How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #57

The linguistic child's strength has to do with words, spoken or written. Children or adults with high verbal-linguistic intelligence are able to express themselves with words and language.  That brings us to tip #57.

Tip #57: Know if your child is a Linguistic Learner or Word Smart.

They are typically good at reading, writing, telling stories, and memorizing words along with dates. They tend to learn best by reading the information, taking notes, listening to lectures, and discussion and debate. They also can explain, teach, and persuade by simply speaking. Those who have verbal-linguistic intelligence learn foreign languages very easily as they have high verbal memory and recall. This intelligence are usually found as writers, lawyers, philosophers, journalists, politicians, poets, and teachers.

If you believe your child's strength is the linguistic intelligence, then reading and speaking will come very natural. They should study by taking notes, listening or tape recording information, discussing, and reading over the materials and brainstorming ideas.

How to help your child become more word smart? Your child should:

1. Write down their ideas as they get them.

2. Read about what interest them.

3. Start a journal.

4. Start going to the library.

5. Look up words they don't know in a dictionary.

7. Have a regular storytelling time with your family.

8. Pay with words.

9. Play with spoken words.

10. Join a book club where they can discuss books with others.

11. Write their favorite authors.

12. Go listen to writer speak.

13. Learn another language.

All of the intelligences are equal and we all possess some of the other intelligences, but usually one or two are more dominate. It is also important to strengthen the other intelligences . So, linguistic students should try to be a part of playing math logic games, sports, playing an instrument or singing, art lessons, dance, or join Boy/Girls Scouts. These activities will not come naturally, but can be enjoyed by linguistic students and mastered.

For more information on Multiple Intelligences get "You're Smarter Than You Think" by Thomas Armstrong, PhD. or google multiple intelligence.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #56

When you know your child's learning style, you will be able to help them to study and become more successful in school. Many parents think their child is having a hard time learning, but it is simply the material is not being presented in a way they are able to understand and retain the information.  That brings us to tip #56.

Tip #56: Know your child's learning style.

Dr. Howard Gardner researched and found out that children and adults seem to learn and show how smart they are in a lot of ways. He also noticed that different parts of the brain seem to be tied to the different ways of being smart. Most people have some portion of each of the intelligences, but usually one or two of the intelligences will be more dominate. For the next couple of week days, I will present the 8 Gardner Intelligences.  Review each of the 8 intelligences carefully, and try to decide which one or two is the most dominate in your child. Then, talk to your child and tell them their strengths and weaknesses. Finally, have them participate in strengthening the weaker intelligences and have fun and take advantage of the dominate ones. This should be a fun thing to do with the entire family.

Teachers today are aware of these findings on Multiple Intelligences. They should be using them in their daily instruction. If your child is having difficulty with learning, it could be the way the material is being presented. Talk to the teacher and let him/her know that you are aware of your child's learning style. Maybe you both can come up with a plan together to help your child succeed. If you or the teacher feel the problem is more serious, don't hesitate to have the child tested and evaluated as soon as possible. The earlier a problem is diagnosis and treated, the better the results. There are so many new findings and treatments for learning delays, disabilities, and other interferences.

I have posted the intelligence before, but by request I am adding them to my How to Get The Best Education Possible: Tips for Parents.

Skip Burgers, Breathe Easier

According to an article in December 2010 issue of Good Housekeeping magazine, eating three or more of the hamburgers each week may make kids more likely to develop asthma.  Researchers from Germany, Spain and Britain studied 50,000 children ages 8 to 12 across the globe and found that adhering to Mediterranean diet (one that emphasizes healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables) may give kids some protection against asthma.  Researchers say it's not the beef in burgers that's at fault; rather, a Western diet rich in Big Macs is likely to lack the components of a healthy meal plan that help stave off breathing issues.  to help protect your child, know that vitamin C-rich foods have been linked to better lung function and lower asthma rates; omega-3 fats found in fish may help prevent allergies and asthma, too.

Butter or Margarine?

