Bronwyn's resources for families

The Beauty of England - Nature Meditation Video

2010-02-16T08:00:00.000+10:00

Beautiful pictures of England set to music by David Hicken with quotes from The Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu.

2010-02-14T10:34:00.001+10:00

"You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection." -- Buddha

2010-02-13T10:33:00.000+10:00

"Opportunity dances with those who are already on the dance floor." -- H. Jackson Brown Jr.

2010-02-11T09:31:00.000+10:00

"Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal." -- Pamela Vaull Starr

2010-02-10T09:29:00.000+10:00

"Wherever you are is always the right place. There is never a need to fix anything, to hitch up the bootstraps of the soul and start at some higher place. Start right where you are." -- Julia Cameron

Parenting using non-violent communication

2008-09-16T10:57:00.000+10:00

How to work with the incessant "no" from a child.

Talking about MySpace generation

2008-08-15T09:10:00.000+10:00

Is MySpace just a fad or does it represent a generational shift towards a new medium which is going to have major implications for how future generations live, learn and communicate? Flex e-News finds out… Read on ...

All In The Family

2008-07-30T19:21:00.000+10:00

The Struggle To Keep Our Children Lean And Healthy Many parents do not identify their child as “overweight,” but will select a sketch of a heavier model when asked to choose one representative of their child, new study findings show. “Comparisons between images and sketches showed that parents’ visual perceptions of their children more clearly reflect their child’s physical appearance than words they might use to classify the child’s weight,” study author Dr. Helen J. Binns, of Northwestern University in Chicago told Reuters Health. “So parents have a correct visual perception, but don’t consider that to fit in the medical diagnostic categories,” she added. more ...

Are vitamins and Minerals for kids?

2008-07-19T08:49:00.000+10:00

As parents we all know how important nutrition is, but are vitamins and minerals for kids to? It's a fact that nutrition is an important consideration no matter what age you are. And choosing vitamins and minerals for kids is just as important. Most children will want the supplement they recently saw advertised on television but it’s important for parents to consider the vitamin and minerals that their child needs to grow up strong and healthy. (More ...)

Self esteem

2008-07-09T11:29:00.000+10:00

Self esteem is one of the most important ingredients for our success and happiness and yet one that we often ignore or put to one side.

This book gives you three very well structured parts that together form a road map to improve the quality of your life by enhancing your self-esteem.

The Self Esteem System

Choosing books to read aloud to children

2008-06-25T16:11:00.001+10:00

This video has some really practical advice ....

Colour-coded diets

2008-06-16T18:19:00.001+10:00

Based on the clever titles, it might be tempting to dismiss these programs as gimmicks, and in fact when your weekly menus are literally "color coded," it might seem that the diet book authors are just scrambling for a new hook or premise on which to base an entire eating program. I have not read any of those books you mentioned yet, so I can't comment on any of them specifically. However, as "gimmicky" as from every color in the rainbow may sound at first, there is some very legitimate and scientific evidence that this is a great idea. Read on ...

Music lessons help young child memories

2008-06-06T15:16:00.000+10:00

Parents who spend time and money to teach their children music, take heart -- a new Canadian study shows young children who take music lessons have better memories than their nonmusical peers. Read on …

the Seven habits of Highly effective families

2008-05-27T14:16:00.000+10:00

by Stephen R. Covey, Sandra M. Covey

From the Reviews

"What is 'effectiveness' in a family?" asks author Steven R. Covey. He promptly answers with four words: "a beautiful family culture."

Here, Covey reinterprets each of his now famous "habits" (Habit 1: Be Proactive, Habit 4: Think Win-Win, Habit 6: Synergize) to apply to parenting and family-life issues.

Covey suggests writing a family mission statement, implementing special family times and "one-on-ones," holding regular family meetings, and making the commitment to move from "me" to "we" as techniques to improve family effectiveness.

While his message is not new, it is written with sincerity and simplicity, and even the most career-driven individual should feel passionate about family after reading this book. Covey contends that all families get off track, mostly because they don't know where the track is headed. The remedy: develop a sense of destination.

The chapters in this book build upon themselves and as they grow they develop the theme of families being worth the effort. As in Effective People, each chapter here explains the significance of one of the "habits," illustrated by personal stories. Chapters conclude with practical suggestions for putting the habits into action.

Covey is a brilliant storyteller. By weaving the voices and anecdotes of his wife and children with his own inspirational and informative stories, exercises, and parables, he has created a book with something for all parents interested in enhancing the strength and beauty of their own families.

"At times hokey, at times virtuous, always thoughtful and enlightening, this book is recommended."

