Education: November 2009

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

FREE Phonics Worksheets and Activities

Free-phonics-worksheets.com - Worksheets are divided into volumes that represent the various stages of the phonics learning process. Also, Free Phonics Worksheets has other resources that can be purchased to be used along with the free worksheets.

Phonicsworld.com - This site offers worksheets and activities from learning the ABC's to consonant blends. If you are unfamiliar with any of the phonics terms, there is even a glossary to help you find your way.

Softshools.com - Learn phonics with worksheets, games, activities and flashcards. Softschools.com has a wealth of educational information and is a great resource for much more than just phonics.

Senteacher.org - If you are looking for phonics worksheets and activities for a special needs student, Sen Teacher is the best resource online. Worksheets and activities can be customized to accommodate varies levels of difficulty as well as providing various phonics visual cues that you won't find on any other site.

Homeeducationresources.com - For the parent that is home schooling, this is a great site for free worksheets and activities.

edHelper.com - Amazing site offering many worksheets for phonics sounds, building wording list, sight words, coloring pages and much more.

Starfall.com - Interactive website that teaches phonics and word through games.

SchoolExpress.com - Choose from many worksheets devoted to constonants, vowels, blends and much more.

Internet4classrooms.com - Great resource! Listing of many websites of all things phonics. Choose from worksheets, activities, games and more.

Learning the letters of the alphabet and their sounds is important. it's what you do with those letters and sounds that makes all the difference in the world.

Extremely shy children are challenging and need "HELP" from teachers

One of the most exacerbating aspects of teaching is without doubt attempting to address the needs of each student, given time limitations and class sizes. Extremely shy children are challenging, in that each child has individual reasoning for their behavior, and the cause needs to be addressed prior to implementing a course of action for a teacher. Too aggressive a position by a teacher may result in emotional distress to a shy child, while a passive or indifferent approach may only reaffirm a shy child's distant perspective. In each and every instance a teacher must make the time to get to know the child on a personal level as a unique human being, and to gain a shy child's trust and respect.

An excellent manner in which a teacher can help an extremely shy child is to gain an understanding of a particular child's strengths and weaknesses comparative to others in a given class. While shy children have areas in which they need to improve academically, their education has to be approached gradually with a long term plan. Since many shy children have self-esteem issues, being thrust into the spotlight in front of classmates in a position of weakness many only reinforce feelings of inferiority. In the subjects that a shy child has problems, a teacher should be extra sensitive to the child's emotional well-being, and guard against negative reactions when learning is not as quick as it is in other children.

A teacher can gain tremendous insight into helping an extremely shy child by simply speaking briefly with the child's parent in a private setting. There may be a certain interest that the child has which a teacher can utilize as a tool to bring them into a more socialized existence in the classroom, or a particular area in which the child is superior. This is also an excellent manner for a teacher to assess if the child's home life has anything to do with an associated withdrawal from participation. There are many reasons that a child may be shy - ranging from a bad home life, to the recent death of a loved one or beloved pet. In this sense a teacher should become an investigator and apply their knowledge of children directed toward a solution.

In many cases of extreme shyness in children, until an aspect of the educational process strikes a cord with the child and enthusiasm follows, the issue will remain. It is incumbent upon the teacher to disseminate information concerning the child to enable them to assimilate in social settings more readily.

Thinking of "Gifts" for Preschoolers

Shopping for preschoolers is never easy. It may seem that way but usually, I'm consumed with guilt when I buy something with so many pieces that some are sure to get lost. Or if I buy a gift that makes a lot of noise (which is funny sometimes, especially as revenge against your own sibling who happens to now have a child). Little ones don't usually have the self control to hide their disappointment if the gift they are opening isn't something spectacular. Scoring the perfect gift for a preschooler brings rich rewards! The added bonus is being that special person to make them glow with joy.

This list of toys is compiled for both preschool boys and girls but most are appropriate for both sexes. Since I have a preschool child, I'll tell you the toys on the following list would rate some pretty big points for Santa.

1. Fisher Price Smartcycle Learning Game System This is a TV ready, arcade-style learning toy. It comes with this cute little exercycle. The system costs about $90.
2. Dora's Talking Kitchen Anything Dora,the Explorer is sure to be a hit with a preschooler. This kitchen has sounds, lights, and music and comes with utensils and kitchenware. Amazon is showing the cost at $70 but it's up to $90 elsewhere.
3. Singing Pizza Elmo For those of you who missed out on TMX Elmo, well, now you can have TMX Elmo holding a pizza! It's cute, the kids love Elmo, and this little guy really knows how to move! About $40.
4. Preschool craft sets These sets are designed for little fingers, with larger paint brushes, finger paints and crayons for hours of indoor fun.
5. Board Games Preschoolers are just capable of sitting still long enough to play a game so this is a great gift. Our favorites are Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders. There are many more and all are very reasonably priced.
6. Crayola Color Wonder Coloring books The coloring books are absolutely the best! The special markers only work on Color Wonder paper so this teaches the child to stay in the lines when coloring. There are many activity packs, all of which come with markers. There are also storage cases and activity desks as accessories. Packs start at $10.
7. Blocks I'm breaking a rule here as most wooden, Lego, or Megablocks sets have lots of pieces. However, blocks allow preschoolers to develop motor coordination. And their imagination as they make houses and forts for their dinosaurs or stuffed animals.
8. Fisher Price Little People sets These are wonderful sets for pretend play and the pieces aren't too small.
Fisher Price makes a farm, zoo, Noah's Ark, barn, house, etc. Something for both boys and girls. Sets start at $20. Little People are by far my child's favorite toy.
9. Leap Frog Click Start My First Computer - This cool computer hooks up to the TV so little kids can feel like big kids on the computer! This learning toy helps with skills such as colors, letters numbers, animals and just about anything else a preschooler needs to know. The computer starts at $60 with additional cartridges priced at $20.
10. Shake and Go Crash-up Speedway This speedway requires batteries but it also uses the shake-n-go cars that are, according to my little one, "cooly!" It comes with the cars and tracks. Priced at $50.
11. Leap Frog Little Touch Learning System A great gift! This delightful story-telling toy has tear-resistant pages and 3 learning levels. It's easy enough for even the littlest ones to use by themselves. Pages work by touch. The system comes with the base and a standard storybook for $50. Additional stories are available.
12. V-Tech V-Smile TV Learning System Another system that hooks to the TV. This is an educational gaming system that grows with your child. Prices starts at $60, with additional games available for about $20.
13. Ready Set Learn, Paz's Jump & Dance Mat A preschooler's version of the popular pre-teen and teen dance mats. This has engaging songs and two modes. One mode is a follow-the-leader version and another plays songs for dancing. Reasonably-priced at $30 for hours and hours of fun!
14. Playdoh Another oldie but a goodie. Kids love mushy stuff and Playdoh is just great for indoor fun. It's easy to use for little hands and easy to clean up. There are playmats, activity sets such as Dora the Explorer and Backyardigans.
15. Plasma Car No, it's not a real car but it doesn't have pedals or need batteries. It's a gravity driven, friction-controlled little mobile for your preschooler. Priced from $60. Definitely looks like something the whole family will be trying out!

Again, don't for the batteries!
Cheers! Smile :)
Have Fun....

Gifted Children seem to have Behavioural Problems

Gifted children are often classified as being special needs children. Many parents think their children are gifted, or wish that they were, but they don't realize that raising a gifted child can be a challenging situation. Behavior problems can occur when a gifted child isn't properly stimulated. The following are some of the issues that face gifted children. Some are inaccurate diagnosis's, and some are common reactions to being gifted.

ADHD:

It's not uncommon for gifted children to be inaccurately labeled ADHD due to their behavior. A child who is bored may exhibit similar symptoms to a child who has ADHD but those behaviors will disappear when the child is in a more appropriate environment.

Psychosomatic illnesses:

Some gifted children will complain of stomachaches or headaches in an attempt to miss school. It can be very hard for bright children when their education doesn't match their abilities. Some kids may hide their true talents in order to avoid being singled out or in an attempt to fit in with their peers. It can almost seem like they are living a double life, hiding their true selves from those around them. Needless to say that sort of stress can present itself physically.

Asynchronous development:

Asynchronous development means that a child is experiencing uneven development. A gifted child may score way above their peers intellectually but score lower than average on social or emotional development. Gifted children may experience intense fears about topics which they understand intellectually but cannot process emotionally. For example, they may be extremely worried about dying. Parents and teachers alike often expect too much from gifted children and may be troubled by their immature behavior at times. It's important that gifted children get emotional support to help them deal with their conflicting emotions and abilities.

