The School Improvement Network's featured Strategy of the Week last week was on maintaining discipline. The author stated, "There’s no magic wand for helping [children] maintain discipline...And if you think about it, such a magic wand would probably do more harm than good. Effective discipline is less about keeping [children] in line and more about helping [them] understand their behavior, their priorities, and the value of their relationship with you."

It has often been said that discipline is really more about self control and making wise choices. Our job as parents is to guide children in their journey to making wise choices - and to allow them to experience both the positive and negative consequences of the choices they make. "Rather than being methods of control or punishment, they should be seen as learning opportunities that help students understand the relationship of behavior and outcomes." (SRI)

 

Five Key Ideas About Consequences 

from School Reform Initiative

1. There are no punishments, just consequences
Punishments don’t teach the truly valuable lessons, especially when they demean, demoralize, or shame. On the other hand, if we keep in mind that we’re providing consequences, it’s easier to approach every step of discipline as a learning experience.
2. Consequences are used as a pause to get our [children's] attention
Sometimes a quiet conversation is all it takes to get a child’s attention. Other times, it takes a more severe consequence. Either way, a consequence should serve to give a child a pause to reflect on his/her choices.
3. Consequences should be organized in a tiered hierarchy
Use a hierarchy of consequences, starting with the mildest first. Then slowly and calmly increase the consequences as necessary, stopping with the first one that gives the child the pause you’re seeking.
4. We have no control over our [children]
It’s important to remember that, ultimately, we have no control over our children and following the rules is their decision to make. Yes, we have the power of suggestion. Yes, we can influence decisions with our voice, our tone, the redirection strategies we employ, and the consequences that follow. But, in the end, the decision is theirs. The deeper our respect for this, the easier it is for us to remain calm and supportive in moments when we might wish we had more control.
5. Consequences teach students that they have the power of choice
When your consequences provide children an opportunity to pause and reflect, it affirms to them that they have the power of choice. They become aware that how they choose to behave determines the consequences (good or bad) that follow. They have the choice to misbehave, accept consequences, and calm down. Or, they have the choice to abide by rules and experience the positive consequences.

How do you feel about these ideas? What might you add to or alter in this list?

It's #AmericanEducationWeek!

"American Education Week—November 17-21, presents a wonderful opportunity to celebrate public education and honor individuals who are making a difference in ensuring that every child receives a quality education." (NEA Today)

2014 marks 93 years of American Education Week, an annual observance that honors students, teachers, support professionals, parents, and community members who help students succeed.

"AEW was born out of national concern over illiteracy and was first celebrated in 1921 with NEA and the American Legion as cosponsors. Events take place the week before Thanksgiving and are designed to honor the hard work of students, recognize the professionalism and commitment of educators, and appreciate parents and community members who work toward quality public schools for every student." (National Education Association)

Read President Obama's Proclamation.

So what do we do about it? Here are 

Five Ways to Celebrate American Education Week:

1. Send a thank you note to a teacher or school staff member.
2. Talk about the importance of education with your children. Share your education experience and have them share their education hopes.
3. Learn something new about the schools in your zone. Talk with the school staff about what they do and how they're working to educate our children.
4. Volunteer your time. Share your expertise with students in the area!
5. Support educational activities and events in your area by attending and participating.

It's in our social media feeds...our friends are thankful and sharing their gratitude with the world. We may even be participating in this on-line demonstration of gratefulness ourselves. Are we sharing our gratitude with our kids? As our social communities focus on Days of Thanks, here are 

Five Ways to Help Our Kids Express Gratitude

1. Write a Thank You note to a neighbor. Talk about the neighbors who have demonstrated acts of kindness or friendliness to your child and help him/her write a thank you note - by hand. 
2. Perform a random act of kindness. After talking about the things that people have done for your child, encourage him/her to share kindness to someone who may not expect it.
3. Leave a treat for the mail carrier/newspaper delivery person. Encourage your child to leave a note or help make a treat to leave in the mail/paper box for the delivery person to thank him/her for being a constant servant to the public.
4. Share a hot beverage. There are many people who work outside this time of year to keep our electricity on, ensure the Red Kettle Campaign is running, etc. Join with your child in thanking them for braving the elements to make our world more comfortable by gifting them a hot chocolate or warm coffee.
5. Thank a Teacher. Our teachers sacrifice time with their own families and work tirelessly to ensure that every child receives the best quality education possible. Talk with your child about what you can do to honor his/her teacher (November 17-21 is Teacher Appreciation Week...here are some ideas on how to participate: http://www.nea.org/grants/teacherday.html).

