The more folding in the thinking parts of our brain, the smarter we are – to a degree.
from NIMH News Feed http://ift.tt/1SzKnLY
Friday, April 29, 2016
AD-Related Dementias Summit 2016: Progress, Aims, Dollars
The April 2016 Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Dementias (ADRD) Summit gathered together approximately 400 researchers, representatives of government and nonprofit groups, patients and caregivers to discuss ADRD research priorities and progress, and solicit input. Recommendations from the summit will guide future federal government spending on research for Alzheimer’s disease and the related dementias. During the summit, AFTD’s Executive Director, Susan L-J Dickinson, M.S., CGC, spoke of the important role of non-governmental agencies in the fight against the related dementias: “For one thing, these groups draw patients and caregivers into research through education and registries, Dickinson said. For example, a soon-to-be-published economic burden study estimates the cost FTD imposes on families and society at large. Having these numbers will strengthen researchers’ FTD grant applications.” Read more about ADRD Summit 2016 here.
from Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration http://ift.tt/2499ahb
Thursday, April 21, 2016
Science News Biomarker Tracks Accelerated HIV-Associated Aging
By measuring a molecular signature of aging, researchers have found that HIV infection accelerates aging, adding an average of five years to someone’s biological age.
from NIMH News Feed http://ift.tt/1XLlvRj
from NIMH News Feed http://ift.tt/1XLlvRj
AFTD Speaks to Writer and Actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley About Her New Book
Kimberly Williams-Paisley’s new memoir, “Where The Light Gets In: Losing My Mother Only to Find Her Again,” published earlier this month by Penguin Random House, has much to offer anyone impacted by FTD. In this vivid, thoughtful book, Williams-Paisley describes her journey grappling with the changes that primary progressive aphasia (PPA) brings to her relationship with her mother, Linda Williams. AFTD had the opportunity to connect with her regarding this important work for our community, and the full interview can be read here.
from Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration http://ift.tt/26h7Ebn
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
Science News Twitter Chat on Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder and Severe Irritability
A live Twitter chat discussing the symptoms and treatments for disruptive mood dysregulation disorder and severe irritability.
from NIMH News Feed http://ift.tt/1XGolqW
from NIMH News Feed http://ift.tt/1XGolqW
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
‘Review: Tinsley’s “Double Distance” is emotional…’
Selected works from artist and AFTD volunteer Tori Tinsley’s Hugs series are currently being exhibited at the Ernest G. Welch School of Art and Design galleries, located at Georgia State University in Atlanta. Recently reviewed by ArtsATL.com, the painted sculptures and paintings explore the ways in which FTD has changed the mother-daughter relationship the artist has with her own mother, who lives with FTD. “Tinsley paints her mother and herself as cartoon characters attempting to hug through the struggles of dealing with her mother’s frontotemporal dementia, a degenerative brain disease. …Tinsley has created a sophisticated exhibition with a great deal of emotional sensitivity.” Read the entire review here.
from Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration http://ift.tt/1SfzHnl
Saturday, April 9, 2016
Despite the Hype, There Are Still Only Three Approaches to Scoliosis Treatment
I happened upon a page on the American Chiropractic Association
(ACA) Web site that explained scoliosis and its treatment options.
Interestingly, the ACA lists three options for scoliosis treatment:
careful observation, bracing, and surgery. Missing from this list are
several commonly advertised methods of treatment for scoliosis. Most
notably omitted is chiropractic. Despite a plethora of aggressively
promoted options that are available to patients and their families, we
think the ACA actually got this right.
To simplify this article, let us assume that the ACA included surgery as an approach for severe scoliosis cases only. Orthopedic surgeons cannot prescribe surgery for curves less than 45°. These cases would transcend an observation-only approach and push the limits of brace effectiveness. Therefore, let's continue without surgery as one of the three approach options. Agreed? Good.
Next, let's ponder the observation approach, which is commonly known as the "wait and see" approach. Although an important practice, technically there is no scoliosis treatment inherent in taking scoliosis curvature measurements every few months. Patients should consider the observing specialist's scoliosis specialty. Orthopedic surgeons do surgery and might prescribe a rigid brace if the curve is below the surgical threshold, yet is progressing. Surgeons have their eye on patients reaching the threshold for surgery. There is also a specially trained group of chiropractors who offer a flexible brace that can be worn to correct and stop progression of curves ranging from 15°-45° degrees. This is called the SpineCor Brace. So, as the orthopedic surgeons' specialty is surgery, the SpineCor chiropractors' specialty is maintaining healthy spines. So, while surgeons focus on the progressed condition, chiropractors know their chances of treating scoliosis successfully are greater if detected and treated early.
There are a group of chiropractors, physical therapists and others who offer alternative treatment to manipulate scoliotic spines. On its Web site the ACA states that "Spinal manipulation, therapeutic exercise, and electrical muscle stimulation have also been advocated in the treatment of scoliosis. None of these therapies alone has been shown to consistently reduce scoliosis... " Despite the ACA's omission spinal manipulation (chiropractic) and therapies from its list of viable approaches plus the lack of clinical studies showing effective treatment, several providers are still leveraging popular exercises and therapies with catchy titles to lure patients. One such method uses the allure of a speedy fix, which entails a two-week "boot camp" - a trendy phrase that denotes focused exercises - which is coupled with an exercise regimen to be completed at home. Sounds simple, right? Unfortunately, this method has no randomized clinical study results to support the claims of the providers. Secondly, common sense tells you that scoliosis, which took months and perhaps years to progress, cannot be corrected in a matter of a couple or few weeks, no matter how many high-force gadgets and equipment the providers use to pull or push your spine in one direction or another.
We are all aware of the benefits of exercise such as yoga and pilates. However, for scoliosis sufferers these activities are likely to have little to no effect and can actually destabilize the spine if they are not in a flexible brace like SpineCor while exercising.
Schroth exercises have some enthusiastic support. However, the problem with these exercise regimen is that they are not administered to match the specific scoliosis curve of the sufferer. SpineCor, a company that offers a dynamic (flexible) scoliosis brace, developed a physiotherapy a regimen that specifies an exercise regimen that addresses many specific scoliosis curve types and is complemented the SpineCor Brace configuration.