Manipulative behaviors:

All children are master manipulators but gifted children can cause their parents and teachers grief when they start trying to run things. Parents will often remark that their child is smarter than they are. While a gifted child may be able to formalize a convincing argument it's important that they are not allowed to overstep their boundaries. Just like a typically developing child, they are often looking for the boundaries and they can suffer emotionally if they aren't disciplined appropriately.

Sensory Integration Disorder:

While there hasn't been much in the way of research, many parents of gifted children
report that they have some symptoms of Sensory Integration Disorder. The symptoms can vary dramatically between children. S.I.D. basically means that a person's brain cannot handle sensory stimulation "normally." For example, they may be extremely sensitive to smells, texture, or taste. These are the kids who won't wear socks because the seam is hurting them. Or they will get ill from the smell of certain foods. Some children with S.I.D. will require an intense amount of environmental stimuli, and they may act out when that need isn't met. Sensory Integration Disorder can lead to behavioral problems but once a child is diagnosed their environment can be better tailored to their needs which will help curb some of those issues.

Despite the above, it's important to note that long term studies have shown that gifted children are no more likely to suffer from emotional/behavior problems than their typically developing peers. Most of the problems that gifted children experience can be eradicated by changes in their environment. It's important for parents and teachers to understand the potential problems that can occur, and have a plan in place to help combat behavioral problems. Gifted children who feel supported and understood will have an easier time reaching their full potential.

Three Tips for teachers to deal with "Difficult Children"

1. Develop good communication techniques.
The key is to understand the differences in communication signals and develop good communication techniques. Matching their system creates harmoney.If someone uses kinesthetic language. Then, respond in kinesthetic language.

The student says: I just don't get it.
The teacher responds: Let me help you get a handle on it.

This creates rapport and harmony. That means the "difficulty" is gone.

2. Give students opportunities to process information in their dominant system.
Use a multi-sensory approach in your lessons:
1. Talk for shorter periods.

2. Let students talk.

3. Writing something on the board.

4. Letting them Copy.

5. They all read it aloud.

6. Talk to Them.

7. Let them interact with classmates.

8. Do scavenger hunts to find answers, to questions on their worksheets, posts on the walls.

9. They can read and answer questions silently.

Using multi-sensory activities appropriately,"difficult" discipline issues will virtually disappear.

3. Teach Kinesthetics how to process visually.
Kinesthetics process through their bodies. They have to move, touch, and feel in order to process information. Often, this behavior alone is seen as "difficult," because in school you're expected to sit still and be quiet.
In addition, since standardized testing is visual, this puts them at an extreme disadvantage. If you want them to learn well, they need to know how to read something and process it visually. This could be as simple as having them shift their eye position from down to up and helping them to become aware of the mental pictures. This is where the comprehension is: in the pictures.
When they comprehend, they learn better. When kids do better in school, they feel abetter about themselves. This means they act better. When they act better in school, that means the "difficulty" is gone.

Some information on "Difficult Children"

Why do some students seem to be "difficult" and get into trouble more than others?
The American educational system tends to be audio-visual. Typically, teachers talk (auditory) for long periods and they use some type of visual strategy like writing on the board. Schools using audio-visual presupposes that all students will process it in those two.

This is not the case. Some students process information differently. Unfortunately, this causes two problems:
1. These students have problems grasping and understanding what the teacher says about the subject.

2. This makes these students restless which creates discipline problems for the teacher.

How does this happen?

The student needs to understand what the teacher is saying but can't because the teacher is talking and doing things in a system the student doesn't normally process in. Therefore, the student gets confused and bored.

Confusion and boredom are feelings students don't like, therefore they distract themselves from it by moving and talking. Teachers misinterpret that behavior as being bad and punish students because they think they are bad. They say things like, "You are distracting the class." However, the students don't think they are doing that. They think they are distracting themselves from the bad feeling they get when they do not understand.

What do students learn from having a caged pet in the classroom?

(1)Pet ownership comes with responsibilities.

Students can quickly learn that the class pet needs a certain kind of food, and clean water, every day. They learn that the cage (or aquarium) will need to be cleaned, and will need to be cleaned more than once. It becomes very obvious what can happen if you wait too long to clean out a pet's cage! The smell alone can teach a lesson about responsibility. Students can learn that pets like hamsters or guinea pigs need to be held gently, and that sometimes small animals might bite. Younger students can learn that goldfish should not be handled at all, and can watch the teacher use a net to remove the fish from the fishbowl so it can be cleaned. Students can get a better idea of what kind of pet may be right for them before ever going to the pet store by having a caged pet in the classroom.

(2)Why it is important to take turns.

It is not possible to have every child in the classroom help with the classroom pet every day. Older children can understand that pets only need a certain amount of food in one days time. Kindergarten students will quickly learn what happens in a fish tank when too much food is dumped into it, an unfortunate but common occurrence in classrooms with goldfish. The students will realize that it is not a good idea for everyone to feed the pet every day, and that this is why the teacher is making them take turns at this job. Some classrooms use a calendar and write the name of a different child on the calendar every day, to let students know when their turn will be. Students can learn that it is easier to wait for your turn if you have some way to know when that turn will be. If a student can learn how to wait for his or her turn to feed the classroom pet, then he or she can also use that skill to wait for his or her turn in other situations.

(3)Environmental Science concepts are easier to grasp.

It's not always easy for a second grader to understand what "habitat" means. But, if there is a caged pet in the classroom, then there is a concrete example of what a habitat could look like right there in front of the students. The teacher can use the cage or aquarium as a visual aid while teaching this science lesson. Older students might have an easier time grasping concepts of environmental science if there is an aquarium in the classroom. A teacher can ask students to theorize what would happen if someone dumped a chemical into the water of the fish tank, and then extrapolate from there to bigger concepts, such as how people are affected at dinner time by fish that were exposed to harmful substances in the ocean or lake they came from.

(4)How to deal with death.
Sometimes, classroom pets do not last the school year. Students may come into the classroom one day and notice the goldfish floating in the bowl, or the hamster not moving at all. Students can learn on a small scale important lessons about death. They learn that death can happen to someone they know and care about. They learn that the dead pet needs to be removed from the cage, and they might learn to figure out what killed this classroom pet so it does not happen to the next one. Was the classroom heat turned off, and the pet got too cold? Was the cage in direct sunlight, and the pet overheated? Did we remember to give the pet the right amount of food and water? Did something get put into the cage or aquarium that should not have been there? Learning from mistakes will make a student a better pet owner in the future. The other thing students learn when a classroom pet dies is that there are emotions people feel when someone they care about dies. Students can learn about the grieving process, and how to cope with being sad and missing the loved one that died. While it is never easy to have a pet die, it is important to learn how to cope with it. Students can learn these lessons from the death of a caged classroom pet.

(5)Animals can have babies.

What happens if you put two hamsters in the same cage, and do not first figure out if they are boy hamsters or girl hamsters? Sometimes classroom caged pets produce more caged pets, and when this happens, every student in the room gets excited about it. This can lead to lessons plans about where babies come from, and these lesson plans can be adapted to the appropriate age level of students. Kindergarten students might only need to know that "baby animals come from bigger animals". Younger students might be interested in learning the proper names of other baby animals, (for example, a cow has a calf, a hen has a chick, and a dog has a puppy). Older students can be taught lessons about genetics. How many of the baby guinea pigs have long hair, like the father, and how many have short hair like the mother? Do guinea pigs of different colors produce babies that are a mix of those two colors, or will some match the mom and others match the dad? Fifth grade students might be ready to use this unexpected birth as a segue into a basic sexual education lesson, to learn more about where babies come from. High school students can use the new additions to the classroom pet's cage as a concrete example of one possible result of unprotected sex.

It is possible for students to learn these concepts without ever having a pet in the classroom. Having a caged pet in the classroom is a good way to make these lessons more real for students, and also make learning more fun and interesting.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Detecting Defiance Disorders

Do you know how to recognize a child with defiance disorder? Would you know how to manage this type of behavior once identified? Alternatively, do you think that defiance behavior is not easy to identify? Do you think that you have mistaken a child who is defiant as one who misbehaves purposely? Does our educational system recognize the differences between normal and abnormal? Is there a difference between behaviors diagnosed illnesses or behavior that is not? Two disorders that go unrecognized is conduct and ooppositional. Too often these diagnosis are mistaken for wrongful behavior. Conduct disorder and oppositional disorders both are defiance are mental illness. This behavior is learned but with some TLC good behavior can be learned.

The fact is that oppositional disorder is a mental illnesses and working years in Mental Health I know first hand how easy it is to label a child "bad " or deviant behavior, parents, educators and others shoudl focus on improving the behavior. The way to improve it is to understand deviance.

In fact our public school system, a teacher in regular education will remove a child out of classroom, if he or she is disruptive. He will go to the counselor, principal and this behavior is repeated. After the child inherits his reputation and labeled the trouble maker. The reason,the child gets labeled, because he or she is taking learning away .

