Sign up for Discovery Education Childhood Nutrition Webinar

Do you eat with your children 7 nights a week?  Do you eat with them 1 night a week?  Are your mealtimes more of a battle over what to cook, who will eat what, or what's for dessert than it is a family time filled with encouraging, relationship-building discussions?  Would you like to discover healthy nutrition tips for your dinner time?

Join experts on November 2 at 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time for a Webinar on Energy Balance 101:

Register here at Discovery Education!

This seminar is one-hour long and is intended for educators, teachers, and parents!

Bring In The FBI To Make Sure SAT Testing Is Secure

The recent arrests of students who hired other students to take their SAT tests has sparked an investigation, involving the FBI. Colleges rely heavily on the results of these type of standardized testing to decide upon college and university admittance. Making sure the testing is fair and secure is important.

What do you think? Are there holes in the testing security system?

Read more in this article from Education Week:


Education Week: SAT Hires Former FBI Boss to Review Test Security

Facebook Law for Teachers in Missouri Heating Up

Facebook is a very popular site. In fact, it is the most popular Googled site on the internet. It is not only helpful in sharing friendships, but in building business, networking, and can be used for educational advances. However, Missouri has made a law prohibiting school teachers from friending their students on Facebook.

The law was met with argument. Many claim that Facebook can be used as a learning and tutoring tool that is needed and helpful. When used properly, by responsible teachers, it can be a wonderful connection that builds a teaching/learning environment.

Of course, when not used properly, it could lead to disaster. What do you think? Read more here:

Teachers, Lawmakers Grapple with Law Restricting Contact With Students - St. Charles, MO Patch

EdWeek: Apple's Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs was a brilliant man, who changed the world of technology (many say for the better). Do you own an Apple? Do you enjoy your iPhone? Maybe you use several learning apps available. Many schools are now using Apple tablets for learning. What do you think?

For detailed information about education and about Steve Jobs (who passed away yesterday after suffering from pancreatic cancer), visit:

Steve Jobs: Education Technology Pioneer

And, for more educational wrap-up news, visit:

EdWeek Update: Apple's Steve Jobs, Education Technology Pioneer

Teaching Is...A Perfect Gift For Your Favorite Teacher

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.


Sometimes teaching is a thankless job.  If you are a teacher, you know the joys that come as often as the hardships.  Students surprise you - either in a good way, or otherwise.  Just when you feel like throwing in the towel, a troubled student comes up to you and says, "thank you!"  Or, maybe you run into that student years down the road, and he is the one helping you.  Maybe, a parent thanks you for spending extra time with her son.  It's the little things.  It's the big things.  It's the daily moments that make teaching worth the adventure.

Teaching Is...Moments that inspire and Motivate Teachers to Make a Difference, by Marjan Glavac, is a collection of moments that make teaching worthwhile.  When shopping for gifts this year, stop by www.teachingis.com, and pick up a copy of this book.  It's the perfect gift for your favorite teacher.  Or, perhaps you're a teacher yourself.  If so, you will be delighted to read cover to cover.

You will find yourself laughing, chuckling, sighing, and even wiping away some tears.

The author has captured tidbits of daily happenings, from a teacher's perspective.  It is 80-pages of inspirational true-to-life memories that will motivate you to keep going, just one more day - the day that just might matter most.


You can find out more about this author, where to purchase his book, and other helpful resources at his website:  www.thebusyeducator.com
I was asked to review this book, but received nothing additional in exchange for my honest review.  What I have written is 100% my opinion.

Dollhouses are Great for Teaching

Dollhouses are great for teaching. Not only do they provide make-believe play and learning of social skills for little ones, they also provide a great opportunity to learn the basics of construction and following instructions. Here is a nice little house that's for sale on eBay:

Vintage Greenleaf The Arthur Wooden Dollhouse Kit NIB - eBay (item 390336258781 end time Aug-09-11 11:09:28 PDT)

Teaching with LEGO Vignettes

If you are an educator, I just found out about a concept that could change the way your students learn. Maybe you're fully aware of the idea behind LEGO Vignettes, but I just found out what they are and how they can help with educating children.

You probably can figure out that the word Vignette comes from a French word meaning Vine, but do you know how this relates to education, LEGOS and creating a Vignette? After reading about this, you'll want to make sure that a tub of LEGO's is an essential item in every classroom. Maybe even put it on the children's back-to-school lists.

Read the following post, from Teachable Scotts Tots, to find out more:

Teachable Scotts Tots Homeschool: Using LEGO Vignettes in education

5 Tips To Keep Your Kids Safe With Fireworks

4th of July is an exciting celebration of freedoms. But, it's also means trips to the emergency room with numerous personal fireworks injuries. Here's how you can avoid this:

5 Tips To Keep Your Kids Safe With Fireworks

Using Legos and Visual Cues to Teach

Teaching well requires pooling resources that the student can understand. Two hands-on or visual tools like these are LEGOS and visual cues. One is great for the hands-on learner, the other for the visual. Following are two great articles that refer to using these in the classroom or for teaching and learning purposes:

Teach Physics & Mechanics With LEGOS

What Are Visual Cues And Teachinig With Visual Cues

Wikki Stix for hands-on education and how you can win yours free!

______________________________

)*)*)*)*)*)*)*)*)*)*)*)*)*)*
We had a lot of fun reviewing this product. And, now we want to offer Wikki Stix to you. I want to share a 24-pk Rainbow Wikki Stix with you. Read through this blog to find out how you can win!

My children and I had the privilege of reviewing a product called Wikki Stix. The good people at Wikki Stix sent me some samples and away we went. The kids have since begged to "play" with the Wikki Stix. What a fun way to learn! They are non-allergenic, clean up easily and easy to work with for little fingers. Not only that, they are very affordable and reusable over and over again. They have endless uses.

______________________________

There are numerous other packs to purchase and put to educational use. There are even party paks to use at birthday parties and Curious George workbooks. I especially loved the idea of the adult stress reducer pak. There are alphabet cards, number cards, holiday kits, dinosaur and oceans kits, glow in the dark stix, single color paks, rainbow paks, neon paks and more.

_________________
GIVEAWAY:
_________________

Here's how you can win a free 24-pk Rainbow Wikki Stix!

It only takes a buck! Drop some love!