When it comes to the bracing approach, there are two general types: rigid braces, i.e. the Boston, Rigo Cheneau, and Milwaukee braces; and the aforementioned SpineCor brace, which is the only clinically proven dynamic brace. The differences are huge. First of all, although Orthopedic Surgeons tend to recommend rigid bracing, clinical studies for these braces is dismal, causing many to wonder why they are so commonly prescribed. A big cause of failure with rigid braces, which are used only for pediatric cases, is lack of compliance due to discomfort and embarrassment. Rigid braces also make exercise almost impossible and are known to cause muscle atrophy when worn for prescribed periods.
Conversely, the SpineCor Flexible Scoliosis Brace allows patients a full range of motion and has a much lower profile, allowing it to be worn underneath clothing and while playing sports and completing exercise such as yoga and pilates. Both of these features increase the chances of full compliance. Furthermore, clinical studies comparing rigid braces to SpineCor show SpineCor achieved a much higher degree of success.
In conclusion, if your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis above 15°, I recommend that you act quickly if you want to ensure that they will not face surgery. Keep in mind what type of specialists will be handling your child's case because that will determine which type of scoliosis treatment is likely recommended. Finally, if you believe bracing is the best approach, you will want to research clinical studies on rigid braces and the SpineCor brace published in credible journals.
To simplify this article, let us assume that the ACA included surgery as an approach for severe scoliosis cases only. Orthopedic surgeons cannot prescribe surgery for curves less than 45°. These cases would transcend an observation-only approach and push the limits of brace effectiveness. Therefore, let's continue without surgery as one of the three approach options. Agreed? Good.
Next, let's ponder the observation approach, which is commonly known as the "wait and see" approach. Although an important practice, technically there is no scoliosis treatment inherent in taking scoliosis curvature measurements every few months. Patients should consider the observing specialist's scoliosis specialty. Orthopedic surgeons do surgery and might prescribe a rigid brace if the curve is below the surgical threshold, yet is progressing. Surgeons have their eye on patients reaching the threshold for surgery. There is also a specially trained group of chiropractors who offer a flexible brace that can be worn to correct and stop progression of curves ranging from 15°-45° degrees. This is called the SpineCor Brace. So, as the orthopedic surgeons' specialty is surgery, the SpineCor chiropractors' specialty is maintaining healthy spines. So, while surgeons focus on the progressed condition, chiropractors know their chances of treating scoliosis successfully are greater if detected and treated early.
There are a group of chiropractors, physical therapists and others who offer alternative treatment to manipulate scoliotic spines. On its Web site the ACA states that "Spinal manipulation, therapeutic exercise, and electrical muscle stimulation have also been advocated in the treatment of scoliosis. None of these therapies alone has been shown to consistently reduce scoliosis... " Despite the ACA's omission spinal manipulation (chiropractic) and therapies from its list of viable approaches plus the lack of clinical studies showing effective treatment, several providers are still leveraging popular exercises and therapies with catchy titles to lure patients. One such method uses the allure of a speedy fix, which entails a two-week "boot camp" - a trendy phrase that denotes focused exercises - which is coupled with an exercise regimen to be completed at home. Sounds simple, right? Unfortunately, this method has no randomized clinical study results to support the claims of the providers. Secondly, common sense tells you that scoliosis, which took months and perhaps years to progress, cannot be corrected in a matter of a couple or few weeks, no matter how many high-force gadgets and equipment the providers use to pull or push your spine in one direction or another.
We are all aware of the benefits of exercise such as yoga and pilates. However, for scoliosis sufferers these activities are likely to have little to no effect and can actually destabilize the spine if they are not in a flexible brace like SpineCor while exercising.
Schroth exercises have some enthusiastic support. However, the problem with these exercise regimen is that they are not administered to match the specific scoliosis curve of the sufferer. SpineCor, a company that offers a dynamic (flexible) scoliosis brace, developed a physiotherapy a regimen that specifies an exercise regimen that addresses many specific scoliosis curve types and is complemented the SpineCor Brace configuration.
When it comes to the bracing approach, there are two general types: rigid braces, i.e. the Boston, Rigo Cheneau, and Milwaukee braces; and the aforementioned SpineCor brace, which is the only clinically proven dynamic brace. The differences are huge. First of all, although Orthopedic Surgeons tend to recommend rigid bracing, clinical studies for these braces is dismal, causing many to wonder why they are so commonly prescribed. A big cause of failure with rigid braces, which are used only for pediatric cases, is lack of compliance due to discomfort and embarrassment. Rigid braces also make exercise almost impossible and are known to cause muscle atrophy when worn for prescribed periods.
Conversely, the SpineCor Flexible Scoliosis Brace allows patients a full range of motion and has a much lower profile, allowing it to be worn underneath clothing and while playing sports and completing exercise such as yoga and pilates. Both of these features increase the chances of full compliance. Furthermore, clinical studies comparing rigid braces to SpineCor show SpineCor achieved a much higher degree of success.
In conclusion, if your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis above 15°, I recommend that you act quickly if you want to ensure that they will not face surgery. Keep in mind what type of specialists will be handling your child's case because that will determine which type of scoliosis treatment is likely recommended. Finally, if you believe bracing is the best approach, you will want to research clinical studies on rigid braces and the SpineCor brace published in credible journals.
5 Reasons You Should Get Your Child Some Personalized Books
You don't have to be a parent to know that reading is one of the
most important aspects of intellectual development for a young child.
They soak up everything like a sponge at that age, so the combination of
words and sentences along with beautiful and captivating illustrations
is a time filled with complete and total awe. Of course this can be done
with any of the millions of children's books available. However, you
can make reading time for your child even more special if you special
order a personalized book. They can be a bit more expensive than a
typical book, but it's usually always worth it. Here are just a few
reasons why you should get your child some personalized books.
1. It makes them even more excited about story time. Children love story time as is, but can you imagine their excitement when they know the book they're about to read with you features them? You'll see a glow within your child that will soon become the basis for a lifetime joy of reading.
2. It connects them to the story. It can be pretty hard to get a child to calm down and focus at times, but if you have a story that features them, they really can't wait to dive into it. If you have story time at night, like my parents do, you'll find that your child has been waiting all day to find out what happens to their character next. My son very often would say to me, "Hey dad, isn't it bedtime yet?" simply because he wanted to get to the rest of the story.
3. They'll start to become more and more comfortable with recognizing their name. As I've said, this is a very critical time in a child's development, so along with a whole slew of other words, sentences, and phrases, your child will know exactly what their name looks like, how to recognize it, and how to sound it out. Even though they're probably already able to say it by this point, being able to recognize it in writing can be quite a feat at that time. Personalized books are such a great way to help them do so.