Unusually, one with mental health experience can easily determine conduct and oppositional disorders. A child with defiance disorders has behavior that is aggressive, intrusive, manipulative, bullies, violent, destructive of property, and hurtful towards parents and animals. Another type of defiance disorder is oppositional. Some signs exhibited are moodiest, irritability, and cruelty to others. Most children with diagnoses of either conduct or oppositional disorders in public school also, go through life labeled as the mean kid or bully. The reason, because many schools are neither prepared nor trained to identify disorders associated with mental health. In fact, most teachers in our educational system are not are not taught to deal with students diagnosed with defiance disorders linked to depression. Unfortunately, our school system lacks the skills and training needed to help educators identify and address mental health issues. If educators were trained to recognize and distinguish the differences between behavior defiant and behavior that is normal, perhaps children labeled as mean or bad could prove themselves otherwise.

Unfortunately, many educators do not have the training needed to manage behavior out of the norm. For many educators labeling a child as troubled is much easy than trying to understand a child whose behavior maybe out of the norm. In other words, it is easier for a teacher not trained to deal with difficult behaviors. A teach not familiar with behavior disorders, only alternative maybe, label this child as a bully or trouble maker of some sort. Rather than trying to find out why Jack behavior is aggressive and non-compliant, the teacher reverts and deals with this type of disorder by sending the child out of class.

There are 10 signs that will help one identify Defiance Disorder in one who exhibits behavior that appears:

1. Negative

2. Disruptive

3. Short tempered

4. Easily irritated

5. Irrational

6. Inpatient

7. Disrespectful

8. Violent

9. Aggressive

10. Non compliant

Students who exhibit defiant disorders and who refuse to comply with parents, teachers, are non-compliant. Many have erratic episodes or emotional outbreaks are not intentional. Many students diagnosed with abnormalities in behavior have trouble in school. What triggers this behavior; some experts believe genetics, maybe the cause. Mean while many other researchers believe that conduct disorder and oppositional disorder is caused by a dysfunction in the brain.

Did you know that many students with difficult behaviors have environmental factors, such as poverty, as well as, physical, mental, verbal, and emotional stressors that cause them to react? Stressor and related factors from physical abuse, such as rape, molestation, prostitution and A majority of children with high-risk behaviors and in public schools will go through school without diagnoses for defiancy. Unfortunately, most educators are not educated to deal with deviant behaviors associated with considered high-risk. Did you know that professional educators to recognize the systems above and endorse programs that promote wellness.

Too many educator are ignoring problem occurring and one reason why is because teachers the lack training in Mental Health. Teachers need to learn how to interact, develop awareness, and obtain the skills needed to identify defiant behaviors. It is important for Educators to train teachers, and faculty to address problems occurring in the classroom, as well as, outside the classroom too. In order to avoid labeling a child as defiant behavior learning about behaviors will break the stereotype and labeling a child as the bad kid. The best way for one to decrease defiant behavior is to learn how to be non-defiant. Whether difficult behaviors is an everyday occurrence or not, without training or experience many children will go through their school years labeled a menus.

Be careful of "Defiance disorder" in children

Defiance disorder in children appears to begin from a very early age (between one and three years, in fact). One study has found that if a parent is an alcoholic and has been in trouble with the law, their children are three times more prone to have defiance disorder. Characteristics of children with this disorder are mainly negative, hostile and continuously defiant. They include

* losing their temper often;

* are often angry and resentful of their peers;

* taking delight in arguing with adults and refusing to comply with reasonable requests or rules;

* taking pleasure in deliberately annoying others:

* blaming other people for their own behaviour or mistakes;

* being spiteful and vindictive to get their own way.

The actions which seem to occur relentlessly every day involve deliberately annoying peers in a needling way and being angry and resentful at others. These tend to set the pattern of their behaviour within the classroom. Losing their temper, arguing with, and defying, adults appear to occur regularly too, at least once per week and teachers need to be on their guard against that.

Christian Preschools can a best choice for your children

With the many choices we as parents, thankfully, still retain in this country regarding the education of our children, it may interest some parents to know that there are a few very sound reasons for enrolling their preschooler in a Christian daycare-school.

Christian schools maintain high standards for academics and employ qualified, state-certified classroom teachers, as do public schools in grades K-12. Church run day schools for preschool age children hire only CDA certified teachers and well-screened classroom aides/assistants, as well as nursery workers to care for your infants under the age of one year.

Contrary to common belief, these teachers and assistants are not, nor are they required to be, chosen only from among a pool of candidates from within the church membership. Although, (typically) those hired profess the Christian faith, they may or, may not be of that church's denomination and, often attend a church across town which does not have a school in which they may seek employment. Therefore, no one is concerned about proselytizing you or, your child to get you to join their 'brand' of Christianity.

The curriculum used is fundamentally the same as public school curriculum at this level, with the primary exception being that it includes a daily lesson from the Bible and rudimentary teaching about God's love.This may include singing songs and short Bible stories appropriate to the age of a preschooler,memorizing simple scripture, and learning to apply the Golden Rule when socializing with others in the classroom setting. Nothing too earth shaking nor, mind-altering!

Many non-Christian parents have historically chosen Christian schooling for their children based on 1) strong academics, 2) applied self-discipline, and 3) a smaller class size conducive to more one-on-one attention from the presiding teacher.

At a preschool level, students who attend most Christian schools and day cares will find well equipped, cheery classrooms and safe, up-to-date playground equipment on which to play in the late afternoons following their naps. Lessons are typically presented in the morning before lunch, while the children are most alert.

Field trips, depending upon budget, are often available throughout the 9-month school year. The summer curriculum is somewhat more relaxed with water activities, movie days, and fun arts and crafts throughout the entire day. In the fall, academic classes resume once again, presenting each child with a fresh start on a new level
appropriate for his or, her age. Children learn their alphabet, counting, basic eye-hand coordination, etc.

Classroom sizes vary, but generally are kept to around 8-12 students. Children bring a boxed lunch at most small schools. Of course, there is no mandatory state requirement for preschool attendance, so the parents are free to pick up the children at various times as is convenient for them.

These teachers see their job as a 'calling', not merely a paycheck! Therefore, they tend to be kind and gentle with the children, treat parents with respect, and take their responsibility to teach and safeguard every child in their care very, very seriously!

I know. My granddaughter has been attending a Christian church preschool (she is nearly three, now) for quite some time and she loves it! She was in a secular setting previously and removed on suspicion of possible foul play. Nothing has not been proven at this time but, it is still under investigation. Additionally, there was one young fellow who supposedly enjoyed biting and hitting her!

I do not wish to insinuate that any daycare or, preschool is unfit to teach or, care for our small ones. But, I do say this, - I feel that there is, at present, enough uncertainty in our nation in regards to the future effectiveness of our public education system, and it's ability to safeguard our kids, that I think it wisdom to at least consider this alternative to a 'secular' school setting.

Whether you are of the Christian faith or not, they would love to have you check them out! What could it hurt?

I guarantee, there will be a lot less biting and hitting.

...and, the kids will get along pretty well, too!

How can computers be a friend to a "GIFTED CHILD" ?

Students are all very different; some are slower at learning, while other, more gifted students are much better able to assimilate learning. What distinguishes gifted learners is:

* their ability to learn quickly

* their ability to make connections in their learning and between subjects

* their ability to challenge and bring original thought to their learning.

Gifted learners present a particular challenge to teaching professionals. They need to be constantly challenged and engaged in the learning process, otherwise there is the possibility that they may become bored and disruptive. An aid to promoting that challenge and engagement is through the use of computers.

Computers allow gifted learners to become involved with self directed learning and to go beyond the constraints of usual teaching methods. Computers allow them to explore their own lines of thought and argument and to easily research topics over a wide range of reputed sources. The interactive nature of computer use engages the student in a way that books and libraries do not. Computer use is seen as `cool` and exciting, while libraries have a reputation of quiet boredom.

It is not sufficient to simply provide a gifted learner with a computer and send them on their way. Much expertise is required by a teacher to ensure that any computer aided learning is properly structured and allows the student to properly study and learn. Teachers are still the best able to provide the required stimulus and direction for learning, that has not changed. However, once suitably guided, the use of computers allows students to work at their own pace, so gifted learners are not held back but less able learners can adapt their learning to their own learning style. For example, some students learn better through interactive audio and video presentations, while others prefer reading. Of course, most will prefer a combination, and it is the balance of that combination which computers allow learners to adapt to their own needs.

As the learner takes on higher level learning, computers can offer a lot more. They offer a tool to allow simulations and modeling that is not available easily using any other tool. Students can form arguments and test them relatively easily and quickly. This helps them to develop constructive criticism skills and to develop and put structure to their learning and the academic arguments they will make. This is ideal to develop academic discipline within students and to help them develop at a
fast pace while not disadvantaging the other learners that the teacher also needs to develop.

