tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-127827462024-03-07T20:17:40.960-08:00HeightenedLearningHomeschooling and Education BlogDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1150856327592091962006-06-20T19:16:00.000-07:002006-06-20T19:18:47.603-07:00Heightened Learning Blog has a New HomeEventually I will be transferring many of these posts over to my <a href="http://web.mac.com/daniellelynne/iWeb/Site/Blog/Blog.html" target="_blank">new blog</a>.<br /><br />There's a great new post waiting to be read.<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1148968363251551432006-05-29T22:38:00.000-07:002006-05-29T22:52:43.266-07:00Strengthened Parent & Child Relationships<a href="http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/living/columnists/guests/s_453987.html" target="_blank">Home-schooling has many benefits</a><br /><br />Home-schooling allows kids to relate to adults better, especially their parents. Being with my mom all day, and learning through her and my dad shows me more and more that I can trust them and that they want to be my friends.<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />I've certainly observed this gratitude that children have for their parents in the teen homeschooling population. The teens that I work with never seem to mind having their moms around. In fact, they seem to enjoy it!<br /><br />One mother commented to me last week that she thinks that the more time parents spend with their kids, the more their kids are going to spend time with them later in life. I think she's onto something!<br /><br />Often times I feel that my students appreciate what I'm there for as well. There's a mutual understanding that we're both there to learn together. Rarely do I feel a personal divide between us because I'm an "adult" and they're a "teen." We're all people -- growing and learning together.<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1147981872727820172006-05-18T12:35:00.000-07:002006-05-18T12:51:12.843-07:00Alex and the Sleep MonsterA few months ago I had the pleasure of meeting Adrian Grey, an artist & wonderful father. While there, he showed me his children's book that was in the process of being published. It is artistically stunning and an experience that both children & adults can enjoy. <br /><br />Today, I am happy to announce that he has graciously put <a href="http://www.adriangrey.com/pages/ASM_Podcast.html" target="_blank">"Alex and the Sleep Monster"</a> online. I hope the website encourages you to <a href="http://www.trafford.com/06-0337" target="_blank">check it out</a>!<br /><br />~Danielle<br /><br />p.s. I'll get back to blogging more soon, wonderful changes are happening!Danielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1142969530775606792006-03-21T11:21:00.000-08:002006-03-21T11:32:10.816-08:00Effortless MasterySpring-cleaning is about renewal. During my cleaning spree last week, I came across Kenny Werner’s “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/156224003X/sr=8-1/qid=1142968932/ref=pd_bbs_1/102-3819824-8244167?%5Fencoding=UTF8" target="_blank">Effortless Mastery</a>” hidden amongst many a book.<br /><br /><a href="http://jpascual.com/" target="_blank">Juanito Pascal</a>, my truly inspiring guitar teacher, introduced me to the book years ago. Though Werner’s book is largely touted as a text for musicians looking to play without fear and negativity, his words go much deeper than that. <br /><br />The back cover explains:<br /><br /> “While Mr. Werner happens to be a musician, the concepts presented here are applicable to every profession, aspiration or life-style where there is a need for free flowing, effortless thinking”<br /><br />I agree.<br /><br />Students looking to master any skill would benefit from his thoughts. His main point being that all skill comes from practice in a relaxed state. This relaxation promotes us to be appreciative of what we are doing instead of being harshly judgmental. We perceive excellence through each moment that we fully give to our activity. Through this excellence we love what we engage, building on positive associations.<br /><br />I would call this profuse moment, mindfulness.<br /><br />I see my students struggle with this as they criticize themselves for what they have yet to learn -- especially writing. They have so many ideas about what a writer is and should be that it blocks their ability to try. Negative thoughts of “I’m bad at writing” are often heard during the first session. <br /><br />Often times, students are trying to build a bridge without the supports in place. To break way from these habits of negativity, I bring a student to what they can do. Feeling comfortable here, I can slowly help them to build on their existing skills. <br /><br />I often recommend for parents to end any signs of frustration before they start, even if it means stopping the activity altogether. It is always better to start from a tabula rasa than a mind imprinted by negative experiences.<br /><br />Though I struggle with mindfulness daily, I experience it teaching. Part of why I love my work is that it requires a relaxed focus with my student and myself. I have to be very present to optimally teach them in just the right way. Hardly ever do I find my mind racing to other ideas or inquiries that will not benefit our interaction. <br /><br />And now that I am thinking of positive interactions, play comes to mind. The idea of play is so important to my work. I realize now that during play it is easiest to be mindful. We’re in an activity that we love, so we appreciate and indulge in it. This loving indulgence is the way to mastery.<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1140710975826584542006-02-23T07:49:00.000-08:002006-02-23T08:09:36.276-08:00It's all about Saturday morning radio!