4. It's something that might end up saving for nostalgic reasons. This one might be a stretch, but I actually have an old personalized book from when I was a kid that my mom got for me. It was pretty much the only children's book we didn't give away or donate. I've kept it because it had so much more meaning to me. I even break it out every now and then to read to my son so I could get him comfortable with my name and tell him some stories about his grandmother.
5. You'll enjoy it more too. Personalized books are a lot of fun for kids and you'll find yourself feeding off their excitement. You'll enjoy the bittersweet feeling as they rely on you less and less to read the story to them as they eventually begin to read it to you. The time you two spend with the book will be something the both of you remember for the rest of your lives.
So there you have it. Just a little bit of my thoughts on why you should grab a few personalized books for your kids. If you have had wonderful and similar experiences, I'd love to hear about it and discuss in the comments below.
1. It makes them even more excited about story time. Children love story time as is, but can you imagine their excitement when they know the book they're about to read with you features them? You'll see a glow within your child that will soon become the basis for a lifetime joy of reading.
2. It connects them to the story. It can be pretty hard to get a child to calm down and focus at times, but if you have a story that features them, they really can't wait to dive into it. If you have story time at night, like my parents do, you'll find that your child has been waiting all day to find out what happens to their character next. My son very often would say to me, "Hey dad, isn't it bedtime yet?" simply because he wanted to get to the rest of the story.
3. They'll start to become more and more comfortable with recognizing their name. As I've said, this is a very critical time in a child's development, so along with a whole slew of other words, sentences, and phrases, your child will know exactly what their name looks like, how to recognize it, and how to sound it out. Even though they're probably already able to say it by this point, being able to recognize it in writing can be quite a feat at that time. Personalized books are such a great way to help them do so.
4. It's something that might end up saving for nostalgic reasons. This one might be a stretch, but I actually have an old personalized book from when I was a kid that my mom got for me. It was pretty much the only children's book we didn't give away or donate. I've kept it because it had so much more meaning to me. I even break it out every now and then to read to my son so I could get him comfortable with my name and tell him some stories about his grandmother.
5. You'll enjoy it more too. Personalized books are a lot of fun for kids and you'll find yourself feeding off their excitement. You'll enjoy the bittersweet feeling as they rely on you less and less to read the story to them as they eventually begin to read it to you. The time you two spend with the book will be something the both of you remember for the rest of your lives.
So there you have it. Just a little bit of my thoughts on why you should grab a few personalized books for your kids. If you have had wonderful and similar experiences, I'd love to hear about it and discuss in the comments below.
If you'd like to dive further into how personalized books can make kids feel special, please come visit us at Big Books for Big Readers. We welcome everyone who truly loves books and the joys of reading them.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/expert/R.D._James/2261169
Give Your Kids the Amusing Way to Love Jumping
When your kids' exams are over, they will definitely like to
relax and have some great time. Why not arrange a party for them? They
definitely deserve a break after the long tiring months of studying. To
make the party full of fun, you can hire a bouncy castle. Your kids will
be extremely happy to see that you have hired a bounce house for their
happiness. The colorful designs of the castle will further add to the
glamour of the party.
These castles are big inflatable structures where your kids and their friends can jump and play together. They can spend huge time inside the jumping castle for recreation and yet not will get bored inside it. The nylon and vinyl or PVC gives the inflatable unit more strength, so that it can withstand the weight and tortures of the kids easily. Moreover, as it is made up of PVC, the castle becomes resistant to the fire and can bear a temperature up to 200. The use of PVC in it also makes the bouncy castle completely safe for kids and is absolutely free from lead.
The design of the jumping castle is very similar to that of a traditional castle, and hence, the name. There are many types of jumping castles available in the market. You can get the shapes of a house, boxing ring, and others. While hiring it, you can take your kid along with you so that he can choose from the available options. The innumerable castles with various lively colors and themes are pleasing to the eyes and may baffle you as to which to pick. However, they can be customized depending on the needs of your kids.
You will get a long list of various companies from where you can hire a bounce house. As you are hiring it, you have to take care of it during the tenure. The manufacturer can also design the castle as per your instructions. The costs of these units are not fixed and it varies depending on the size and shape. If you want to own one of them for few hours, then hiring is the best option. You should know the terms and conditions of hiring before taking the castle from them.
You have to consider certain things to make the right selection. First of all, choose the bouncy castle that perfectly matches the theme of the party. Also consider the date of the event or the party and check whether the jumping castle you want to hire is available on that particular date. It's better to go for one-month advance booking so that you can get the desired jumping castle on that particular date. As your kids will pay on it, so make sure that the inflatable structures have safety features in them and are durable enough to put up with the tortures by the kids.
These castles are big inflatable structures where your kids and their friends can jump and play together. They can spend huge time inside the jumping castle for recreation and yet not will get bored inside it. The nylon and vinyl or PVC gives the inflatable unit more strength, so that it can withstand the weight and tortures of the kids easily. Moreover, as it is made up of PVC, the castle becomes resistant to the fire and can bear a temperature up to 200. The use of PVC in it also makes the bouncy castle completely safe for kids and is absolutely free from lead.
The design of the jumping castle is very similar to that of a traditional castle, and hence, the name. There are many types of jumping castles available in the market. You can get the shapes of a house, boxing ring, and others. While hiring it, you can take your kid along with you so that he can choose from the available options. The innumerable castles with various lively colors and themes are pleasing to the eyes and may baffle you as to which to pick. However, they can be customized depending on the needs of your kids.
You will get a long list of various companies from where you can hire a bounce house. As you are hiring it, you have to take care of it during the tenure. The manufacturer can also design the castle as per your instructions. The costs of these units are not fixed and it varies depending on the size and shape. If you want to own one of them for few hours, then hiring is the best option. You should know the terms and conditions of hiring before taking the castle from them.
You have to consider certain things to make the right selection. First of all, choose the bouncy castle that perfectly matches the theme of the party. Also consider the date of the event or the party and check whether the jumping castle you want to hire is available on that particular date. It's better to go for one-month advance booking so that you can get the desired jumping castle on that particular date. As your kids will pay on it, so make sure that the inflatable structures have safety features in them and are durable enough to put up with the tortures by the kids.