Another advantage of using computers, especially for gifted learners but also more widely, is the way in which they prepare students for the world of work. Most businesses use computers and a variety of standard software packages. Students that are able to demonstrate their competence in these at application and interview stage will have a distinct advantage in the ever more competitive labor market.

There are some disadvantages that need to be guarded against when using computers to assist the learning of gifted students. It can be all too easy for the student to go off at a tangent and waste some of their time. This may be inadvertently or as a result of some of the other distractions offered through the internet, ranging from social networks to pornography. Some of this can be negated through the use of appropriate filters, but it will also be necessary for the teacher to monitor this. The teacher can do this in a number of ways ranging from physical monitoring of the student, electronic monitoring of the student and by providing expert guidance and setting stretching objectives.

Properly supervised, computers provide an excellent tool for gifted learners to stretch themselves, work at a pace which suits them, maintain their interest in the learning process and to use their own intellectual curiosity to aid their study. However, they are not a panacea and the expertise and stimulus of a good teacher is still absolutely required.

Good Vision Good Education!!!!!!

The six various eye problem in children are found to be:

Myopia
Myopia is a vision problem where students cannot clearly see objects at a distance. Near vision, however, is normal. For this reason, myopia is also called nearsightedness.

Hyperopia
Hyperopia is a vision problem where students cannot clearly see objects at a close range. Vision at a distance, however, is normal. Hyperopia is sometimes called farsightedness.

Presbyopia
Presbyopia is a physical problem with the lens of the eye that causes difficulty with seeing close up.

Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a condition where a student's vision is blurry both far away and close up. Vision has the appearance of an out-of-focus projector. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea of the eye is irregularly shaped.

Amblyopia
Amblyopia is sometimes called "lazy eye." This condition involves poorly developed central vision in one eye that cannot be corrected with glasses. Both eyes have different levels of visual acuity.

Strabismus
Strabismus is sometimes called crossed eyes. It occurs when the eyes do not track and work in tandem and usually is caused by muscle coordination problems.

It is better if we take the children regularly for eye checkups.It is the duty of parents to see if their children can see properly.They must ask them to inform if they have any problem with visions.

Early childhood education should begin in the womb

Early childhood education should begin in the womb. Research has shown a baby in the womb can recognize the voices of his parents. That is why prenatal care should include educating the expectant parents to the validity of interacting with the child in the womb. Exposure to various types of music, reading, and talking to the child will increase the development of the fetus.

Educating your child early on will provide him or her the best educational experience later on. Kindergarten is not the same Kindergarten many remember from years past. Kindergarten once was a social environment where milk and cookies, as well as naps were shared. Now, children entering into Kindergarten are expected to know their basic vowel and consonant sounds, read basic sight words, and perform simple math equations. Children are also expected to demonstrate appropriate social interactions with their teachers and peers. If a child is not being educated during the early years of his development, you can see how a child can already be behind when entering preschool.

It is vital parents communicate early on with their children. Expose them to various learning situations. Teach them their ABC's, count fingers and toes, sing and play games where they must learn turn taking and sharing. And above all else, read to your children. Listening to a story is just as important as decoding the words in a book. If you are excited about learning and put a value on education from the very beginning, your child will follow in your footsteps.

Research clearly shows patterns in learning and how far a person takes his education. Parents who drop out,produce children who drop out. Parents who value education will generally produce children who value education. Feeling confident and expectant about learning should be developed early on. These are just a few reasons why early childhood education is vital.

Why is Early Childhood Education important?

Early childhood education is important because during their first three years of life children's brains are developing connections. If the right connections are not nurtured and don't form, the potential to develop those connections is lost forever.

"Early child education", however, does not necessarily have to mean placing children three and under in a formal program. The mother, who can devote individual attention to her child, may be better able to nurture that child's emotional/intellectual development if she is a mother who has excellent parenting skills. Often, however, there are mothers who don't understand what it takes to nurture a child's development properly. This is when children will benefit from being in an early childhood education program.

Many mothers have knowledge of feeding their babies, getting them to sleep, or teaching them skills like recognizing letters, numbers, and colors but may lack skill when it comes to teaching toddlers personal/social behaviors, such as knowing how to wait one's turn, having some self-control, following simple directions/rules, or leaving mom's side. Early childhood education can help the toddlers of mothers who don't have a sufficient understanding of brain development/mental maturity (beyond just learning the ABC's and counting).

Regardless of the skill level of their mother, however, when healthy children of normal development reach about four years of age they often express a wish to expand their world out beyond their own home, parents, and siblings. Particularly mature three-year-olds may also express this wish/need. While children under three or just three are usually absolutely delighted to just be with their mother all the time (talking, playing, going places), as they approach four their social needs begin to become apparent.

In other words, three-year-olds may not be too aware that there's a world beyond the one they share with their mother; four-year-olds are well aware of the bigger world, other children with whom they can play, and reason to want to be out in that bigger world. This is when some type of preschool program can serve the purpose of offering the child activities that are appropriate for his/her level of emotional/social development.

An experience of a Preschool Teacher on DISCIPLINING

Disciplining preschoolers can be a challenge for both teachers and family. Therefore, the teacher must have an open door policy with the children's families so that both can be on the same page.

I am in my third year of teaching pre-school for Head Start, and my fifteenth year of working with young children. Over the years, ideas of discipline have changed a great deal.From the time I was in school and spanking was a normal form of discipline, to a time when officials deemed it wrong to discipline at all. The latter is due to lowering a child's self esteem. feel the best discipline strategies fall between the two extremes.

I have a classroom of seventeen three, four, and five year old children, and do not have any disciplinary problems. The day the children start school I introduce the classroom rules and ask for their input on any other rules. Amazingly, the children tend to make stricter rules for themselves than I do.

The main discipline I use is 1-2-3 magic with green, red, and yellow cards. If the get a one count they know there will be only two more before their card is changed to yellow by them. I think it is important to give young children more than one time to realize what they are doing is not acceptable. Once a child get a yellow card they loose a privilege, such as no tricycle during recess. If they get a red card, a note gets sent home. When they change their card, I then sit down and talk to them about their behavior choices. I remind them that they made the choice to break a rule that was made by the children and me, rather than keeping a green card. I then ask them why what they did was wrong and what they can do different next time. It is imperative to talk to a child after a disciplinary action.

In my classroom I do not yell at the children or offer empty threats. I feel that when you yell at children you are lowering yourself to a child's age level, and the child is going to block you out and not hear what you say. I find it more productive to talk softer so the child has to strain to hear. You then have their attention. It is also important to talk to them in a manner that shows you still love them, you just do not agree with what they did. I find counting to be a good way of discipline also. When my children are getting to loud, or out of control at playtime, I simply hold one finger up and say, "ONE, two, three, four, five." As I count, my voice gets softer until the final numbers are silent, and all they see are my fingers held up. Nine times out of ten the room becomes totally quiet at one. Another way I get instant attention is to turn the lights off and on once.

In order to discipline children productively, one needs to have respect for the children ,and expect respect from them. Discipline should always be a positive experience. Negative discipline will only lead to more negative behavior. Positive reinforcement will help children to look at ways to resolve their problems for the rest of their lives.

To reinforce positive behavior, each day all the children keep a green card, I place a marble in a jar. When they get ten marbles, they get a marble party. I allow them to vote on what they would like to do from three choices. For example; we have had a classroom carnival, a popcorn and movie party, a make you own ice cream sundae party, and a make your own pizza party. This gives them the knowledge that positive behavior results in a positive reaction from their teacher. Children do not need to be spanked, screamed at, or threatened, to behave in a manner desired by the teacher. . As the old cliche states, "you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar."

What/who is a preschooler?

What is a preschooler? Or should we say, who is a preschooler? In some countries preschool is called reception or nursery. Our definition of a preschooler is a child between the ages of 2 1/2 and 5. They have passed the toddler stage and are not quite ready for kindergarten.

Sometimes you will hear “the terrible two’s or the terrifying three’s”. But, if you try to understand the changes your child is going through between the ages of 2 and 5 you will not need to give them such labels. There will be days where your child will be a monster and others he may be a little angel. This is because he is developing independence and learning so many new things. It can be frustrating for him at times and for his parents as well.

Preschoolers have developed language skills and can communicate their wants and needs. At times this is the most fabulous skill and at others it can be very difficult to deal with. They are physically able to do more things than they could as toddlers; this means they have more mobility and can do many tasks on their own. But, it also means you need to keep your eyes and ears open to make sure they are safe. They are developing social skills as well. Children start by parallel playing, this means they play next to each other, not necessarily talking or interacting in anyway. It is possible they will talk to each other or watch one another, but not always. Eventually during the preschool years they learn to play with each other and start to develop friendships. As you can see there are a lot of things going on for your preschooler, development, independence and growth to name a few.