<a href="http://www.chattanoogapulse.com/vnews/display.v/ART/2006/02/22/43fb5bc9d7cca" target="_blank">Kid Rock: WAWL's "Saturday Morning Cereal Bowl" is a healthy part of a balanced musical breakfast.</a> <p>It’s Saturday morning. An energetic DJ busts out an emphatic, “It’s time to get all that energy out! Get up and dance around.” He then spins some Ramones, some They Might Be Giants and even some beat poetry set to wind instruments. The beats span decades and genres, with well-known tracks that I can’t help but belt out. There’s a heavy rotation of original new artists, most with an ethereal, lo-fi sound.</p> <p>Oh yeah, and it’s a radio show for second graders.</p>~~~<br /><br />Having enjoyed college radio for a long time, I'll have to tune into WAWL this Saturday.<br /><br />This show is billed as educational by giving interesting insights into music as well as the content of the music. More importantly, I suspect that listening to radio helps to build <a href="http://interact.uoregon.edu/medialit/MLR/home/index.html%22%3Ehttp://interact.uoregon.edu/medialit/MLR/readings/articles/earlids.html" target="_blank">listening</a> & attention skills over all. <br /><br />Happy listening,<br /><br />DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1133852487189424472005-12-05T22:46:00.000-08:002005-12-05T23:09:18.556-08:00Learning through Good NutritionAs a holistic educator, I look at many aspects that make up each of my students. One aspect that I focus on (which parents are often surprised by my questioning of) is nutrition.<br /><br />The simple question, “How is your family’s nutrition?” holds a goldmine of answers. As a diagnostician, the answers to this provide many insights.<br /><br />Proper nutrition, meaning nutrients balanced as in the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zone_diet" target="_blank">Zone</a> or (the even more disciplined) <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paleo_diet" target="_blank">Paleo</a> diet philosophy, aids in cognitive functioning, emotional wellbeing, and overall stability/energy.<br /><br />Nutrition is certainly a touchy subject, and I’m careful to approach it with the utmost care. Often times, to get the most out of my educational approach, I ask families to provide their child with healthy snacks and water before and during our session to optimize their energy level.<br /><br />The difference a healthy food can make is astounding. Watching a student rise from being lethargic to energetic is always interesting. The best part is when my student realizes that food really does matter and they start implementing good nutrion on their own.<br /><br />A balanced food is one that has good ratios of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, such as fruit with yogurt or almond butter.<br /><br />Some snack ideas to help boost brainpower are:<br /><br />*Almond butter (it’s more expensive than peanut butter, but it has more nutrients in it) and celery<br />*Yogurt with grapefruit or berries<br />*Cheese with vegetables<br />*Almonds/Cashews/Walnuts<br />*Cottage Cheese with cinnamon or other spices<br />*Hard Boiled Eggs<br /><br />Snacks to steer away from:<br /><br />Sugary snacks<br />Juice boxes (have the whole fruit instead!)<br />Over processed foods<br /><br />My favorite brain food is almond butter, as it gives me a quick boost of energy without any “crashing” like a sugary snack would induce. I also think the nut butter gets absorbed more quickly because it does not have to be broken down as much as whole nuts do.<br /><br />Many of my clients live a very healthy lifestyle. Furthermore, they help others to attain their nutritional goals.<br /><br />Touted as <i>the next best thing to fruits and vegetables</i> is <a href="http://www.lifeisatomato.com/" target="_blank">Juice Plus</a>, a whole foods supplement.<br /><br /><i>Juice Plus is the most researched nutritional supplement available. It is whole food, containing 17 nutrient dense fruits, vegetables and grains. It comes in capsules, chewables or gummies. </i><br /><br />Want to know more about super foods? <a href="http://thenaturalife.com/superfood.htm" target="_blank">The Natural Life</a> is here to help!Danielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1130991410876172592005-11-02T19:50:00.000-08:002005-11-02T20:16:50.890-08:00All play and no work makes for lots of completed projects!Often times, clients have mentioned that I have a remarkable way of engaging their children. Just today, I was told that my writing class was the favorite out of an array of homeschool classes held at a local coop. This was surprising to me, as I know that I “compete” with some super fun, hands on classes.<br /><br />However, on introspecting more, I know that my approach to education works very well with my students. This approach is one of flexibility, understanding, and appreciation for each student individually.<br /><br />A great example of this approach in action is that all of my students know that homework is optional. This freedom enables them to practice their work without the added stress of *having* to get something done.<br /><br />Each week, I am pleasantly surprised at the number of students who choose to hand in their writing projects. Furthermore, many of them dive into extra projects without being given any external incentive (I don’t believe in giving out external motivators, such as stars, points, toys, etc.).<br /><br />I theorize that their work ends up feeling like (or is even perceived as) play. Play being any activity that engages us because we have an interest in it. This self-interest is the greatest motivator to enhance learning.