Hey guys! The Love Drop team is at it again! Last month they gave over $9,200 worth of cash, goods and services to their recipient, the Stalnaker family, who had been going through a financially hard time due to the effects of the BP oil spill on the Louisiana economy. The family was in need of a car and the Love Drop team was able to surprise them with one, making it one of the most exciting Love Drops ever. You can watch how it all went down here.

This month they rally behind the Aubins - a Michigan mother and her three children who are mourning the death of Keith, husband and father, after his lengthy battle with multiple health problems. Our goal is to raise at least $3,600 to pay the family's rent for three months, which will allow them to focus on what they need to during this time, without fear of losing their home. Additionally, since Keith was an organ donor, he leaves a powerful legacy and the Love Drop team hopes to raise awareness of organ donation this month to honor Keith's memory. Help us make this month special for the Aubins!

Want to help? Here are three ways you can participate:



Give $25 towards rent <-- Click this link to contribute $25 towards their rent for the next three months - it will relieve so much stress for them. Give a gift or service - Gift cards are always helpful. Places like Target, Wal-mart, restaurants, etc would definitely help them out. Services too - especially those you can offer yourselves, or from your company.

Organ donation - We're giving the Aubin's the gift of knowing that the people on our team are organ donors. If you are one now, or pledge to be soon, please tell us so, and we'll relay the total number as a gift at the Drop.

Blogathon 2011 Is Done!

I did it! I blogged for the Blogathon 2011 challenge and successfully completed it! Today is the last blog entry of 31 throughout the month of May.

I hope you have enjoyed reading these blogs. I hope they have been educational, and I plan on bringing much more interesting educational links, news and items of interest in the future.

Happy reading - Happy blogging!

Memorial Day Pledge of Allegiance Red Skelton and John Wayne

For Memorial Day, I thought a couple pledges of allegiance were in order:







Happy Memorial Day! Even if you disagree with war, after all truly most people do not prefer war to peace - If you enjoy your freedoms, you might want to thank a member of the armed forces.

What is an Inference Graphic Organizer?

Teaching inference skills to children while reading is important. What are inference skills? Inference skills are when you use your cognitive reasoning to fill in information not given. Skills like these are as important as problem solving and decision making skills to propel a child into higher-order thinking.

Here is a mini lesson in teaching inferencing to children!

Ice sculpture projects in the summer

With the start of summer, if the heat gets to be too much, consider an ice sculpture experiment with the kids that can be done inside any time of year.

These ice sculpture ideas are fun! and educational for kids. If you like, you can even do a variation on the project and freeze juice which makes a colorful sculpture and a yummy treat.

Easy-To-Build Catapults Create Lessons In Physics

The science behind catapults is simple yet history shows the complexity of these contraptions. Here is an easy-to-build catapult that is safe and easy-to-use for even small children.

This is a great lesson in levers, projectory, springs, simple machines, aerodynamics and more. A trip to the playground where there is an old-fashioned see-saw can help bring the lesson home.

Is There Science Behind This Year's Deadly Tornado Season?

This year has proven to be a very deadly season for tornadoes. Is it worse than usual, or does it just seem that way? Has there ever been a year that has been this deadly in tornadoes? Most importantly, is there a reason for these strong tornadoes?

An article today found on Live Science explains the science behind these tornadoes.

How to make a sand dunes project

Science projects that are easy, fun and hands on can provide wonderful learning opportunities. I found this great sand dune experiment on e-How. The experiment is easy to do with minimal mess.

Sand Dunes For Kids - An Easy Project!

Graduation At Last!

Graduations: Preschool, elementary, high school and college! All are taking place across America during this time of year. What is graduation? It's simply a ceremony to honor an accomplishment.

Preschool graduation is cute and fun and perhaps a little silly. But, it sure makes adorable pics for the scrapbook. And, it also allows a nice bit of closure for parents longing to hold that little newborn in their arms once more but knowing the goal as a parent is to watch them grow and launch them into the world.

High School graduates tend to think they know it all. Though, many still have college years ahead to bring maturity and independence, high school graduates tend to have an independent spirit and are ready to bust out of the place that held them captive for 12-13 years. Yes, high school graduation is a milestone. But, the graduate has really just begun to learn about what life is really all about.

College grads - Now, it's time to give back and come into who you are. Your official education has come to an end and now it's time to find a job and start living and contributing to society. All your learning comes to a head and is now ready to put it into action. What have you learned?

Learn To Draw For Kids

If you have ever tried to draw and have little to no artistic skill, it can become frustrating rather quickly. There are many books and DVDs available to teach drawing, but sometimes you need something simple, basic, spelled out in a step by step manner.

Ed Emberley has a line of drawing books that are amazing for kids. They are step by step instructions that add the picture drawn plus each step that was added for each step. Many of the steps are simply drawing a letter, like an elephant's tail is added by drawing the letter 'S'. These books are really fun and inexpensive.

Lakeshore Learning Offers Free Learning

Lakeshore Learning is an online resource center that offers learning toys. Their toys look amazing. But, they also have online resources for teachers.

There are hands-on vocabulary boosters that teach word blends and other phonics.

You can make your own awards.

There are also fun projects for free. Today's project is Life Cycle Frog. All it takes is a paper plate, stapler and a few other craft materials.

What Makes A Good Teacher?

Does a college degree make for a better teacher? Is a college degree really even necessary in becoming a great teacher? Many college degrees can teach methods and more about education. But, a really good teacher is more than a college degree, even a degree from the best university. A really good teacher knows how to motivate. A really good teacher knows how to direct a student to research on their own to truly learn. A good teacher knows how to instill wisdom and a spark for wanting to know more. A good teacher is humble, not arrogant. A good teacher doesn't have to know everything but should know how to direct a student to find out what he or she needs to know.

Are you a good teacher?
Do you know a good teacher?
Have you had the privilege of sitting in a classroom directed by a good teacher? If so, than the teacher.

A good teacher is a prize!

Beatles' First US Concert Photo To Be Auctioned

Music is a very important aspect in learning. Studies have been conducted that show different forms of music, such as classical, can actually improve a child's math skills. It is thought that it somehow stimulates the part of the brain that processes mathematical equations. There is, of course, numerous genres of music available and not every form has necessarily proven beneficial to learning.

The Beatles came onto the United States' music scene in 1964. They may not stimulate mathematical processing in the brain, but they did change the way music was played throughout America. By today's standards, their original sound was really quite basic. Heavy on guitar sound, the group was a sensation.