However, preschoolers also have fears and insecurities. Parents need to tend to all of these needs with patience and care. Your child may love going to school and then suddenly one day cry and throw a fit saying he doesn’t want to go. This could be because he has a bit of separation anxiety today. You need to reassure him that he will have fun at school and you will be here when he returns. Let him know that his teacher and friends are waiting for him and there will be lots of things to do; it will be time to come home before he knows it.

Just like everyone else, preschoolers are all different. Each and every child will develop at his own pace, have his own likes and dislikes and strengths as well as weaknesses. Don’t expect your child to be just like your neighbor or even just like his big brother. Tread softy but with an even keel; routines and rules should always remain the same. If you maintain a consistent pattern, your child will know she is loved and will develop happily and safely.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Children should learn to Dress-up Themselves

Every preschooler has develops a sense of style. The problem is, it isn’t their style. Preschoolers can be quite stubborn, especially when you are in a rush in the morning to get out the door. So, what do you do?

First of all, you need to choose your battles. Does she want to wear something totally inappropriate for the occasion, or is it just an outfit that doesn’t really match? A summer dress in the winter can be a problem. But, it is also easy to solve. Allow her to wear the dress with a long sleeve shirt under it and a pair of tights. Preschool teachers have seen it all, so don’t be embarrassed at what your child thinks is a great outfit. At this age, it is really a blessing that your child is showing an interest and wanting to choose her own clothes. This shows that she is developing some independence and wants to have some say in what she can do. However it is important that you lay down some ground rules and stick to them at all times.

For example:
Costumes are never allowed to be worn to school unless there is a special costume occasion; or costumes may only be worn at home, not at school or the supermarket.
In the winter we must be dressed warmly enough, such as long sleeves and pants or tights.

If your school has a rule that closed shoes are required, chose a few pairs of shoes and let your child know that these are the shoes that can be worn to school and no others. We must be safe at school.

Clothes need to fit, if they are way too big they can be dangerous, you can trip over them or get them caught in doors, etc. If they are too small you won’t be comfortable.

Certain clothes are not for school or outdoor play; perhaps you could put these outfits on a separate shelf or use a different colored hanger for special occasion clothes.

Don’t worry about whether clothes really match or not. Children will often want to wear stripes with plaids or colors that totally don’t go together. But, these outfits are not hurting anyone and if your child feels happy wearing them, there should be no problem. There is nothing worse than a child feeling all proud of what they have chosen and you squash it by insulting her choice.

Use iphone to teach your preschool child

ABC Zoo is a teaching and development application for your kids. Easy-to-use on a trip or whenever you are out with your children to amuse or keep them busy. A useful and funny app that lets your kid get used to reading. Amusing and great-pictured animals attract the kid's attention.

Little ones will happily zoom through the letters to see all the funny animal pictures and learn their ABCs in the process. For sure they will like sleepy hippo and curious fox, hungry alligator and wise owl, happy dolphin and tiny iguana, droll jaguar and proud lion, and, and, and… There are twenty-six attractive animals that won’t make your kids be bored.

The app is very simple and user-friendly. There are letters on the screen. When you tap one of them, you will see that letter enlarged and a funny picture of an animal, whose name starts with this letter, shows up. When you tap the enlarged letter, you will hear the pronunciation of this letter, e.g. "B". When you tap the animal, you will hear the pronunciation of that animal's name, e.g. "Bear". You can sweep large letters without returning to the initial alphabet screen.

Application is for children from two to seven years old. But younger kids can also be attracted by colorful screen.

Be up-to-date parents and don’t hesitate to use modern tools, e.g. your phone or ipod for your kids’ education. Search for educational applications and develop your children!

About - Montessori

Developed around the turn of the century by Maria Montessori, Italy's first female physician, the Montessori method consists of a specialized teaching style and expertly designed materials that combine to unlock each child's natural motivation to learn.

Unlike most traditional classrooms, in which teachers impose lessons upon a group of children organized by age, Montessori creates an environment in which the teacher plays the role of facilitator as each child satisfies his or her own inherent urge to learn and develop. Further, as Montessori does not segregate children by age, older children share their skills and knowledge with younger ones. This not only acts as an important motivator, as the younger ones emulate their more advanced peers. It also serves to develop crucial social skills as well.

In short, Montessori teaches children how to learn. What is more, it does so at a critical age -- two through six years -- when their receptivity to new concepts is most keen and core aspects of their personalities are being formed. Through Montessori they discover that the will, ability and skills to learn are inside each of them rather than provided externally. And in so doing, it helps provide a foundation of self confidence and esteem that can serve them for the rest of their lives.

The best way to become familiar with our extraordinary program, however, is to see and experience it. Parents who have never been in a true, normalized Montessori classroom are usually extremely impressed with its unique materials, format and calm ambiance.

How to get your children ready to learn to read?

Ever notice that some children just seem to know more than others, seem to delight in pointing to a word on a billboard and shouting it out? Did you notice this, and think, well that child was just born smart? Every child, even children with delays have the same chance to learn. Every child, is born with the brain power to be more, learn more and become more if given the right environment for early learning.

A child does not realize they are learning, as we are all born with the natural desire to learn from the environment around us. The key to developing the genius every child is born to be, is the right environment, and involvement with the child. Play, how a child learns, can be richly rewarding when the time is used wisely and used to introduce early reading and math skills. These simple techniques, incorporate into exciting play time, will help your child unlock unlimited learning power, and grow brain connections that will benefit your child for a life time.

One of the best programs on the market today is the one you need to start. This three in one program combines the proven techniques to teach early reading and math to your child. Add to these is the teaching your baby encyclopedic knowledge. With visuals, you can introduce your child to the world around them and beyond. Teach your child about the plants, flowers, famous people and places. Give you child a boost in curiosity about the world beyond the front door. Allow your child to start today to learn about subjects that other wise they might not be exposed to for years to come.

Develop the genius in your child today. Take tried and true proven programs and find them all incorporated into the only program you will ever need to create the optimal learning environment for your child.

CHILD SAFE INTERNET BROWSERS FOR CHILDREN.......

Children are 'curious' by nature & have a constant desire to explore anything and everything. The Internet holds them spellbound in amazement ! It is also one of the best ways to satisfy their curiosity, have fun and get educated. For kids to surf the web, there are colorful browsers available with Excellent security features. These browsers allow parents to choose suitable Web sites and prevent children from accessing undesirable sites. They are colorful, fun, easy to install and use & are excellent for parental control & filtering.

Features and Benefits of browsers for children:-

1)These browsers allows parents to decide which Web sites are suitable for you child, prevents a page with objectionable words from appearing. and to control a child's access to them. They help parents shield you children from undesirable content. Through these browsers, parents can set up levels of access appropriate for each child age-wise.
2)They Provides parents with a record of a child's online activities, which site their kids visit are automatically recorded.
3)Simple enough for new computer users to install and use. They make navigating the Web simple, colorful and fun.
4)Some even have in-built stories, coloring, games, education material etc or built-in list of sites to visit..

Just what is children's computer education.

Years ago, computer literacy was defined in terms of specific knowledge of computer technology and terminology. Today, it is regarded more as a continuum of awareness, skills, experience, and attitudes based on the age and capabilities of the individual child.

1.An awareness of what the computer can do – that it is a tool for learning and finding out about things, and for expressing and creating things.

2.An awareness of ideas and behavior that are a part of the computer culture, such as knowledge of safe behavior on the Internet.

3.Basic operational skills learned by immersion in a variety of software programs.

4.A body of successful experiences that over time develop within a child an intuitive feel for dealing with new things that he encounters in a computer environment. Typical examples are how to navigate a new program and how to "trouble-shoot" when something isn't working.

5.An attitude of discovery, mastery, purposefulness, and pleasure in using computers.

Computers benefit children with special needs...

Computers have proven extremely beneficial to kids with certain speech, audio, and motor limitations. Kids with special needs can use alternative input and output devices (assistive technologies) to interact with computers and do things that they normally could not accomplish independently. They benefit especially from having access to an on-demand, patient tutor that allows them to work at their own pace. What they achieve through using a computer enhances their self-esteem and provides them with a greater sense of control and engagement with the world. The internet provides them with the best of knowledge for their treatments and they can be in touch with doctors or friends through the internet, in India or Abroad. Also, the internet can later help them earn their means of livelihood.

Computer and children :For Parents and Teachers

• Computer software and even some websites are now designed specifically for children as young as age two or three, and computers are becoming more common in day care and early childhood centers.

• How can parents/teachers be sure they're choosing interactive media that are not only "educational" but also "high quality"?

