Protecting Kids in Social Media

Social Media has been dubbed as the future of communication and has become highly depended upon by our students. The social media experience of a student is much more different than that of an adult. While adults may turn to social networking as a way to stay connected with family and old high school classmates, kids place a different spin on usage of the networks. It is important for parents to know these differences to effectively monitor your child’s safety.

Although there are more social media platforms popping up every day, there are networks your kids likely frequent. Believe it or not, Club Penguin is available to children as young as five years old. Your kids are likely using platforms such as Twitter, InstaGram, and Oovoo. Kids love these platforms because parents are not using them. Parents tend to be more active on Facebook. How do you protect your kids if you are not a member of these sites?

Each of these sites requires an email address or cellular phone to set up. Ask your student to list the sites with login and passwords they have set up membership with. Email is a usual tell-tale for which accounts they have subscribed to. Mobile applications are also an indicator of membership. Do not be afraid to log in and see what is going on, whom they are friends with, and what they are communicating about. Many adults pose as students to gain the students’ trust.

Start with setting ground rules for social media usage. Club Penguin is a trusted site which prides itself in keeping the child’s identity private. However, profiles on other social sites such as those mentioned above can be found from a Google search. Review your child’s privacy settings. Ensure kids only connect with people they know. Limit the time spent on these networks. Establish what is appropriate to post. Log into their accounts to see what is not posted publicly. Check their accounts periodically. Social Media Couple’s has provided an in-depth Facebook agreement for families you can download here http://bit.ly/RuHv4o to help get the conversation started.

Blog submitted by Sharita J. Lee, MBA with JusSharLee Management, LLC www.jussharlee.com

Finding Structure in a New School Year

Every school year brings about a new type of excitement than the year before. Children are advancing to the next grade level, meeting new friends, and receiving additional responsibilities. Kids will waste no time exchanging phone numbers and online profiles, teachers have already written lesson plans, and some students are traveling to and from school alone for the first time. With all of this excitement, it is important to remember a few basic rules to ensure your student is successful this year.

Begin with a home ritual. Monitor the time your student arrives home. Connect with teachers’ resources to view assigned lessons. Many of these resources are available online. Designate appropriate times for television and social activities, such as social media and cellular usage, after homework and studying is completed. Children should receive at least eight hours rest to allow their minds to refresh and their bodies to rejuvenate. A hearty breakfast each morning will help jump start their minds and keep them alert in class. Most schools now even serve breakfast.

There should be rules and expectations developed with your student for the upcoming school year. Discuss the upcoming schedule, as well as any fears and goals the child may have. Write a mission and vision statement and post in a visible place. Develop a plan of action, should the student find difficulty staying on track. Add checkpoint dates and outside of progress report dates to help everyone stay informed.

We all know how exciting, yet frightening, a new school year can be. Parents are managing vigorous work schedules, focusing on bills, managing households, and raising future leaders. Adding a little structure to a bit of the upcoming chaos can help everyone breathe easier, focus on their tasks, and manage their time wisely. Setting attainable goals, with a viable support system, creates a win-win situation. Share your agreements and goals with us at www.facebook.com/aquantumleap.

Our Military Kids

Founded in 2004, Our Military Kids saw the need to aid children whose parents were serving our country overseas.  Because many National Guard and Reserves are geographically dispersed when they are stationed, families are not always centrally located around military bases that offer support services.  The lack of military base support causes many families to become financially stretched, and are no longer able to afford fees associated with sports, music and dance programs, tutoring programs or other activities that children enjoy and benefit from.  Our Military Kids fills this funding void by offering children/families grants which pay for these types of activities. See activities here http://www.ourmilitarykids.org/how-to-apply/eligible-program-activities/.

Applying is easy (http://www.ourmilitarykids.org/how-to-apply/apply-now/) but there are two important things you should know first.  A child may only be eligible if it is his or her first grant, and the grant may not exceed $500.  This is due to federal budget cuts (this revision was made May 1, 2011). If you believe your child is eligible, here are the three things needed in order to receive a grant:

1.        A copy of deployment orders which show that the child’s parent is in the National Guard or Reserves deployed overseas and has at least 60 days remaining on orders.