A child's plate: good nutrition and good taste can go hand-in-hand

2008-05-13T09:17:00.002+10:00

ONE of the most difficult tasks for parents is to get finicky children to eat the proper foods that are necessary for their growth and development. We all know the importance of good nutrition, and if it is introduced early on, nutritionists say that increases the likelihood of lifelong good eating habits. In too many cases, children eat a diet that's high in calories and includes more than an ample amount of processed foods. But with a little planning, you can create a variety of tasty dishes that will give children the healthy boost they need. The trick sometimes is to get them to eat it. First, parents have to set a good example by making wise choices and eating healthy dishes themselves. Try new foods and new ways of preparing them, with emphasis on dark green leafy vegetables, deep-yellow vegetables, fruits and whole-grain products. Secondly, offer your children a variety of foods. When offering new foods, serve small "try me" portions, about 1 or 2 tablespoons, and encourage your child to create a new snack or sandwich from three or four healthy ingredients you provide. Read on ...

2008-04-28T14:03:00.000+10:00

We’re all going on a summer holiday… But getting it right is crucial, says Joanna Moorhead. Here are the five key questions to ask yourself before you take the plunge and book for summer 2008. http://www.familiesonline.co.uk/article/articleview/3678/1/52/

2006-10-03T11:21:00.000+10:00

Visit me now at Wordpress. Resources for families has moved. You're welcome to visit me at the new blog.

2006-09-22T18:58:00.000+10:00

Gov't adding fruits, veggies to WIC list

The grocery shopping list for the far-reaching Women, Infants and Children program is getting its first significant update since the 1970s. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are being added to the program, which helps feed more than half the babies born in the U.S. To cover the cost, WIC will pay for less of the juice, eggs, cheese and milk that have been staples of the program.

Read on ... Tags: nutrition, food

2006-09-20T18:26:00.000+10:00

Fruits: How to select, store and serve these healthy foods

Nature offers many sweet choices for eating well: juicy red cherries, plump purple plums, and orange, luscious tangerines, just to name a few.

In fact, all fruits fit into a colorful and healthy diet. Whether you eat them as snacks, main meals or trimmings, fruits offer a variety of nutrients, very little fat and relatively few calories. Find out why you need to eat fruits and the best way to select, store and serve them.

Read on ...

tags: fruit, food, nutrition

2006-09-17T10:23:00.000+10:00

Communication Success Tip: Letter writing Writing a letter to someone who is personally important to you is a chance to give them a little more of your personality than is possible in an email and a little more to remember you by than is possible in a telephone call. More on Communication Tag: letter writing

2006-09-14T06:33:00.000+10:00

Breast isn't best: readers tell US parenting magazine I was so sad to see this article. I know it is terribly important to uphold our standards of morality, but what is immoral about providing sustenance for your children?

Readers of a US parenting magazine are crying foul over the publication's latest cover depicting a woman breastfeeding, with some calling the photo offensive and disgusting. I was SHOCKED to see a giant breast on the cover of your magazine," one woman from Kansas wrote in reaction to the picture in Babytalk, a free magazine that caters to young mothers. "I was offended and it made my husband very uncomfortable when I left the magazine on the coffee table."

Read on ... Tags: breast-feeding

2006-09-11T22:06:00.000+10:00

Communication Success Tip

Writing a letter to someone who is personally important to you is a chance to give them a little more of your personality than is possible in an email and a little more to remember you by than is possible in a telephone call.

More on the subject...

breastfeeding

2006-08-06T15:44:00.000+10:00

Experts debate labeling children obese That seems to be at the heart of a debate over whether to replace the fuzzy language favored by the U.S. government with the painful truth — telling kids if they're obese or overweight. Read on ... obesity in children

2006-08-05T09:40:00.000+10:00

Genealogists discover royal roots for all

Even without a documented connection to a notable forebear, experts say the odds are virtually 100 percent that every person on Earth is descended from one royal personage or another.

Read the whole article

family, genealogy

2006-08-03T09:33:00.000+10:00

Soup up your health... and scare off disease.

Pumpkin, aside from its great taste and versatility, is high in antioxidants and beta-carotene, known heart-disease and cancer fighters, so cook this up:

Get the recipe

antioxidants, soup, recipes, pumpkin,

2006-08-01T10:55:00.000+10:00

Interactive Tool: Are You Ready to Quit Smoking? What does this tool measure? Click here to find out whether you're ready to quit smoking. This interactive tool measures your readiness to quit smoking. The tool uses the stages of change approach, which is based on research about how people typically make behavior changes. The approach suggests that to make positive change, people must go through distinct stages from not thinking about quitting to actually quitting. Based on your answers, this tool will identify the stage you are in and help you think about what to do next.

2006-07-29T16:24:00.000+10:00

Bookrapt - Children's Literature Seminar

Bookrapt presents its 26th Annual Children's Literature Seminar(Bookrapt is the new name for the Bay of Plenty Children's Literature Association)

The 2006 seminar showcases local talent. Some of New Zealand's (in fact the world's) best known and loved authors and illustrators live in the Bay of Plenty.