<br /><br />Education as play is certainly crucial in the academic development of children. The earlier my students are responsible for their own education, the better. Thinking experimentally, I would doubt that I could induce this play feeling in older students because they have engrained the idea that learning is work, it's hard, and it's mandatory. However, I do think that over time, older students would slowly acclimate to this new approach.<br /><br />Speaking as a student of life, I certainly play a lot (today I learned to do a headstand!). Googling topics, reading, and intellectually engaging in activities are routine parts of everyday. As an adult, I greet this state of wonder for its interesting, fruitful, and growth producing interactions.<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1128193259267265702005-10-01T10:31:00.000-07:002005-10-01T12:02:01.216-07:00Making Peace with AutismWalking by the community bulletin board at <a href="http://www.simmons.edu/" target="_blank">Simmons College</a>, a flier caught my eye for a family who needed one-on-one instruction for their son with autism. After having years of personal experience with autism, I was ready to deepen my understanding and awareness of this familiar although mysterious developmental disorder.<br /><br />I was profoundly humbled by all my interactions with the whole family. There were days when Nat, the son, shined so brightly that we were able to accomplish more than his independent education plan could have predicted. Other days, I could not get through and connecting was heart wrenching for me as I craved Nat's attention just as he craved kidney beans with more cumin than one would think humanly possible to digest.<br /><br />Sadly, our time began to fade. As a growing adolescent, his behaviors became unpredictable during our lessons and I was unable help him while keeping my own insecurities hidden.<br /><br />Over the years, I have been honored to keep in touch with the Senator family. Nat's latest milestone being his <a href="http://susansenator.com/ritestuff.html" target="_blank">bar mitzvah</a>!<br /><br />Today, a new window has opened in which I am pleased to view their family life. <a href="http://www.susansenator.com/" target="_blank">Susan Senator</a>, super mom & amazing writer, has published her family's memoirs entitled <a href="http://susansenator.com/makingpeace.html">Making Peace with Autism</a>.<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1125849655350191082005-10-01T07:48:00.000-07:002005-10-01T12:04:56.386-07:00Harry Potter on Campus<a href="http://www.ndsmcobserver.com/media/paper660/news/2005/08/31/News/Freshman.Runs.Potter.Web.Site-972813.shtml" target="_blank">Freshman Runs Potter Website</a><br /><br /><span class="storytextstyle">"After living 10 years of his life in an average family, Harry Potter had a striking moment of self-discovery: he was actually a wizard, one of the most famous wizards in the magical world. And much like the famous young boy, Notre Dame's own Harry Potter - freshman Emerson Spartz - has been thrown from several years of home schooling into a college campus where, to many Potter fans, he is already famous."<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />I absolutely adore reading about what homeschoolers do aside from their academic studies. I can't imagine a better way to learn than to embrace one's passions and then transform them into creative ventures. I have certainly learned a ton from starting my own business in education.<br /><br />Emerson is surely more ready for college than the majority of his peers. He knows what he wants, and furthermore -- he knows how to get it!<br /><br />~Danielle<br /></span>Danielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1125847859490314262005-09-04T08:22:00.000-07:002005-09-04T08:30:59.493-07:00Opting to Homeschool<a href="http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/9/22005g.asp" target="_blank">Home Schooling Survives Oppostion as Growing Numbers Opt In</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />"[A]nother major factor contributing to the rise of home education, the HSLDA president contends, is parents' reactions to negativity in many public school settings. 'We're getting a lot more folks that are pulling kids out of public school,' he says. 'Our applications are showing that we're getting tons of folks who are not going to send their children back to public education. Now, they don't indicate necessarily that they're dissatisfied; but we know that if they were satisfied they'd be leaving them there in that public school setting.'</span></span> <p><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">For many parents, Smith says, the reason 'could be academics, it could be the children are being hazed or teased, or it could be problem with a teacher. There's just a myriad of issues.' But in large part, the home-education advocate adds, the phenomenal growth of the movement is due to the fact that more people are now becoming aware of and familiar with home schooling and are realizing that it is a choice available to them."</span></span></p>Danielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1125847063285415972005-09-04T08:01:00.000-07:002005-09-04T08:17:43.326-07:00San Diego Adding 13 Charter Schools this Year<a href="http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/education/20050903-9999-7m3charter.html target=">San Diego Charter Schools</a><br /><br />In general, I have found that the students who attend charter schools, as apposed to public or even private schools, are much more enthusiastic about learning & their education. Charters appear to be a great resource for parents who are looking for an alternative education but are unable to homeschool their children.<br /><br />This year I'll be teaching a class at <a href="http://www.dehesacharterschool.org/index.html">Dehesa Charter School</a> which specializes in working with homeschooling families.