Learning Kid

Do you remember much about being a kid? Most kids are fascinated by the weather. Their little brains are absorbing information like a sponge and they start noticing that the “outside world” changes a lot. At a certain age, usually around 4 years old, they start putting all of the information that they’ve absorbed into perspective.

For instance, kids notice that those big fluffy white pillows in the sky which their parents refer to as “clouds,” are not always in the same place, are not always present and sometimes they’re dark and scary looking. They notice that water falls out of the sky when it gets dark and there is a loud rumbling, scary noise overhead. Then they start wondering what all this stuff is and why is it taking place.

As a parent, one of the first things you should be teaching your children about, once they reach an inquiring age, is the weather. They know it happens, so teach them why and how it happens. This is a great base for all kinds of other learning. Children are naturally curious because everything is new to them. Take advantage of that as a parent. It’s a great way to get them started learning the right way. Read the rest of this entry »

As a special education math teacher, I am always looking for new ways to introduce cool math games to my students. Frankly, I must tell you that unless there is some technology involved, it is like pulling teeth with these kids. However, if you give kids a computer or an iPod, then all of the sudden math isn’t so bad. Therefore, I am going to share some of my favorite cool math tricks with you.

Cool Math 4 Kids

Cool Math 4 Kids is an online website that does exactly what it says. It has tons of free games for the kids to play online. The kids do not need anything special to play. They do not need a user name or password. They do not need a lightning fast computer. All they need is a mediocre computer that connects to the Internet.

The games are Flash Games meaning the play in little windows without a download. Most computers have this already installed but you can update your computer if you don’t have it installed. Read the rest of this entry »

As the parent of a child who wants to learn to skateboard, there are two questions you will have as you help launch your young skater.

First off, what gear must my child use to start? The answer is a skateboard and safety gear. First the skateboard: do not under any circumstances buy a skateboard from a toy store or big discount chain. It may have cute graphics, but it will end up causing a whole lot of frustration for your child. Think about it, you didn’t use a toy vacuum to clean your first apartment. Same goes for sports equipment. You do not need to spend a fortune, but please buy a real skateboard from a skate shop, either near-by or on- line. Also, when you shop, buy what’s called a complete skateboard-one with the deck, wheels, trucks and grip tape. If you have to select each item, it will make you crazy and you are more than likely to get it wrong.

Next question is where to skateboard. You will need to him or her some help, assuming you yourself aren’t a skater dude. If you are lucky enough to live close to a public or private skate park, find out if it offers either clinic or lessons. Sometimes the lessons are in groups, and other times you can hire a private session. The teachers are almost always teens and young adults. If classes are not offered, go to the park, talk to some skaters and see if there’s anyone who could come to your house and teach your child. Skaters are passionate about their sport and most older kids/teens who skate need some extra cash. Read the rest of this entry »