I have a special place in my heart for fathers. Maybe it’s because I’m a daddy’s girl. I think from the moment of my existence that I’ve always been a daddy’s girl. To share a strong and lasting bond with my father is priceless, and sometimes it leaves me speechless. I am fortunate to have been afforded and awarded with the gift of a father.
In the story, Ocean Waves, from my book, Ocean Waves and Other Tales, I wanted a father to be featured with his children. This son dreams about going to the beach, and his father takes him and his younger sister to the beach. In my story, Play Dates, from Play Dates and Other Tales, the father appears again at the park with his children. These are images that I thought were important to display because sometimes “our fathers and dads” don’t get enough credit for being involved, caring, and supportive parents and role models.
In my formative years, my dad cooked my meals, drove me to school, carried me to some of his seminary classes, taught me how to tie my shoes, and took my sister and me to the park on most Saturdays to teach us how to skate. We were “struggling” as my daddy would say, but I didn’t know it then because we were cared for and loved immensely.
Today, I see so many fathers showing their children compassion, guidance, understanding, and love. They are active and willing participants in their child’s development educationally, spiritually, and socially. Their plight needs to be recognized favorably. So to all the dads who are great and are trying to be great, I salute you!!! GO DADS!
I’m still a daddy’s girl, and I’m thankful that my dad still takes the time to be a solid father figure to me and my family. I know for sure that being a father (and a grandfather) is one of his greatest accomplishments. Thank you, daddy!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Sesame Street and You!
As an independent author, I must work really hard to build an audience for my multicultural children’s books. An audience can heighten your career or be your demise. So far, I have had the privilege of having a gracious audience who support my efforts.
In providing quality services and products (which is key), my audience continues to grow and expand. In addition, they tap others on my behalf to broaden the scope even further. Therefore, I am humbled and grateful.
Because of you, I received some amazing news. My second book, Play Dates and Other Tales, is noted on The List of Book Recommendations at Sesame Street. This welcomed news is definitely music to my ears!
Thanks to Sesame Street for strategically placing this book to its programming…shows with an emphasis on music, colors, numbers, and “play dates”, and thanks to you for assisting me in this path. There’s more to come I’m sure…
In providing quality services and products (which is key), my audience continues to grow and expand. In addition, they tap others on my behalf to broaden the scope even further. Therefore, I am humbled and grateful.
Because of you, I received some amazing news. My second book, Play Dates and Other Tales, is noted on The List of Book Recommendations at Sesame Street. This welcomed news is definitely music to my ears!
Thanks to Sesame Street for strategically placing this book to its programming…shows with an emphasis on music, colors, numbers, and “play dates”, and thanks to you for assisting me in this path. There’s more to come I’m sure…
Monday, March 14, 2011
AK Classics Preschool Enrichment Program
AK CLASSICS PRESCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
Filled with Reading, Music, and Rhymes
O What a Joyous Time!
With letters, sounds, words, and phrases
The fun will bubble all over your faces
Music, rhythm, and movement too
No one will be able to stop you…
From Making Reading Fun
And Learning as You Go Along!
This reading and musical enrichment program is designed to make reading fun and to engage young children ages 3 and 4 with the desire to read. Two multicultural children’s books written by Helen H. Kimbrough, Ocean Waves and Other Tales & Play Dates and Other Tales, will be featured. These amazing books enable a child to embrace reading in an interesting way through rhythms, simple expressions, repetition, pictures, and childhood associations.
Additional classics and storybooks by Dr. Seuss, Eric Carle, and various authors will be utilized along with a musical component to learning.
The goal is making reading fun and learning as we go along!
Registration Fee is $25 non-refundable.
Cost per 45 minute session is $15.
3-day sessions starting at 9:15 am or 10:15 am: June 20-22 and June 27-29
2112-A Ayrsley Town Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28273
Programs are available at your location per your request.