• Experts offer a few suggestions:
o Check out the software there to see whether it is developmentally appropriate.
o Make sure the product has an age range, and that your child falls into it.
o Check to see if an educator or child development expert was involved in creating the content; if the package doesn't include this information, the company's website might.
o Check out independent, non-profit groups' websites for advice and reviews.

The most important thing parents/teacher can do to help ensure their kids get the educational benefits of interactive media, however, is probably also the easiest—sit down and use the media with them. Experts repeatedly stress that children learn best when they have a parent or other adult to help them use media of any kind. Parents can help preschoolers understand what is happening, what is being asked of them, and offer suggestions on what to do differently to get different results.

History of Preschools

Preschool programs began in earnest in the United States during the first quarter of the twentieth century. The philosophical foundations for these programs can be traced to the belief, popularized during the seventeenth century, that early childhood is a unique period of life during which the foundation for all subsequent learning is established. The early programs often began informally and involved the efforts of women who took turns caring for each other’s children. The first public preschool program began at the Franklin School in Chicago in 1925 with the support of the Chicago Women’s Club.
The popularity of preschool as an option for young children increased dramatically after the 1970s. In 1970, for example, only 20 percent of three- and four-year-olds participated in organized education programs. In 1998, approximately half of all children in this age range attended a full-time pre-school program. The increasing popularity of pre-school has been fueled in part by an increase in the number of women entering the work force as well as by a belief among many parents and educators that children need early preparation for elementary school.

How to Start Kids Typing on Keyboards

1. Find a Practice Keyboard
A good place to begin is by familiarizing your child with the concept of a typing keyboard. I found an old computer keyboard at a yard sale for twenty-five cents and I put it in the kids play area of our home. Even the little ones love pretending to type out a letter to Grandma.

Another good familiarization technique is to print out a keyboard layout and laminate it for use as a placemat at the dining table.

2. Benefits of Typing
Even though most children younger than fourth grade do not have the finger reach and motor coordination to type in the traditional sense, your child is old enough to start learning how to use a keyboard if they know the alphabet and can identify all the letters. Learning to type at an early age helps kids with hand eye coordination, and fine motor skill.

3. Easy Typing Tutorials for Kids
One way to start is by having the child type their name. It works best if you set the font size large. Encourage your children to use both hands on the keyboard. Even though they are going to use the hunt and peck approach, train them to try using more than one finger. Explain that they can use the left hand for letters on the left side of the keyboard and use their right hand for letters on the right.

4. Teaching Typing Technique
For older children, begin by providing a demonstration of good typing technique. Encourage them to look primarily at the computer screen while they type. You can even cover their hands with a cloth or cut away part of an old shoe box to place over the keyboard so they can learn to memorize proper key location.

5. Typing Software for Kids
There are also dozens of software programs available to teach kids how to type. You can ask a keyboarding instructor at your local school for a recommendation on which one is best for your child's skill level.

Is it necessary for preschoolers to have computer skills?

No, it is definitely not necessary for preschoolers to have computer skills. Children can learn the same skills in many other ways (skills such as eye-hand coordination and familiarity with numbers and letters). Preschoolers will certainly become familiar with computers and computer skills as they enter the public school system. However, most children enjoy the computer, and it can be another way for them to explore and learn. Most of the new computer programs are quite open-ended, providing opportunities for problem solving and thinking skills, rather than just rote quizzes (as they were when they first came out). Most schools will have opportunities for preschoolers to experience computers, if you do not have one at home.
In summary, a preschooler's learning will not be limited by not having computer experience, but computers can be a fun and challenging way to enhance learning if they are available.

Pre-School and Computers

• There are many researches on children these days.
• Most of this research focuses on whether interactive technology such as computers and video games support children’s learning and development.
• It also shows that open-ended software, which allows children to make discoveries and choices and to experience the consequences of their choices, helps develop imagination and problem-solving skills.
• Studies show that software should encourage young children to be active, rather than passive learners.
• In a widely referenced study by Susan Haugland called "The effect of computer software on preschool children's developmental gains." According to her,"3- and 4-year-old children who use computers with supporting activities that reinforce the major [classroom] objectives ... have significantly greater developmental gains when compared to children without computer experiences in similar classrooms."

• Activities for two to four-year-olds should reinforce the development of their thinking and motor skills such as distinguishing colors and shapes, naming objects, cutting, pasting and painting.
• Drill-and-practice software, which is based on skills exercises that usually centre around questions and answers, can actually reduce kids' creativity.
• The children who used open-ended software had gains in IQ, dexterity, verbal skills, problem solving, abstraction, and long-term memory, and the children who had access to the additional activities scored the greatest gains.

[ Dexterity: 1. skill or adroitness in using the hands or body; agility. 2. mental adroitness or skill; cleverness.]

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Primary Education

Primary education is the first stage of compulsory education. It is preceded by pre-school or nursery education and is followed by secondary education. In Nepal this stage of education is usually known as elementary education.

In most countries, it is compulsory for children to receive primary education, though in many jurisdictions it is permissible for parents to provide it. The transition to secondary school or high school is somewhat arbitrary, but it generally occurs at about eleven or twelve years of age. Some educational systems have separate middle schools with the transition to the final stage of education taking place at around the age of fourteen.

The major goals of primary education are achieving basic literacy and numeracy amongst all pupils, as well as establishing foundations in science, geography, history and other social sciences. The relative priority of various areas, and the methods used to teach them, are an area of considerable political debate.

Typically, primary education is provided in schools, where the child will stay in steadily advancing classes until they complete it and move on to high school/secondary school. Children are usually placed in classes with one teacher who will be primarily responsible for their education and welfare for that year. This teacher may be assisted to varying degrees by specialist teachers in certain subject areas, often music or physical education. The continuity with a single teacher and the opportunity to build up a close relationship with the class is a notable feature of the primary education system.

Right to Education

The right to education is recognised as a human right by the United Nations and is understood to establish an entitlement to free, compulsory primary education for all children, an obligation to develop secondary education accessible to all children, as well as equitable access to higher education, and a responsibility to provide basic education for individuals who have not completed primary education. In addition to these access to education provisions the right to education encompasses also the obligation to eliminate discrimination at all levels of the educational system, to set minimum standards and to improve quality.

The right to education is enshrined in Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 14 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.The right to education has also been reaffirmed in the 1960 UNESCO Convention against Discrimination in Education, 1st Protocol of ECHR and the 1981 Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

The right to education may also include the right to freedom of education.

Systems of Education Used:

Education is a concept, referring to the process in which students can learn something:

Instruction refers to the facilitating of learning toward identified objectives, delivered either by an instructor or other forms.
Teaching refers to the actions of a real live instructor designed to impart learning to the student.
Learning refers to learning with a view toward preparing learners with specific knowledge, skills, or abilities that can be applied immediately upon completion.

Primary education

Primary school in open air. Teacher (priest) with class from the outskirts of Bucharest, around 1842.Primary (or elementary) education consists of the first 5-7 years of formal, structured education. In general, main education consists of six or eight years of schooling starting at the age of five or six, although this varies between, and sometimes within, countries. Globally, around 70% of primary-age children are enrolled in primary education, and this proportion is rising.[1] Under the Education for All programs driven by UNESCO, most countries have committed to achieving universal enrollment in primary education by 2015, and in many countries, it is compulsory for children to receive primary education. The division between primary and secondary education is somewhat arbitrary, but it generally occurs at about eleven or twelve years of age. Some education systems have separate middle schools, with the transition to the final stage of secondary education taking place at around the age of fourteen. Schools that provide primary education, are mostly referred to as primary schools. Primary schools in these countries are often subdivided into infant schools and junior schools.

Secondary education

In most contemporary educational systems of the world, secondary education consists of the second years of formal education that occur during adolescence.[citation needed] It is characterized by transition from the typically compulsory, comprehensive primary education for minors, to the optional, selective tertiary, "post-secondary", or "higher" education (e.g., university, vocational school) for adults.[citation needed] Depending on the system, schools for this period, or a part of it, may be called secondary or high schools, gymnasiums, lyceums, middle schools, colleges, or vocational schools. The exact meaning of any of these terms varies from one system to another. The exact boundary between primary and secondary education also varies from country to country and even within them, but is generally around the seventh to the tenth year of schooling. Secondary education occurs mainly during the teenage years. In the United States and Canada primary and secondary education together are sometimes referred to as K-12 education, and in New Zealand Year 1-13 is used. The purpose of secondary education can be to give common knowledge, to prepare for higher education or to train directly in a profession.

The emergence of secondary education in the United States did not happen until 1910, caused by the rise in big businesses and technological advances in factories (i.e. emergence of electrification), that required skilled workers. In order to meet this new job demand, high schools were created and the curriculum focused on practical job skills that would better prepare students for white collar or skilled blue collar work. This proved to be beneficial for both the employer and the employee, because this improvement in human capital caused employees to become more efficient, which lowered costs for the employer, and skilled employees received a higher wage than employees with just primary educational attainment.