Last year'sseminar was a sell out success (just like Eric Clapton at the MissionEstate!) so be in quick to secure a place. The Seminar will take place on Saturday August 5 2006 at the Tauranga Intermediate School Library from 8.45 a.m. and should wind up around 2.15 p.m.

Speakers:

LynleyDodd,

Sherryl Jordan,

Phyllis Johnston,

Jean Bennett,

Angie Belcher,

KimWesterskov

and Debbie Tipuna.

(Wow what a line up!)

The programme will also feature the official launch of the new name Bookrapt so come and celebrate with us!

Seminar cost is $25 for members, $30 for non-members.

(Membership costs $20)

For a full seminar programme and enrolment form please contact Lois Rout on 07 578 4956 Email: lois.rout at xtra dot co dot nz Fax 07 578 4953

children's books

2006-07-28T07:05:00.000+10:00

ConsumerLab.com

ConsumerLab.com, is the leading provider of independent test results and information to help consumers and healthcare professionals evaluate health, wellness, and nutrition products. It publishes results of its tests at www.consumerlab.com — which receives nearly 2 million visits per year

families

2006-07-25T06:45:00.000+10:00

Should You Take Your Baby Along On Your Bicycle??

(Via the Play Library Blog)

"If you love biking, you may be particularly eager to have your young child enjoy it with you. Don't be in too big a hurry to share the experience with your child.

In fact, NEVER carry a child under the age of 1 on your bicycle, either in a bicycle seat, a child trailer or any other carrier," warns Debra Holtzman, an internationally recognized safety and health expert and the author of the new book, "The Safe Baby: A Do-It-Yourself Guide to Home Safety (Sentient Publications, 2005).

" A baby does not have sufficient neck strength to support the weight of a helmet or to control head movement during a sudden stop. A one year old who can sit well when unsupported will have neck strong enough to support a lightweight helmet; at that point he can be carried in a child trailer or a rear-mounted seat.

Debra Holtzman's offers a checklist of suggestions to help keep young children safe: >> More

parenting

2006-07-23T11:36:00.000+10:00

Video Game Facts

This site looks at what video games are out there at the moment and explains exactly what's in them and who they are suitable for. Also features a range of tips for parents who want to control the content and amount of gaming their kids get up to.

Visit the site

video games, families

2006-07-22T09:14:00.000+10:00

Found Money: Surprising Ways to Save

Looking for money? Check your car, your mortgage - your child?

With minimal attention and effort, I bet you can reduce your typical costs by at least 10 to 15 percent -- maybe even a lot more.

This stuff is not about making any major life changes. The truth is that you may well be needlessly tossing away a bucket of money each year, simply by being a bit careless here and there.

With that in mind, here are some simple and surprising ways to save.

>> more

family

2006-07-20T12:37:00.000+10:00

Tech creates a bubble for kids

" ...you've got a generation that doesn't have the same concept of privacy and personal boundaries as generations before," Verhaagen says.

"They're tuned out in some ways to the social graces around them and the people in their lives, in their physical realm, and tuned in to the people they're with virtually," says psychologist and sociologist Sherry Turkle of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge.

On top of that, young people don't care as much about making a good impression as their parents and grandparents did growing up, says Jean Twenge, an associate professor of psychology at San Diego State University."

>> more

social skills, kids

2006-07-18T07:14:00.000+10:00

The downside of Google

There may be some information here you can use to remind family members about checking the accuracy of information they find on the internet ... Stephen Pritchard

Back in the days when dinosaurs roamed the earth, journalists seeking enlightenment and chasing a deadline relied on their dogeared contacts books to find experts, spokesmen and pundits. Today, we still reach for those phone numbers, but we also have an infinitely more powerful aid in our research - the internet.Search engines such as Google find acres of instant information and more 'experts' than you can shake a stick at, but every computer screen should carry the warning: 'Beware: all is not as it seems.' Read on …

families

2006-07-16T08:23:00.000+10:00

Storytime online

This website uses online streaming video to feature Screen Actors Guild members reading childen's books aloud.

