Raising Children Who Love to Read

When parents send strong messages that particular aspects of education are important and commit to participating, children more often than not experience success.



If you’re wondering, why some children grow up to become successful readers and possess a love for reading, the answer is simple. Their parents have made a commitment to their reading development.

Children can begin a journey to reading success and enjoyment when parents commit to:

- reading to children as young as six months old. Begin reading when they are barely sitting up and their eyes are beginning to focus. Select simple, colorful board books and read them with expression. Point to pictures, identify characters or animals and talk about the story.

- a schedule for reading aloud until children are independent readers. Modeling good reading allows children to hear reading that is fluid and full of expression. Parents should allow children to select books, as well as select books themselves. Introducing new books helps children develop a sense of the kinds of books they like.

- to making visits to the library until children are old enough to go there on their own. Show children visiting the library will become a part of their lives. Help them choose books to read or have read aloud. If children are older talk about the books they’ve chosen. Parents should select books themselves and talk about what they’re reading as well.

- to taking their children to books stores in their strollers, through the elementary, middle and high school years. Buy them a drink or snack, and browse the colorful displays and shelves full of books. Both parents and children should leave with a book.

- to reading themselves. Children naturally emulate their parent’s behavior. When parents possess a love for reading their children usually do as well. Parent should always have a novel they’re reading and set aside time for “read ins” with their children.

When parents commit to their children’s reading education this nurtures reading development and an enjoyment of books. And, all the while those parents have had a great time enjoying great books themselves.

Father's Day

It is a wise father that knows his own child -William Shakespear



Spend the day with your father. Take a long walk, chat under a shady tree or enjoy a good meal while you celebrate the love he gave you.

Choosing Personalized Gifts

With Father's Day coming up this Sunday and June weddings taking place all month, here are some tips from jewelry artist, Shari Cabra, for choosing personalized gifts.



SHOW YOU CARE WITH A PERSONALIZED GIFT
by Shari Cabra

There’s nothing that says, “I care about you,” more than a personalized gift. Often one-of-a-kind objects, personalized gifts are usually cherished forever and many times handed down from generation to generation.

Today there are dozens of personalized gifts available, everything from the simple, inexpensive coffee mug to the more sophisticated sterling-silver letter opener.

The next time you're choosing a gift for someone special in your life, show how much you care by personalizing it. There are several ways to do that.

1. Have the Gift Engraved. Adding an engraved date, initial or name gives the gift your personal touch and makes it more meaningful to the receiver. Pen and pencil sets, letter openers, watches or pendants can be easily engraved. Or, choose an item that is already monogrammed with the receiver’s first or last initial.

2. Help Design the Gift. Add a part of yourself to a personalized gift by participating in its design. Working with a jeweler to create a unique piece of jewelry or simply selecting the ornaments for a charm bracelet will add your special touch.

3. Select Something You know The Recipient Wants or Needs. Having a quilt made in colors to match a nursery for a new baby, or ordering a frame with the bride and groom’s names on it is not only personal but practical in a special way.

4. Choose a Gift You Know Will Become a Personal Favorite. How do you know what will become a personal favorite? By being familiar with the kinds of items your friend or family members loves, collects, wishes for, etc. Select a gift similar to items he or she already has or choose a gift that can be added to an existing collection.

5. Choose a Gift That Will Complement the Receiver’s Home’s Décor. Personalized gifts are available in so many styles. Whether your special friend's home is decorated in modern contemporary or country style, a gift can be found to fit that décor.

Imagine the thrill your special someone will feel when presented with a unique and personalized gift. You’ve selected the perfect present because you care.


NOTE: This article is available for free reprint at ezinearticles.com

Shari Cabra is owner of Created by Shari, a line of custom jewelry she designs and fashions herself from vintage silverware patterns. Cabra's collection varies from ornate Victorian pieces to the more sleek and simple contemporary designs. Her line is represented by Debra Steiner of Beyond the Expected Marketing. Find out more about the Created by Shari line by visiting Beyond the Expected or by calling Debra Steiner at 913-963-1733 for a catalogue.

Are you’re Kids Saying, “I’m Bored?” Teach Them Basic Sewing Skills

I’ve been sewing since I was a teenager and still do. Over the years I’ve made everything from curtains to quilts - even the purses I carry. Summer has barely begun, even so you’ve probably already heard, “I’m bored.” So, why not introduce your older children to sewing while teaching them a skill they will use the rest of their lives.

I encourage parents to not only teach their daughters but also include their sons in sewing lessons. My son used to ask, “Why don’t you show me how to use the sewing machine?” He’s always interested in what I’m sewing and eager to participate. Really, he’s not particularly unusual, since so many famous fashion designers are men.

Here are a few reasons I think sewing skills are important for children to learn:

Sewing teaches children about different kinds of fabrics. As your children learn about fabrics they will naturally learn how different fabrics are laundered. This naturally leads them into lessons on how to operate the washer and dryer and how to take care of their clothing.

Ironing is a companion skill to sewing. As your children learn to sew a garment or craft project they will be introduced to ironing because it is usually required during and after construction.