AK Classics Preschool Enrichment Program/Summer Session
Reading Materials:
Alphabet, Number, and Color Books by various authors
Dr. Seuss ABC, The Foot Book, My Many Colored Days, There’s a Wocket in My Pocket, and One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss
The Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Ocean Waves and Other Tales & Play Dates and Other Tales by Helen H. Kimbrough
Emphasis on:
Letters, Sounds, Words, Phrases, and Rhymes
Sight Words
Colors
Numbers
Music, Rhythm, and Movement
Parental Homework/Involvement:
Activity Book Assignments
Sight Word Reinforcement
Goal:
Making Reading Fun…Learning as We Go Along
Comments:
“The teachers are writing to say how wonderful you are and how inspiring for the children to meet a real author!” Nancy Cole, Librarian/Media Specialist, Marvin Elementary School
“Our students really enjoyed your presentations. Your stories, songs, and chants really connected with them.” Kimberly Foxworth, T1 Pre-Kindergarten Curriculum Specialist, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
“I am thrilled with your work in our Pre-Kindergarten schools.” Tyler W. Ream, Area Superintendent-South Learning Community, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
“I heard wonderful things about you and your reading and interactions with our children. Thank you so much!” Julie Babb, Director, Pre-Kindergarten Programs, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
“I have heard nothing but rave reviews. The teachers were very appreciative to have someone sharing with their students at their level of understanding.” Pam Cook, Media Coordinator, Shiloh Elementary School
Registration/Payment Information
To receive registration information, please email info@akclassicstories.com.
Filled with Reading, Music, and Rhymes
O What a Joyous Time!
With letters, sounds, words, and phrases
The fun will bubble all over your faces
Music, rhythm, and movement too
No one will be able to stop you…
From Making Reading Fun
And Learning as You Go Along!
This reading and musical enrichment program is designed to make reading fun and to engage young children ages 3 and 4 with the desire to read. Two multicultural children’s books written by Helen H. Kimbrough, Ocean Waves and Other Tales & Play Dates and Other Tales, will be featured. These amazing books enable a child to embrace reading in an interesting way through rhythms, simple expressions, repetition, pictures, and childhood associations.
Additional classics and storybooks by Dr. Seuss, Eric Carle, and various authors will be utilized along with a musical component to learning.
The goal is making reading fun and learning as we go along!
Registration Fee is $25 non-refundable.
Cost per 45 minute session is $15.
3-day sessions starting at 9:15 am or 10:15 am: June 20-22 and June 27-29
2112-A Ayrsley Town Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28273
Programs are available at your location per your request.
AK Classics Preschool Enrichment Program/Summer Session
Reading Materials:
Alphabet, Number, and Color Books by various authors
Dr. Seuss ABC, The Foot Book, My Many Colored Days, There’s a Wocket in My Pocket, and One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss
The Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Ocean Waves and Other Tales & Play Dates and Other Tales by Helen H. Kimbrough
Emphasis on:
Letters, Sounds, Words, Phrases, and Rhymes
Sight Words
Colors
Numbers
Music, Rhythm, and Movement
Parental Homework/Involvement:
Activity Book Assignments
Sight Word Reinforcement
Goal:
Making Reading Fun…Learning as We Go Along
Comments:
“The teachers are writing to say how wonderful you are and how inspiring for the children to meet a real author!” Nancy Cole, Librarian/Media Specialist, Marvin Elementary School
“Our students really enjoyed your presentations. Your stories, songs, and chants really connected with them.” Kimberly Foxworth, T1 Pre-Kindergarten Curriculum Specialist, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
“I am thrilled with your work in our Pre-Kindergarten schools.” Tyler W. Ream, Area Superintendent-South Learning Community, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
“I heard wonderful things about you and your reading and interactions with our children. Thank you so much!” Julie Babb, Director, Pre-Kindergarten Programs, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
“I have heard nothing but rave reviews. The teachers were very appreciative to have someone sharing with their students at their level of understanding.” Pam Cook, Media Coordinator, Shiloh Elementary School
Registration/Payment Information
To receive registration information, please email info@akclassicstories.com.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
The Best of Summer Camp Continued (Group Discussion Sponsored by Staying Ahead Carolina & Facilitated by Helen H. Kimbrough)
Reasons parents look for summer camps:
Avoid excessive play of video games and avoid boredom
Develop skills (building on middle school development in particular)
Constructive childcare for working parents
More Camp Trends
Some of the hottest trends of late fall in the following categories --
Skill Courses (climbing walls, backpacking, ziplines, Y-camp or rock-climbing, Inner peaks, Whitewater Center all develop self-confidence and leadership skills)
Camps that Focus on Developmental Delays (not able to address in the classroom, so parents use the summer to focus, i.e. occupational therapy, ADHD cmaps, etc)
Language Camps (Language Academy for the Carolinas, Providence Day, Queens University for Chinese, Alliance Francais for french, etc)
Gaming Camps for middle and high school kids (programming and computer skill development)
More Camp Options for Younger Kids
Focus is more on literacy such as AK Classics, discovery such as Discovery Place, Noah's Art or UNC Reading for the elementary age kids, and all around fun such as MACS Summer Camp (don't have to be Catholic to particpate)
More Camp Options for Tweens and Teens
Volunteering becomes more of a vocus for 13 and 14 years olders
Intensive music camps such as Academy of Music, Playroom in Fortmill, and soon to arrive Elm Music School in Ballantyne area
Stayaway Camp
YMCA Camps such asThunderbird, Camp Cherokee
St. Christopher @ Seabrook Island or St John's Island (cheaper than Thunderbird)
Lake Lurecrest for Christian Ones
Braodstone at Applachain University
ACA is one accreditation that provides baseline questions when interviewing camps, visit www.acacamp.org
Sources:
www.ACAcamp.org
www.charlotteparent.com
www.charlotteobserver.com
Happy Summer!!!