Tomorrow is Election Day, which means many things for parents. Will we vote? Will we take our kids with us when we vote? How do we explain the election process we use here in the USA? Education World suggests these 

Five Books to help Share the Meaning of Participatory Government 

with our kids:

See How They Run, by Susan E. Goodman
Ages 9-12
This book takes election facts covering topics such as the electoral college, political parties and campaigning and presents them in an easy-to-understand, lighter format for kids without diluting the information.

Presidential Elections: And Other Cool Facts, by Sylvan A. Sobel, illustrated by Jill Wood
Ages 7-12
This brand-new book is informative and fun to read. Fascinating facts abound; the book, includes the birthplaces of all the presidents, the story of the presidential election that a major newspaper got wrong, and lots more.

The Ballot Box Battle, by Emily Arnold McCully
Ages 5-8
From Caldecott medalist Emily Arnold McCully comes the inspiring story of Cordelia, a young girl whose relationship with her neighbor, the great suffragist Elizabeth Cady Stanton, inspires her to a remarkable act of courage.

Robin Hill School: Election Day, by Margaret McNamera
Ages 4-8
It’s Election Day in Mrs. Connor’s class for a new class president. All of the candidates make big promises (gum ball machines, longer school vacations and more). Then, Mrs. Connor asks if anyone else would like to say something, looking right at new student Becky. Becky speaks, saying that she can’t guarantee any of the big promises of her competitors, but she will do her best. It’s a good early reader for talking about election promises.

Duck for President, by Doreen Cronin
Ages 4-8
This award-winning follow up to Click, Clack, Moo follows Duck from pond to farmer to governor to presidency. It’s great for early readers since it introduces elections in a very basic and fun way. 

Many of our children are also out of school on Election Day. Need ideas for activities? Try one of these 

Five Ways to Spend Election Day:

1. Volunteer. There are several organizations in our area that could use your help! 

2. The downtown library on Jefferson Street in Roanoke is hosting two performances of "The Pirate of Bully Bay" at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Tuesday. http://www.roanoke.com/life/columns_and_blogs/blogs/shoptimist/arrrrgggh-kids-out-on-election-day-pirate-of-bully-bay/article_fe6dc1be-6081-11e4-b928-001a4bcf6878.html

3. PBS Parents offers some fun ways to learn more about elections and the voting process. Spend some time exploring together: http://www.pbs.org/parents/special/election/

4. Visit Virginia Museum of Natural History. Rotating exhibits and activities mean that each visit is new and exciting. The museum is open from 9-5.

5. Relax together. Sometimes the best time spent together is unscripted. Enjoy a day together without rushing.

This week is Read Aloud to a Child Week in Virginia. Depending on the age of your child, this takes different forms in your house. The folks who run readtothem.org say "There is a large body of research that documents and explains the benefits of reading aloud to children. It may in fact be the most important activity that parents can share with children to help them become strong readers. Reading aloud builds a strong parent-child bond that can last a lifetime!"

This year's theme is perseverance - what a great talking point for us and our children!  “Steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success,” or perseverance, is something we can all share examples of from our lives. Think about books, articles, blogs, or posts that you can share with your child this week to emphasize the notion that

Continuous effort – not strength or intelligence – is the key to unlocking our potential.

Five books to consider sharing with your child this week to emphasize perseverance:

   

Parent - Teacher Conference Day is fast approaching. While the conference meeting is intended as an opportunity to discuss student growth and plan for teamed home-school support as the year progresses, many families experience mixed emotions regarding this event.   

Five Important Things 

to remember about how to make the conference appointment valuable for all involved:

1. Make a list. Have you had a question about something but not asked yet? Are there things you want to be sure the teacher knows? Making a list prior to the meeting will ensure that all important topics are covered and everyone feels that his/her voice was heard in the meeting.
2. Bring the student. Who better to comment on the needs and abilities of the student than the student? Having the student present also allows the parent(s) and teacher to emphasize the teamed support adults need to demonstrate for the student's success.
3. Listen...really listen. Since you have a list of the items you want to be sure to cover, really focus on what the teacher has to say about your student's progress so that you can work together to best support your child's success in the classroom. Taking the time to really hear what the teacher has to say will afford you the opportunity to work together effectively for the good of your student.
4. Take notes. Because a lot will be shared in a short amount of time, it's a good idea to take notes. The teacher or student may share information that needs additional thought or follow-up action. Be sure to jot down all you need to know so that you can effectively support your student after the conference meeting.
5. Debrief. Talk with your student about the meeting. Share what made you proud, any concerns you have, and how you plan to work with the teacher to support him/her as the school year progresses. Discuss how he/she felt during the meeting and how he/she plans to proceed in the class.