Plethora of bouncy castle hire Rugby
companies are there where you can get wide-range of bounce houses. Or,
you can also check the bouncy castle hire Coventry companies too to hire
the castle of your choice at a reasonable rate.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Terrence_Lewis/1283822
Driving Test Instant Fails: Improve on These Mistakes
When it comes to the big day, it is important to be as ready and
prepared as possible. However- with first time pass rates less than 50%
it isn't always possible to achieve a first time pass. Here you shall
find my top ten tips if you fail your driving test!
When it comes to passing your driving test, it is every learner driver's ambition to pass it first time. However, the national pass rate sits at a measly average 43%, which fluctuates from test centre to test centre. It appears the more the remote the test centre, the higher pass rate, and the more condensed the area such as cities, the lower the pass rate. Whether you take your test in a city, or in a rural community follow these ten top tips if you fail your driving test.
Ten Top Tips If You Fail Your Driving Test
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Miss_L_Swan/2269437
When it comes to passing your driving test, it is every learner driver's ambition to pass it first time. However, the national pass rate sits at a measly average 43%, which fluctuates from test centre to test centre. It appears the more the remote the test centre, the higher pass rate, and the more condensed the area such as cities, the lower the pass rate. Whether you take your test in a city, or in a rural community follow these ten top tips if you fail your driving test.
Ten Top Tips If You Fail Your Driving Test
- It is really important to keep on the right track. Having a goal is a positive step to keep the motivation going. It is always a good idea to re-book your practical test ASAP. With driving test waiting times exceeding 12 weeks in many areas of the UK, it is vital to get yourself back on the wagon and set your goal! Book your driving test so that you have a clear target.
- It is important to work with your trainer to establish a clear training plan moving forward. It is very important to keep your previous test report- so that an action plan of training can be put into place. Your trainer will be able to advise you on the topics and areas that you will need to have more training in, and will use your test report as a guide for on-going training. A general rule of thumb for training is: For every driver fault you have (minor fault) you would need approximately 1/2 hour of training, and for every serious fault accumulated- this would require an hours worth of training.
- Ensure you have regular training. One of the biggest mistakes learner drivers make is having 'time off' their training schedule. It is important to keep your training regular and consistent.
- It is important to NOT 'dwell' too much on the previous fail. Keeping a positive mind will help you to focus on your next test. More than 50% of all tests conducted result in a fail. Understanding why you did fail is vital to improving your driving skills.
- Private practice. If it is possible, try and get as much driving experience with a family member. Not only will this improve your confidence but it will also build upon your driving experience. You can't have too much practice.
- Get your theory books back out. It is a good idea to get your head back into the books. Being able to put theory into practice requires practice and understanding. Without the pressures of a theory exam, learners can focus on inputting their theory into their driving practice. Reading the Highway code will refresh your knowledge.
- Talk with friends and family. Sharing driving experiences with other people will help encourage you to become more aware of your own driving skills.
- Watch other people's driving skills. It can be a useful skill to be able to critique and analyse other driver's. This will help you to critique your own driving skills.
- Watch some videos. Watching videos on YouTube may help you. Sometimes a fresh perspective on a particular driving topic can help further your own understanding of a driving topic.
- Keep calm. There is no point in panicking. Failing a test isn't important, what is important is being a safe driver for life. If it takes you a few attempts to pass your test- it could save your life!
10 Indoor Fun Activities for Kids in Winter
Kids love playing all the time. Be it indoor or outdoor, they
love playing so much that you can't keep them away from games. They are
so passionate about games or playing that they don't even care or bother
about the weather. But being a parent, you do. You want them to be
inside the house and spend their vacations playing games when the
weather outside turns harsh during the winter times.
In addition, you want them to play only those games that are perfect for the weather and that keep them engaged and busy for hours. And that's where you turn to indoor games for winter. You know that options are endless and the only problem is choosing the best ones from the lot. If you face the same problem, then worry not as the list given below will help you out.
Your kids can try some of these indoor games during their winter break:-
Treasure hunt
Nothing can keep kids as hooked for hours as a game of Treasure Hunt! So, go ahead, take the initiate and lay out rules for the game. Just hide something somewhere in the house, give some clues and let it be found out.
Board Games
Board Games are just perfect to get a quality time for kids and let them boost their thinking capabilities. As options are plenty in the category, your kids won't mind hooking up to them and let the winter pass in as entertaining manner as desired.
Collage-making
Kids love to make collage, or they love cutting pictures. So, go ahead and instruct them how to be specific with the task. Give them a theme, and just sit and let them do the job.
Painting
Let your kids paint and paint for all day long. Give them pencil and paper to design something, or fetch them colours and let them show their creative side. It'd be great if they tried painting dried leaves or trees inside the house.
Bubbles
Kids love making bubbles and you should let them do it. All you need to do is to get them the required materials, including a plate, straw, some water and soap and let them indulge in making bubbles. You can add some fun by turning this exercise competitive. You can reward those forming long-lasting or bigger bubbles.
Puzzles
Puzzles are a great way to let your kids have fun and let winter pass by even without troubling in any manner. You can either buy some puzzles or get them created to match the intellect level of the kids.
Card games
Card games are perfect to make the kids sit for hours and engage in harmless fun. You can join them to double their delights.
Making Paper Airplanes
Kids love to make airplanes and you should give them some paper and just teach them once. Now sit back and let them fly the planes inside the house.
Soft hurdle jumping
You can stack your pillows and mattress in a way to create a hurdle and let your kids cross over that. Just sit back and see your kids having a great time with the hurdle.
Trampolines
You can get a small-size trampoline and fit it in the house to give a lot for entertainment. Let kids go on trampolining and have great fun for hours.
Conclusion
It's obvious that kids have no dearth of indoor games for winter and all they need to do is to select the best ones from the lot. If they pick the right games, they won't ever feel like venturing out, ever, for sure!
In addition, you want them to play only those games that are perfect for the weather and that keep them engaged and busy for hours. And that's where you turn to indoor games for winter. You know that options are endless and the only problem is choosing the best ones from the lot. If you face the same problem, then worry not as the list given below will help you out.
Your kids can try some of these indoor games during their winter break:-
Treasure hunt
Nothing can keep kids as hooked for hours as a game of Treasure Hunt! So, go ahead, take the initiate and lay out rules for the game. Just hide something somewhere in the house, give some clues and let it be found out.
Board Games
Board Games are just perfect to get a quality time for kids and let them boost their thinking capabilities. As options are plenty in the category, your kids won't mind hooking up to them and let the winter pass in as entertaining manner as desired.
Collage-making
Kids love to make collage, or they love cutting pictures. So, go ahead and instruct them how to be specific with the task. Give them a theme, and just sit and let them do the job.