In July, one of their photos from their first concert will be auctioned off through Christies. You can find out more about this auction, the photo and the photographer here.

Much like Elvis impersonators, many musical groups have taken on the sound and look of the Beatles throughout the years. One such group is called Ticket To The Beatles!

Six Flags Walk In The Park For Children's Miracle Network

According to statistics, one out of every five children have a minor chronic illness. Children's Miracle Network comes alongside families to help. Now, you can help a child in need.

Discovery Education is sponsoring A Walk In The Park - Donor Drive. How does it work? You walk for pledges. If you raise $50, you get a free Six Flags ticket. If you raise less, you still come away a winner for your participation and whatever funds you help to raise goes to help a child in need.



If you can't walk, you can sponsor a walker. Whatever you can do helps.

iPhone Space Shuttle Pics

When the Space Shuttle Endeavor took off carrying Congresswoman Giffords' husband on board, she was not the only American looking on with excitement. There was a passenger on an airplane going about her day and catching a needed flight. When the pilot announced that the Space Shuttle had taken off, she grabbed her iPhone and clicked. She captured pictures that went viral on the internet.

Whether it was the interesting angle, science in action or hope that made these pictures go viral; the fact is that they are being seen around the world. They also provide an interesting look into many different angles of learning. They make for an impromptu lesson on Science, Social Studies, Art or even lessons of hope. Following is an article that includes one of the pictures taken as well as a slideshow that shows 3 of the pictures taken that day as well as other professional pictures of the Space Shuttle Endeavor.

You can get a glimpse at the picture she took of Space Shuttle Endeavor taking off from her view in an airplane here!

And here's a slideshow of the pics!

Quiz: How Many Gas-Saving Tips Can You Name? Oil Expert Gives 15 Tips

Oil CEO, Chris Faulkner offers 15 tips for saving on gasoline this summer.  Can you name all 15 ways to save gas?  Answers are at the bottom of the blog with the 15-tip list from Chris Faulkner in its entirety.

1.  Three part question:  a) What days of the week are the best / b) What time of these days are the best for saving on gas prices and c) What days should you never purchase gasoline?

2.  True or False?  Running your engine wastes more gas then re-starting your engine.

3.  Is it better to buy gas during the cool of the day?

4.  How many pounds of weight in the vehicle does it take to eat up an extra mile per gallon of gas?

5.  How many more cents per gallon do conveniently-located gas stations charge?

6.  Should you choose full serve or self serve?  Credit card or cash?

7.  How many cents per gallon can you be overcharged if the attendant/pump mistakenly charges for credit card as opposed to cash payment?

8.  What are ways you can drive less?

9.  Where can you check for traffic and construction delays before you leave the house?

10.    When should you close your windows and run the air conditioning and when should you turn off the air conditioning and roll down the windows to save on gas?

11.  When traveling, what kind of car should you rent and what should you do before leaving the house?

12.  What octane can most cars run on to be most efficient?

13.  What are two helpful apps you can download to help get the best gas mileage and save on gas?

14.  What Website offers discount gas gift cards?

15.  How do gas credit cards save you money?


ANSWERS:

1. Fill up your tank on Wednesday or Thursday before 10 am. Gas prices rise on Thursdays in anticipation of weekend travel.  10 am is when most station owners make their price change for the day.  Unless it is an emergency, do not buy gas Friday, Saturday or Sunday.

2. Don't let your car idle, either when you warm it up or when you are at a standstill. If you're going to be standing for more than a minute, running your engine wastes more gas than restarting the engine.

3. Buy gas when it's cooler during the day (like the early morning or at night) to reduce gas evaporation.

4. Remove unnecessary items in your car. Every 250 extra pounds eats up an extra mile per gallon of gas.

5. Avoid the convenient gas station on the side of the highway as you drive home from work which can be up to $.15 more per gallon.

6. Save money with self-service and look for gas stations where paying cash costs the same as using a credit or debit card.

7. Double check the attendant and ensure, if you are paying by cash, that “cash” is noted on the pump.  You could lose $.05 a gallon if he mistakenly presses “credit.”

8. Drive less - combine errands, carpool, and plot out the shortest route with a driving website beforehand.  It may sound obvious but it is often overlooked.

9. Check for traffic and detours online or on the radio prior to beginning your drive to avoid wasteful backtracking and idling.

10. Keep your windows closed when driving on the highway. Open windows can reduce your gas mileage by as much as 10%.  In stop-and-go traffic, open the windows and turn off the air conditioning to save more money.

11. Rent fuel-efficient cars when you travel and research reasonably priced places to buy gas before you leave.

12. Confirm with your mechanic what octane gasoline your car’s engine really needs.  Most car engines do not require high octane though the manual will say its "recommended."

13. Download a Gas App for your phone.  If you have a Smartphone, there are plenty of free apps that help you find the cheapest gas near your destination. GasBuddy makes it easy with its free app, and MapQuest has an online finder for gas prices.

14. Buy Discount Gas Gift Cards - Did you know you don't have to pay full price for a gift card? Sites like GiftCardGranny.com offer a diverse selection of discount gas gift cards from various card vendors.

15.  Be loyal to one gas company and get rewarded with it’s cash-back credit card reward program.

I'm A Little Pea and Other Cute Mishaps In Learning The ABCs

When my little girl was learning the alphabet, she would get to the portion that goes, "L-M-N-O-P" and instead proudly recite, "I'm a little pea!"  It would go like this:

A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H-I-J-K-I'm a little pea!-Q-R-S-T-U-V-W-X-Y-Z!

It was so adorable that I chose to not correct it figuring it would correct itself eventually - and, it did!

Most kids make little mishaps like this in learning their letters.  Most kids eventually figure it out to say it correctly.  When I was little, I thought there were two "N's" in the alphabet because the song was sung:

A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H-I-J-K-L-M--N--O-P-Q-R-S-T-U-V-W-X-Y-and-Z....That last "and" sounded to me like another "N."

Repetition is the best remedy.  When the child makes a mistake, it's best to just repeat it correctly after offering encouragement and not point out the mistake.  But, secretly, you might want to record the mishaps on video to look back on and smile.