According to an article in the December 2010 issue of Good Housekeeping magazine, which is better - butter or margarine? The answer was neither. Spreads which are sold in a tubs, are healthier than either butter or sticks of margarine.  A tablespoon of butter contains 7 grams of saturated fat, the kind that clogs your arteries and ups your risk of heart disease.  Vegetable oil spreads, which are technically not margarine, usually contain less that  2 grams of sat fat per tablespoon.   Stick migraines are also lower in sat fat, but with one exception: I Can't Believe It's Not Butter!  Sticks.  With 3.5 grams of sat fat and no trans fats, they make a great stand-in for butter, even in holiday cookies recipes:

KIPP Schools- Schools that Work!

I went to the movie to watch the documentary, Waiting for Superman" and they featured the KIPP schools in New York City. Two young teachers started a Charter School that works for low income middle and high school students. The results are amazing! The schools start early, have 10 hour days, and meet during the summer and every other weekend. The program is developed to meet the needs of the student population that they service. If KIPP students make it through the 8Th grade, 85% of them will go and finish college.

The key to the success of this charter schools is everyone has a feeling of ownership and belonging. The dedicated and skilled teachers visit every students home. Parents are an important part of the success of the schools and if there is a lack of parental participation the school fills in the gap of parent. Lessons are taught in kid friendly ways with a lot of chanting, movements, and beats. These are found to be successful methods for many children of poverty.

The students must earn privileges such as earning new uniforms and going on field trips. Although this model will not work for every system, I think it is exciting when there is a successful model that can be replicated where it will work. If we know what works in education, why isn't every school effective? We must highlight these schools and find out why they are successful and make sure every student in this country is receiving the "Best Education Possible"!

Happy Thanksgiving!

                  From: Best Education Possible, LLC and Debra West

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Thanksgiving.  Please remember to say a prayer for our soldiers serving overseas and their families.  One other thing to remember today, keep every child in your thoughts today because every child deserves "The Best Education Possible" and chance to make their dreams come true.  HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!!!

Thanksgiving Card Activity

Thanksgiving will be celebrated on Thursday, November 25Th. This is a time our country stops and takes time to contemplate on all the blessings of the year and feast shamelessly. With so many people having hard times in this economic climate, we must remember there are still many blessings to be thankful for.

This year why not make it special and do something everyone can participate. Have everyone in the family or friends start a Thanksgiving Card on Thursday, November 25Th. They can use whatever materials they choose. It can be as simple as a piece of paper or as elaborate as what your imagination will come up with. Inside will be dated November 25, 2010.  Every participants will write down (3-5) things they are truly thankful for this year.  Sometimes during the day, everyone will share their cards in whatever creative way you come up with. Here are a few suggestions on sharing the Thanksgiving Cards:

1. Share cards out loud in a group setting before dinner.

2. Have a contest on the most creative card.

3. Give prizes for most meaningful card.

4. Pick partners and share cards and have partner share the most memorable entries.

5. Share cards out loud after Thanksgiving meal.

6. Put cards in a pile and guess whose card is being shared.

7. Share 1 or 2 most meaningful Thanksgiving entries.

8. Only have the children and young people share cards.

9. Come up with your own creative way of sharing cards.

10. Make it a new family tradition on sharing Thanksgiving Cards!

I hope this gives you something to think and share during Thanksgiving. Hopefully, your children will really enjoy this activity and it will give your family and friends an opportunity to communicate and become closer. It will also be a way to communicate positive feelings with one another, along with stopping to think about all the wonderful blessings you can recognize on a daily bases and throughout the year. Get your family started on this Thursday and have fun with the Thanksgiving Cards Activity!!!!

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #55

With all of the worries about the economy, families can still enjoy fun entertainment together and stay on a budget. That brings us to tip #55.

Tip #55:  Start a family game night.

Why not start a family game night? Here are a few tips in getting started on a family fun filled night:

1. Schedule it. Decide in advance which day will be the family game night.

2. Involve everyone in the planning. Let your kids pick the games or choose the snack.

3. Create a tradition. Establish an activity on game night that becomes a family tradition. (ex. family-favorite dinner, how teams are chosen, or who gets the first turn)

4. Remind everyone. Set up reminders to make sure game night happens. Put a note in kids' lunchboxes. This can help build excitement.