<br /><br />In the future, I look forward to seeing how these charters thrive in San Diego!<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1123362968371147362005-08-06T13:11:00.000-07:002005-08-06T14:16:08.393-07:00More on Memory and Cognitive Enhancement<a href="http://www.newscientist.com/article.ns?id=mg18625011.900&print=true" target="_blank">11 Steps to a Better Brain</a><br /><br />It doesn't matter how brainy you are or how much education you've had - you can still improve and expand your mind. Boosting your mental faculties doesn't have to mean studying hard or becoming a reclusive bookworm. There are lots of tricks, techniques and habits, as well as changes to your lifestyle, diet and behavior that can help you flex your grey matter and get the best out of your brain cells. And here are 11 of them.<br /><br />~~~<br />Here are the top ideas that I use with my students.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><b></span>Food for thought</b> ~ I certainly am aware of my students' diets. One of my students often complains of feeling lethargic. After looking at her nutrition I concluded that she's drinking too many sugars in the form of juice boxes. During one lesson I asked her to snack on a tablespoon of peanut butter instead of her usual juice and she was surprised to actually feel a difference in her mental state.<br /><br /><b>Mozart effect</b> "Six-year-old children who were given music lessons, as opposed to drama lessons or no extra instruction, got a 2 to 3-point boost in IQ scores compared with the others." I theorize that the increase in IQ here actually has to do with the <a href="http://heightenedlearning.blogspot.com/2005/06/hemispheric-integration-and-juggling.html" target="_blank">cross over</a> exercises that it takes to perform on a musical instrument. <br /><br /><b>Memory marvels</b> ~ As noted in a <a href="http://heightenedlearning.blogspot.com/2005/07/memory-tips-tricks.html" target="_blank">previous entry</a>, mnemonics work wonders!<br /><br /><b>Sleep on it</b> ~ This is another aspect that I frequently interview new clients about. To get the most out of my services I ask parents and students to really notice daily sleeping and nutrition patterns.<br /><br /><b>Body and mind</b> ~ Exercise is a regular part of my students' lessons. Jumping jacks, running, and juggling are incorporated into most lessons. It works particularly well to bring exercise into the lesson at the start and when the student gets antsy to increase oxygen to the brain.<br /><br /><b>Attention seeking</b> ~ During sessions my students tend to do really well paying attention. However, I should not neglect teaching them how to notice their own internal awareness levels. I will certainly look into more exercises for this. One that may work well is to have the student note where their attention is (on a rating scale) after they hear a random beep. <br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1122340018881884242005-07-25T17:58:00.000-07:002005-07-25T18:06:58.886-07:00Leaders of Tomorrow<a href="http://washingtontimes.com/metro/20050724-110400-1914r.htm" target="_blank">Training a New Generation of Leaders</a><br /><br />"Most home-school teenagers are, indeed, belying the stereotype of a disengaged younger generation and consequently are gaining the attention of the national media. ABC's 'World News Tonight' recently visited the campus of Patrick Henry College in Purcellville, Va., where the weeklong Generation Joshua Summer Camp was being held.<br /><br /> Launched in spring 2004, Generation Joshua is a program developed by the Home School Legal Defense Association. It provides civics training to a new generation of home-schoolers. The camp focused on the need for civic engagement and taught the principles of the founding of the country."<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />I certainly feel that homeschoolers will be the movers and shakers of tomorrow. Their strength will come from knowing how to think, ask questions, and motivate themselves. I forsee a majority of my students pursuing their ideals whether it be in politics, business, or education.<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1122245015312319082005-07-24T14:56:00.000-07:002005-07-24T15:54:29.923-07:00Memory Tips & Tricks<a href="http://www.newswise.com/p/articles/view/512800/" target="_blank">Study Shows How Sleep Improves Memory</a><br /><br />"A good night’s sleep triggers changes in the brain that help to improve memory, according to a new study led by researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC).<br /><br />New memories are formed within the brain when a person engages with information to be learned (for example, memorizing a list of words or mastering a piano concerto). However, these memories are initially quite vulnerable; in order to 'stick' they must be solidified and improved. This process of 'memory consolidation' occurs when connections between brain cells as well as between different brain regions are strengthened, and for many years was believed to develop merely as a passage of time. More recently, however, it has been demonstrated that time spent asleep also plays a key role in preserving memory."<br /><br />(Furthermore, it's neat that I personally know Dr. Schlaug and Dr. Nadine Gaab from my time working at BIDMC)<br />~~~<br /><br />Memorizing information, such as multiplication tables, to utilize processing speed for further study is one of the hardest tasks that my students have. Any tricks, such as improved sleep, for consolidating memory should be used to its fullest potential.