In Europe the grammar school or academy existed from as early as the 1500s, public schools or fee paying schools, or charitable educational foundations have an even longer history.

Higher education

The University of Cambridge is an institute of higher learning.Higher education, also called tertiary, third stage, or post secondary education, is the non-compulsory educational level that follows the completion of a school providing a secondary education, such as a high school, secondary school. Tertiary education is normally taken to include undergraduate and postgraduate education, as well as vocational education and training. Colleges and universities are the main institutions that provide tertiary education. Collectively, these are sometimes known as tertiary institutions. Tertiary education generally results in the receipt of certificates, diplomas, or academic degrees.

Higher education includes teaching, research and social services activities of universities, and within the realm of teaching, it includes both the undergraduate level (sometimes referred to as tertiary education) and the graduate (or postgraduate) level (sometimes referred to as graduate school). Higher education in that country generally involves work towards a degree-level or foundation degree qualification. In most developed countries a high proportion of the population (up to 50%) now enter higher education at some time in their lives. Higher education is therefore very important to national economies, both as a significant industry in its own right, and as a source of trained and educated personnel for the rest of the economy.[citation needed]

Adult education

Adult education has become common in many countries. It takes on many forms, ranging from formal class-based learning to self-directed learning and e-learning. A number of career specific courses such as veterinary, medical billing and coding, real estate license, bookkeeping and many more are now available to students through the Internet.

Alternative education

Alternative education, also known as non-traditional education or educational alternative, is a broad term that may be used to refer to all forms of education outside of traditional education (for all age groups and levels of education). This may include not only forms of education designed for students with special needs (ranging from teenage pregnancy to intellectual disability), but also forms of education designed for a general audience and employing alternative educational philosophies and methods.

Alternatives of the latter type are often the result of education reform and are rooted in various philosophies that are commonly fundamentally different from those of traditional compulsory education. While some have strong political, scholarly, or philosophical orientations, others are more informal associations of teachers and students dissatisfied with certain aspects of traditional education[citation needed]. These alternatives, which include charter schools, alternative schools, independent schools, and home-based learning vary widely, but often emphasize the value of small class size, close relationships between students and teachers, and a sense of community[citation needed].

Indigenous education

Increasingly, the inclusion of indigenous models of education (methods and content) as an alternative within the scope of formal and non-formal education systems, has come to represent a significant factor contributing to the success of those members of indigenous communities who choose to access these systems, both as students/learners and as teachers/instructors.

As an educational method, the inclusion of indigenous ways of knowing, learning, instructing, teaching and training, has been viewed by many critical and postmodern scholars as important for ensuring that students/learners and teachers/instructors (whether indigenous or non-indigenous) are able to benefit from education in a culturally sensitive manner that draws upon, utilizes, promotes and enhances awareness of indigenous traditions.[2]

For indigenous students or learners, and teachers or instructors, the inclusion of these methods often enhances educational effectiveness, success and learning outcomes by providing education that adheres to their own inherent perspectives, experiences and worldview. For non-indigenous students and teachers, education using such methods often has the effect of raising awareness of the individual traditions and collective experience of surrounding indigenous communities and peoples, thereby promoting greater respect for and appreciation of the cultural realities of these communities and peoples.

In terms of educational content, the inclusion of indigenous knowledge, traditions, perspectives, worldviews and conceptions within curricula, instructional materials and textbooks and coursebooks have largely the same effects as the inclusion of indigenous methods in education. Indigenous students and teachers benefit from enhanced academic effectiveness, success and learning outcomes, while non-indigenous students/learners and teachers often have greater awareness, respect, and appreciation for indigenous communities and peoples in consequence of the content that is shared during the course of educational pursuits.

A prime example of how indigenous methods and content can be used to promote the above outcomes is demonstrated within higher education in Canada. Due to certain jurisdictions' focus on enhancing academic success for Aboriginal learners and promoting the values of multiculturalism in society, the inclusion of indigenous methods and content in education is often seen as an important obligation and duty of both governmental and educational authorities.

Online Early Childhood Education Degree

Early childhood education focuses on the early care and education for children from birth to age eight years. It involves the use of various techniques and instructional skills to encourage and stimulate growth and development through to the next stage.

Getting an Early Childhood Education degree online will prepare you to meet the specific challenges in the education of young children. If you have a genuine love and passion for working with young children and are looking to enter into the field, an Associate’s degree in early childhood education will provide you with a well-rounded education in early childhood and field experience.

The program also provides a great opportunity for unlicensed substitute teachers and childcare workers to obtain the additional knowledge and training needed to upgrade their skills. The program focuses on core online courses and topics that teach the principles of educational practice and theory with an integration of teaching skills. Some of the courses covered include childhood education, educational development, nutrition, health and special-needs-care.

The program takes one to two years to complete. Successful completion of the online Associate degree in early childhood education opens the door to a four-year degree program that allows for more advanced and specialized studies within the field.

An Online Early Childhood Education Degree pursued at the Masters or PhD levels will see students focusing on specialized content, knowledge and training that will qualify them for administrative and leadership positions within the field.

Employment Outlook for Childcare Professionals

Graduates of an advanced degree program in Early Childhood Education will have the appropriate qualifications needed to seek licensure within the state they wish to work. They can then pursue various employment opportunities in pre-school childcare centers, day-care centers, recreational centers, kindergartens or other agencies that specialize in childcare. They can also work as a teacher or teacher’s assistant at the elementary or secondary level.

Schools that provide an Online Degree in Early Childhood Education

Western Governors University (BA in Early Childhood Education)

Northern Maine Community College (Associate in Early Childhood Ed)

Penn Foster College

University of Phoenix

Capella University

Rasmussen College

Salary Range for Childcare Professionals

The median salary for childcare professionals working in a kindergarten, elementary or secondary school is around $25,000- $33,748 per year. A daycare teacher can earn up to $24,165 per year, while a director of a preschool can earn up to $33,458 per year.

Distance Learning

Different forms of distance learning have been in existence for ages now. Course material was once delivered by mail and an education away from school was always an alternative, albeit not entirely a popular one at the time. But all this changed with the advent of computers and the Internet. Thanks to e-mail, multi-media learning tools, video-conferencing and interactive communication, distance learning has reached an entirely new level of acceptance. Statistics show that there are nearly 1.6 million students in the U.S. today taking advantage of online education.

So, what does distance learning imply nowadays? To put it simply, distance learning is a means of education, which has done away with the traditional format of an educational premise or establishment. Brick and mortar institutions have given way to degree programs and courses available round the clock on the Internet and accessible from anywhere in the world. As more and more schools and colleges include virtual education into their curriculum, the quality of distance learning also improves. It is however, still imperative to verify that the institution offering the online degree is fully accredited by the necessary agencies – governmental or non-governmental – so as to ensure that the quality of training and education meets all the levels required.

There are several advantages to distance learning. Some of them are:

Distance learning offers flexibility. As long as you have an Internet connection and a computer, you can study when you want and where you want. It also offers flexibility for those juggling other commitments such as a job or family responsibilities.

Online degree programs are a boon for those who have accessibility issues regarding the school or college of their choice. This could mean that they live too far away to commute (or even in a different state or country) or are restricted in terms of mobility – they might be injured, handicapped or elderly.

There is no waste of resources or time involved through commuting to class, transport costs and even parking fees.

As an online student, you will have access to the most current material available as well as have the opportunity to be taught by faculty from around the world. The Internet has removed all geographical boundaries and distance learning can help foster a larger worldview through interaction with students and perspectives from all corners of the world.

Distance learning propagates self-paced learning. Students need to learn how to pace themselves and concentrate on areas that require more attention. The advantage is that there is no need to wait for slower students in a class to catch up or lag behind the quicker students as seen in a traditional classroom setting. Students also have the opportunity to join chat rooms and forums at any point of time to hash out solutions and discuss problems with the course with other students and faculty online.
Distance degree programs can be less expensive than a traditional degree program with lower tuition fees and costs saved on accommodation, travel, parking, babysitting and the like as students will be studying from home. Scholarships and financial aid is also available for online students as they are for on-campus ones.

There is no doubt that an online distance learning degree can benefit many but before enrolling for any course, do all your homework about the college or institution. There are a profusion of ‘diploma mills’ out there that offer degrees at ridiculously cheap rates. This is mainly possible as there is hardly any education involved in such scenarios. Avoid the temptation to cut costs and choose a college that is recognized as a valid establishment by potential employers and save time and money in the long run. There are a number of excellent accredited online institutions in the country today, so go ahead and make full use of the tremendous opportunities available at your disposal and take that leap into a more successful future.

