Perspective on Education

"The aim of education is the knowledge not of facts but of values."

-- William Inge

Boredom's Cure

"Nobody is bored when he is trying to make something that is beautiful, or to discover something that is true."

-- William Inge

When Teens Argue...

If you have a teenage daughter, who comes with complications, as they sometimes do, this is for you.

I just want to encourage you to hang in there. Here's something I learned in the classroom: It was suggested, when I was a teacher, that there are times when we just don't need to continue the conversation with a student.

Photo Credit: queenbchronicles.blogspot.com

So, for example, when a student is arguing about why she has to do or learn something and what value it is, remember -- it takes two to argue, so maybe silence will save your sanity and deescalate the situation --- eventually. You can simply say something like, "I understand your frustration." And only that. The statement is true and very empathetic. Each time she presents a question or argument in an effort to stall, delay, or avoid doing what she has to do, then she can no longer use you to help her stonewall her responsibilities. And you no longer have to work at having the right answer that will make her go, "Oh, thanks, Mom! I never thought of it that way before. Now I can see more clearly, and I'll get right to the task at hand!"

Photo Credit: familyfront.com

Might help. Might not.

Rainy Day Fun or Weather Unit Treats

Here's a cute idea for fun cupcakes to brighten a rainy day or highlight your study of precipitation, the water cycle, or weather. Connect it to literature, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, and serve meatballs for lunch. Follow the link for the cupcake directions. Another good book on the water cycle would be The Magic School Bus Wet All Over.

http://bakeitinacake.com/post/3446888466/rainy-day-cupcakes-i-couldnt-bake-real-rain-into

Here is a good resource link: Weather Wiz Kids for more weather information, games, and activities.

http://www.weatherwizkids.com/

And more...create a Cloud in a Jar: http://www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl/kids/activities.php

Do you have a favorite kind of cloud or weather?