Avoid excessive play of video games and avoid boredom
Develop skills (building on middle school development in particular)
Constructive childcare for working parents
More Camp Trends
Some of the hottest trends of late fall in the following categories --
Skill Courses (climbing walls, backpacking, ziplines, Y-camp or rock-climbing, Inner peaks, Whitewater Center all develop self-confidence and leadership skills)
Camps that Focus on Developmental Delays (not able to address in the classroom, so parents use the summer to focus, i.e. occupational therapy, ADHD cmaps, etc)
Language Camps (Language Academy for the Carolinas, Providence Day, Queens University for Chinese, Alliance Francais for french, etc)
Gaming Camps for middle and high school kids (programming and computer skill development)
More Camp Options for Younger Kids
Focus is more on literacy such as AK Classics, discovery such as Discovery Place, Noah's Art or UNC Reading for the elementary age kids, and all around fun such as MACS Summer Camp (don't have to be Catholic to particpate)
More Camp Options for Tweens and Teens
Volunteering becomes more of a vocus for 13 and 14 years olders
Intensive music camps such as Academy of Music, Playroom in Fortmill, and soon to arrive Elm Music School in Ballantyne area
Stayaway Camp
YMCA Camps such asThunderbird, Camp Cherokee
St. Christopher @ Seabrook Island or St John's Island (cheaper than Thunderbird)
Lake Lurecrest for Christian Ones
Braodstone at Applachain University
ACA is one accreditation that provides baseline questions when interviewing camps, visit www.acacamp.org
Sources:
www.ACAcamp.org
www.charlotteparent.com
www.charlotteobserver.com
Happy Summer!!!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
The Best of Summer Camp (Sponsored by Staying Ahead Carolina and Facilitated by Helen H. Kimbrough)
Blog: Summer Camp is Around the Corner by Helen H. Kimbrough (www.akclassicsllc.blogspot.com)
Why is Summer Camp Important?
Charlotte Parent quotes, “Summer camp benefits children in many ways. It provides an outlet for adventure and fun in a safe environment, helps build self-confidence and self-esteem, and is a place to build social skills and make friends.”
American Camp Association (ACA) quotes, “At camp, when children make new friends, explore the world around them, and learn that ‘I can’ is much more powerful than ‘I can’t’, magic happens. In an environment created just for them, children learn real life skills, develop self-esteem, and gain a sense of independence and community. Whether children are playing, exploring nature, conquering new heights, or becoming part of a camp family, they are creating memories that will last a lifetime.”
Questions of Interest
What are the Camp Trends and Interests Today for Tots, Tweens, and Teens? Camp Trends for residential programs include:
• high- and low-ropes courses
• climbing walls
• zip lines
• backpacking
• mountain biking
• cave exploring
• see the article, “Camp Revamped: Five Exciting Summer Camp Trends” by Jess Michaels
• see Camp Trends Fact Sheet by American Camp Association.
What are the major points of camp selection for parents?
• Safety
• Supervision
• Acceptance
• Experience
What camps are parents interested in for Tots, Tweens, and Teens?
For younger or elementary school children, most parents will choose a traditional one or two week summer camps that offer a variety of swimming, arts/crafts, archery, and beginner sports.