<br /><br />Over the past week, three of my students have begun memorizing their multiplication tables. One of my students, an eight years old girl, was dependent on using her fingers to count up. For example, 8 x 4 becomes, 8 (thumb), 16 (index finger), 24 (middle), and 32 (ring finger). In the past she was taught, or figured out, that this method worked and continued to use it. I explained that this method was much like sounding out caaaaaaaaaaaat, every time she read the word cat. She agreed as well.<br /><br />We took a new approach. Sitting on her hands, so that she’d stop relying on her fingers, I had her go through six multiplication facts. One by one, she went through a fact, answered it and then I asked her to make up an extremely detailed picture to go with the fact. For example, 9 x 3 = 27 and she pictured all three numbers playing soccer (her favorite sport).<br /><br />For fun, I wanted to see if I could remember all six cards on my own after a two day hiatus. Below is what I came up with:<br /><br />3 x 9 = 27 ~ Playing soccer on a field.<br />8 x 3 = 24 ~ 8 & 3 are being chased by an octopus with 24 tentacles.<br />7 x 5 = 35 ~ 7 & 5 are playing underneath a tree. The branches and leaves make a 35.<br />6 x 7 = 42 ~ 6 & 7 are riding a racehorse with the number 42 on its side.<br />9 x 9 = 81 ~ 81 is a maid at the Super 9 hotel!<br />8 x 4 = 32 ~ 8 & 4 are being chased by a shark with 32 teeth.<br /><br />Two days after our session, she was supposed to have practiced her six facts and add three more. At the next session, she performed beautifully having memorized all nine cards. I too had remembered all six cards correctly.<br /><br />After working this technique with one student, I excitedly tried it again. This time, I was working with an eight years old boy, and he was able to memorize five cards. However, he preferred to make pictures that would rhyme with the answer. For example 8 x 8 = 64 was turned into the eights eating pizza in the kitchen while the 64 sat on the floor. I'll be looking at his retention tomorrow.<br /><br />I've found that it helps to give the student control in how they decide to memorize their facts. As long as they are having fun & learning, that's what matters.<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1120748059561703292005-07-07T07:41:00.000-07:002005-07-07T07:55:44.240-07:00Criticism of Baby Sign Language<a href="http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/harford/bal-ha.baby26jun26,1,179582.story?coll=bal-local-harford&ctrack=1&cset=true" target="blank">Learning to sign before speaking</a><br /><br />“Baby Signs is based on research showing that using signs enhances language, cognitive and social-emotional development of babies. The program originated in 1982 when two researchers at the University of California, Davis launched a study of babies and sign language.<br /><br />‘We discovered that teaching babies sign language facilitated and sped up talking,’ said Linda Acredolo, a psychologist who later co-authored a best-selling book on the program. ‘And children who used sign language had higher IQs than peers who didn't.’<br /><br />The researchers also noted social and emotional benefits for the babies and positive effects on the parent-child relationship. Acredolo said signing reduces frustration for the baby and parents and enables the babies to share their world.<br /><br />The author of several books on child development, Greenspan said teaching babies to use specific signs and gestures introduces an artificial element into the naturally developing communication system.<br /><br />'Anytime you do something repetitive with a baby you're reducing the flexibility and creativity of the child,' Greenspan said. 'I don't want to say that parents who use sign language are doing something bad or wrong, that only makes the parent feel bad. But why not let your child learn to ask for a drink 30 different ways instead of just using one sign? What if there was only one way to express love? Or one gesture to show love?'"<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />Greenspan misses one important aspect of creativity and flexibility; children use sign language outside of original context. This application of information to other areas displays the child’s understanding of a concept. <br /><br />When I worked as a nanny, transition times were always difficult. After meals the children tended to signal that they were done by squirming, standing up in their highchair, or sometimes yelling. To alleviate the stress (and to provide a better alternative), I taught the children to raise their arms in the air to signal “all done.” It worked brilliantly and mealtime became much easier for the children and myself since we could communicate more effectively. <br /><br />To my surprise, in a short period of time, I noticed that their new communication skills were being implemented in other areas. When they were done playing or were ready for a new activity the “all done” sign would appear. Sometimes "all done" would be made into a joke where the child would produce the gesture after one bite of food; when asked if they were really done, the child would laugh and continue with their meal. This clearly demonstrated flexible and creative thinking. Furthermore, being able to communicate made for a more stress free environment, which is of the utmost importance to a child’s development.<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1118965430540604842005-06-16T15:58:00.000-07:002005-06-16T16:44:33.176-07:00Busy Work<a href="http://www.livescience.com/othernews/050602_homework_burden.html" target="_blank">Too Much Homework = Lower Test Scores</a><br /><br />"'Undue focus on homework as a national quick-fix, rather than a focus on issues of instructional quality and equity of access to opportunity to learn, may lead a country into wasted expenditures of time and energy,' LeTendre says."