Active vs. Passive Voice And Other Grammar Issues

Apparently, all my years I spent as a paralegal and typing legal documents has put me into the habit of typing in the passive voice.  Without even thinking, it is my tendency to naturally slip into passive voice.  I recently, however, came across a great Website that helps with not only this issue but other grammatical issues as well:

Active/Passive Voice And Other Grammar Issues!

I real through this and intend to read through it again and again until I fully understand.  Maybe it will help you too.

Does Social Networking Sites Like Twitter, Youtube and Facebook Belong In The Classroom?

Teaching a student to learn can be done in a number of ways.  There are different learning styles and different learning techniques.  But, when Social Media meets Teaching, what is appropriate.

This recent article talks about how teachers are using Social Media Sites!

Do you think using social media sites in the classroom is a step in the right direction or something that should be avoided?

With all the access to the internet and texting, it's amazing that any student ever takes learning seriously anymore.  It would be so easy and quite so tempting to just text in a Google question and fill in a test answer sheet with the findings.  Yes, many schools have a no-texting zone.  Some schools require students to deposit their electronic devices in a basket before entering the classroom.  But, is this really enforced?  My 14 year old neice showed me once how easy it is to text inside a sweatshirt hoodie front pocket without being noticed.  I'm sure this goes on every day unoticed in classrooms around the world.

What do you think?

New Study Shows Teacher Is Not The Reason For Good Grades

A new study is out that shows the way kids learn things that really stick may have a lot more to do with the teaching method than the teacher.

Here's the article that describes the findings!

It's very interesting yet not surprising to me.

A Haiku on Education

As part of the Blogathon 2011, Haiku day was yesterday.  I had other things to write about yesterday, so today I am writing my Haiku.  There are technically more than one form of Haiku poetry, but the basic Haiku is 3 lines of a poem that does not rhyme and has a 5 syllable 7 syllable 5 syllable pattern.  Following is my Haiku on Education:

Learning is basic

Won't you teach me how to learn

More than just rote facts

Top 25 Homeschool Blogs

Education comes in many forms.  When it comes to elementary education, there is public school, private school, charter schools, virtual school and home schools.  Circle of Moms is a Website that is hosting a contest to find the Top 25 homeschooling blogs.  You can vote to boost a wonderful homeschooling blog to make it within the top 25.

Teachable Scotts Tots is a blog of a homeschooling family.  It offers insights, journaling, lesson plans and what it's really like in the trenches of homeschooling.  Vote here!

Today is the last day to vote.  Voting closes at 5:00 PST.  

For Dummies Books Are Great Teaching Tools

I first ran across the series of books called "For Dummies" years ago and thought they were just a fun trend.  But, since that time the line of books has developed and published a book for just about anything you need to know.  There are For Dummies for computer programming languages and For Dummies for far simpler tasks.

The books lay out the information in a very humorous and understandable manner using cartoons and humor along with solid instruction.  Next time you need to learn something and it's just not clicking, you might want to check out a For Dummies book to make it clear.

And if you want, you can even design your own cover for dummies.  You pick the picture.  You pick the title.  You download and share how you like.  Have fun with the following link:

Design your own For Dummies Book Cover!

How many Mr. Men and Little Miss characters can you name on Roger Hargreaves' Birthday?

When I was younger and gone through some troubling times, I kept a little eraser with a picture of Mr. Strong on it.  It just was something I happened to find one day, it matched my car's interior, and it described how I felt I needed to be and how I should approach my troubles.

Whether my psychology was healthy or just immature youth, today, May 9, 2011, would have been the 76th birthday for Roger Hargreaves. Who is Roger Hargreaves? He was the creator of the Mr. Men an Little Miss Books. Apparently, his books started as an answer to his son's question as to what a tickle looked like.  His response was the first character of the line of books.  Google has created a Google Doodle in honor of the man. So, I thought it might be fun to conduct a little test. How many Mr. Men/Little Miss characters can you name?

There are 44 Mr. Men as follows:

1. Mr. Tickle
2. Mr. Greedy
3. Mr. Happy
4. Mr. Nosey
5. Mr. Sneeze
6. Mr. Bump
7. Mr. Snow
8. Mr. Messy
9. Mr. Topsy-Turvey
10. Mr. Silly
11. Mr. Uppity
12. Mr. Small
13. Mr. Daydream
14. Mr. Forgetful
15. Mr. Jelly
16. Mr. Noisy
17. Mr. Lazy
18. Mr. Funny
19. Mr. Mean
20. Mr. Chatterbox
21. Mr. Fussy
22. Mr. Bounce
23. Mr. Muddle
24. Mr. Dizzy
25. Mr. Impossible
26. Mr. Strong
27. Mr. Grumpy
28. Mr. Clumsy
29. Mr. Quiet
30. Mr. Rush
31. Mr. Tall
32. Mr. Worry
33. Mr. Nonsense
34. Mr. Wrong
35. Mr. Skinny
36. Mr. Micheif
37. Mr. Clever
38. Mr. Busy
39. Mr. Slow
40. Mr. Brave
41. Mr. Grumble
42. Mr. Perfect
43. Mr. Cheerful
44. Mr. Guilty

And, The Little Miss are:

1. Little Miss Bossy
2. Little Miss Brainy
3. Little Miss Busy
4. Little Miss Chatterbox
5. Little Miss Contrary
6. Little Miss Curious
7. Little Miss Dotty
8. Little Miss Pickles
9. Little Miss Fun
10. Little Miss Giggle
11. Little Miss Greedy
12. Little Miss Helpful
13. Little Miss Late
14. Little Miss Lucky
15. Little Miss Magic
16. Little Miss Naughty
17. Little Miss Quick
18. Little Miss Neat
19. Little Miss Sunshine
20. Little Miss Stubborn
21. Little Miss Quick
22. Little Miss Splendid
23. Little Miss Somersault
24. Little Miss Shy
25. Little Miss Scatterbrain
26. Little Miss Wise
27. Little Miss Twiins
28. Little Miss Trouble
29. Little Miss Neat
30. Little Miss Star
31. Little Miss Tiny
32. Little Miss Flirty

A Vocabulary List For Mommyjavascript:void(0)

When I had my first child, I was insistent upon using adult vocabulary and not turning words into baby talk. But, no matter my best efforts, there are just some words that crept in - some because it was an easy way to refer to something and others were brought about by the child. Following are some vocabulary words for mothers:

Da-Da - After spending months trying to get your child to say his or her first word, this is the word they say. We are told, whether it's factual or just to comfort the mom, that the "D" is, in fact, an easier sound to form than the "M" to instead say, "Mama!"

boo boo - An injury that usually is easily fixed with only a mommy's kiss.

potty - This is the place previously known by other terms such as bathroom, toilet, etc. From the moment your child shows an interest in using it, it will henceforth be referred to as "potty."