Camp Options for young children are:
Noah’s Art, Gymboree, My Gym,
Half-Day YMCA Programs/School Programs (ie. Lego, Science, Cooking, Scouting, and Sports)
Full-Day YMCA Programs/School Programs/Faith-Based Programs
Discovery Place
Enrichment Programs (ie. UNC Reading Program, AK Classics Enrichment Program)
For tweens and teens, most parents (and this age range) are interested in residential camps and specialty camps like sports, music, computers, fine arts, and language(s).
Camp Options for older children are:
Full-Day YMCA Program/School Programs
Academic/Enrichment Programs (ie. UNCC, Duke Tip Program, UNCG)
Language Programs (ie. The Language Academy for the Carolinas, Charlotte Christian School, Providence Day School, Alliance Francaise, etc.)
Whitewater Center
The Art Institute
School of Rock
Johnson & Wales
Residential Camps
Accredited Camps within a 60 mile radius. (Found via www.acacamps.org)
• Zip=28277
• Within 60 mile radius of Charlotte, NC
3 Matches Found (displaying 1 to 3)
Thunderbird, Lake Wylie, SC (Day and Resident Camp) --- Distance: 24 miles
Located just south of Charlotte, Camp Thunderbird celebrates 72 years of excellence. One and two week sessions ages 7-16. Nationally recognized water programs.
Camp Cherokee, Blacksburg, SC (Resident Camp) --- Distance: 38 miles
Camp Cherokee provides individuals the opportunities to reach their potential by building self-esteem, friendships and character in a safe positive environment.
Camp La Vida, Winnsboro, SC (Resident Camp) --- Distance: 48 miles
Program enables campers to learn and participate in Southern Baptist mission efforts in an outdoor setting.
How do you gather information about camps? What’s good and what’s not?
Discussion of camps within Charlotte and the surrounding areas.Gathering Data and Resources for Camp
• Input from your children regarding their interests.
• Inquire from neighbors, friends, or community organizations.
• Utilize Online Searches.
• Visit www.charlotteparent.com, www.charlotteobserver.com, www.acacamps.org, www.aca.org for detailed camp information and selections.
• *Visit www.afcharlotte.org for language programs at Alliance Francaise.
• *Visit www.carolinalanguage.com for The Language Academy of the Carolinas. (Considered Charlotte’s Premier Language Service Company, and focuses on Spanish, French, German, Sign Language, Chinese, Italian, etc.)
• Visit www.providenceday.org and www.charlotte-christian.com for language and other camp offerings.
*specified for language camps
Seven Questions To Ask About Summer Camp (in terms of Safety and Regulations) by ACA
1. How are counselors chosen? Especially at sleep-away camps, it’s worth remembering that counselors function as your surrogate 24/7. Inquire about the camp’s screening process: Does it conduct criminal background checks on prospective employees? Does it require that new counselors have experience teaching or working with children? Does it investigate employees' prior work history?
2. How is the staff trained in terms of safety? In person or by phone? How many hours? Are there safety and first-aid tests counselors need to pass? How many of the counselors are certified by the Red Cross in first aid and CPR?
3. What’s the camp’s policy vis-à-vis disciplining campers and staff? For instance, does it maintain zero tolerance for drug use or alcohol abuse among staff? Are there curfews for staff as well as campers? How has the camp dealt with past infractions? If a counselor has ever been fired, ask why and use that information to learn a little more about the camp's safety culture.
4. Have there ever been serious injuries or deaths at the camp? How did the camp respond to the event? Accidents can happen anywhere, but learning about past incidents can tell you a world about how the camp deals with mistakes and takes steps to prevent future hazards.
5. Does the camp do overnight trips or excursions, and, if so, what’s the safety protocol? Good requirements may include: at least one trip leader is qualified to respond to emergencies (or "RTE," a specialized Red Cross certification), trip leaders have a minimum age, a buddy system, an emergency plan in case of a camper getting lost, and use of cell phones or walkie-talkies.
6. Does the camp have an emergency plan? The plan should cover everything from earthquakes, hurricanes, and forest fires to hostage situations, dangerous wildlife, and verbalized threats. It should also cover health mishaps like food poisoning or water contamination, child abuse, disease outbreaks, and staff deaths.