5. Keep a family scoreboard. Have a special scoreboard and post the family member who won the last game on the board or create a family crown that can be worn at the family dinner before game night.

6. Mix it up with special guest. Invite other families and have a family game night tournament. Or invite extended family members. Just have fun.

Here are a few all-time favorites and new games to consider:

Kids 6-8 - Pictureka! Sorry! Sliders, Operation, Monopoly Jr.

Kids 8-10 - Clue, Monopoly, Cranium Family Edition, The Game of Life

Kids 10-12 - Monopoly, Yahzee, Clue

Families with teenagers - Monopoly Here & Now: The World Edition, Scrabble, Cranium Wow, Jenga, Catch Phrase, Trivial Pursuit

For more game ideas, visit http://www.familygamenight.com/

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #54

At 211 degrees, water is hot.
At 212 degrees, it boils.
And with boiling water, comes steam.
And steam can power a locomotive.  That brings us to tip #54.

Tip #54:  Teach your children about 212 degrees!


I was given a small book as a gift, 212 Degrees the Extra Degree, by Sam Parker and Mac Anderson. They state that by raising the temperature of water by one extra degree means the difference between something that is simply very hot and something that generates enough force to power a machine. It reminds us that seemly small things can make tremendous differences. 212 degrees is not only a message of action, it's a message of persistent and additional action. We must realize in order to reap the greatest rewards that are possible we must apply one extra degree of effort. If we apply this simple theory and teach our children to push a little harder, there would be nothing we couldn't accomplish.

Now that you're aware of "212 degrees - the extra degree," no longer should you be able to do only what is expected of you, because with this awareness comes responsibility to yourself, your family, and to others. 211 degrees can serve a purpose, but 212 degrees is the extra power that will move any obstacles, and get results that required by additional effort. So, teach your children about 212 degrees of power and establish it in your own life. You will experience the reward and extraordinary success.

How Not To Worry About The Pounds At The Thanksgiving Feast!

Thanksgiving is the time for enjoying your favorite dishes and desserts.  It is a time when family and friends gather together to give thanks for all they are blessed to have.  What can a people do when they are faced with all that delicious food and baked goods when the are trying to keep their weight under control.  Below are 7 suggestions on a worry free festive Thanksgiving:

1. Eat only until you are comfortably full.  Don't eat until you are stuffed.  That is when the extra pounds will creep in.

2. Slow down when you are eating.  Eating too fast tends to cause overeating.  Eat slower and savor every bite. 

3. Use low fat substitutes in recipes where you can.  Use low fat cream, milk, and margarine instead of butter, for example.  Many times these substitutes really aren't noticed in the taste.

4. Take small amounts of everything.  Try to take small portions of each entry or eat on a smaller plate.  That will keep you from overloading your plate with unwanted calories.

5. Eat only the things you love to eat.  If it isn't something you absolutely love, skip it. 

6. Take a walk instead of a nap after the meal.  Ask the children and family members to join you.  Talk about family history and enjoyable times together.

7. Go to the Thanksgiving feast with every intention of enjoying your family, friends, and food.  Don't worry yourself with counting every calorie.

Are You at Risk For Diabetes?

According to an article in the November 2010 issue of Better Homes and Garden, before type 2 diabetes sets in, blood sugar hovers in an elevated limbo state.  Most people with pre-diabetes experience no symptoms.  The following signs could mean you're at risk. Below are some ways to tell if you're affected and how losing weight can halt the progression.

1. A body mass index of 25 or higher (go to cdc.gov/bmi for a BMI calculator)
2. Exercising fro fewer than 20 minutes three times per week.
3. A immediate family member with diabetes
4. High blood pressure
5. Low HDL ("good") cholesterol or high triglycerides
6. Polycystic ovary syndrome
7. Gestational diabetes, or giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds.
8. Being of African-American, Indian, or Pacific Islander descent.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #53

So many times we don't appreciate the blessings we have. If you teach your children about serving others less fortunate then themselves, they will appreciate what they have and develop a heart of giving. That brings us to tip #53.