Deer-It-Is! - Yours may come with a different name entirely, but this is how my youngest referred to nursing. In fact, I believe it was technically her first 3-word sentence. When she wanted to nurse, she would lift my shirt and announce Deer-It-Is (There It Is)!

Binky - Again, yours may come with a different name entirely, but this is commonly how a pacifier is referred.

Nye-Nye - This is a way to say goodnight. Ni-ni baby!

Ah-Boo! - This comes about as a form of entertaining the child in a game of Peek-A-Boo. It is oftened shorted to just, Ah-Boo! out of necessity to get to the point of play quickly.

Bye-Bye - From the moment you become a parent of an infant who is learning to speak, you will find yourself never saying "Goodbye" or even "Bye" again. It will always be accompanied with the second "Bye!"

Giksimik - OK, I threw this one in on a personal note. When my son was little, he had a little Farm toy that made sound when touching appropriate picture. One day, my husband decided to write down what my son called these pictures and tape the word beneath the picture. He said "cow" "dog," etc correctly enough for a beginner. But, then he came to the farmer and he would refer to it as "Giksimik." We found it funny but thought nothing more about it till one day this year (my son is now 10) I found that toy and hit the button to discover when you hit the farmer button, it did not make a sound like the cow mooing or the dog barking. Rather, it played music. It took me 10 years, but I believe my son was trying to say "Music" and it came out as "Giksimik."

You have your child's cute mixed-up pronunciations too. Write them down so as never to forget these unforgettable precious moments. In the meantime, enjoy your new-found mom vocabulary.

Einstein's Mother And A Complete History Of Mother's Day

When you're observing your child learn, do you ever wonder what mothers of famous men and women did or did not do to help spur their offspring onto academic and intellectual success. Often, I think I wish I could spend afternoon tea with Einstein's mother or Thomas Edison's mother just to get some tips.

What is Mother's Day? The history can be found here. This is a complete history including Mother's Day from around the world and spiritual conceptions of Mother's Day, gods, goddesses, etc. It also includes the American version which was started by a woman named Julia Ward Howe.

Julia Ward Howe set out to bring honor to the job of being a mother. This song is a sweet tribute to mothers:

B2B Marketplace Vocabulary Word of the Day in Honor of ECPlaza 15th Anniversary

What is a B2B Marketplace? This is a great vocabulary word for the day. In fact, everyday vocabulary words that are tossed about can actually spur on questions as to what they actually mean. As adults, you may fear asking someone for a clarification of a term you feel you should know. But, if you are around children for very long, they show their curiosity to learn constantly and are not afraid to ask what you mean.

There is a really cool B2B Marketplace that is worldwide and is celebrating their 15th Anniversary this year! Find out who it is here! Once you read the blog post, visit the company's site and then come back to catch the links to their Social Networking sites. Visit them on Youtube, Twitter, Facebook or Linked In - Or all of the above - and wish them a Happy 15th Anniversary!

Now, onto what B2B actually means. B2B stands for Business-To-Business. The World English dictionary describes it like this:

B2C Compare B2E business-to-business; denoting trade between commercial organizations rather than between businesses and private customers

Happy Cinco De Mayo lesson plans

May 5 is, as the name implies, Cinco De Mayo. Like any holiday, even if you are not of hispanic/Latino/Mexican decent, you can learn a lot about history and culture through the celebration of a holiday like this.

There's lots of traditions. There are confetti eggs that are used by blowing out the yolk and filling with confetti. There are pinatas filled with candy and treats. There is salsa and chips and Mexican food. There is even a way to make a Mexican flag out of veggies for the health-lovers.

Here's some links to some great online learning:

Cinco De Mayo

Frugal Salsa Recipes and Veggie Flag of Mexico

It's time to drop some love in May

Hey guys! The Love Drop team is at it again! Last month they gave over $6,000 worth of cash and goods to their recipient, the Kahlen family, who had been going through a financially hard time due to the economy (and whose daughter is currently battling Tuberous Sclerosis). They focused on their love of spending time together, and brought them over 8 pairs of tickets to a whole bunch of local events. It was awesome, and you can watch how it all went down here.

This month they rally behind the Stalnakers - a family who, along with thousands of others along the gulf coast, are still reeling from the effects of the BP oil spill. Our goal is to get them a reliable used car this month as their previous two have died, and it's getting harder and harder for them to manage w/ the one they're currently borrowing. They've been giving back to their community since they moved in, and now it's time for US to help them!

Want to help? Here are three ways you can participate:

1. Help them get a car! - Our #1 goal is to give them a reliable used car in decent working order. If you have any leads, discounts, or connections in this area, please email Love Drop and let them know.
2. Give $1.00 - This money will help get them back on their feet, and relieve some financial burden. Every dollar counts!
3. Give a gift or service - Gift cards are always helpful. Places like Target, Wal-mart, restaurants, etc would definitely help them out. Services too - especially those you can offer yourselves, or from your company.

Thanks everyone! We'll let you know how it goes!

My 5 favorite books on writing

As part of the WordCount Blogathon 2011, there is a theme day. Today's theme is "My 5 favorite books on writing." What are my 5 favorite books on writing? I'm not sure I can recommend just five. Once excellent resource for children to learn writing is the Writing Srands books. They make writing fun with thought-provoking assignments.

In addition to this, a friend who is also a writer published this blog entry on Goodblogs:

For Those Of Us Who Never Took A College Writing Class - And Those Of Us Who Have!

The post has some excellent links to great writing advice. And, if you like her post, give her a vote for a Good Blog. Just click on the up arrow in the upper left corner of the blog. First, you have to be logged in as a member of Goodblogs, but this is fast and easy with just an entry of your email and a password to use on the site.

National Teacher's Day for Teacher Appreciation May 3

May 3 is National Teacher's Day. This is the day when all teachers across America are celebrated for their job well done. If you know a teacher who spurred you on in life or encouraged you to push the limits to expand your knowledge, thank him or her today!

