Articles:
A Link Between Fidgety Boys and a Sputtering Economy {NYT}
Certainly this article introduces more questions than answers, but I believe it’s important to start asking those questions.
“The behavior gap between rich and poor children, starting at very early ages, is now a well-known piece of social science. Entering kindergarten, high-income children not only know more words and can read better than poorer children but they also have longer attention spans, better-controlled tempers and more sensitivity to other children.
All of which makes the comparisons between boys and girls in the same categories fairly striking: The gap in behavioral skills between young girls and boys is even bigger than the gap between rich and poor.“
The Key to Building Your Child’s Self-Esteem {My Life and Kids}
With a very short video, this post shares two simple things to keep in mind for building true self-esteem. It’s a great reminder for all teachers and parents to keep this going in the back of their minds!
Children Who Shine from Within {Hands Free Mama}
Another post from Rachel Macy Stafford that put me on the verge of tears. Love on those fireflies for me, will you?
“The end of the school year can be hard for kids, especially the Fireflies—those who shine from within. And it’s that time—time for awards, banquets, recognition, and applause. The Butterflies will be noticed. So brilliant. So colorful. Their talents so obvious. But let us not forget the Fireflies. Their triumphs are quiet and unsuspecting. Their gifts might even go completely unnoticed.”
How to Not Be Obnoxious Even Though You’re Passionate {Simple Mom}
This could be applied to so many topics, not just simplifying:
“But here’s the thing: I know I’m no better than anyone else. Our worth isn’t measured by our values, how we spend our money, or what we do with our time—those things reveal some of our heart issues, sure, but they have nothing to do with whether we’re worthy or valuable. And I’m certainly aware of my own weaknesses with simplifying.”
Activities:
DIY Pretend Food Round Up {Inner Child Fun}
This is a great list of no-sew ideas for making pretend food that will set you up for some delicious dramatic play! Extra bonus: Kids can help make the food!
How to Host a Children’s Book Club {Pars Caeli}
With summer vacation around the corner for many of us, this could be the perfect time to start a children’s book club. This post is full of step-by-step tips for pulling it off. What a wonderful way to get kids hooked on reading!
Playful Learning: Letter Formation {Lemon Lime Adventures}
I love simple, powerful, hands-on activities….and this checks every box. Whether you’re working on letter recognition or formation, this is a fantastic way to do it!
Enjoy your weekend!
[…] Weekend Reads 5.9.14. […]