There are actiities to use and these can be downloaded.

visit Storyline online

children's books, read aloud

2006-07-15T16:44:00.000+10:00

All New Square Foot Gardening (Paperback) by Mel Bartholomew ...anyone, anywhere can enjoy a Square Foot garden. Children, adults with limited mobility, even complete novices can achieve spectacular results. I've rarely seen a more reader-friendly book! It comes complete with layout pages, very consise planting guides, even planting time tables for your area and the amount of time you can store your seeds! If you have never gardened before or started a garden that eventually left you frustrated, then this is the book for you! I just think that you should check your area for agricultural grade vermiculite before you buy the book. But once that little snafu is over, you are going to be amazed at how brilliant and easy this book makes successful gardening. I highly recommend this method for busy people and parents like myself. It is wonderfully easy to maintain, makes loads of produce, and looks very attractive. Two green thumbs way, way up. More reviews from amazon where the book is selling for $13.59 gardening, families

2006-07-13T09:56:00.000+10:00

'Safe' social networking sites emerge

Companies launch more secure, educational alternatives to MySpace and Friendster

Amid rising concerns over popular social networking sites, a new crop of "safe" sites is currently emerging. These "safe" sites hope to limit the dangers associate with other sties, such as talking to predators and revealing too much personal information. In addition, these safer sites aim to develop in users a proper online skill set--one that incorporates elements of online safety as well as proper behavior in virtual communities. Read on ...

internet safety, social networking, parenting

2006-07-12T07:19:00.000+10:00

Business profs rethinking ethics classes

By CATHERINE TSAI

Last fall, Bentley College management professor Tony Buono taught a class on corporate scandals with colleagues pitching in from finance, accounting and even the philosophy department. The four picked through the cases of Enron, WorldCom, Tyco and Shell.

At the end of the semester, the number of students in a simulated trading room who were caught in misconduct or misusing information for insider trading was significantly higher than at the beginning. The students said, "You taught us how to do it," Buono recalled.

Read the whole article

ethics, families

2006-07-09T07:57:00.000+10:00

Calorie Restriction May Prevent Alzheimer's Through Promotion Of Longevity Program In The Brain

A recent study directed by Mount Sinai School of Medicine suggests that experimental dietary regimens might calm or even reverse symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). The study, which appears in the July 2006 issue of the Journal of Biological Chemistry, is the first to show that restricting caloric intake, specifically carbohydrates, may prevent AD by triggering activity in the brain associated with longevity.

Read on ...

nutrition

2006-07-08T15:04:00.000+10:00

More U.S. Teens Are Shunning Risky Behaviors (Risky health behaviors -- such as unsafe motor vehicle use, sexual activity, and tobacco and alcohol use -- are on the decline among American youth. Read on ... teenagers, families

2006-07-06T09:18:00.000+10:00

What is your Parenting style?

Everyone has their own parenting style - what's your parenting style?

Take this fun quiz to discover your style, and learn some fun tips on parenting.

Visit the quiz

parenting, families

2006-07-04T07:48:00.000+10:00

How to be a Better Parent

By: Joseph Then

Being a parent is one of the most important jobs anyone can have. It takes a lot of work and determination to be a loving and supportive parent to any child. There are a few things that you can do to become a better parent and produce happier and healthier children. Some of the following tips will help you through some very tough situations with any child. Read on ...

parenting

2006-07-02T10:20:00.000+10:00

Strict Parenting Can Produce Overweight Kids

Your parenting style affects your child's weight and whether she will be overweight by first grade, a new study found.

"Children of authoritarian parents had five times the risk of being overweight compared to children of authoritative [a more diplomatic style] mothers," said Dr. Kyung Rhee, a clinical instructor and research fellow at Boston University School of Medicine and the study's lead author. Read on ...

parenting

2006-07-01T06:50:00.000+10:00

Resources for Families website update

I have just updated the Resources for Families Web pages

Helping with homework

Parenting

Family nutrition

And you can read the latest Resources for Families Ezine online

family, homework, nutrition, parenting

2006-06-29T12:46:00.000+10:00

Wizz Kids

I have just updated the following pages from the Whizz Kids website

Homework help

Fun and Games

And the latest Whizz Kids ezine is now online.

kids, homework

2006-06-25T07:23:00.000+10:00

4UREADERS

http://www.4ureaders.net/welcomev2/

This site was developed with East Ayrshire and South LanarkshireLibrary Authorities for readers aged 11-16.The site divides into three separate sections to appeal to different audiences within the age group.The Girls with Attitude section was developed specifically for girls between 14-16.School and Children's librarians worked with youngreaders to help plan the content of the site. Further funding from SLIC/CILIPS enabled six other Scottish library authorities to participate.

Thanks to Mylee Joseph from the State Library of NSW mjoseph at sl dot nsw.gov.au

family, children's reading

2006-06-24T12:53:00.000+10:00

Express Media is now accepting entries for the 2006 John Marsden Prize for Young Australian Writers.

In 2006 there are four categories:

1) Short Story / First Chapter of a Novel – under 18 – $500

2) Short Story / First Chapter of a Novel – 18 to 24 – $2000

3) Poetry – under 18 – $500

4) Poetry – 18 to 24 – $500

Entries close Thursday 31 August 2006. Download the submission form and read the guidelines carefully for full details on how to enter.

Winning entries will be judged and announced by John Marsden in December 2006 and published in the summer issue #67 of Voiceworks magazine. All entries will also receive prize money donanted by John Marsden himself.