Peter and Paul Reynolds, twin brothers who run FableVision, operate with the focus of "dedicat[ion] to helping all learners discover their true potential." The brothers created a video, "Above and Beyond" and a corresponding book, "Going Places." Their work to encourage students provides parents with 

Five Important Points to Ponder

1. Look for Inspiration - The things that we enjoy on an everyday basis can often inspire us to create something in a new, innovative way. Find ways to incorporate "regular" items into a design you're working on.
2. Find Your Way to Success - Failure is not an end! Keep trying and make adjustments until it works.
3. Think Outside the Box - While instructions can be a helpful guide, some of the most creative innovations are generated by stepping away from the directions. If you can think of a different way to be successful, follow a different plan.
4. Be Proud of Being Different - Just because your creation doesn't look like everyone else's doesn't mean it isn't fantastic. Invest in your own ideas and stand behind them.
5. Create Bravely - Taking risks can be scary, but can often lead to exciting results. Be willing to take a chance and watch it pay off.

Parenting a middle schooler can be one of the most frightening, exciting, frustrating, joyous things in life. Middle school-aged children experience so many changes that it is sometimes difficult to keep up - for the child and the parent! Author Rachel Vail penned a reminder for us all last week about how to best love a middle schooler. Her list is titled Top 15 Things Your Middle School Kid Wishes You Knew. 

Here are the Five Points of Focus for parents:

1. Support. Ask your middle schooler to teach you about what he/she is learning or what he/she is good at. "I have to be a beginner constantly. Show me it's OK to stay relaxed and present when you are struggling to learn something."
2. Smile! Your middle schooler still wants to have fun with you and needs to feel that home is safe and happy. 
3. Listen. Let your middle schooler make some of his/her own choices and mistakes. "Don't do my work for me or get me out of every jam...Don't condescend." Wait for him/her to ask for help.
4. Believe. Trust that your middle schooler will do his/her work. "If I don't, you can help me manage my time, but wait until I'm not taking care of responsibilities to think I can't." 
5. Encourage. Let your middle schooler know that you think he/she is funny, interesting, or awesome. "I actually do care what you think about me. Please find something specific you actually like about me because sometimes I can't find anything in myself to like at all."

Kindness is contagious...many of us have heard this before. In observing children who are kind, we often see parents who have made kindness a "rule" in their families. Kindness is just who these families are and what they're about. They believe all people are good (unless proven otherwise). They help those less fortunate. They do nice things for others because it’s the right thing to do.

If kindness doesn't come naturally to our own children, what can we do to instill it?

Five Ways to Inspire Kindness in Children

1. Model Kindness — If adults aren’t demonstrating kindness in difficult situations how can we expect children to do the same? This means with words and actions. At all times.
2. Celebrate Kind Deeds — Children have to know what kindness means. It’s not enough to tell them to be nice - point out their moments of being nice and praise them.
3. Discuss Kindness – When children recognize others being kind, they are more likely to be kind as well.
4. Speak Love – Make the language of your family that of peace and joy rather than anger and hate.
5. Talk About Differences — The best way to help children be more kind to each other is to help them understand how people are different. Talk about what makes everyone valuable no matter who they are. Regardless of circumstances or situation, being respectful is crucial.

How do you inspire kindness?

Adapted from Abundant Mama blog.

How important is innovation? Martinsville-Henry County's new Innovate MHC program and Henry County Public Schools' staff read Creating Innovators: The Making of Young People Who Will Change the World (by Dr. Tony Wagoner) assert that innovation is the foundation for progress and success. Wagoner feels that "our country has produced innovators more by accident than by design" and that we, as parents, should develop the talents and encourage the aspirations of our children.

So what would it mean if we were to intentionally develop the entrepreneurial and innovative talents of all young people - to nurture their initiative, curiosity, imagination, creativity, and collaborative skills, as well as their analytical abilities - along with essential qualities of character such as persistence, empathy, and a strong moral foundation? (Wagoner)

Where do we start?