<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />Piles of homework, projects to finish, reading and comprehension to complete in a set time period -- sound like fun? You might think that homework only plagues children in a traditional classroom environment, however some homeschooled children also face this burden of busy work.<br /><br />In my local community, homeschoolers may enroll their children into local home-based charter schools. These charters help to take off some of the burden of book keeping and lesson planning for parents. They are a great help to those who want it. Charter curriculums tend to be quite rigorous and furthermore overcompensate by giving students a workload heavy enough to break the camel's back. <br /><br />Overcompensation may be taking place because of the fear that it looks like homeschoolers are not doing enough "time on learning" for their children. Knowing that you may be investigated is surely something that is on parent's minds. Charters certainly help to structure this time. However, busy work is often at the expense of the child's happiness.<br /><br />As a teacher to homeschoolers, I understand the value of quality time spent on a project versus busy work. One project is loosely assigned, as student participation is always optional, per week. Students are also encouraged to tweak the assignment in anyway that they like. My flexibility as a teacher has encouraged my students to feel confident with their work. No stress, crying, or frantic parent calls -- just flexible fun and growth, that's teaching.<br /><br />Kenadee, my eight-year old student, says it best, "You're the best tutor because you give us free choice!"<br /><br />~Danielle<br /></span></span></span></span></span></span>Danielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1118960702216073772005-06-16T15:20:00.000-07:002005-06-16T15:25:02.220-07:00Homeschooling Success<a href="http://www.startribune.com/stories/191/5428016.html" target="_blank">Katherine Kersten: Home-schooling lets kids realize their potential</a><br /><br />Another success for homeschoolers! Enjoy.<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1118958434673206412005-06-16T14:45:00.000-07:002005-06-16T14:47:14.703-07:00Go Out and Play<a href="http://sltrib.com/lifestyle/ci_2798678" target="_blank"><span id="siteCss"><span id="Default3Col"><span id="Article"><span class="articleSubTitle">Author worries that 'nature-deficit disorder' in kids can lead to problems for body and soul</a><br /><br />"</span></span></span></span><span id="siteCss"><span id="Default3Col"><span id="Article">Mintz acknowledges the environment in which kids are growing up has changed, as has our notion of childhood - a view captured in the title of his book, a lament about the disappearance of the Huck Finn-style childhood.<br /><br />'The older notion of childhood in America was it should be a moratorium from the responsibilities of adulthood, that childhood is at best, a time of risk, experimentation and freedom,' Mintz says.<br /><br />Now, childhood is overshadowed by adulthood aspirations - a time to hone skills and talents that carry children into and through their futures. Schools are rigorous, homework is demanding and whatever time is left over is scheduled to the minute."<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />Kudos to Mintz for saying it better than I could, "</span></span></span><span id="siteCss"><span id="Default3Col"><span id="Article">Childhood is at best, a time of risk, experimentation and freedom." I am certainly in agreement with Mintz's view of childhood, however I also agree with Louv that outside play is an important part of development.<br /><br />~Danielle<br /></span></span></span><span id="siteCss"><span id="Default3Col"><span id="Article"><br /> </span></span></span>Danielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1118242399429387132005-06-08T17:39:00.000-07:002005-06-08T17:44:17.986-07:00Hemispheric Integration and Juggling<a href="http://www.abqtrib.com/albq/nw_education/article/0,2564,ALBQ_19857_3834141,00.html" target="_blank">Bright Idea: Can PE help youths with ADHD?</a><br /><br />"Using one side of your body to move objects on the other side forces both sides of your brain to interact with each other, and something about [ADHD] appears to interfere with that process, Pedersen said. <span class="bodytext"><p>'What I've noticed in my observations is that kids with disabilities tend to be all one-sided,' Pedersen said. 'They tend to do everything on the right side of their body with their right hand or foot and the same with the left. Kids that don't have disabilities, kids that are good at sports, they tend to be able to cross over their bodies with no problems.'<br /></p> <p><span class="bodytext">'I worked with her on a mini-trampoline,' he said. 'I'd cross her hands and hold them while she jumped up and down. Something as simple as that started building up those skills, and the interesting thing is it carried over into her class work. Her teacher told me her attention span improved and her ability to concentrate.'</span></p> </span><span class="bodytext">We do exercises where the kids juggle beanbags with each other, which really trains the brain to integrate. Through that, we've found the kids read better, focus better and learn better."<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />Dr. Daniel Amen, author of "Change Your Brain: Change Your Life," hosts a Saturday morning talk </span><span class="bodytext"><a href="http://amenclinics.com/radio/" target="_blank"></a></span><span class="bodytext"><a href="http://amenclinics.com/radio/" target="_blank">radio</a> program where I was reminded of the benefits of "cross-training" one's brain. I'm glad to see that researchers in education are looking at this correlation, however -- they need a neuroscientist to give them a hand!