The National Education Association explains more about National Teacher's Day!

Teachers come in all shapes, sizes, education levels and styles. There are teachers of pre-schoolers, college professors, homeschool teachers many who were classroom teachers prior to educating their own children at home, high school and junior high teachers and more. There are dance teachers, gymnastic teachers, tutors who go beyond the classroom setting to add a special twist needed to get a student beyond the perplexed, questioning and onto understanding. Parenting also involves a great deal of teaching skill as does mentoring someone in any field.

If you are a teacher, the kudos and congratulations to you! The world needs good teachers. And, to thank you for being a good teacher, many businesses are offering special savings or giveaways this week during National Teacher Appreciation Week which ends Friday. Boookstores are quick to give a teacher a decent discount. But, check with other stores and businesses in your area to see who else wants to thank you for being a teacher. It might surprise you from where some of these accolades come.

If you are studying to become a teacher one day. Way to go! Keep up the good work.

History Right Before Our Eyes: Bin Laden Is Dead!

This is history right before our eyes. The news came early Monday morning that Bin Laden is dead. After almost 10 years since the World Trade Towers attack on 9-11 of 2001, Bin Laden was found in a compound in Pakistan. He was killed by gun fire by United States Navy Seals and then buried at sea so as not to take the chance of having a shrine erected for the man known to be the leader of the Muslim terrorist group, Al Qaeda.

How did Americans respond? By dancing in the streets. College students and other Americans traveled for hours to dance in triumph at the very spot of terror almost 10 years ago.

It may not be written in the history books yet. But, it will be. We are living and watching history!

VARK and VAK Learning Styles Explained

If you've been around education or learning/teaching for any amount of time, you've no doubt heard of learning styles. This is the idea that a child, or an adult, learns better when presented his or her individual learning style. The learning styles are have a 3 or 4 letter acronym as follows:

V - Visual

A - Auditory

K - Kinesthetic

Or

V - Visual

A - Auditory

R - wRiting or (Reading)

K - Kinesthetic

A visual learner, as the name implied, learns best when presented material to learn in visual form such as pictures, charts, graphs, etc.

An Auditory learner retains information best when presented through hearing. This might include reciting poems or memorizations in sing-song fashions.

A Kinesthetic learner is one who learns best while in motion.

The VARK style adds an additional learning style of learning through wRiting or Reading.

This is not to say that a person cannot learn while using another style. But, when learning using his or her particular learning style, they learn faster and with ease.

WordCount Blogathon

I'm not sure what I have done. But, I registered not one, but 2 blogs to take part in the WordCount Blogathon 2011. It will be my first year. And, this is officially my first entry since it is after midnight on May 1 now. I love to write, and love to connect with other bloggers. The purpose of my starting this particular blog was to share educational ideas. I hope I can successfully do that. In addition to this, I have written a children's book that I may present soon. And, my son has written a book which impresses his dear old mom. He is now working on his 2nd, and he is only 10. Perhaps I will reveal that as well. I wonder where this blogathon will take me. But, one thing can be certain, I will be writing my fingers off throughout the month of may with this WordCount Blogathon 2011. I hope it is enjoyable to read!

What is Depression and Why Would Anyone Sink Into It?

We hear a lot about depression, but what is it really? Why would anyone "in their right mind" ever sink into despair. Depression hits so many otherwise bright and talented individuals. Many great leaders in history have suffered from it. There was a president who once referred to it as his "Black Dog." If presidents can succumb to the notion of depression, then surely anyone can.

Here is a wonderful expression of what it feels like to become depressed.

Depression

Read it, and if you like it sign up for a Goodblogs account so you can vote it up. If it gets enough votes, it will make it to the Top posts and this will make the author very happy. Who knows, maybe if enough voters show their support, this writer will never be tempted to sink into the despair of depression ever again.

What is Easter? Lesson Plan in Vocabulary Words For Kids

What is Easter? To many it's simply Easter bunnies hopping about hiding eggs and offering photo opportunities at shopping malls. For others, it is a whole lot more.

It is the biggest holiday among Christian believers next to Christmas as it traditionally celebrates the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, the Christ who is believed to be savior to many.

Here is a great study for kids in vocabulary words and terms from a religious perspective! It makes for a great lesson plan on Easter.

What Is Passover?

Passover begins at sundown on April 17, 2011. Do you know what it is or why it is celebrated? If you are not Jewish, why should it matter? The truth is that even holidays from other cultures than what you embrace can serve to be a wonderful learning experience. It's a story of freedom. Following are some great links that explain Passover:

15 Passover Terms for Children

Facts About Egypt

Passover Seder Symbols and How To Celebrate Pesach

History of April Fools Day

It's April Fools Day! Did you have some fun today? Did you fill up the salt and pepper shakers with cayenne instead? Did you loosen the lid on the milk carton to watch an unsuspecting family member pour milk aimlessly over the entire kitchen floor? Did you come up with a doozy?

Personally, I never have enjoyed this particular day of revelry. Perhaps my personality is simply too serious and realistic. Or, maybe I don't see laughter among pain caused when you play someone for a fool. Maybe I am over the edge and simply need to lighten up on this one. But, this has got to be the worst holiday ever thought up, in my humble opinion. What other holiday allows you to play jokes on someone making them out to be foolish? What other holiday allows you to out right "lie" in the name of a day. I'm paying off all of your debt - April Fools! Look, you get a raise - April Fools! You're the most beautiful girl I've ever laid eyes on? Really! No! April Fools! Hah hah the joke's on you! What kind of fun is found in such cruelty?

O.K., O.K., I get it! April Fools Day is not all that serious. Put on a happy face and buck up and just have some good, clean innocent fun! Somehow the day still bothers me. Where did it come from? Who originated April Fools Day?

In searching for the answer to this question, I came across this write up on April Fools Day!

The best anyone can tell the day either has to do with a Gregorian calendar change, switching the date of January 1, or a Roman celebration to the god Attis. Neither description endears me or encourages me to embrace the day of laughter.

Who is Hans Christian Andersen and What Is International Children's Book Day?

The other day, I was on email or conducting a search or some sort of online activity, and came across the term, "international Children's Book Day!" I wondered, what is this? I was not aware there was an International day for this. Though, I was aware there was a National Children's Book Week. So, I began my search.