7. Is the camp accredited by the American Camp Association? No bureaucratic process can assure safety, but a camp that has gone the extra mile to get accredited has probably thought through a lot of worst-case scenarios. The ACA standards include safety, health, as well as program and camp operations — for more information about researching a camp’s safety, visit www.acacamp.org.
What are Affordable Summer Activities (inclusive or exclusive of camping options)?
• Gardening
• Swimming
• Reading
• Drawing/Illustrating
• Grade/Age Appropriate Workbooks
• “Daycations”: Traveling to the mountain or the beach
• “Daycations”: Visiting museums, libraries, aquariums, and planetariums
• Vacation Bible School
Summer Reads
For Young Children/Elementary School
Ocean Waves & Other Tales; Play Dates & Other Tales by Helen H. Kimbrough
Hurricanes!; Tornadoes!; Snakes; Alligators and Crocodiles; Elephants of Africa by Gail Gibbons
Dance the Polka; I Like Myself; Doggone Days; I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More by Karen Beaumont
Richard Wright and the Library Card by William Miller
One Million Men & Me by Kelly Lyons
Train to Somewhere by Eve Bunting
Short Cut by Donald Crews
Come on, Rain! By Karen Hesse
Books by Dr. Seuss, Eric Carle, etc.
For Tweens & Teens
The Hunger Games; Catching Fire; The Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing; Traitor to the Nation; The Pox Party; Pals in Peril series by M. T. Anderson
I Beat the Odds from Homelessness to The Blind Side and Beyond by Michael Oher
The Other Wes Moore by Wes Moore
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
Visit www.amazon.com or www.literacyhead.com for a listing of books. Schools will furnish a listing of books for the summer months too.
Why is Summer Camp Important?
Charlotte Parent quotes, “Summer camp benefits children in many ways. It provides an outlet for adventure and fun in a safe environment, helps build self-confidence and self-esteem, and is a place to build social skills and make friends.”
American Camp Association (ACA) quotes, “At camp, when children make new friends, explore the world around them, and learn that ‘I can’ is much more powerful than ‘I can’t’, magic happens. In an environment created just for them, children learn real life skills, develop self-esteem, and gain a sense of independence and community. Whether children are playing, exploring nature, conquering new heights, or becoming part of a camp family, they are creating memories that will last a lifetime.”
Questions of Interest
What are the Camp Trends and Interests Today for Tots, Tweens, and Teens? Camp Trends for residential programs include:
• high- and low-ropes courses
• climbing walls
• zip lines
• backpacking
• mountain biking
• cave exploring
• see the article, “Camp Revamped: Five Exciting Summer Camp Trends” by Jess Michaels
• see Camp Trends Fact Sheet by American Camp Association.
What are the major points of camp selection for parents?
• Safety
• Supervision
• Acceptance
• Experience
What camps are parents interested in for Tots, Tweens, and Teens?
For younger or elementary school children, most parents will choose a traditional one or two week summer camps that offer a variety of swimming, arts/crafts, archery, and beginner sports.
Camp Options for young children are:
Noah’s Art, Gymboree, My Gym,
Half-Day YMCA Programs/School Programs (ie. Lego, Science, Cooking, Scouting, and Sports)
Full-Day YMCA Programs/School Programs/Faith-Based Programs
Discovery Place
Enrichment Programs (ie. UNC Reading Program, AK Classics Enrichment Program)
For tweens and teens, most parents (and this age range) are interested in residential camps and specialty camps like sports, music, computers, fine arts, and language(s).
Camp Options for older children are:
Full-Day YMCA Program/School Programs
Academic/Enrichment Programs (ie. UNCC, Duke Tip Program, UNCG)
Language Programs (ie. The Language Academy for the Carolinas, Charlotte Christian School, Providence Day School, Alliance Francaise, etc.)
Whitewater Center
The Art Institute
School of Rock
Johnson & Wales
Residential Camps
Accredited Camps within a 60 mile radius. (Found via www.acacamps.org)
• Zip=28277
• Within 60 mile radius of Charlotte, NC
3 Matches Found (displaying 1 to 3)
Thunderbird, Lake Wylie, SC (Day and Resident Camp) --- Distance: 24 miles
Located just south of Charlotte, Camp Thunderbird celebrates 72 years of excellence. One and two week sessions ages 7-16. Nationally recognized water programs.