Tip #53: Teach your child the heart of service toward others.

So many children don't know how fortunate they really are.  All many kids want these days are what they see on TV or what other children have.  It doesn't matter what your circumstances maybe, give your children the heart for helping those who have less.  Look around your community and see the areas that can be improved and discuss it. Why not visit elderly neighbors, nursing homes, food banks, soup kitchens, housing shelters, etc.  Have your children write about their experiences while doing the service and talk about their feelings.  It can be something they will never forget and may lead them to their career choices (ex. doctor, lawyer, teacher, social worker, etc.)  Every U.S. citizen should commit to serving their community and nation at least one time  a year. It could change the whole attitude about helping the less fortunate. We must start with ourselves and be aware of the needs around us, then take action, but don't forget to include your children when appropriate.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #52

We must teach our children to be responsible and accountable. So many times children get to school and don't know what it even means to be responsible or accountable for their actions, personal items, or school work. That brings us to tip # 52.

Tip #52:  Help your child be more responsible and accountable.

It is extremely frustrating for teachers to have irresponsible students that have no idea what it is to take responsibility or accountability  for anything.  Some parents are doing too much for their children and handicapping them. Kids should have things they are responsible to complete in a timely manner. Demonstrate the expected behavior and how it is to be completed. Appropriate consequences and rewards should be attached if those things  are or are not completed in a satisfactory manner. Let your children complete homework and reports as independently as possible. Make them responsible and accountable for the grades they receive. It will make them a better students and adults. So, start today and let your children have some responsibilities. It can only help them become responsible citizen and independent adults.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #51

There is a gem right in your mist. It is the public library. That brings us to tip #51.

Tip #51: Take your children to the public library and get them a library card.

Children need to read in order to be successful throughout life.  There is a great resource for finding what your child is interested in reading without spending a whole lot of money, and that's going to the public library.  Throughout the year, many libraries across this country have special events for families. There will be visiting authors, story tellers, arts and crafts, poets etc., but more importantly there are BOOKS! Your children will be able to find books on whatever interest them. Sign them up for their own library card and get them excited about exploring the world through books. Public libraries are funded through tax payers money and your family should take full advantage of this service. There is no better way to enhance your child's reading ability or love for books then a visit to the public library.  Many libraries have computers that your children can use. If you don't have a computer at home this is a way for them to get practice. There are also books on tape and DVDs with music and movies for loan.  So, get in the car and take your children to the public library and take advantage of all the resources. 

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #50

Just about anyone who has witnessed a youth sport these days has had a bad experience. A survey of 3,300 parents published in an issue of "SportingKid" magazine found that 84% had witnessed "violent parental behavior" toward children, coaches, or an official at kids' sports events.  This brings us to tip #50.

Tip #50: Don't take your child's sporting events too seriously.

Children should not be victims or witness adults behaving like their child is participating in the "World Series" and their life savings depends on the outcome of the child's performance. There is too much pressure put on little children and it takes away the love of the game. More than half of the parents end up removing their children from youth games because they felt that youth sports were too competitive. Team sports should teach children lesson in life, such as, sportsmanship and cooperative outcomes, while developing skills to become competitive in the future. Some parents need to RELAX, stop living through their child, and let their child develop their athletic skills, and enjoy the games.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #49

When we think about being healthy, how many people think of their dental health? It has come to light that many of the health problems people experience started with poor dental hygiene and dental care. That brings us to tip #49.

Tip #49:  Make sure you take your children to the dentist.

Parents should try to take their children to the dentist when they are between the ages of 2-4 years old to make sure their baby teeth are healthy and developing properly. Also, it will help the child have a positive attitude early on with the dentist. Children should brush their teeth in the morning and before going to bed, but someone must show them the proper way to clean their teeth. Flossing and getting fluoride treatments should be a routine part of your child's dental care. Dentist are very expensive, but very necessary in our overall health plan. This country must come to terms and make sure every child is receiving proper medical and dental health care, but we as parents must teach them the routine of caring for their teeth, so that they can smile without hesitation.

Is It a Cold or Allergies?

