yes
2. No
3. I Don’t Know

​

We have some great competitors this year!  As of today, we have just over 2 weeks left.  The contest ends at 11:59 pm Central Time.  Let's take a look at our current leaders:


Number of Mastered Skills*

1. Sai       (87)
2. Nadia
3. Amelia
4. Ava
5. Lily
6. Noah
7. Chloe
8. Lucas B
9. Owen
10. William

Number of Questions Answered*

1. Sai        (3629)
2. Nadia
3. Ava
4. Emma
5. Lisa
6. Logan
7. Lily
8. Ella
9. Zoey
10. Mia

*  These numbers are unconfirmed.  Please remember, all questions answered MUST be in your correct grade range.  If in doubt, check the official rules for an explanation to determine your correct grade range.

• Cognitive Skills and Attitudes (attention/concentration, memory, verbal ability)
• Academic Behaviors (conduct, attendance, time on task, homework completion)
• Academic Achievement (standardized test scores, grades)

​Students who exercise exhibit the following traits, each of which falls into one of the three primary areas of academic performance listed above:

• improved attention and motivation
• quicker performance of simple tasks
• quicker response with greater accuracy to cognitive tasks
• better performance on standardized tests
• better working memories and problem-solving skills
• improved information processing, storage, retrieval, and organization
• improved planning and scheduling skills
• stronger reading and math skills

​Although academic performance is dependent on a variety of variables, health is a key aspect of our children's ability to learn. Physical activity and higher aerobic fitness have been proven to augment basic cognitive functions that aid in the learning process, especially functions related to attention and memory. So, a tip for escalating your child's academic performance during the coming and subsequent school years is to incorporate daily exercise, in addition to regular studying and adequate sleep. Make exercise fun by including activities your child enjoys. Invite friends and family to join in and experience the benefits of exercise. You'll positively get more than you bargained for!

​Here are a few tips to start off this school year right:

• Bedtimes –

Let’s face it! During the summer, we get a little negligent on bedtimes and sometimes let our children stay up too late. Proper rest is essential for a healthy school year. Start now with specific bed times so they can get the recommended hours of sleep a night. It is recommended that school age children (6-13 years) get 9 to 11 hours sleep a night.

• Nutrition –

Good nutrition plays an important part in children’s academic performance. Studies show that children who eat healthy balanced breakfasts and lunches do better in school. Prepare healthy lunches and meals ahead of time so there is less time to develop bad eating habits.

Very close race!  We have several students neck and neck in both categories.  Don't stop now!

​Mastered Most Skills

Nadia      54
Sai          53
Amelia    50
Noah      46
Ava         44
Lucas B  39
Lily      29
Owen    27
William     26
Chloe   22


Answered Most Questions

Sai    2238
Nadia   1845
Emma      1602
Lisa    1425
Ava    1187
Logan    902
​Ella     818
Zoey    715
Owen 702
Lily    695

The countdown continues..........

Visit sleepfoundation.org for an extended table of sleep duration recommendations.


Stay tuned for Part II of the Awake to the Power of Sleep Series: From A to ZZZ—Healthy Sleep

Habits for School-Aged Children.

Congratulations to all our learners!!!  Keep it up.  Check back next weekend for an update.