<br /><br />The idea (that is unmentioned in the article itself) is that doing cross-lateral exercises increases the connections in the cerebellum. In the past, it was thought that the cerebellum was only responsible for motor coordination and balance. Recently, scientists have found that the cerebellum is also responsible for processing information between the two hemispheres, which aids in cognitive functioning.<br /><br />When one exercises the cerebellum, with an act like juggling, there is cross over to education because it strengthens connections that enhance cognitive abilities. Having a stronger cerebellum is like having a faster computer processor in the brain. By strengthening this cognitive muscle, our minds can perform at greater heights.<br /><br />During sessions with my students, exercise is a very important part of the day. Generally, we start with jumping jacks to get the blood flowing in the body and increased oxygen to the brain. The gifts of the cerebellum have reminded me to teach them "cross-training" exercises as well. But first -- I need to learn to juggle!<br /><br />You know your kid has done a good job when they can <a href="http://www.artofproblemsolving.com/Images/rrusczyk/AVideo1.AVI" target="_blank">solve a Rubik's Cube with one hand while juggling two cubes in the other</a>!<br /></span><br />~Danielle<br /><span class="bodytext"><br /></span>Danielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1117861390473503412005-06-06T21:53:00.000-07:002005-06-06T23:41:07.910-07:00Private tutoring versus commercial learning centers<a href="http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/news/11775691.htm">Too young for tests - but not for tutors</a><br /><br />"But many experts in early-childhood education adamantly oppose [commercial learning center] programs. They say the push for precociousness, even by parents with the best intentions, can put too much pressure on little ones and lead to burnout. Moreover, they argue that these kinds of programs are not suitable for children so young.<br /><br />'It's that notion of education as a race, and it flies in the face of what we know about early-childhood education,' said David Elkind, author of The Hurried Child and professor of child development at Tufts University. 'All the evidence we have is it doesn't work, and it can do harm.'<br /><br />'I'd say we are creating robots for the next generation," said Kathryn Hirsh-Pasek, a developmental psychologist at Temple University and coauthor of Einstein Never Used Flash Cards. Like many education experts, she said young children learned best through exploration and play.<br /><br />'If parents are demanding this service, it is because the education system has scared them to death,' said Mariaemma Willis, coauthor of Midlife Crisis Begins in Kindergarten. 'Parents are afraid their children won't be tops academically, they won't go to the best college, they won't get the best jobs. The system has convinced them to push the 'determining' age lower and lower - that is, the age at which their child's success or failure in life is determined.'<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />Private tutoring and commercial learning centers are not created equally. I am bothered by the fact that this article makes it seem as though they are one and the same.<br /><br />Commercial learning centers, like The Score and Sylvan, appear very good on paper. They tout that their programs foster a love of learning and increased "smarts." In reality, these programs foster a love of fast paced computer games and external reward systems. In San Diego, Sylvan offers,"individualized instruction" with a 3:1 student teacher ratio using prefabricated worksheets.<br /><br />These centers do amazingly well because they appear to make big promises about long-term success and motivation. They even guarantee higher test scores after a month of preparation. What most people don't know is that these centers are banking heavily on "poor retest validity" measures. Meaning, when administered a test more than once, you should expect to perform better on the second assessment. In other words, being familiar with a test is enough to make us test significantly better which makes the second assessment invalid.<br /><br />Furthermore, for young children, I agree that computer time should be limited. And for any child, burnout should be avoided at all costs. I am lucky enough to work with parents who want to give their child an edge, not an anxiety disorder.<br /><br />A truly individualized education, anchored in love and respect for a child's wellbeing, is what I offer to my clients. Extreme presence is my best attribute. This presence leads to intense in-the-moment analysis that aids in steering present and future interactions with each student.<br /><br />As an educational theorist, my goal is to be thinking about my students. Learning centers apply current theories to masses of students. I'd rather be a creator and innovator of education than a bricklayerDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1117857421524160052005-06-03T20:47:00.000-07:002005-06-03T21:02:24.620-07:00Direct from the Source<a href="http://www.theage.com.au/news/Education-News/The-power-to-choose/2005/05/27/1117129892585.html?oneclick=true" target="_blank">The power to choose</a> by Sophie Curzon-Siggers (a 17 year old student at MacRobertson Girls High School)<br /><br />"Ask any parent why they send their child off to school every day, and most will respond without hesitation - to learn! And to socialise! Indeed, to equip them with the skills to proceed successfully into adulthood.<br /><br />And yet, more often than not, these are expectations unmet by our schools, hopes for our children never realised in the current education system."