Believe it or not, fall and winter are prime time for allergy symptoms and discomfort.  That's because triggers such as dust mites, dander,and mold abound at the home, school, and office.  But how can you tell if you are suffering from a cold or allergies.  According to an article in the November 2010 issue of Better Homes and Garden, this is the time of year that it's tough to tell whether sniffles stem from an allergy or a virus, Linda Ford, M.D. an allergist in Omaha , Nebraska, offers these diagnostic clues.

1. Cold: Often comes with a sore throat or low-grade fever; tends to cause congestion with yellowish mucus; is associated with isolated sneezes; and gets better in about a week.
2. Allergy: Is associated with itchiness; tends to produce clear runny mucus; often induces fits of sneezing; can persist as long as the allergen is present.

"Waiting For Superman"

                                

I just came from the movie, "Waiting for Superman".  I HIGHLY recommend this movie to parents, educators, administrators, and anyone interested in education in this country.  I was very disappointed that there was only about 15 people in the entire movie theater.  I'm afraid people have the idea it is about bashing the public school system and advocating charter schools.  This movie is about effective schools and effective teachers and how they can make the difference in educating our children.  If the United States wants to continue to be a world leader, we must fix the public schools in this country.  This movie proves that it is possible. Go see it and come up with your own solutions and join the education reform!

You Have To Change Your Mind!

How many Monday mornings have you started a new workout routine, only to find yourself too tired to get out of bed?  Your not alone.  Most new exercisers quit within three to six months, according to the American College of Sports Medicine.  One reason is people are trying to do too much. What people don't realize is that getting into healthful habits involves more than going fro a run or popping in an exercise DVD before or after work.

According to Shane Murphy, PhD., associate professor of psychology at Western Connecticut State University and author of The Sports Psychology Handbook, "It's hard to jump from an early stage of change to a later stage before you're ready." And even if you are ready, progressing is still a challenge.  Below are some suggestions on changing your mind according to an article in Better Homes and Gardens, September 2010 issue.

Stage I: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family and gather information about ways to get started.  Research local clubs, gyms, and sports of interest to you.  Write pros and cons of altering your lifestyle to realize the importance of making a change.

Stage 2: Start small by planning short 10 minute exercise goals.  Look for a motivated friend or join a local team with other players at your level.  Try walking, tennis, bowling, or skating.

Stage 3: Find a class that's nearby to lessen travel time.  Join a gym that offers babysitting, or buy a jog stroller and involve your child.  Buy new exercise shoes or an outfit for motivation. If you need to just purchase exercise videos you will enjoy.

Stage 4: Don't beat yourself up if you miss a day or two.  Be proud of what you've already accomplished.  Realize you're making a lifelong commitment and reward yourself.

Stage 5: Add variety and challenge to avoid relapses.  It's not about weight lose it's about healthy living. Don't forget to include the entire family in some exercise and health program.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #48

Kids with healthy self-esteem tend to enjoy interacting with others. They are comfortable in group settings and independent activities. That brings us to tip #48.

Tip #48: Help develop your child's self-esteem.

Everyone needs to have a healthy self-esteem in order to be successful and that is no different for our children.  We all have strength and weaknesses that we know about, accept, and work toward strengthening. But jow can parents help their child in building a good self-esteem? According to the article, "Developing Your Child's Self-Esteem", from KidsHealth.org, you need to:

1. Watch what you say to your child

2. Be a positive role model

3. Identify and redirect your child's inaccurate beliefs

4. Be spontaneous and affectionate

5. Give positive, accurate, feedback

6. Create a safe, loving home environment

7. Help you child become involved in constructive experiences

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #47

It is really tough for children today! Peer pressure has always been a problem for children, but it seems that it is even more difficult to walk away from temptations because of strong peer influences, and the technology that is available to children everyday. That brings us to tip#47.

Tip # 47: Help teach your child to resist peer pressure. 

Some kids find it difficult to resist peer pressure because they want to be liked and accepted. Others just find it fascinating and want to be adventurous and curious. The media and music industry do not help by making children think that elude behavior is normal and everyone is doing it, and at times glorifying drugs, sex, and violence.