Camp Cherokee, Blacksburg, SC (Resident Camp) --- Distance: 38 miles
Camp Cherokee provides individuals the opportunities to reach their potential by building self-esteem, friendships and character in a safe positive environment.
Camp La Vida, Winnsboro, SC (Resident Camp) --- Distance: 48 miles
Program enables campers to learn and participate in Southern Baptist mission efforts in an outdoor setting.
How do you gather information about camps? What’s good and what’s not?
Discussion of camps within Charlotte and the surrounding areas.Gathering Data and Resources for Camp
• Input from your children regarding their interests.
• Inquire from neighbors, friends, or community organizations.
• Utilize Online Searches.
• Visit www.charlotteparent.com, www.charlotteobserver.com, www.acacamps.org, www.aca.org for detailed camp information and selections.
• *Visit www.afcharlotte.org for language programs at Alliance Francaise.
• *Visit www.carolinalanguage.com for The Language Academy of the Carolinas. (Considered Charlotte’s Premier Language Service Company, and focuses on Spanish, French, German, Sign Language, Chinese, Italian, etc.)
• Visit www.providenceday.org and www.charlotte-christian.com for language and other camp offerings.
*specified for language camps
Seven Questions To Ask About Summer Camp (in terms of Safety and Regulations) by ACA
1. How are counselors chosen? Especially at sleep-away camps, it’s worth remembering that counselors function as your surrogate 24/7. Inquire about the camp’s screening process: Does it conduct criminal background checks on prospective employees? Does it require that new counselors have experience teaching or working with children? Does it investigate employees' prior work history?
2. How is the staff trained in terms of safety? In person or by phone? How many hours? Are there safety and first-aid tests counselors need to pass? How many of the counselors are certified by the Red Cross in first aid and CPR?
3. What’s the camp’s policy vis-à-vis disciplining campers and staff? For instance, does it maintain zero tolerance for drug use or alcohol abuse among staff? Are there curfews for staff as well as campers? How has the camp dealt with past infractions? If a counselor has ever been fired, ask why and use that information to learn a little more about the camp's safety culture.
4. Have there ever been serious injuries or deaths at the camp? How did the camp respond to the event? Accidents can happen anywhere, but learning about past incidents can tell you a world about how the camp deals with mistakes and takes steps to prevent future hazards.
5. Does the camp do overnight trips or excursions, and, if so, what’s the safety protocol? Good requirements may include: at least one trip leader is qualified to respond to emergencies (or "RTE," a specialized Red Cross certification), trip leaders have a minimum age, a buddy system, an emergency plan in case of a camper getting lost, and use of cell phones or walkie-talkies.
6. Does the camp have an emergency plan? The plan should cover everything from earthquakes, hurricanes, and forest fires to hostage situations, dangerous wildlife, and verbalized threats. It should also cover health mishaps like food poisoning or water contamination, child abuse, disease outbreaks, and staff deaths.
7. Is the camp accredited by the American Camp Association? No bureaucratic process can assure safety, but a camp that has gone the extra mile to get accredited has probably thought through a lot of worst-case scenarios. The ACA standards include safety, health, as well as program and camp operations — for more information about researching a camp’s safety, visit www.acacamp.org.
What are Affordable Summer Activities (inclusive or exclusive of camping options)?
• Gardening
• Swimming
• Reading
• Drawing/Illustrating
• Grade/Age Appropriate Workbooks
• “Daycations”: Traveling to the mountain or the beach
• “Daycations”: Visiting museums, libraries, aquariums, and planetariums
• Vacation Bible School
Summer Reads
For Young Children/Elementary School
Ocean Waves & Other Tales; Play Dates & Other Tales by Helen H. Kimbrough
Hurricanes!; Tornadoes!; Snakes; Alligators and Crocodiles; Elephants of Africa by Gail Gibbons
Dance the Polka; I Like Myself; Doggone Days; I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More by Karen Beaumont
Richard Wright and the Library Card by William Miller
One Million Men & Me by Kelly Lyons
Train to Somewhere by Eve Bunting
Short Cut by Donald Crews
Come on, Rain! By Karen Hesse
Books by Dr. Seuss, Eric Carle, etc.