Painting
Let your kids paint and paint for all day long. Give them pencil and paper to design something, or fetch them colours and let them show their creative side. It'd be great if they tried painting dried leaves or trees inside the house.
Bubbles
Kids love making bubbles and you should let them do it. All you need to do is to get them the required materials, including a plate, straw, some water and soap and let them indulge in making bubbles. You can add some fun by turning this exercise competitive. You can reward those forming long-lasting or bigger bubbles.
Puzzles
Puzzles are a great way to let your kids have fun and let winter pass by even without troubling in any manner. You can either buy some puzzles or get them created to match the intellect level of the kids.
Card games
Card games are perfect to make the kids sit for hours and engage in harmless fun. You can join them to double their delights.
Making Paper Airplanes
Kids love to make airplanes and you should give them some paper and just teach them once. Now sit back and let them fly the planes inside the house.
Soft hurdle jumping
You can stack your pillows and mattress in a way to create a hurdle and let your kids cross over that. Just sit back and see your kids having a great time with the hurdle.
Trampolines
You can get a small-size trampoline and fit it in the house to give a lot for entertainment. Let kids go on trampolining and have great fun for hours.
Conclusion
It's obvious that kids have no dearth of indoor games for winter and all they need to do is to select the best ones from the lot. If they pick the right games, they won't ever feel like venturing out, ever, for sure!
Alex Sharma is a digital marketing enthusiast and has written
many topics in the related field. He works with Jump in, which is
counted among one of the Best Trampoline Park UK.
Jump In provides exhilarating experiences for fun-loving people of all
ages. Find out why Jump In is much more than a trampoline park!
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Alex_Sharma/2160935
The Future of the Traditional Classroom in the Wake of eLearning Platforms
Over the last decade, the rise and widespread use of the internet
has led to the cannibalization of the traditional classroom by a
digital learning space. Several classical classroom settings across the
globe have transitioned to digital learning platforms. The most common
scenario is one that blends the old classroom concept with a digital
component. Often the classroom becomes a place where learners are guided
by tutors who are more or less facilitators of how to use digital
platforms or simply focus on teaching areas where students have
difficulties.
The great news about digital learning platforms today is that some of them integrate the ability for a learner's trajectory to be tracked online. A good example is the moodle learning platform where educators can lodge games, videos tutorials, interactive quizzes, worksheets and more. Each student can subscribe to an e-learning platform and study at their pace. Sometimes there is a possibility for students to learn repetitively for example, there is no limit to how many times students on a platform can watch a video or take an interactive test. However, these platforms could be customized to restrict the number of times students can take a particular exercise. The great news about learning on eLearning platforms is that students can learn at their pace and most often in less threatening environments.
The question that is often posed is whether eLearning is effective and if it could one day replace the traditional classroom? The answer is yes and no. While eLearning has made the teaching/ learning process easier for both teachers and learners, it does not eliminate the role of the teacher. On some learning management systems (LMS) self-learning is punctuated by a tracking system. Tracking systems aggregate the scores of students on every exercise and displays them as students change from one level to another. However, to make this more effective, deadlines can be fixed per exercise, minimum grades determined and certificates can be issued after successful completion of exercises. Although these processes can be automated, it is more effective when tutors oversee student's performances and intervene in their areas of weakness. That is why digital learning cannot completely erase the traditional learning approach.
Some other advantages of the digital classroom stem from the manner in which courses are delivered. The rise of the use of tablet PC's makes it easy to learn on the go. Students can now learn seamlessly in varied contexts. This makes learning at the convenience of students more effective.
Digital learning has gone a long way and there is a lot of progress being made through the creation of new LMS, apps and delivery devices. This will diminish the role of the traditional classroom more and more.
The great news about digital learning platforms today is that some of them integrate the ability for a learner's trajectory to be tracked online. A good example is the moodle learning platform where educators can lodge games, videos tutorials, interactive quizzes, worksheets and more. Each student can subscribe to an e-learning platform and study at their pace. Sometimes there is a possibility for students to learn repetitively for example, there is no limit to how many times students on a platform can watch a video or take an interactive test. However, these platforms could be customized to restrict the number of times students can take a particular exercise. The great news about learning on eLearning platforms is that students can learn at their pace and most often in less threatening environments.
The question that is often posed is whether eLearning is effective and if it could one day replace the traditional classroom? The answer is yes and no. While eLearning has made the teaching/ learning process easier for both teachers and learners, it does not eliminate the role of the teacher. On some learning management systems (LMS) self-learning is punctuated by a tracking system. Tracking systems aggregate the scores of students on every exercise and displays them as students change from one level to another. However, to make this more effective, deadlines can be fixed per exercise, minimum grades determined and certificates can be issued after successful completion of exercises. Although these processes can be automated, it is more effective when tutors oversee student's performances and intervene in their areas of weakness. That is why digital learning cannot completely erase the traditional learning approach.
Some other advantages of the digital classroom stem from the manner in which courses are delivered. The rise of the use of tablet PC's makes it easy to learn on the go. Students can now learn seamlessly in varied contexts. This makes learning at the convenience of students more effective.
Digital learning has gone a long way and there is a lot of progress being made through the creation of new LMS, apps and delivery devices. This will diminish the role of the traditional classroom more and more.
Check out some free e-learning science activities for kids here:
http://ecosystemforkids.com/
Interactive science games for kids:
http://www.ecosystemforkids.com/games.html
This site also has worksheets and articles on different science activities for 1st, 2nd, 3rd,4th and 5th grades.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mphoweh_Jude_Nzembayie/257028
http://ecosystemforkids.com/
Interactive science games for kids:
http://www.ecosystemforkids.com/games.html
This site also has worksheets and articles on different science activities for 1st, 2nd, 3rd,4th and 5th grades.
Info 101: The Every Student Succeeds Act Replaces No Child Left Behind
It's said that, as much as things change, they stay the same, but
that's not entirely true of the Every Student Succeeds Act, No Child
Left Behind's replacement and the latest rewrite of the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act (ESEA). That law, enacted back in 1965 as part
of President Lyndon Johnson's Great Society Program, gave the federal
government a say in our public K-12 schools that has grown ever since.
The bipartisan No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) was signed into law by President George W. Bush on January 2, 2002 and was an American education game-changer. Along with its emphasis on accountability and data collecting, such terms as Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP), proficiency, high-highly qualified teacher, high stakes testing, and teaching to the test became part of the popular vernacular.
