I love talking with parents about their kids. Connecting with groups of parents is one of my favorite things to do, but being featured on 101.9 The Mix wasn’t too bad either!! After reading my book, Being Visual, Susan Wiencek invited me to be on her show.
I love art, I especially love kids art. That’s why March is one of my favorite months. Youth Art Month celebrates art education in the United States. It is observed in March, with thousands of American schools participating, often with the involvement of local art museums and civic organizations. I was honored to have been scheduled to speak that the Menomonee Falls Public Library on March 5th but unfortunately a snow storm was approaching the area. Cancellation preparations had been in swing but the event went as planned the next day. I am so thankful for technology and my ability to appear in spite of being snowed in miles away.
Art has long been perceived as a fun activity, with little academic impact or value in an educational system focused on literacy and test scores. Because of this misconception, art programs across the country are being eliminated in staggering numbers. While the cuts may help the bottom line, our students are paying the price. Research has proven time and time again, that art is essential to academic success, and many of our children can’t learn without it.
One of our favorite family traditions happens while we’re eating Thanksgiving dinner. Once the food has been laid before us, in its entire delicious splendor, we say a prayer of welcome and thankfulness. Then serving platters are passed around and food is heaped on every plate. As we begin to dig in, savoring all
This week I am preparing for a visit to Milwaukee. I’ve been invited to share some thoughts on Being Visual and educational strategies at the Menomonee Fall’s Optimist Club. I always enjoy the opportunity to meet people, share ideas and learn from those interactions. I must say this group especially intrigues me. There are a number of organizations with professionals from all walks of life who work together to impact their community. However, the Optimist Club is focused entirely on work that directly benefits children.
Education.com is a great resource for parents and educators. They have dedicated themselves to providing information to parents in order to help kids reach their full potential. The site is one of my favorites and contains articles, activities and thoughts from experts in their fields. The information is organized and presented by age group and covers everything from seasonal craft and play activities to parenting tips, to education tools and strategies. If you aren’t familiar with the site, I encourage you to take the time to visit www.Education.com. I am sure you will find it so valuable you will find it a must to bookmark.
Recently, I met with a group of parents to share information about learning styles and ways to help our visual children do better in the classroom. We had a great discussion afterwards with several parents sharing their observations and asking questions. I sincerely enjoy these talks and being able to share the important role that learning styles play in a child’s academic and overall development and success.
A mother seated in the front row raised her hand. She asked a question about her 9 year old daughter that touched upon the emotional side of learning that so many young visually oriented children experience.