Points to keep in Mind-- For Parents

Did you know that Internet addiction can lead to other problems such as depression, hostility ADHD and social phobia? Whether your child has ADHD or not, you will need to warn them about certain unsavoury characters such as child predators who prowl the net and giving personal information on the Net, not to mention information on making bombs, drugs, alcohol and sex. But if your child does have ADHD, where can you get help with ADHD?

A great source of help with ADHD is looking out for helpful forums, newsletters and other websites where you can find out what is going on in the world of ADHD. Some of these sites are sponsored by the drug companies so a great way to get the other side of the question is to look at alternative treatments for ADHD and find out just what is going on. This is one way we can go about helping kids with ADHD.

The second point for parents is what side effects and long term effects are associated with ADHD meds. This is a very controversial question. Let us face it - we have to know what the effects of powerful mind altering drugs are going to have on our children. The main ingredients in Ritalin is methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine which is the main ingredient in Dexedrine. As their names suggest, we are dealing with amphetamines here and you do not need to have a degree in rocket science to realize that these are still classed as Schedule II drugs which mean there is a potential risk of addiction and /or substance abuse. Hardly a great way of helping kids with ADHD. There is another problem in that children and teenagers who are on these drugs for their ADHD start to mix them with alcohol and other substances in order to party longer. These stimulants are also in high demand on the school parking lot. I know that Adderall pills will sell for about $15 each.

The third point for parents in looking for help with ADHD is that the sites sponsored by the drug companies will point out all the benefits of these drugs. Yes, they will reduce hyperactivity and help the kids to focus better. This is true and these drugs will work for 70% to 80% of kids with ADHD. But that is short term and the sites will never or rarely mention the research done on the long term effects of these drugs on kids' brains and their development. All the research, if it is quoted, is short term and limited to Caucasians. Has nobody followed the effects of Ritalin which has now been on the market for over forty years? Are the drug companies really interested in helping kids with ADHD ?

Why do you think it is so hard to get help with ADHD, especially in the area of homeopathic treatment and/ or herbal remedies? Part of the answer is that there are no powerful lobbies connected with this branch of treatment. But the hard fact remains that they are just as effective as the ADHD meds, there are no side effects and there are no long term risks at all.

Know about ADHD

The first thing to realize in handling ADHD issues is that it is not a disease and it does not mean that your kid is going to turn into a criminal or a drug addict. While it is true that there is a higher incidence of crime among adults who had ADHD, there is the indisputable fact that many people with ADHD have grown up to be successful and responsible adults.

In a recent interview, the Director of the National Council On Alcoholism & Drug Abuse points out that college students who are abusing Adderall to study for longer marathons, are exposing themselves to risks of depression, impaired judgment and addiction. This is one of the most controversial ADHD issues. This is for college students so there are risks for children on these drugs and we should remember that the human brain goes on developing until we are twenty five ! Parents need to be aware of the risks of these drugs and weigh up the advantages and disadvantages. This is one of the most crucial areas in handling ADHD issues.

The second thing parents have to be aware of in handling ADHD issues is that bullying may be a problem at school so they should look out for signs of this if their child has ADHD. The fact is that when children are hyperactive and cannot concentrate or focus, then they are getting attention in a negative way in the classroom. It could mean rejection by the other children and the child may react by using aggression and become a bully. Very often, bullying is a mere defence mechanism but it is a dangerous route as aggression can turn to violence.

As regards doing homework or indeed anything which demands focus and concentration, the third thing that parents need to be aware of is that ADHD children have a lot to struggle with. Images and sounds all vie for the child's attention and it is no surprise that a ticking clock may distract him or her. Sitting a child near a corridor in the classroom may not help and parents should have a quiet area at home for homework and ensure that TV and phones are turned off and there is no distraction. Homework can become one of the most frustrating ADHD issues for parents and children.

In handling ADHD issues, the fourth thing that parents need to be aware of is that behavior modification techniques are now supported by most parenting and health bodies as the only effective way of dealing with ADHD. While psycho-stimulant drugs can help a child to concentrate, they do not cure the child and pills will not teach skills. The work of Dr. Gregory Fabiano and William Pelham is very important in this area and they have shown that behavior therapy can actually help the children to reduce their dosages, while building on firm foundations to make them responsible and mature adults.

Montessori Education and Classrooms

Freedom in the Montessori classroom is often misunderstood not only by the parents, but also by some teachers. What we need to remember is that from a Montessori point of view freedom is not the right to do what one wishes without thought or consideration for others. It also does not mean that the only way the child can be creative is to be allowed to do whatever he/she chooses without any consistent parameters and guidance from the adult in the room. For freedom to work creatively and constructively it has to function within the firm guidelines of discipline. Discipline does not mean being regimented and having to submit to the will of another. Freedom and discipline are two sides of the same coin. Freedom is the ability to stop, think and make a choice to the exclusion of any other possible given choices. Discipline is making correct choices while respecting the environment, and the rights of others to function and also make choices. Yes, to facilitate growth and correct choice making the child needs to act and be given opportunities to make choices. However, this does not mean the teacher abdicates responsibility. On the contrary it puts greater responsibility on the teacher.

The teacher has the responsibility of setting out firm parameters and guidelines within which the freedom may be used. This is not an easy task, especially if the teacher does not fully and correctly interpret the Montessori freedom and discipline philosophy in her own mind. Children love order, they are creatures of habit, and all the teacher needs to do is set out very clear guidelines and expectations within which the freedom may be enjoyed. Children are also expert manipulators, and till such time as the expectations have become a part of the daily routine, they will try to see how far they can push and change the rules to suit themselves. It is for this reason the expectations and rules need to be made clear early in the school year.

All this involves the teacher to be ever vigilant and consistent. They do not have to be labeled “mean or hard”. They have to remember to be consistent at all times while remaining kind and loving at the same time. Some teachers find this hard. While trying to set out order some teachers forget to show loving care and concern. Others show more than necessary care and concern giving the impression to the child that there is “wiggle room” to break the rules. Once you get this reputation, you will be struggling with freedom and discipline all year long.

So how do we give freedom and maintain discipline at the same time? How do we walk the fine line to balance and maintain the correct freedom and discipline? Here are some pointers that have worked well for me over the years.

Foster freedom in the room in the following ways:
Allow freedom to move, to communicate, to choose activity, to work with others.
Provide Limitations that give meaning and direction to the freedom in the following ways:
Choices the child makes may not interfere with the rights of others, this provides harmony.
The child may only choose work he/she has been presented, and is able to do.
The child may only use material for the purpose for which it is intended, correctly with respect.
Limit the number of materials. Only present tried and tested materials that are beneficial to the child’s development. This means no toys and unnecessary busy work.
I have deliberately kept these guidelines brief, allowing for elaboration and discussion by the teachers themselves. None of this is news to any experienced Montessori teacher. But there is a need for constant reminder, and encouragement for all the teachers, especially those who constantly struggle with the concept of freedom and discipline, for those who give up and give too much freedom without consistency and for those who maintain discipline by being regimented and sacrifice freedom. Remember consistency tempered with love and caring is the key. The child needs to know YES, you do love and care very much. But he/she also needs to know and accept NO, there will be no negotiation on the parameters laid down for the use of the freedom.

In the beginning all of this will be challenging, but if you continue to repeat and maintain your rules, and do so with a smile on your face, love in your heart, and great deal of patience, you will be surprised with the positive results. Always remember, in the beginning, if you have to take away the child’s freedom in order to maintain discipline the child will label you “mean” and complain to the parent. Do not be put off by the thought of upsetting the parent. Ultimately the parent wants what you are trying to achieve. To avoid unnecessary complaint, always try to send the child home happy, after you have had the need to discipline him/her. Don’t carry a grudge and do not allow the child to nurse a grudge. Children are naturally forgiving, and if you show love while disciplining they will accept it sooner. If you have had a particularly challenging day with a child, get to the parent before the child can complain. Explain your position in a caring, loving way, always coming across that you are one hundred percent on the parent’s side, and show great love and care for the child. Do not get defensive, keep calm and always have an understanding smile on your face!

Finally I would like to remind you that the prepared environment in our classrooms fosters discipline, and the child creates it with your help. He/she does it within the context of his/her freedom to choose. There is a cycle and any disruption of it goes against the nature of the child. The freedom allowed in the Montessori Classroom nurtures discipline and makes it happen naturally. Dr. Montessori gave us the formula to create discipline naturally, but in order for it to work all the steps of the formula need to be followed. This is true in all areas of life; a formula is no good if any steps are omitted.

Arborland Montessori Children's Academy is a Morning and afternoon school with school Lunch. Arborland Montessori Children's Academy is directed toward the application of the highest standard and interpretation of the Montessori method through the techniques and philosophy.

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