2.       Child’s military dependent ID card (see website for other accepted forms of identification).

3.       Documentation of clearly stated activity costs (flyer, letter from the organization, brochure, etc.). Note:  If the tutoring service is from an individual, proof of a teaching certificate must be available in order to receive a grant.

Because Our Military Kids is a non-profit organization, every little bit counts.  Our Military Kids has fortunately never denied a grant to an eligible child.  It is because of individuals, corporations and foundations that generously donate funds that keep this program alive.  More than 95 cents of every dollar donated goes directly into the activities or tutoring services because administrative and fundraising expenses are so low (Roughly three percent in 2010 revenue).  If you would like to help donate, a small contribution will make a big difference.  A child will be able to play ball, cheer for the peewee squad or excel at math again. Donate here: http://www.ourmilitarykids.org/how-to-help-our-military-kids/make-a-financial-contribution/

Online Education Services Open New Doors

The Internet has changed the way education can be taught in society. Online tutoring and online courses have expanded and opened new doors for the education industry. This option is beneficial to many people. Online education services give some students who never had the chance - an opportunity to learn. While online tutoring may not be the best option for every child, there are many children who have excelled due to the advantages that come with tutoring services via the Web.

Online tutoring is a great option for students who are introverts or auditory learners. Introverted children may be afraid to ask questions or voice their concerns in a subject. The computer provides them the space they need to relax and ask their questions. This environment helps mitigate the fear, “Is my question stupid?”   

Children who are injured, have a contagious disease, or are bedridden benefit immensely from online education.  This allows them to keep up with school while healing. Students who are bullied in school are also great candidates for online courses. The emotional distress that bullied children go through can severely damage their perception of school and cause them to lose focus in class. Students with busy schedules due to extracurricular activities can now squeeze in tutoring time when it fits their schedule.

While online education is in many ways conducted the same as traditional courses, you have the capacity to learn at times which are best for you in virtually any location. With the advantage of teacher collaboration, an endless amount of educational resources, and the opportunity to choose a top-notch, qualified tutor, online tutoring is a route worth considering.

As long as your child takes this format seriously, like any traditional course or help session, you will see proven results. Opportunities are limitless because you now have a larger span of educators at your fingertips in any subject that may challenge your child. 

Sources:

http://www.skill-guru.com/sat/benefits-of-online-tutoring/

http://ajaodegaard.hubpages.com/hub/onlinetutoring2

Math: Taught Differently Than When We Were Kids

Your child comes home from school, takes out his math homework and immediately asks for your help.  “Sure,” you say.  You think, “He’s only in 5^th grade.  I’ve got this.”  You look over the questions, open the book, glance over the examples and realize, “This is not how I was taught in school.”  Immediately you feel discouraged because your 5^th grader’s math assignment is foreign to you, and you can’t help him.

We have good news for you: you’re not alone!

As a tutoring company, we hear this all of the time.  The way mathematics is taught in school has changed tremendously over the past decade and it is safe to say that you are not the only one puzzled by your child’s multiplication homework.

Today, mathematics is taught to emphasize algebraic thinking.  Keith Devlin, Weekend Edition’s math guy says, “The way it's taught now is you get to the multiplication tables by understanding the number system and understanding what numbers mean.”

For example, we were taught multiplication this way.

And today, students are taught to add 4 products.

So, the next time you feel bad with numbers because you can’t help with your child’s math homework, take a deep breath in and remember, it’s not you, it’s the new way math is taught.

At A Quantum Leap Tutoring, we can tutor anyone, anywhere, anytime in the state of Florida. We have quality tutors who will assist you in the learning process, will work within your personal schedule and will do so at a location that is convenient to you. Call now for your free consultation: 1-877-295-LEAP.