I discovered, that it is in honor of the fairy tale writer, Hans Christian Andersen. The author wrote many stories that I just have taken for granted as being childhood stories that I imagine I must have thought just poofed out of the air because I never really stopped to consider who wrote them - Or, at least who wrote the original story.

Here's some great links to find out more about Hans Christian Anderson:

10 Facts Your Child Should Know About Hans Christian Anderson

A Free Download of The Ugly Duckling

International Children Book Day

International Children Book Day is April 2, 2011. Have you ever heard of International Children Book Day? I hadn't. But, it looks like a great idea. Every year around Hans Christian Andersen's birthday, the big event is celebrated. Who is Hans Christian Andersen?

Hans Christian Andersen is a Danish author and poet. He is well known for his writing of children's stories such as The Ugly Duckling, Thumbelina, The Little Mermaid and others.

So, if nothing else, pick up a copy of one or all of these children books and read it to your child to celebrate reading on International Children Book Day, April 2!

Learning About Japan For Kids

What do you know about Japan? With all the recent events in Japan, I started thinking about Japan. What do I actually know about the country and what my kids know? Or, I should say what they don't know. Geography has never been my strong point, so teaching it to my children is - well, interesting. Without a globe, your guess is as good as mine on many regions of this world. But, I found there are some things I know. And, what I don't know I can learn and teach my kids. In case you're like me and want to know more about Japan, here's some sites I found helpful:

5 Facts About Japan For Children

Kids Web Japan

Time For Kids - Japan

Enjoy the new discoveries you'll learn from these sites. And, Sayonara (Goodbye)

Eliana Enjoys Her First Circus Elephant Ride

The very reason I have this blog named the way it is, is because of my daughter's love for elephants. Today, she got to actually enjoy her very first circus and her very first elephant ride!

My daughter, Eliana, LOVES, and I mean LOVES elephants. The girl is just 4 years old and cannot yet read, but can spell very succinctly E-L-E-P-H-A-N-T. She can also spell Disney's version of the blue little elephant, D-U-M-B-O. And, she has a little stuffed blue elephant she named Dumbo. So, when my family was given tickets to the circus, we couldn't say no. Especially, we couldn't say now when we found out there would be elephant rides.

So, we told the kids yesterday that the circus would be today and that we wanted to arrive early. We did not mention the elephant rides! Last night was the fastest bed time in the Scott family household history. I set my alarm to make sure I woke up at 7:45 so we could arrive at the circus in time to beat the crowd for the elephant rides. Well.....I didn't need an alarm. I woke up to what I thought was my alarm, but found out fairly quickly that my alarm had not yet sounded. The sound I heard was my two girls in their room giggling and talking. It was 7:25 a.m., but my daughter had been awake since 6:06 a.m. We had no difficultly getting them ready and out the door to arrive before the doors even opened. We were the second family in line.



Once inside, we headed for the circus main arena floor to ride the elephants. My husband went for the ticket booth not knowing if our elephant-loving daughter would change her mind or not once she was face-to-face with an actual real-life elephant. As he stood deciding how many tickets to purchase, I was getting a feel for whether or not my 4 year old elephant lover was ready for the big time. I asked if she wanted to ride an elephant and she promptly said, "No!" Not wanting a scene of screams and tears and not wanting to traumatize her into fearing elephants forever, I waited and asked again. She promptly replied, "No!" So, I backed off not wanting to upset the happy family scene which now included my two oldest children all but jumping up and down at the thought that they might actually get to ride a real-life elephant. My husband made a quick decision as he pulled out his wallet emptying it of almost his entire cash contents as he decidedly said, "Three tickets, please." He then looked at me and said it would be o.k., that he would ride with the other two if Eliana didn't want to ride. But, before we knew it, I made some unwitting comment to my 4 year old which changed her mind. Apparently, in the commotion of making a decision as to how many tickets to purchase, my daughter had asked if she could just pet the elephant and not ride it to which I apparently snapped back quickly in a natural-mom style God filled me with for the moment, "You can only touch the elephants if you ride them!" A that, she was pulling away from my hand and up the ladder to get on the elephant before I could hardly blink. Before I knew it, she was happily atop a 34-year old female Asian elephant making her way around the circle twice before stopping back at the ladder stairs for the children to step off the elephant. Ride over! As she came down the steps, this is the look I was - Thank you, God! - able to capture on film.

Happy Pi Day (3.14)...A Little Late!

I can't believe it! I forgot to wish everyone Happy Pi Day! March 14 (3/14) is Pi Day. I completely missed it this year. But, one of my friends posted this video on my Facebook which I found today.

Better late than never, as they say! Enjoy this musical interpretation of Pi (3.14).

Japan's Nuclear Power Plant Explosion Raises Questions

Japan's Fukushima nuclear power plant explosion has made me wonder many things. For starters, I didn't even understand how nuclear energy was created. I have heard the term nuclear fission, but never knew what it meant. I knew an atom had a nucleus, but didn't realize that's where the term "nuclear" was derived.

So, I did a little searching, and found a couple sites that really explain the process well. One is How Stuff Works. This is an excellent resource for just about anything on learning how something works. The other site is Kids Korner about energy. This site explains the process of fusion and fission so well my 10 year old completely understood it when I showed him the site.

I still am not a nuclear physicist by any means, but I was very excited to discover that there are resources out there that explain quite difficult terms on a level even I can understand.

Nuclear Power Explained

The cooling system has just failed inside a third reactor. This is the news I'm hearing from Fox News as I type this. They say it's still within legal limits and the explosion was caused from hydrogen and oxygen. Watching all the news coverage on Japan's catastrophic disasters that started with the 8.9 earthquake that has now been upgraded to a 9.0, followed by a tsunami, followed by more than one explosion at a nuclear facility. They have been worried about meltdown or a Chernobyl level disaster.

To date, in addition to over 1 million without water or electricity, the rating of the plant's explosions have been rated a 4. Chernobyl was a 7. But, 160 workers have been reported with radiation-related sickness which includes intense sickness with potentially lingering affects, thousands evacuated and more told to stay in their houses. Those exposed to radiation can later develop cancers, especially thyroid cancer.

It made me wonder how these plants even work.

How Stuff Works

This is a great resource site for starters.