For Tweens & Teens
The Hunger Games; Catching Fire; The Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing; Traitor to the Nation; The Pox Party; Pals in Peril series by M. T. Anderson
I Beat the Odds from Homelessness to The Blind Side and Beyond by Michael Oher
The Other Wes Moore by Wes Moore
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
Visit www.amazon.com or www.literacyhead.com for a listing of books. Schools will furnish a listing of books for the summer months too.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Students Celebrating History
Today, I witnessed my son's elementary school class deliver biographies and life stories on amazing people that have crafted and captivated history. Presentations on Frederick Douglass, Amelia Earhart, Rosa Parks, Princess Diana, Pablo Picasso, Walt Disney, Jesus, Helen Keller, and many others were well researched and delivered.
What I liked most about these presentations were how each student embraced the authenticity of "their" individual by dressing up in character. They were absolutely beautiful. Secondly, I learned new facts about each person which means these boys and girls demonstrated to me that there is always something new to learn about a person. Finally, I was pleased in their earnest accounts of brilliance and their ability to teach me and others without hesitation or fear.
It's good to see kids when they are comfortable to speak and share knowledge. For this experience, I am personally grateful. Bravo!
What I liked most about these presentations were how each student embraced the authenticity of "their" individual by dressing up in character. They were absolutely beautiful. Secondly, I learned new facts about each person which means these boys and girls demonstrated to me that there is always something new to learn about a person. Finally, I was pleased in their earnest accounts of brilliance and their ability to teach me and others without hesitation or fear.
It's good to see kids when they are comfortable to speak and share knowledge. For this experience, I am personally grateful. Bravo!
Friday, February 11, 2011
When Kids Grow Up
It’s hard for me to believe that my children are growing up. Where did the time go? It seems like yesterday when I was holding them in my arms. Now, they are out growing me by leaps and bounds.
However with growth comes more responsibility. As parents, we can’t cripple our children out of doing hard work or chores. It clearly won’t benefit them in the long run. So let’s make a pact and require our children to do their chores and commitments with honor and excellence and without negative feedback. Let them know that a positive response to work and a strong work ethic pays off. Invest in this concept on their behalf.
So the next time you ask your children to strive for an A, focus on teamwork, practice harder, load or unload the dishwasher, take out the trash, or wash and fold clothes, with our diligence in guiding their response and work ethic, it is our hope that we will one day hear, “I’ll be happy to” or something close to it.
However with growth comes more responsibility. As parents, we can’t cripple our children out of doing hard work or chores. It clearly won’t benefit them in the long run. So let’s make a pact and require our children to do their chores and commitments with honor and excellence and without negative feedback. Let them know that a positive response to work and a strong work ethic pays off. Invest in this concept on their behalf.
So the next time you ask your children to strive for an A, focus on teamwork, practice harder, load or unload the dishwasher, take out the trash, or wash and fold clothes, with our diligence in guiding their response and work ethic, it is our hope that we will one day hear, “I’ll be happy to” or something close to it.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Organizing a Book Club for Kids
It’s exciting to hear that more and more kids are interested in reading and want to formulate a book club. Book Club is a fun way to exercise reading and comprehension, learn new words, and express opinions.
If your child is interested in a book club, organizing one is simple. Try the following:
• Have your child or school extend an invitation to seek participants.
• Pick reading materials that everyone can benefit from (ie. sequel or series books, Highlights Magazine, Sports books and journals, mysteries, drama, etc.) or ask potential members what books they are drawn to reading.
• Provide a fun activity based on the book or story. Participation is crucial within a book club and this is a way to get everyone to participate. Also, an activity will reinforce or provide knowledge. Activities can be word games, Pictionary, role playing, spoken word, and more.
• Decide on a designated time, place, and length of your book club. Make sure that it’s amenable to each participant and their parent(s) or guardian.
Speaking from personal experience, I organized a book club when I lived in New Jersey, and I loved every minute of it. I read books that I normally wouldn’t have selected, and I ventured into conversations that I normally wouldn’t have discussed. My mind grew, and my world became larger all through reading with my amazing book club. I hope that your child finds a unique element to book club that will enable him or her to soar as well.
Happy Reading!
If your child is interested in a book club, organizing one is simple. Try the following:
• Have your child or school extend an invitation to seek participants.
• Pick reading materials that everyone can benefit from (ie. sequel or series books, Highlights Magazine, Sports books and journals, mysteries, drama, etc.) or ask potential members what books they are drawn to reading.