We can help anyone, anywhere throughout the state of Florida.

http://www.tutoringbycity.com 

'Like' us on Facebook:

http://www.Facebook.com/AQuantumLeap

Follow us on Twitter:

http://www.Twitter.com/AQuantumLeapFL

Source: http://www.npr.org/2011/03/05/134277079/the-way-you-learned-math-is-so-old-school

Earth Day With Your Family

Earth Day, which began April 22, 1970, is a special day for every generation to remember and understand the importance of keeping our environment clean. Each year, schools celebrate this day with our children because they are our future.  This year, Earth Day falls on a Sunday, so what better way to celebrate this special day than with the whole family!

First, teach your children simple steps to conserve energy and reduce waste.  On Earth Day, advise your children to turn off the lights as they leave a room, switch off appliances (like the TV) after use and make a point to recycle everything!  Add a fun twist to these activities by singing “Recycle songs”* while being conservative! All these steps help our environment by conserving energy and reducing waste - keeping our planet healthy. 

Now that they’ve got the basics down, set out on an Environmental Cleanup** with your family, friends or neighbors in your community.

Items that you will need:

·         work gloves

·         trash bags

·         shovel & bucket (for sharp objects)

·         first-aid kit (always be prepared!)

·         camera

Pick a location to clean-up in your area.  This can be your neighborhood, local park or nearby riverbank.  Create a competition to see who can gather the most garbage and be sure to take photos of everyone’s hard work!

End your Earth Day with a pizza party and photo viewing session to reward your family and friends for supporting the planet.  Remember, every little bit counts!

Recycle Song* http://www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/earth/rrr.htm
Environmental Cleanup** http://www.education.com/activity/article/Hands_On_Environmentalism/ 

Bullying: No Child is Exempt

1 in 3 children are either a victim or perpetrator of bullying.
  
While this fact is startling, there are steps you can take as a parent to help address this issue.  With parents in the position of authority, they become the hub for bullying interventions - a necessity to stop this behavior before it goes too far.

Bullying can begin in children as young as toddlers. Bullying does not discriminate in age, race, gender or economic status.  While some parents may think “it’s just kids being kids,” it is time for these parents to step up and take action to rally against bullying.

Here are three steps to conquer this problem head on and stop bullying in its tracks:

1. Learn the signs of bullying.  Most children do not immediately tell their parents they are being bullied; however, there are tell-tale signs to look for.  Many victims will want to avoid recess or school activities in which there is no structured classroom setting.  Children may complain of headaches, stomachaches or have unexplained bruises and cuts.  Other signs include getting to school too early, too late or taking an illogical long route to class.  Trouble sleeping, low self-esteem or depressive behaviors are also potential signs of those being victimized.
2. Communicate and become involved in your child’s life.  It is important to talk with your child on a daily basis. Research shows that parents are the last to know if their child is being bullied or is the perpetrator.  Ask open ended questions about their social life when you pick up your child from school.  A simple “What did you do at recess?” or “Who did you eat lunch with today?” may be all it takes to find out if your child is a victim of bullying.  Engaging in topics about your child’s peers will make them feel comfortable to come to you with issues if a bullying event arises. 
3. Be a leader and set a good example for your child. Most bullying is the result of an observation from how you as an adult communicate in your own power relationships.  If your child consistently sees you handle situations poorly with waiters, cashiers or drivers on the road, they are picking up poor ways to communicate.  You should also initiate a conversation and let your child know that they too can be a leader and set a good example for others.  Most children that oversee a bullying event feel powerless.  Tell them that it’s okay to stand up to their peers and say “Stop, that’s not cool,” or to tell a teacher or authority figure.

Sources:

http://www.education.com/magazine/article/Warning_Signs_that_Your_Child/

http://www.education.com/reference/article/ten-actions-to-eliminate-bullying/

We can help anyone, anywhere throughout the state of Florida.

http://www.tutoringbycity.com 

'Like' us on Facebook:

http://www.Facebook.com/AQuantumLeap

Follow us on Twitter:

http://www.Twitter.com/AQuantumLeapFL

Volunteering at Your Child’s School 101

We know you are a busy parent and you shouldn’t feel guilty about it! Career moms (and dads!) tend to struggle to find the time to volunteer at their child’s school.  This can be due to time constraints or a busy work schedule.  With that said, it is important your child perceives that you take an active role in their education. 