John Marsden launched this year's competition at the Emerging Writers' Festival on 7 April. Here's what he has said it:'A long time ago the novel fought its way to the top of the publishing heap, to dominate western literature. Short stories, exquisite, funny and/or powerful as they may be, have been no match for the novel. Consequently there are far more aspiring novelists out there than there are short story writers. For this reason we have decided to expand the John Marsden Writing Competition to include first chapters of novels. In practical terms this may not make much difference to many of the people interested in entering. Many short stories could well be first chapters of novels; and for years now novelists have published chapters from unfinished novels as short stories in literary magazines and in newspapers. But by changing the conditions of the competition we are recognising the primacy of novels, and offering extra support to those who are labouring in garrets or penthouses, with 150,000 words under their belt and still only halfway through, looking enviously at the many competitions for short stories in Australia, and wondering why they are excluded.'

Get writing for your chance to be read by John Marsden himself and published in Voiceworks Magazine!

writing, writing competitions, families

2006-06-22T07:48:00.000+10:00

Storm over gay kindergarten books

NSW Premier Morris Iemma has criticised a Sydney kindergarten for teaching very young children about gay and lesbian families.

Mr Iemma said toddlers were being confronted with adult issues at an age when they should just be having fun.

"Personally, I believe it's inappropriate for a childcare centre to be a battleground for gender politics,"

But Marrickville Mayor Sam Byrne said books used in the kindergarten were approved. Read on ...

children's books,failies, parenting

2006-06-22T07:37:00.000+10:00

Express Media is now accepting entries for the 2006 John Marsden Prize for Young Australian Writers.

In 2006 there are four categories:

1) Short Story / First Chapter of a Novel – under 18 – $500

2) Short Story / First Chapter of a Novel – 18 to 24 – $2000

3) Poetry – under 18 – $500

4) Poetry – 18 to 24 – $500

Entries close Thursday 31 August 2006.

Download the submission form and read the guidelines carefully for full details on how to enter.

'Get writing for your chance to be read by John Marsden himself and published in Voiceworks Magazine!

writing competitions, families, writing

2006-06-20T07:13:00.000+10:00

The sport of Tiddlywinks

The North American Tiddlywinks Association (NATwA), founded in 1966, is an organization which sponsors tiddlywinks tournaments, distributes winks equipment, recruits new players, and promotes the game in general.

NATwA publishes an informal newsletter, Newswink, to keep winkers informed of recent events. NATwA maintains close ties with ETwA, the English Tiddlywinks Association, and ScotTwA, the Scottish Tiddlywinks Association.

One of the most fascinating aspect of this sport is the various terms used to describe situations! Scrabble players, take note: the game begins with each player performing a squidge. If a wink is covered by that of an opponent's, it is squopped.

Those are some serious Scrabble points!

I also learned that the game is not simply flipping winks into a pot. In fact, the strategy and tactics involved are more similar to chess than the children's game you may think of when you hear the word tiddlywinks.

The sport of tiddlywinks was first patented in 1888. However, the strategy-loaded modern-day version goes back to a group of Cambridge (the British one, not ours) undergrads meeting in January, 1958. Three years later Oxford challenged Cambridge's position as tiddlywinks champion, and the competition was on.

Learn all the details about this fascinating four-person game at today's FamilyFirst site. And remember to use squop in Scrabble!http://www.tiddlywinks.org

games, tiddlywinks, families

2006-06-18T07:51:00.000+10:00

Website supports those dealing with breast cancer This website is aimed at all those who are dealing with breast cancer - either themselves or in their family or friendship circle. We hope that some of what you'll find here will ease your path or lessen your worries about breast cancer treatment. The views expressed here are our own. We are from medical and nursing backgrounds but are by no means specialists in breast cancer or in breast cancer treatment. We can only tell you what we've gone through and what we've learned along the way. This is cutting-edge stuff. I mean, it takes real courage to put these very personal experiences online so soon after having the bad news delivered to you. The authors give you details about what is involved in taking on this hated scourge. The goal (which I believe they will reach) is to show you what it takes to whip it. So read this brand-new (but already well-populated) blog and remember, there's someone in Scotland who could use a little prayer action. http://www.twinkletwinkles.com breast cancer, families

2006-06-17T07:51:00.000+10:00

Parents urged to reject new report cards

Australian parents are being urged to reject a new report card system that grades their children from A to E.National bodies representing parents of government school students and teachers are encouraging parents to refuse to accept the new cards, The Australian newspaper reported on Saturday. Read on ...