Among its many mandates:
There was more, of course, but you get the idea. The federal government was in the driver's seat and more dictates would follow. That was especially true when, to no one's surprise, not all students were proficient in math and reading by June, 2014. That's when Obama and then Secretary of Education Arne Duncan came up with state waivers. For starters, these "waived" the proficiency-for-all 2014 deadline, allowed states to set their own student-achievement goals and intervene in failing schools as they saw fit. Of course, state after state applied.
This federal largess came with a price, however. Along with even more U.S. Department of Education involvement in our nation's schools, came forced adoption of the federally-funded Common Core State Standards in math and English/Language Arts and their aligned online assessments, PARCC or SBAC. Those alone cost taxpayers millions. Also on the federal agenda: states having to improve 15% of the worst-performing schools and base teacher evaluations on students' standardized test scores, known as Value Added Measures, or VAM.
Pushback eventually and inevitably followed.
Enthusiasm for the Common Core Standards, initially adopted by 46 states and D.C. waned and was gradually dropped by many. Ditto for their online assessments. Where PARCC started out with 26 participating states, only seven will administer it this spring. As for SBAC, the initial 31 has slipped to fifteen. At the same time, thousands of parents have joined the testing opt-out movement, wreaking havoc on that 95% test participation dictate and forcing politicians to rethink our testing obsession.
Meanwhile, using those forced Value Added Measures to assess and evaluate teacher effectiveness has now been largely discredited by those in-the-know.
One result: yet more change on the education front, this time by Republican Senator Lamar Alexander from Tennessee.
Optimistically called the Every Student Succeed Act, it was signed into law on December 10, 2015 by Obama, and it's loaded with goodies and NCLB reversals. However, it also leaves some mandates in place, such as the 95% participation in standardized tests.
Among its other directives:
Note that, this time around, the emphasis here is on the states, not the federal government, so hopes are high. However, ESSA is subject to tweaking between now and its official start up in 2017. Indeed, the negotiating has already begun, so stay tuned. Maybe keep your fingers crossed at the same time that its impact is positive for our teachers and the children in their care.
The bipartisan No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) was signed into law by President George W. Bush on January 2, 2002 and was an American education game-changer. Along with its emphasis on accountability and data collecting, such terms as Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP), proficiency, high-highly qualified teacher, high stakes testing, and teaching to the test became part of the popular vernacular.
Among its many mandates:
- Annual state testing in math and reading in grades 3 through 8 and once in high school.
- 95% student participation in the 17 federally required tests.
- The reporting of all students' test results, together with such subgroups as English language learners, special education and minority children, and those from low-income families.
- Sanctions on any schools where either all students or some subgroup did not "make AYP" for two years or more, and on from there.
- All students to meet the "proficient level" on state tests by the 2013-14 school year.
There was more, of course, but you get the idea. The federal government was in the driver's seat and more dictates would follow. That was especially true when, to no one's surprise, not all students were proficient in math and reading by June, 2014. That's when Obama and then Secretary of Education Arne Duncan came up with state waivers. For starters, these "waived" the proficiency-for-all 2014 deadline, allowed states to set their own student-achievement goals and intervene in failing schools as they saw fit. Of course, state after state applied.
This federal largess came with a price, however. Along with even more U.S. Department of Education involvement in our nation's schools, came forced adoption of the federally-funded Common Core State Standards in math and English/Language Arts and their aligned online assessments, PARCC or SBAC. Those alone cost taxpayers millions. Also on the federal agenda: states having to improve 15% of the worst-performing schools and base teacher evaluations on students' standardized test scores, known as Value Added Measures, or VAM.
Pushback eventually and inevitably followed.
Enthusiasm for the Common Core Standards, initially adopted by 46 states and D.C. waned and was gradually dropped by many. Ditto for their online assessments. Where PARCC started out with 26 participating states, only seven will administer it this spring. As for SBAC, the initial 31 has slipped to fifteen. At the same time, thousands of parents have joined the testing opt-out movement, wreaking havoc on that 95% test participation dictate and forcing politicians to rethink our testing obsession.
Meanwhile, using those forced Value Added Measures to assess and evaluate teacher effectiveness has now been largely discredited by those in-the-know.
One result: yet more change on the education front, this time by Republican Senator Lamar Alexander from Tennessee.
Optimistically called the Every Student Succeed Act, it was signed into law on December 10, 2015 by Obama, and it's loaded with goodies and NCLB reversals. However, it also leaves some mandates in place, such as the 95% participation in standardized tests.
Among its other directives:
- States make up their own accountability plans pending U.S. Department of Education approval.
- States set goals regarding testing and English-language proficiency, graduation rates aiming to close achievement, and graduation gaps.
- Accountability systems must contain proficiency indicators on state tests, along with English-language proficiency and an academic factor broken down by subgroup. They must also include at least one non-academic indicator, such as school climate.
- States must identify and intervene with regards to the bottom 5% of test-takers and high schools with graduation rates of 67% or lower.
- States must test students in reading and math in grades 3 through 8 and once in high school.
- 95% of students must participate in testing, but states can determine their own opt-out laws and consequences
- With state permission, schools can use nationally recognized tests, such as the SAT or ACT.
- States must adopt "challenging" academic standards if not the Common Core, and the U.S. Secretary of Education is barred from forcing/encouraging a particular set of standards.
- As of August 1, 2016, Obama's NCLB waivers are null and void, though essentially still in force until ESSA takes over in the 2017-18 school year.
- Accountability for English language learners' test scores will be phased in over the first 3 years that ESSA is in force.
- Only 1% of students may be given alternative tests, amounting to only about 10% of special education students.
- States must turn around their bottom 5% of schools.
- States can choose to eliminate teacher evaluations based on students' performance on standardized tests, known as Value Added Measures.
- Gone is NCLB's requirement that core subject teachers be "highly qualified."
Note that, this time around, the emphasis here is on the states, not the federal government, so hopes are high. However, ESSA is subject to tweaking between now and its official start up in 2017. Indeed, the negotiating has already begun, so stay tuned. Maybe keep your fingers crossed at the same time that its impact is positive for our teachers and the children in their care.