The most important thing a child can have to resist peer pressure is a strong moral foundation, supportive and loving parents, and friends that have the same moral standard or higher. Know your child's friend, where they are going, and what they are doing. (especially on the Internet and the music they are listening to) If you find your child does not make good choices or is a follower, try to redirect them in a firm but caring way, and seek help from other parents who seem to be successful with their children. Do not hesitate to get professional help if needed. Start early, it can save you and your child heart ache and pain.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: #46

We must help our children to get and remain organized. They must understand that everything has a place and everything should be in its place. That brings us to tip #46.

Tip #46: Teach your child to be neat and organized.

It is extremely important for our children to be neat and organized. One possible reason we are late for appointments or engagements is because we can't find everything we need. My husband always taught our five children that, "Clutter causes depression". Now clutter does bother him, but I, (who clutter doesn't bother) feel better when I can find what I need and things are in their place.

In school, the student who keeps a neat desk and locker is usually able to get started and turn in assignments sooner then the student who can not find papers, pencils, or textbooks. Teaching our children to neatly organize their personal space with help them continue to keep their lives organized into adulthood.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #45

We must teach our children the importance of being on time and time management! In order to instill this in our children we must make sure we get them to school, sports events, movies, church, and any extra curricula activity on time.  That brings us to tip #45.

Tip #45: Teach your child the importance of being on time.

You must teach the child the importance of being on time.  Teach them to be 10 or 15 minutes early, giving a little time for traffic or other deterrents. It is also important for children to be at school on time, to settle down and get in the route of the day. Studies show that children that are chronically late or absent usually don't do as well in school. Being on time will teach our children the importance of time management and will help them with future employment or business transactions. There is nothing that will discourage a future employer from hiring a person then missing an interview or showing up late. So, talk to your children about being on time and teach them time management, because it can be the difference in a successful career.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #44

There is scientific evidence that girls and boys learn differently. That brings us to tip #44.

Tip #44:  Girls and boys learn differenently at different rates.

According to Michael Gurian, educator and family therapist, girls talk sooner, develop better vocabularies, read better, and have better fine motor skills. Boys, on the other hand, have better auditory memory, are better at three-dimensional reasoning, are more prone to explore, and achieve greater abstract design ability after puberty. What does all this mean? There are new researched based methods to educate our children based on brain science, neurological development, and chemical and hormonal disparities. This is why parents should not compare children and understand the simple fact that boys and girls learn differently. They also develop at different rates. So, be patient and watch for any unusual delays in development before becoming alarmed, and remember that all children are unique and learn differently.

Cooking Traditional Meals

I remember going to my grandmother's house every Sunday after church. We always had fried chicken, ham, macaroni and cheese, string beans, candy yams, hot rolls, you name it. The art of good homemade cooking is dying and the only way to save these priceless recipes is to get in the kitchen of the great cooks and take some cooking lessons before its too late. Make sure you take you children with you because they need to learn how to cook too. Many recipes have already been lost and never to be retrieved. There is nothing more comforting then sitting down to a well prepared home cooked meal. So, stop going to these restaurants and fast food places and learn how to put a smile on your families faces by cooking your family's traditional recipes.

Fitness and Your Child

Regular exercise can promote overall good health, confidence and a positive self image for your child. According to Jeffery Crupi, owner of the Peak Fitness Gym in Westport, CT., it is important to promote a positive attitude toward physical fitness. When getting your child interested in a physical fitness program consider the following guidelines:

1. Make it enjoyable - Focus on fun activities

2. Introduce a variety - Introduce such activities as softball, soccer, tennis golf, swimming, skating, or whatever activities best suits their needs

3. Plan for success - To ensure your child succeeds, parents should encourage their child to create realistic and attainable fitness goals

4. Constant feedback - Feedback that is both verbal and nonverbal can go a along way in stimulating a child's participation in physical fitness

5. Role modeling - Being a positive role model can help influence a child's commitment to a fitness program

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #44

Encourage Your Kids to Dream Big! We must teach our children the principles behind the "Law of Attraction". What you think about (whether it be positive or negative) will happen. That brings us to Tip #44.