education, assessment, reporting

parenting

2006-06-15T07:15:00.000+10:00

Marriage, a History: From Obedience to Intimacy, or How Love Conquered Marriage by Stephanie Coontz Politics, economics, greed, sex, cars—without them, matrimony wouldn’t have caused the historical revolution ensuing today, concludes social historian Stephanie Coontz, in Marriage, a History. Modern marriage is in crisis; but don’t pine for a return to "the good old days," when men earned money and women kept house. Don’t even assume the crisis is all bad. Coontz details how society’s attempts to toughen this institution, have actually made it more fragile. Her rich talent for analyzing events, statistics, and theories from a myriad of sources—and enabling the reader to put them all in perspective—make this provocative history book an essential resource.--Liane Thomas Based on extensive research (hers and others'), Coontz's fascinating study places current concepts of marriage in broad historical context, revealing that there is much more to "I do" than meets the eye. In ancient Rome, no distinction was made between cohabitation and marriage; during the Middle Ages, marriage was regarded less as a bond of love than as a " 'career' decision"; in the Victorian era, the increasingly important idea of true love "undermined the gender hierarchy of the home" (in the past, men—rulers of the household—were encouraged to punish insufficiently obedient wives). Coontz explains marriage as a way of ensuring a domestic labor force, as a political tool and as a flexible reflection of changing social standards and desires. She presents her arguments clearly, offering an excellent balance between the scholarly and the readable in this timely, important book. Agent, Susan Rabiner. (May) She writes in a very readable style. You will find yourself quickly having read large passages of this book effortlessly. The book is informative, eye opening, and definately well worth the read. I recommend this book if you want to see what the institution of marriage has been through out time and different cultures Stephanie Manley More information marriage, books

2006-06-13T10:23:00.000+10:00

YOUNG AND WIRED

Computers, cell phones, video games, blogs, text messages -- how will the sheer amount of time spent plugged in affect our kids? Read on ...

kids

families

kids and technology

2006-06-11T08:19:00.000+10:00

Do moms make better managers?

Cynthia McKay, the childless CEO of Le Gourmet Gift Basket, says it's common sense for employers to hire childless women

Denise Morrison, president of Campbell Soup's U.S. soup, sauces and beverages division, worked while her daughters, 27 and 25, were growing up. She says the most important leadership lesson mothers learn is dealing with shades of gray that children present.

The topic of mothers vs. non-mothers "pits one group of women against another. Would we ask, 'Do fathers make better leaders?'

The answer is some do and some don't," Innis says.

"Great leaders come from all walks of life," says Robert Keane, CEO of the online supplier of graphic design company VistaPrint. "Being a parent is wonderful, but it's not a prerequisite."

Do mothers make better leaders than women without children?

Most employees think so. Most employers don't.

Read on ...

mothers as managers, mothers, parenting

2006-06-10T10:23:00.000+10:00

From Math-drills.com

"Hi Parents! I'm glad you found this website. Hopefully, the math worksheets on this website can be of some help to your child in his or her acquisition of basic math facts. Just so you know, math worksheets are not magic; they will not teach math; this is the job of your child, you, and your child's teacher. The math worksheets are an excellent resource for you and your child. Here are some ideas that you might find useful in helping your child learn math."

Visit the parents' page

homework, parenting

2006-06-08T10:53:00.000+10:00

Many parents are teaching their babies to speak first with their hands

Experts tout the long-lasting benefits of early language skills

By CECELIA GOODNOW

At 11 months, Madeleine Campbell is about to say her first word, but her mom will believe it when she sees it.Because that word, when it comes, will be in sign language -- a new parenting tool that is shaking its faddish connotation as parents and baby experts sing its praises.

Read on ...

parenting

2006-06-06T10:58:00.000+10:00

The Importance of Play for Children Why is play important for children? Why do we care what toys are children are playing with? Play is crucial for the social, emotional, physical, cognitive and developmental growth of children. Play is how a child learns about the world in which they live. Read on ... parenting"

2006-06-04T09:40:00.000+10:00

INTERNET USE INVOLVES BOTH PROS AND CONS FOR CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS, ACCORDING TO SPECIAL ISSUE OF DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY Some youth benefit from Internet use while for others it can exacerbate self-destructive behaviors WASHINGTON, DC - Between 75 and 90 percent of teenagers in the United States use the Internet to email, instant message (IM), visit chat rooms and explore other sites on the World Wide Web. According to the latest research presented in a special issue of Developmental Psychology, published by the American Psychological Association (APA), spending a lot of time on the Web can have both negative and positive effects on young people, i.e., the sharing of self-injury practices by some and the improvement of academic performance and health awareness by others. Read on ... parenting, internet safety

2006-06-03T11:18:00.000+10:00

State of the World’s Mothers

In commemoration of Mother’s Day, Save the Children is publishing its seventh annual State of the World’s Mothers report. By focusing on the 60 million mothers in the developing world who give birth every year with no professional help and the 4 million newborns who die in the first month of life, this report helps to bring attention to the urgent need to reduce infant mortality around the world.