Carol is a learning specialist who worked with middle school
children and their parents at the Methacton School District in
Pennsylvania for more than 25 years and now supervises student teachers
at Gwynedd-Mercy University and Ursinus College. Along with the booklet,
149 Parenting School-Wise Tips: Intermediate Grades & Up, and
numerous articles in such publications as Teaching Pre-K-8 and Curious
Parents, she has authored three successful learning guidebooks: Getting
School-Wise: A Student Guidebook, Other-Wise and School-Wise: A Parent
Guidebook, and ESL Activities for Every Month of the School Year. Carol
also writes for examiner.com; find her articles at http://www.examiner.com/wise-parenting-in-philadelphia/carol-josel. For more information, go to http://www.schoolwisebooks.com.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Carol_Josel/308241
The Standardized Testing Opt-Out Movement: Right - Or Wrong-Minded?
Words like hard, nervous, hate, long, and boring come pouring out of kids' mouths whenever asked about standardized testing. Sometimes gum
gets heard, too, but only because teachers are catching on to the
research that chewing it during testing is associated with a 3% increase
in math scores on standardized assessments. Small, yes, but considered
"statistically significant," so why not? Ditto when it comes to
homework.
As for all those negatives, it's really no wonder. Fact is, as the Council of Great City Schools reports, our kids take about 112 standardized tests between kindergarten and high school graduation, equating to about eight annually. That, in turn, translates to between 20 to 25 hours of class time every year!
The result: A collective parent and teacher uproar and the strengthening of what has become known as the Opt-Out Movement. And, rest assured, despite former Education Secretary Arne Duncan's conclusion that opt-outers are just "white suburban moms" unhappy with falling scores, this movement has multi-colored legs here in Pennsylvania and across the country.
Indeed, last spring in Lower Merion, several teachers and parents took a stand against the high stakes Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA). Saying, "Our kids and schools are more than a score," they offered yard signs for one dollar apiece to residents, and every one of them was quickly scooped up. In the end, about 200 of the district's children didn't participate in the testing. In Philly, that number hit 595, with another 186 sitting out the Keystone Exams. Indeed, anti-testing pressure ultimately forced Governor Wolfe to postpone those Keystones as a graduation requirement until 2019. Meanwhile, across the commonwealth, some 4,500 students opted out last time around.
But, according to FairTest's findings, those numbers pale in comparison to the more than 620,000 students in the 14 states that reported--some 240,000 of them in New York State alone. In New Jersey, the figure hit 110,000, and these numbers are sure to grow this spring.
Not everyone is pleased with that outlook, however, and that includes the National Parent Teacher Association, which takes the position that:
Then there's this from Pam Stewart, Florida's education commissioner to every district: "... My belief is that students that do not want to test should not be sitting in public schools, as it is mandatory and required for students seeking a standard high school diploma. Statewide, standardized assessments are part of the requirement to attend school, like immunization records. That is our message and what we send to you to be shared with your staff."
So there!
Nevertheless, the movement grows. Just this past February, the 2016 United Opt-Out Conference was held in Philadelphia, and one of its major goals was doing a better job of reaching out to minority families to join. Moreover, as the organization reminds us: The movement is about "much more than simply refusing high-stakes tests."
For starters, the government sponsored and funded Common Core-aligned assessments-PARCC and SBAC-are more rigorous than those they replaced, so scores have slipped and anxiety levels have risen. Add that to the fact that 42 states and D.C.-up from 15 in 2009-now require that "student growth and achievement be considered in evaluations of public school teachers." Stoking the flames, New York Governor Cuomo went and proposed that 50% of a teacher's evaluation be based on those test scores. Oh, yes, in 28 states, an "ineffective rating" is cause for dismissal.
Then there's the fact that the K-12 education market pulls in more than $700 billion a year!
And one last tidbit: New Jersey is, for now anyway, the only state in the union to use the PARCC Common Core-aligned assessment as a graduation requirement-a purpose for which it was never designed. Stan Karp, director of the Secondary Reform Project of the Newark-based Education Law Center is, therefore, hoping to pressure the Department of Education to give this year's graduating class a pass.
At the same time, the California Alliance of Researchers for Equity in Education has joined a call for an end to high-stakes testing, saying that "there is no 'compelling' evidence to support the idea that the Common Core State Standards will improve the quality of education for children or close the achievement gap, and that Common Core assessments lack "validity, reliability and fairness."
Then there's this from Peter Gray, a research professor at Boston College: "The evidence is overwhelming that our national mania for testing-and for so much time in school and at schoolwork-is damaging the physical and psychological health of our children."
Agree? Disagree? Stay tuned; the testing season is gearing up again--and so are the opt-outers.
As for all those negatives, it's really no wonder. Fact is, as the Council of Great City Schools reports, our kids take about 112 standardized tests between kindergarten and high school graduation, equating to about eight annually. That, in turn, translates to between 20 to 25 hours of class time every year!
The result: A collective parent and teacher uproar and the strengthening of what has become known as the Opt-Out Movement. And, rest assured, despite former Education Secretary Arne Duncan's conclusion that opt-outers are just "white suburban moms" unhappy with falling scores, this movement has multi-colored legs here in Pennsylvania and across the country.
Indeed, last spring in Lower Merion, several teachers and parents took a stand against the high stakes Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA). Saying, "Our kids and schools are more than a score," they offered yard signs for one dollar apiece to residents, and every one of them was quickly scooped up. In the end, about 200 of the district's children didn't participate in the testing. In Philly, that number hit 595, with another 186 sitting out the Keystone Exams. Indeed, anti-testing pressure ultimately forced Governor Wolfe to postpone those Keystones as a graduation requirement until 2019. Meanwhile, across the commonwealth, some 4,500 students opted out last time around.
But, according to FairTest's findings, those numbers pale in comparison to the more than 620,000 students in the 14 states that reported--some 240,000 of them in New York State alone. In New Jersey, the figure hit 110,000, and these numbers are sure to grow this spring.
Not everyone is pleased with that outlook, however, and that includes the National Parent Teacher Association, which takes the position that:
- "Tests and assessments are used most frequently to help students, teachers, schools, and parents know what students have learned and what they still need to study."
- "Teachers can use information from assessments to design lessons that meet the needs of their students."
- "School districts and states use assessment results to evaluate whether they are meeting their goals."
- "Assessments also are used by policy-makers for accountability-to help gauge the effectiveness of programs and schools... "
Then there's this from Pam Stewart, Florida's education commissioner to every district: "... My belief is that students that do not want to test should not be sitting in public schools, as it is mandatory and required for students seeking a standard high school diploma. Statewide, standardized assessments are part of the requirement to attend school, like immunization records. That is our message and what we send to you to be shared with your staff."