Tip #44:  Teach your children about the "Law of Attraction".

We must give our children a positive outlook of themselves and their future. Talk about their dreams and encourage them to dream BIG. Sadly, we often don't think big enough.  Therefore, many of our children have no idea that everything is possible. The brain is like a computer and can only process what you put into it. So, safeguard what they see and hear. Put in trash get out trash, put in violence reap violence. Conversely, pour in love and compassion and grow little gardens of loving and compassionate kids. Expose them to the stories and lives of people who have achieved great accomplishment in areas of their dreams.

Next, teach them to take ACTION toward making their dreams come true. No dream can become reality without action. They must study hard at school and develop all the skills needed to become the best at what they desire. Assist them in developing plans for achievement and encourage them to apply diligent effort towards their plans. Give your children the gift of attracting whatever their mind can conceive. Give them permission and help guide and support them to making those dreams realities.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #43



There is nothing more disappointing to a child then for someone to promise to do something and it doesn't happen! This brings us to tip #43.

Tip #43:  Keep your promises to your child.

We as adults must keep our word and never promise to go or do something if we cannot truly complete that promise. Children soon find out who they can depend on and trust. We always want our children to confide in us and come to us when they have difficult decisions or are having problems. They will soon go to peers or others if they cannot trust you. You must build that relationship of trust when they are small, because it is difficult to change their opinions once they feel betrayed or continually disappointed. Something you can do is keep your word!!.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #42

To foster a love of reading, keep reading together! Even if your kids can read very difficult literature all by themselves.   This brings us to tip #42.
Tip #42: Read aloud with your child.

Reading aloud can expand your children's vocabulary, and your conversations can help them understand and enjoy reading more.  This is how you can help your child become a lifelong reader. So, regardless of your child's age or comprehension level, continue to read together ritual. Maximize your time with these four suggestions:


1. Pick books that your child can read and understand easily . Shelve books that seem way over your child's head. It's tempting to push his/her literary limits, but the goal is understanding and enjoying.
2. Listen to audio books. It's not cheating, really; it's a terrific way to engage kids. Press "Play" during car rides or after dinner.
3. Revisit favorites. A second read is a great chance to discuss subtleties and encourage him/her to move beyond just the plot.
4. Find out what your child is interested in and look for books on that topic.

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #41

According to "The Mom Book Goes To School", when choosing Books to read aloud to your child, give your reading selections balance and range. Exposing your child to all forms of literature, form science fiction to fairy tales, newspaper articles to riddles, will encourage him/her to be a well rounded reader and improve his higher level thinking skills. Below are some suggestions to choosing the best books for your child:

1. Consider your child's abilities.

2. Look at length, difficulty, and your child's attention span when choosing a book.

3. Allow more independence with reading material as the child grows older.

4. Pick books written by Newbery Medal -winning authors. These books will have a gold or silver emblem on their front cover.

5. Pick stories with clear messages and social context to help your child learn basic values and develop decision-making skills.

6. Many books for younger readers have pictures, get some without pictures so your child can visualize what happens in the story or let your child illustrate it.

7. For excellent suggestions on newly released children's titles, The American Library Association and my book, "A Parents Handbook: How to Get the Best Education Possible K-6", compiles a list of notable children's books.

VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!



Please vote tomorrow.  It is a right that many people gave their lives to secure.  Take advantage of this right to vote and get out there tomorrow, know the issues, know the candidates and what they stand for, and make an intelligent decision and VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!

How To Get The Best Education Possible: Tip #40

This is as good of time as any to start teaching your child the value of money. Why not go to your local bank and start a savings account that they can keep up with. This brings us to tip #40.

Tip #40: Teach your child to save some of their money.

Teach them to save 10% of any monetary gifts they receive or money they earn. This will become a habit at an early age and pay off big dividends as they grow in knowledge of investing and compound interest. You are going to be the person to teach your child about savings, so why not start saving 10% of your savings yourself and learn about investment, compound interest, and a rainy day fund. Your family will be wiser and better yet financially secure.