The report also identifies countries that are succeeding in improving the health and saving the lives of mothers and babies, and shows that effective solutions to this challenge are affordable – even in the world’s poorest countries. Read on ...

mothering, families,

2006-06-01T10:08:00.000+10:00

Character Is Destiny : Inspiring Stories Every Young Person Should Know and Every Adult Should Remember (Hardcover) "McCain's latest volume uses biography as an illustration of virtue, but this time the senator broadens his palette significantly, telling 34 stories of heroes whose lives embody qualities ranging from honesty and loyalty to curiosity and enthusiasm. At the root of them all, he says, is a willingness to stay true to one's conscience against all challenges." "Although he is reaching out to a younger readership, McCain's plain but sincere language does not condescend to his audience." More information children's books, parenting,

2006-05-30T12:17:00.000+10:00

Child Learning Style What our children learn is important. However, a lot of people forget that HOW our children learn is as important as what they learn. When teaching kids, it is important to know their learning style. If we are able to identify this, the learning experience will be more positive. Kids will learn faster when taught the way they would understand the most.There are, basically, three ways children learn... Read on ... learning styles, education, parenting

2006-05-27T08:00:00.000+10:00

Web pages for kids

Visit the Whizz kids pages for fun and games, homework help, books and reading

Tags:kids, parenting

2006-05-26T06:06:00.000+10:00

Hasbro shelves plans for Pussycat Dolls

Hasbro Inc. shelved plans Wednesday to release a line of dolls based on the Pussycat Dolls, an all-female music group known for risque lyrics and skimpy outfits.

Hasbro, the nation's second biggest toy maker, said it decided the dolls were "inappropriate" for the company to market and that the pop group catered to a more mature audience.

The move comes amid criticism from a national advocacy group, Dads & Daughters, that had campaigned against the doll line.

Read on ...

toys

2006-05-25T09:46:00.000+10:00

Child Learning Style

What our children learn is important. However, a lot of people forget that HOW our children learn is as important as what they learn.

When teaching kids, it is important to know their learning style. If we are able to identify this, the learning experience will be more positive. Kids will learn faster when taught the way they would understand the most.

There are, basically, three ways children learn...Read on ...

learning styles, parenting, >education

2006-05-23T11:48:00.000+10:00

Stay at home Dads learn new job

They were carpenters, legislative aides, software engineers, real estate investors and teachers. Now, they are stay-at-home dads, part of the growing posse of men who left paying work to raise their kids.

Like moms, they spend their days at parks, story times and coffeehouses, too often isolated in a world dominated and defined by women.

In Seattle, though, these men are building their own world with blogs, e-mail and the occasional trip to Ballard.

Read on …

fathering,

parenting,families

2006-05-22T05:46:00.000+10:00

Teaching to the test

Let's Teach to the Test

By Jay Mathews

All signs point to 2006 being a crucial year for testing in America, with the first national results from the new SAT due, as well as significant changes underway in how states use the tests that rate schools under the No Child Left Behind law.

If only, then, we could figure out a way to speak clearly to each other about what we think of the many tests our children are taking. Let's start by trying to clarify what I consider the most deceptive phrase in education today: "teaching to the test."

Read on …

Tags: education

2006-05-18T06:43:00.000+10:00

Are you a librarian or interested in libraries?

Visit the library web pages for ideas to share, library marketing and library news.

Tagslibrary, family

2006-05-16T07:09:00.000+10:00

State of the World’s Mothers In commemoration of Mother’s Day, Save the Children is publishing its seventh annual State of the World’s Mothers report. By focusing on the 60 million mothers in the developing world who give birth every year with no professional help and the 4 million newborns who die in the first month of life, this report helps to bring attention to the urgent need to reduce infant mortality around the world. The report also identifies countries that are succeeding in improving the health and saving the lives of mothers and babies, and shows that effectivesolutions to this challenge are affordable – even in the world’s poorest countries. Read on ... Tags: mothers education

2006-05-14T09:37:00.000+10:00

Overeating creates obese kids: study

Excessive eating - not a lack of exercise - is behind childhood obesity, a groundbreaking study shows.It is the first conclusive evidence behind the spiraling trend, challenging the federal government's refusal to restrict food advertising aimed at children, Fairfax newspapers report. Read more …

tags: health, parenting, kids

2006-05-13T09:34:00.000+10:00

S.O.S. for Information Literacy

is a dynamic web-based multimedia resource for educators, that promises to make a significant contribution to enhancing the teaching of information literacy skills to children. At no time in history has the ability to locate, organize, evaluate, manage and use information been more critical for today's learners. These skills, collectively referred to as information literacy, lay the groundwork for success in every phase of a student's life both in and out of school.

Tags:library information literacy

education

2006-05-11T09:48:00.000+10:00

The Art Room

Like art rooms in schools everywhere, this virtual art room is meant to be a "special" place.