Assembling any kind of garment or completing a sewing craft project requires reading instructions. Learning to read a pattern and it’s accompanying directions teaches children how to read sequential instructions.

Sewing involves math. Children will learn how to figure the amount of yards (of material) needed for a particular project and then accurately measure them out using either a ruler or tape measure.

As your children become proficient at sewing they will be able repair pieces of their clothing. They will be able sew up torn seams and hem garments on perfectly good pieces of clothing which otherwise might have been thrown out or given away.

Don’t worry if you don’t sew or own a sewing machine. Many fabric and quilt shops offer summer sewing camps for boys and girls. Classes are held once a week, for several weeks, where children are taught basic skills and complete a simple sewing project.

Break the summer boredom blues and teach your children a skill they can use the rest of their lives. They're going to be so proud of their finished products, and the best part, you’re spending quality time with your children.

Simple Pleasures

Nothing is more calming than the sound of trickling water from a fountain.



This summer think about installing a fountain on your deck or terrace. With so many styles to choose from you can easily install a small one in minutes. All you need is an electrical outlet.

While you read your latest book and enjoy a cool breeze listen to the sound of trickling water. Another one of life’s simplest pleasures.

Develop a Summer Reading Routine

Summer is often a time when we let things slide and neglect maintaining any sort of schedule. But this year, try to establish a summer reading routine. It will help maintain the reading growth your children have made throughout the year. Here are a few ways to make reading part of your children's summer:

Commit to setting aside fifteen minutes each evening to reading. Turn the television off and have the whole family sit down and read. Even if it's reading a newspaper, you’re sending the message that reading is an important skill to develop. This is also a good time to read aloud to small children who are learning to read themselves.

Visit the library periodically. Help your children select books to read or want read aloud to them. This is also an excellent opportunity to teach your children how the library is organized. If your children are older, teach them how to use the computerized card catalogue as well. If you need help, ask the librarian.

From time to time, take excursions to the bookstore. Help your children choose books from the vast selection in the “great summer reads” displays. While you're there, set a good example and pick up a book for yourself.

Take an interest in the books your children are reading. Ask questions such as: why did you choose that book, what do you like best so far, where does it take place, who are the main characters, what's the problem in the story, will you read more stories by this author?

There's nothing more boring for kids than long road trips. Make sure you pack books. If your children are small, read aloud to them in the car on the way to your summer vacation spot. If you have older children, have them read to the younger ones. Everyone needs to pack a book, including Mom and Dad.

Summer is often hectic with summer camps, sports and family vacations. But you can still establish a daily reading time, and it will be well worth it. Chances are, with daily reading, your children won't just maintain their current reading levels, they will improve their overall reading proficiency. And won't that be a terrific way to start the school year next fall?

Summer Craft Time

Fleece Pin

This summer you may find the kids underfoot. Here's a simple craft to keep them busy.

Supplies:

Fleece in Two Colors
Pom Pom in a Third Color
Low Temperature Glue Sticks
Glue Gun
Scissors
1- Craft (Brooch) Pin


Directions:

-Take a piece of fleece and draw a flower with five petals. Take the second color and draw another flower only slightly smaller.

-Cut flowers out with scissors.

-Glue the smaller flower on the larger one with hot glue.

-Glue the Pom Pom in the center.

-Glue the craft pin on the back.

Keep logging onto The Teacher's Pet Place this summer. I'll have more easy craft projects.

Simple Pleasures

Hop on your bike today.



Today as you peddle down the sidewalk, through a park or along the lake think back to a simpler time in your life. The only thing you had on your mind was peddling as fast as you could to your best friend's house.

Remember! Stretch out before you throw your leg over that bike, or you'll feel it later.

Tips for Cooking with Kids

Time spent in the kitchen cooking with your children is time well spent. You can share the importance of preparing nutritious meals, while teaching your children cooking skills they will need, to prepare foods, in the future.



Here are a few tips:

* Always make sure children are well supervised in the kitchen.

* Only adults should use sharp utensils, plug in or turn on electric appliances or handle hot foods.

* Only assign tasks that children will have success with.

Even small children can participate in meal preparation - remember, make it fun and safe.

Summer Fun

If you're not teaching summer school and you're looking for summer fun on the beach, here are a few of my favorite places to visit.



Galveston, Texas: Warm sunsets will wake you up then lull you to sleep in this coastal town in Texas. Hunt for sand dollars while you watch sailboats.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Enjoy Southern hospitality as you listen to the roar of the Atlantic and the cry of gulls.

Destin,Florida: White beaches greet you as drive through this gulf town. Spread out your towels and enjoy the sun and surf.

Build a sand castle, catch a wave and don't forget the sunscreen!

End of the Year Clean Up

If anyone has "STUFF" to organize and throw out, it's a teacher.



The school year is finally over and your classroom is not the tidy, organized room it was at the beginning of the year.

These last couple of days of school clean out your classroom. Throw away forgotten papers, knobby crayons, and stubby colored pencils. Reorganize files, bookcases and cupboards.