• Provide a fun activity based on the book or story. Participation is crucial within a book club and this is a way to get everyone to participate. Also, an activity will reinforce or provide knowledge. Activities can be word games, Pictionary, role playing, spoken word, and more.
• Decide on a designated time, place, and length of your book club. Make sure that it’s amenable to each participant and their parent(s) or guardian.
Speaking from personal experience, I organized a book club when I lived in New Jersey, and I loved every minute of it. I read books that I normally wouldn’t have selected, and I ventured into conversations that I normally wouldn’t have discussed. My mind grew, and my world became larger all through reading with my amazing book club. I hope that your child finds a unique element to book club that will enable him or her to soar as well.
Happy Reading!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
So You Want To Be An Author!
It starts out with a numbing sensation or feeling that you try to ignore. It’s definitely something, but what could it be? A gentle whisper, a possible dream, an overwhelming thought, a spiritual moment…not sure?
It comes back again and again sometimes more forceful than before. Yes, you try to imbed and bury it deep down inside, but it won’t let you. It allows you to waste days, months, and years, but it’s presence abides with you.
Until one day, you relent. You no longer ignore it. You decide to face it and acknowledge it. Then you speak it out loud (only to yourself of course). You want to be an author. Uh oh, it becomes real, and it is a real feeling indeed.
Over the course of this year, I will shed some light on my journey to becoming an author. Since I'm basically asked the same question(s), I want to share my experience, accomplishments, and pitfalls with you. Welcome to my world!
It comes back again and again sometimes more forceful than before. Yes, you try to imbed and bury it deep down inside, but it won’t let you. It allows you to waste days, months, and years, but it’s presence abides with you.
Until one day, you relent. You no longer ignore it. You decide to face it and acknowledge it. Then you speak it out loud (only to yourself of course). You want to be an author. Uh oh, it becomes real, and it is a real feeling indeed.
Over the course of this year, I will shed some light on my journey to becoming an author. Since I'm basically asked the same question(s), I want to share my experience, accomplishments, and pitfalls with you. Welcome to my world!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Summer Camp is Around The Corner!
The time of selecting summer camps for our children is nearly approaching. The months of February and March, which are designated as the kick-off for summer camps, anxiously capture a parent’s attention and make him or her ask the dreaded, yet hopeful question, “What Are My Kids Doing for Summer Camp?”
To alleviate some of the stress, start looking in parenting magazines or sites in your area. There you will find a list of residential or localized camps for your children and their needs. Most parents are aware of their local camps through the YMCA, private schools, universities, sports programs, and religious organizations. However, in viewing my local site, I ran across a plethora of camps that I was unaware of like the 4-H Teen Congress which focuses on government, citizenship, leadership, and community service. The Bachman Academy Summer Quest is a camp specifically for kids with dyslexia and ADHD. The 4-H Motor Sports Day Camp allows children to use mathematical, engineering, and technology concepts to build, understand, and race cars. The ABC Language Stimulation School assists children with speech and language delays. The nature center instructs kids on water ecology and nocturnal animals. The Acting and Scene Study obtained a grant and is a camp for children who are interested in pursuing acting.
Alright, I did go on record to say that there are many camps for you to choose from. You just have to narrow your purpose and mission down along with convenience, reliability/safety, affordability, enrichment, and adventure. Overall, summer camp is a time to make learning and development fun and impactful. So go for it!
To alleviate some of the stress, start looking in parenting magazines or sites in your area. There you will find a list of residential or localized camps for your children and their needs. Most parents are aware of their local camps through the YMCA, private schools, universities, sports programs, and religious organizations. However, in viewing my local site, I ran across a plethora of camps that I was unaware of like the 4-H Teen Congress which focuses on government, citizenship, leadership, and community service. The Bachman Academy Summer Quest is a camp specifically for kids with dyslexia and ADHD. The 4-H Motor Sports Day Camp allows children to use mathematical, engineering, and technology concepts to build, understand, and race cars. The ABC Language Stimulation School assists children with speech and language delays. The nature center instructs kids on water ecology and nocturnal animals. The Acting and Scene Study obtained a grant and is a camp for children who are interested in pursuing acting.
Alright, I did go on record to say that there are many camps for you to choose from. You just have to narrow your purpose and mission down along with convenience, reliability/safety, affordability, enrichment, and adventure. Overall, summer camp is a time to make learning and development fun and impactful. So go for it!
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