So there!
Nevertheless, the movement grows. Just this past February, the 2016 United Opt-Out Conference was held in Philadelphia, and one of its major goals was doing a better job of reaching out to minority families to join. Moreover, as the organization reminds us: The movement is about "much more than simply refusing high-stakes tests."
For starters, the government sponsored and funded Common Core-aligned assessments-PARCC and SBAC-are more rigorous than those they replaced, so scores have slipped and anxiety levels have risen. Add that to the fact that 42 states and D.C.-up from 15 in 2009-now require that "student growth and achievement be considered in evaluations of public school teachers." Stoking the flames, New York Governor Cuomo went and proposed that 50% of a teacher's evaluation be based on those test scores. Oh, yes, in 28 states, an "ineffective rating" is cause for dismissal.
Then there's the fact that the K-12 education market pulls in more than $700 billion a year!
And one last tidbit: New Jersey is, for now anyway, the only state in the union to use the PARCC Common Core-aligned assessment as a graduation requirement-a purpose for which it was never designed. Stan Karp, director of the Secondary Reform Project of the Newark-based Education Law Center is, therefore, hoping to pressure the Department of Education to give this year's graduating class a pass.
At the same time, the California Alliance of Researchers for Equity in Education has joined a call for an end to high-stakes testing, saying that "there is no 'compelling' evidence to support the idea that the Common Core State Standards will improve the quality of education for children or close the achievement gap, and that Common Core assessments lack "validity, reliability and fairness."
Then there's this from Peter Gray, a research professor at Boston College: "The evidence is overwhelming that our national mania for testing-and for so much time in school and at schoolwork-is damaging the physical and psychological health of our children."
Agree? Disagree? Stay tuned; the testing season is gearing up again--and so are the opt-outers.
Carol is a learning specialist who worked with middle school
children and their parents at the Methacton School District in
Pennsylvania for more than 25 years and now supervises student teachers
at Gwynedd-Mercy University and Ursinus College. Along with the booklet,
149 Parenting School-Wise Tips: Intermediate Grades & Up, and
numerous articles in such publications as Teaching Pre-K-8 and Curious
Parents, she has authored three successful learning guidebooks: Getting
School-Wise: A Student Guidebook, Other-Wise and School-Wise: A Parent
Guidebook, and ESL Activities for Every Month of the School Year. Carol
also writes for examiner.com; find her articles at http://www.examiner.com/wise-parenting-in-philadelphia/carol-josel. For more information, go to http://www.schoolwisebooks.com.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Carol_Josel/308241
R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Find Out What It Means to Me
So often I here adults saying, "These kids are so disrespectful
these days", but they don't realize that they are a part of the problem.
I get it, believe me I get it, teens can be flappy at the mouth
sometimes. Answer me this question. When in the history of teens haven't
they been flappy at the mouth? Every adult at some point has been a
teen (unless you are a complete abnormality of nature and completely
skipped that stage), and as a teen you have at one time or another been
disrespectful. Here is the thing, it is completely unfair to judge an
entire generation based on your experience with a few. Yes I'm sure you
have been disrespected, but have you also been a part of the problem?
Has there ever been a time when you raised your voice at one of your
teens out of anger, or because you were trying to get your point across?
And at that moment did you ask yourself is it fair to yell at an
individual and not expect some sort of back talk? Listen, I understand
because you are the adult that you feel you should be respected at all
times.
There is an old saying that says, "In order to get respect, you must give respect", and that is the absolute truth. Just because a person is younger than you doesn't mean that they can't offer a valid perspective on things. You have to get out of your feelings, step back, take a breath and be the adult. Here is the thing, teens are caught in the middle of childhood and adult hood. They aren't children anymore not yet adults, even though they have adult feelings and emotions. Would you yell or raise your voice at an adult and not expect in return a harsh response? No, so why would you yell at a 15, 16, 17, or 18 year old and not expect the same reaction. As educators, administrators, counselors, and parents you are in control, but you lose control when you don't know when to relax. I remember when I worked for the Boys & Girls Club and I told my staff members in a meeting that they need to learn how to handle a certain level of disrespect. They all looked at me like I was out of my mind and crazy. Here is what I meant by that. If there is a situation where you are being completely disrespected by a young individual, you have to realize that you are in fact the adult and you have to be the bigger person. Relax, and allow that teen to say whatever they are saying. You remain in a calm voice and demeanor, because ultimately you will have the final say so. But if during that time you begin to yell back at them and act angry as well, then the situation can only escalate and you will look bad in the eyes of the other students around. So accepting a level of disrespect doesn't mean to allow yourself to be disrespected and not do anything about it... it means deal with it in that moment and handle it afterwards.
Here are my final thoughts: Teens are going to be teens no matter what, but what type of adult will you be? Will you be the one who yells to get your point across, or will you be the one who gives respect and handles themselves in an adult manner? Remember, you catch more flies with honey than you do vinegar.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Keon_Merriett/2272319
There is an old saying that says, "In order to get respect, you must give respect", and that is the absolute truth. Just because a person is younger than you doesn't mean that they can't offer a valid perspective on things. You have to get out of your feelings, step back, take a breath and be the adult. Here is the thing, teens are caught in the middle of childhood and adult hood. They aren't children anymore not yet adults, even though they have adult feelings and emotions. Would you yell or raise your voice at an adult and not expect in return a harsh response? No, so why would you yell at a 15, 16, 17, or 18 year old and not expect the same reaction. As educators, administrators, counselors, and parents you are in control, but you lose control when you don't know when to relax. I remember when I worked for the Boys & Girls Club and I told my staff members in a meeting that they need to learn how to handle a certain level of disrespect. They all looked at me like I was out of my mind and crazy. Here is what I meant by that. If there is a situation where you are being completely disrespected by a young individual, you have to realize that you are in fact the adult and you have to be the bigger person. Relax, and allow that teen to say whatever they are saying. You remain in a calm voice and demeanor, because ultimately you will have the final say so. But if during that time you begin to yell back at them and act angry as well, then the situation can only escalate and you will look bad in the eyes of the other students around. So accepting a level of disrespect doesn't mean to allow yourself to be disrespected and not do anything about it... it means deal with it in that moment and handle it afterwards.
Here are my final thoughts: Teens are going to be teens no matter what, but what type of adult will you be? Will you be the one who yells to get your point across, or will you be the one who gives respect and handles themselves in an adult manner? Remember, you catch more flies with honey than you do vinegar.