Within its "walls," kids are offered opportunities to create, to discover, to imagine, to invent, to learn, and to make their thoughts become things.

In short, the @rt room is a place for kids to explore their inner and outer worlds

. Visit the art room

Tags:art, homework, kids

families, education

2006-05-10T06:53:00.000+10:00

The national Archives of Australia has built “an interactive website and online teaching resource that aims to encourage teachers and students to use archival materials within discovery-oriented teaching and learning”.

…. The general topics already found on Vrroom include immigration, conflicts, gender, and Indigenous rights.

Formulated for students and teachers throughout Australia and across all curricula, Vrroom is ideal for anyone engaged in Australian studies, politics, geography, environmental management, and technology.

Visit Vrroom

Tags:family homework education

2006-05-07T17:44:00.000+10:00

When the bullied fight back

In Britain there’s currently a debate about whether a tough-talking celebrity should be leading the effort to stop bullying.

The case of Jodie Marsh brings into focus a number of questions that usually get sidestepped in public conversation about bullying.

First, is the person who fights back also a bully? My sense is that there is considerably social pressure not to fight back. Most of the conceptualizations are patently negative: “two wrongs don’t make a right”, “you can’t fight rankism with more rankism”, “revenge”, and even “terrorism”. It seems to me that this predictable social response supports bullying.

Read on ….

tag:bullying

2006-05-06T08:39:00.000+10:00

Fiber may lower protein linked to heart disease

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - A fiber-rich diet may help control levels of a blood protein linked to an increased risk of heart disease, new research suggests.

Read on ...

tags:

diet

family

2006-05-04T10:22:00.000+10:00

Communication for you Are you interested in developing your communication skills? Do you love to write?A re you interested in reading? Visit my Pivotal Communication blog. Tag: communication

2006-05-02T12:49:00.000+10:00

What is the Texas Fatherhood Campaign?

The Texas Fatherhood Campaign is a statewide, region-by-region effort to positively impact fathers and their children. Through public messages and local fatherhood conferences, fathers learn of the powerful impact they have on their children, including the devastating effects of father-absence. The TFC is led by Free Market Foundation, a non-profit educational foundation based in Plano, Texas dedicated to "Protecting Freedoms and Strengthening Families."

Tags:

fatherhood parenting

2006-05-01T11:53:00.000+10:00

The Great plant escape - interactive learning about plants Detective Leplant and his partners Bud and Sprout unlock the amazing mysteries of plant life Interactive Tags: education parenting

2006-04-29T17:02:00.000+10:00

Interested in education? Visit the education pages. education

2006-04-29T14:40:00.000+10:00

Healthy lunch menu plan From the Coles Website Children need to eat a variety of foods everyday to be healthy. Choosing healthy lunch food is easy. Here are some ideas: Read on … Tags: nutrition parenting

2006-04-27T09:46:00.000+10:00

L.A. Times Finalists Named

The finalists for the Los Angeles Times prize for young adult fiction have been named. The five nominees are:

Looking for Alaska by John Green (Dutton),

Black Juice by Margo Lanagan (HarperCollins/Eos),

You & You & You by Per Nilsson (Front Street),

The Center of the World by Andreas Steinhofel (Delacorte) and

I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak (Knopf).

The winner will be announced on April 28.

tags:

books

2006-04-25T10:32:00.000+10:00

Bullying Among Young Children - A Guide for Parents - PDF Bullying Among Young Children - A Guide for Teachers and Carers - PDF The guides provide useful advice to parents, teachers and other carers on recognising changes in moods and behaviours that are associated with bullying. They also provide strategies to help children who bully and those who are bullied. tags: bullying parents

2006-04-23T09:21:00.000+10:00

Potter magic reignites novel interest

News that 'Harry Potter' heart-throb Daniel Radcliffe is starring in the film adaptation of Michael Noonan's The December Boys has sent international publishers racing for their cheque books

tags:

Harry Potter books

No more homeless pets

2006-04-22T09:06:00.000+10:00

Pocket Pets Rats, guinea pigs, sugar gliders and other small creatures sometimes need rescue, too. But would you know how to help them? Do hamsters and gerbils use the same type of bedding? What temperatures are ideal for chinchillas? And what are the benefits of having our tiniest companions spayed or neutered? Small exotic animal specialist Dr. Mark Burgess of Southwest Animal Hospital helps us look out for the little guys. Tags pets animals

The State of the world's children - UNESCO

2006-04-20T10:48:00.000+10:00

“The publication of this year’s State of the World’s Children coincides with the beginning of UNICEF’s 60th year. The report sheds light on lives in a world that is often hidden or neglected – a world of vulnerability and exclusion. And it calls on all of us to speak up for the rights of children and to act on behalf of those who need our protection.” Read the report Tags: kids UNESCO