<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />This is a wonderfully powerful article. Sophie is fully onboard with educational systems such as homeschooling and Sudbury Valley. The beauty of it all is that she's 17 years old and advocating for herself...she's certainly taught herself a valuable lesson!<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1117856049178345192005-06-03T20:30:00.000-07:002005-06-03T20:34:55.040-07:00Laughing and Learning<a href="http://www.livescience.com/othernews/050526_school_humor.html" target="_blank">Humor encourages participation</a><br /><br />"Some teachers might laugh at this new study, but it seems classroom levity boosts student interest and participation."<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />Part of being a psych major in college involved becoming a guinea pig. One of my professors studied humor and even practiced his improv at a comedy club. His tests were always difficult, however he always made them funny which definitely made them more enjoyable to take. At the end of the year we were told that he had made different tests for each section of his classes, and that he would definitely look to see if the funny tests produced any significant difference in performance (unfortunately, he moved to Chicago before releasing the results). <br /><br />When working with my students, I have found that the use of humor can readily help to change a frustrated emotional state to a more positive one. Furthermore, humor is a great tool for increasing participation in my classes (I teach classes to homeschooled students) as well as letting the students know that I am a real human and not a factoid robot!<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1117475510041511412005-05-30T10:03:00.000-07:002005-05-30T10:51:50.053-07:00Everything Bad is Good for You<a href="http://www.nationalreview.com/derbyshire/derbyshire200505250801.asp" target="_blank">Pop Culture Is...Nourishing</a><br /><br />Everything Bad is one of those books that you feel a bit suspicious of because it tells the lazy man what he is glad to hear. (Here’s the classic in that particular genre.) If you are a parent, you know all too well that preventing kids from spending every minute of their free time in front of a flickering screen (computer or TV) demands constant vigilance and effort. A lot of people will take Steven Johnson’s message as: “Hey, you don’t have to bother!” In fact he is much more thoughtful than that, and wants kids to do some book reading in among their gaming and TV-watching.<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />At first, I too was skeptical of this new title. Promoting TV and video games as educational and enhancing cognitive ability seems counter intuitive to other findings. <br /><br />After reading "Endangered Minds" I was convinced that over exposure to television, computers, and video game systems was harming today's youths. However, I was not convinced that an hour of gaming per day was going to poison any child. It appears that,just like with sun exposure and nutrition, moderation and balance is just as important to cognitive development.<br /><br />~~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1117133251184138342005-05-26T11:23:00.000-07:002005-05-26T11:47:31.186-07:00Importance of Subject Integration<a href="http://www.dailysouthtown.com/southtown/dsnews/241nd1.htm" target="_blank">Hickory Creek Middle School changes focus to student-centered instead of subject-centered</a><br /><br />"Hickory Creek Middle School student Laurel Dietterle took notes on important battles of the Revolutionary War in social studies class.<br /><br />In language arts, the seventh-grader read the fictional account of Johnny Tremain, a horseman for a patriotic newspaper who witnessed pivotal events of the American Revolution.<br /><br />Come technology period, Laurel paired up with friend Kate Walsh to create a PowerPoint slide on events in the colonial period.<br /><br />'Sometimes it gets old, but it is also really helpful,' said Laurel of the subject overlap.<br /><br />The overlap is an essential component of the middle school philosophy at Hickory Creek, and it is one of the techniques educators there will model for other schools in coming years."<br /><br />~~~<br /><br />As far as schools go, Hickory Creek appears to have a great educational philosophy. <br /><br />Subject integration gives each topic more meaning and relevance as opposed to a hodgepodge of disjointed information. My favorite classes were always team taught, integrating the knowledge of both teachers/professors to give the subject more depth and real world applicability. <br /><br />This integration can be used in numerous educational settings whether it's homeschooling or the traditional classroom environment. <br /><br />Most importantly, integration offers students time for discussion and analysis. The keys for learning are held in this time for critical thinking and exploration.<br /><br />~DanielleDanielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12782746.post-1117131109986180212005-05-26T11:09:00.000-07:002005-05-26T11:11:49.990-07:00More work and less play<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2005/05/22/weekinreview/22stein.html?" target="_blank">Preschool is a problem</a><br /><br />"The notion of standards are coming down almost to the embryo," said Adele Brodkin, a psychologist and child development consultant. "We are not allowing normal, creative, interactive play. We are wanting kids to sit down and write their names at 3 and do rote tasks that are extremely boring at a young age."Danielle Lynnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05320885379982191920noreply@blogger.com