Must Watch Video: Animated Crab Teaches Children Tsunami Safety Facts

With the 8.9 earthquake occurring offshore Japan early this morning causing tsunamis and tsunami warnings to be issued in Hawaii and the California coast, it doesn't hurt to educate ourselves about tsunami safety. Even if you live inland, as I do, it's good to know what to do and how to help those affected.

Here's information about the earthquake.

With spring break, the islands of Hawaii are more populated than a typical day. So, the potential catastrophe could be great. Here's the animated crab teaching about tsunamis:

Time for St. Pat's Day Fun!

Do you celebrate St. Pat's Day? Not being raised Catholic or Irish, I only enjoyed the skirt tails of the holiday growing up. All I knew about it was that I was to wear green or be pinched, that some people went very wild on the day, and that it was about a guy who chased snakes out of Ireland.

Well, some of that is true. The more I learned as I grew, about St. Pat, the more I thought the world of him. I understand he used the clover, a simple piece of nature - God's creation - to tell the account of the trinity with each leaf representing one part of the trinity - The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit.

I still don't know as much about the history of St. Pat's Day as I would like, but today when we were driving home, I had to laugh. We live near a town that celebrates Irish Catholic holidays. They are ready for a St. Pat's Day run this weekend, so they painted green 4-leaf clovers on the street. As I drove, I pointed this out to my children to which my son quick-wittingly replied: "Hey, let's go this way - It's lucky!"

Whatever your belief, whether it lines up with the original St. Pat or not, I wish you the "luck of the Irish" on St. Paddy's Day! May your day be filled with learning and expanding your knowledge of these historically fictional and non-fictional events.

Melinda Gates talks about working moms and education

I came across some wonderful interview videos today that I found on Yahoo News. They share interviews with Melinda Gates about being a working mom and about her views on education cuts and more.

You can see the interviews here!

I found the interviews to be interesting, as I know very little about the wife of Bill Gates. What did you think?

House Committee Votes For Voucher Program

The House of Representatives today voted to approve $60 million for a voucher program. This program is described, by a news release today, as a "failed District of Columbia private school voucher program (H.R. 471)." So far, $700 million in funding from Title I and over $1 billion from Head Start programs have been cut. While some believe vouchers are the answer, others believe they are a waste of funds. According to a News Press Release, research by the Government Accounting Office shows that vouchers do not reform or improve schools.

While some believe more funds should be poured into our public education system, I believe the funds that are already there need to better used. Our nation is in dire trauma. This is the time when parents and educators need to pull together and get creative.

82% Of Schools Are On Course To Fail According To Arne Duncan

In an article released today from Education Week which can be viewed here:

Read article here!

Arne Duncan warned Congress that 82% of the United State's schools are on a path of failure.

He referred to the assessments made with the No Child Left Behind Act. But, this is coming also in the wake of potential educational budget cuts.

How can American schools improve? And, how can they improve if there is no funding? But, how can the nation move forward if there are no cuts whatsoever?

Funding public education is a simple idea that turns complicated when put into practice. The idea is simple: Tax residence - Pay for education of their children. In the process of all this, Teacher Unions and individual school districts and individual families begin to speak their mind, and not everyone agrees. Arguments, Board members threatened and even students upset to the point of tragedies occur. We all need to come to some form of agreement if our schools are going to succeed and compete with global issues.

Big Universe Learning Is A Great Place To Read And Learn To Write

I just found out about a site I'm very excited about. I'm planning on signing up for the 14 day free trial period for sure. After that, I'm sure I'm going to love it. I showed it to my 10 year old son who recently wrote his own book. He's very excited about the ability the site offers to write and illustrate his own books.

As the mom, I'm very excited about the opportunity of all the books that can be read right there on line. Science? no problem! History - They've got you covered. English, reading, etc. It's all there. It looks like there are tons of books from which to choose.

I'm very excited about this, and it seems to be affordable too. There are different plans depending on whether it is for a school, a classroom or personal/home use. I'm looking at the home use, and hope to report that I've had a great experience and have purchased it after 14 days.

Here's the link - Check it out and see what you think!

Obama Warns Against Educational Budget Cuts

After a Pennsylvania Republican called for educational budget cuts, President Obama has warned against educational cuts. He has reportedly associated the nation's education with the economy.

You can read more about the cuts and Obama's response here!

What do you think? Our nation is in trouble financially. We have to cut something. But, if we do not educate our citizens, the future of our ability to compete successfully globally is at stake.

What is the answer? What is your solution to cutting where it needs to be cut and keeping what needs to be kept while supporting and keeping intact the future of our children?

Educate Yourself About Carbon Monoxide

If you could avoid losing your child or family member to carbon monoxide poisoning, you would not miss a beat at doing so. Nobody wants to suffer the tragedy carbon monoxide an bring.

The way to avoid such a tragedy is to educate yourself and find out how to avoid such a horrible scene. Find out how to recognize, avoid and treat carbon monoxide poisoning.

Free Learning/Teaching Video Site WatchKnow From The Co-Founder of Wikipedia

You can now have access to over 20,000 free learning through videos! That's right - Absolutely free! Take the ceiling off of your learning and teaching opportunities by this non-profit site. The co-founder of Wikipedia has launched a brand new site called WatchKnow.org.

Every subject and every age group is covered for K-12.

I explored this Website today and found it to be so exciting. I have placed a permanent link to the site on this blog. You can enjoy all the learning videos at any time with no commitment and no expense. It's all free!

The Fight For Teacher Unions In Wisconsin Continues

Wisconsin protesters have come out in droves. It all started with a fight over public workers including teacher unions. What do you think? Are these unions too large and too greedy? Or, do they have a point for which they are fighting? Some say that the decisions made was expected as this is the platform the governor had run on - He did what he promised, like it or not! Others say it's much deeper. Still others are calling the democrat lawmakers cowards for running and not fessing up to their duties of making laws.

What do you think? Perhaps you're a Wisconsin teacher who is in the heat of the battle. Perhaps you are a parent of a student. Perhaps you love unions. Perhaps you hate them. Maybe, you see a point in the unions at their inception but now think they've gone too far and gained far too much power.

Have you been camping out at the capitol building in Wisconsin? Have you been watching it on the news and thinking they've all lost their minds? Is your job at stake? What do you think? What is at the heart of this battle? If the bottom line is education and providing teachers with what they deserve, this takes on an entirely different picture than if the bottom line is money and power. What is your solution to the debate, the protests?