Five Things Adults Can Do to Encourage Innovative Children

1. Encourage Play: Children naturally know how to play and typically enjoy playing. Adults can encourage children to play creatively and devise their own entertainment.
2. Encourage Passion: Children are naturally excited about the things they love. Adults can encourage children to explore their passions and develop their interests.
3. Encourage Purpose: Children often develop a sense of purpose, or desire to "make a difference," on their own. Adults can help devise methods for children to carry out their personal purpose(s) within the community.
4. Encourage Practice: Children need time to explore, experiment, and discover methods for carrying out their ideas. Adults can manage schedules in a manner that allows children to play and pursue their passions.
5. Encourage Possibilities (risk taking): Children often mirror the mannerisms of those around them. Adults can demonstrate the acceptability of exploring possibilities and taking risks - and talk about what they learn from both successes and failures.

Interested in learning more? Talk with your child's teacher about his/her staff read and about sharing Creating Innovators with your parent group!

Checking for Progress
Today marks the beginning of week four of the 2014-2015 school year. High school students will bring home interim reports this week and elementary and middle school students will bring interim reports home next week. The purpose of the interim report is to chart the student's progress in a class. As parents, we need to be sure to ask the right questions about progress throughout the year.

5 Questions to Begin a Discussion with Your Child 

on Progress in School

1. What do you know now that you didn't know three weeks ago?
2. What is easy/difficult for you in this class?
3. What do you want to know more about or know how to do better in this class?
4. How can we work together to practice what you're learning?
5. How can we work together to be sure that you feel confident about what you're studying?

Want to discuss your student's progress with his/her teacher? Read these tips from Lani Harac about keeping in touch all year long:
http://www.schoolfamily.com/school-family-articles/article/728-talking-with-teachers-about-student-progress

5 Terms You'll Be Hearing this Year

With one week of school under our belts, you may already have received communication from your child's teacher containing terms you'd like to know a little more about. Each of these will be central to the learning that takes place this year:

4Cs: These are the 21st century skills considered most important for K-12 education and for a student's future in the world of college, career, and citizenship. They are:

• critical thinking
• communication
• collaboration
• creativity

DOK (Depth of Knowledge): Depth of Knowledge represents the comparison of the cognitive demand of the Standards and the cognitive demand of Assessments given to determine student mastery. Explore the DOK levels here: http://static.pdesas.org/content/documents/M1-Slide_19_DOK_Wheel_Slide.pdf
 
Performance Task: Performance-based assessment is an approach to the monitoring of students' progress in relationship to identified learner outcomes. This method of assessment requires the student to create answers or products which demonstrate his/her knowledge or skills. This differs from traditional testing methods which require a student to select a single correct answer or to fill in the blank. 

Experts in the field emphasize that any effective performance assessment task should have the following features:

• Students should be active participants, not passive “selectors of the single right answer."
• Intended outcomes should be clearly identified and should guide the design of a performance task.
• Students should be expected to demonstrate mastery of those intended outcomes when responding to all facets of the task.
• Students must demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge and skills to reality-based situations and scenarios.
• A clear, logical set of performance-based activities that students are expected to follow should be evident.
• A clearly presented set of criteria should be available to help judge the degree of proficiency in a student response.

Transfer Goals: Transfer goals highlight the effective uses of understanding, knowledge, and skill that we seek in the long run; i.e., what we want students to be able to do when they confront new challenges – both in and outside of school. In every case, the ability to transfer learning manifests itself in not just one setting but varied real-world situations. 

Transfer goals have several distinguishing characteristics:

• They require application (not simply recognition or recall).
• The application occurs in new situations (not ones previously taught or encountered; i.e., the task cannot be accomplished as a result of rote ‘plugging in’).
• The transfer requires a thoughtful assessment of which prior learning applies here – i.e. some strategic thinking is required (not simply following a recipe that is insensitive to context).
• The learners must apply their learning autonomously (on their own, without teacher prompting or support).
• Transfer calls for the use of habits of mind (i.e., good judgment, self regulation, persistence) along with academic understanding, knowledge and skill.

PBL (Project/Problem Based Learning): Project-based learning is a dynamic approach to teaching in which students explore real-world problems and challenges. With this type of active and engaged learning, students are inspired to obtain a deeper knowledge of the subjects they're studying. Watch a video on PBL here: http://www.edutopia.org/video/five-keys-rigorous-project-based-learning

In a problem-based learning (PBL) model, students engage complex, challenging problems and collaboratively work toward their resolution. PBL is about students connecting disciplinary knowledge to real-world problems—the motivation to solve a problem becomes the motivation to learn.