Planning and getting your classroom ready, next year, will be much easier when everything is clean and already organized.

Gifts For the Teacher

Still trying to decide what to give that special teacher? Here's a couple of ideas....



A Journal

Many teachers travel during the summer. A journal is the perfect gift to record memorable experiences about a special trip, write down thoughts while flying or driving across country, or just to jot down ideas for the following school year.

A Photo Album

Teachers take photos of their students throughout the year. It may be to catch a fun Halloween party or take individual portraits for a writing project. A photo album will come in handy to organize those photos.

A Scrapbook

Every school years brings new memories. Pictures and cards from students, certificates or awards from parents or school districts, can be saved in a scrapbook.

An Assortment of Coffees or Teas

A cup of tea or a hot cup of coffee is just what a teacher needs on a cold fall morning - especially after playground duty.

A Gift Certificate

You can never go wrong with gift certificates. Maybe a day at the spa, tickets to a movie or dinner at a nice restaurant - all will be appreciated.


Whatever you choose, it's really the thought that counts, when you give that special teacher a gift, at the end of the year.

Memorial Day

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day is a day to remember those whoe died in our nation's service.



Officially proclaimed on May 5th, 1868 by General John Logan, Memorial Day was first observed on May 30th, 1868. Flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. In 1873 New York was the first state to officially recognize the holiday.

Relax, Renew, Recharge

Whew! It's a three day weekend.



Take time this weekend to relax with a good book, bake your favorite dessert, or have dinner at your favorite restaurant.

Renew your relationships with either your children or your husband. Take time to sit down to a meal together or take a walk in the park.

Recharge your worn down batteries, from the non-stop pace of school. Sleep late, get a massage or just watch the sun go down.

You've made it through the last days of school, it's downhill from there!

Gifts for the Teacher, Candy Gram for the Teacher!

There are so many great teachers out there dedicated to their students. Nothing makes them happier than when a parent recognizes their efforts.



Candy Gram for the Teacher!

This a sweet poem (no pun intended) you can copy, embellish with candy, then present to that special teacher in your child's Life.

Because your smarts help our school run - Smarties@ Candy

Because your positive attitude keeps everyone in a good humor - Laffy Taffy@ Candies

Because of your commit-mint to our school -York MintPatties@

Because your school spirit makes you a great "roll" model - Toostie Rolls@

Because we think you're a shining star - Starburst@ Candies

Type this poem up on a bright colored piece of card stock. Tuck it into a pretty basket filled with these candies.

Craft Time, Tempera Painted Rainbow Fish

Yesterday you read the Rainbow Fish, by Marcus Pfister. A fun craft to make, and one that complement this story, is a rainbow fish created from a paper plate,then painted with tempera paints.



Directions:

1. Take a paper plate and cut the border or edge (usually about a 1-inch border around the plate) off of the plate.
2. This edge is for the fins. Cut this edge into two pieces -make one fin longer than the other.
3. Take the paper plate and cut out a pie shaped piece (about 1-inch wide) to create the mouth of the fish.
4. Paint the plate and the fins with tempera paints. Have students mix colors to create the aqua greens and sky blues in the Rainbow Fish. This paint is creamy and hides mistakes easily.
5. Let painted pieces dry then have students paint a black dot for the eye. Let dry, then glue fins to plate.

This rainbow fish projects turn out beautifully because tempera paint is bright and bold and easily mixes – so new colors are created easily.

Reading Aloud

Teaching kids about sharing is something teachers continually do throughout the school year.



THE RAINBOW FISH, by Marcus Pfister illustrates why sharing is important.

After reading this book talk with your students about how sharing helped the Rainbow Fish. Then, let them talk about ways they share at school and home.

Follow up today's lesson by having your students make their own version of the Rainbow Fish. Just provide an outline picture of a fish they can color. Or, let them glue different colors of papers to create scales on their fish picture.

Tomorrow I'll have a neat craft the kids can make using tempera paints.

Teacher's Prayer

Grant me the things that I will need
To do my job and always succeed.
Help me to know what to do and to say
To help those few students who refuse to obey.
Teach me how to love every child
Those who are busy and those who are mild.
Show me the gifts you've placed in each one
Help me to mold them to be like your son.
Give your eyes to see all their fears
Give me the words to bring them good cheer.
Make me your servant and help me to serve
Allow me to give them all they deserve.
Keep my heart humble in all that I do
And help me to teach them to be just like you.
Thank you for caring and hearing my prayer
And thank you for always being right there.

-Holly Sonnenshein

Cooking With Kids, Fruit Smoothies

The end of the school year is winding down and both you and your children are dragging yourselves out the door to work and school.



Today, have your kids whip up Fruit Smoothies for breakast, while you sleep in.

Ingredients:

2 Oz Pineapple or Apple Juice
1/2 Frozen Banana (Make sure you peel it before you freeze it)
6 Pieces Frozen Fruit such as Peaches, Strawberries, or Blueberries
2 Tablespoons Honey
2 Cups Crushed Ice

Mix all, then blend in a food processor or blender. Enjoy!