According to the National Center for Educational Statistics,

"School-aged children are more likely to get mostly A's, to enjoy school, to participate in extracurricular activities, and are less likely to have ever repeated a grade and to have ever been suspended or expelled if their fathers or mothers have high levels of involvement in their schools.”

As you understand the importance of being involved, let’s learn how a busy mom (or dad!) can play a role in their child’s education at school.

1.       If you have 15 minutes:

a.   Volunteer to use this time to send reminder phone calls or emails for field trips, fund-raisers or parties in the classroom.  You may not be able to take part in the actual event, but a simple reminder to the parents of your child’s classmates will play a huge role in making the event run smoothly.

b.   If you’ve noticed a lack of crossing guards, a policy issue or other initiatives you may want to see implemented at the school, take this time to voice your opinion and ask other parents to weigh in.

2.       If you have an hour: (Or lunch break!)

a.   Volunteer to read at the school. Even if it’s not in your child’s classroom, many students with reading disabilities need the opportunity to work one-on-one with an adult who can give them the attention they need to learn new reading skills. Just be sure to pop your head into your child’s classroom to show that you’re there and that you care.

b.   Use your lunch break to eat with your child at school. Bring them food! It’s a great way to make them feel special and make their school day.

3.       If you have no time available during the school week:

a.    Ask your child’s teacher if there are any out-of-classroom projects you can assist with. This shows the teacher that despite your 9-5 job, you are putting forth the initiative to be a part of your child’s education. This can also strengthen the relationship between your child and their teacher.

b.   Plan ahead and take a day off at work when you are already planning a half-day.  At the beginning of the year, find out when there is a field trip or party, and plan ahead.  If you’ve needed to schedule a doctor or dentist appointment, schedule the appointment early in the morning or late afternoon on the day of the event. Then you can plan to spend the rest of the day at the school.

c.   Join the PTA/PTO. These meetings are generally at night to accommodate working moms and dads.

So, despite your busy schedule, there’s always a few minutes  you can give to your child to ensure their education and show that you care.  Just make sure to let your child know what you’ve done or how it will affect them and their classmates if you are not directly volunteering in your child’s classroom. All types of help count and he or she will love you for it. 

Sources:

http://www.parenting.com/article/school-volunteering-ideas?page=0,2

http://www.parentssource.com/volunteer.article.asp

Visit us at http://www.tutoringbycity.com
"Like" us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/aquantumleap
Follow us on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/aquantumleapfl 

Five Fun Activities to do With Your Kids During Spring Break

Spring break is fast approaching, and while the kids are ecstatic, parents are doing the panic dance.  If you haven’t planned a week’s worth of activities, don’t freak out just yet.  We have five excellent ideas that will keep your children busy during their time off of school.

1.    Head to the beach!  While this may seem like an obvious choice, it’s relatively inexpensive and you can make a day of it.  Pack a cooler with subs and sodas, grab the car keys and head out!  If you live in Florida, you should have little to no trouble traveling to the nearest beach with the kids.  Just don’t forget the sunscreen and sand toys!  For a list of Florida beaches, refer to this directory.  http://www.awesomeflorida.com/beaches-of-florida.htm

 
2.      Tour a local attraction or theme park!  Plan a trip to your local museum, aquarium, planetarium, zoo or park.  Many attractions have kid discounts and can be a cheap way to offer a fun, educational experience that kids will surely love.  “Hands on” learning is one of the best ways for children to be involved and understand science, nature and history.  For a list of Florida attractions, select the area in which you live, and start planning your trip from there. http://www.touristflorida.com/
 
3.      Plant a garden and get outdoors! Head to your local nursery and pick out seeds such as carrots, tomatoes, eggplant, and cauliflower that bloom nicely in the northern parts of Florida in the spring.  Pick a sunny spot in your back yard, grab a shovel, and line your garden with rocks or stones.  Plant seeds that are in season and watch your children learn the science behind vegetable growing.  They’ll love enjoying their home-grown veggies after they’ve sprouted!  For more information about home vegetable gardening, follow the link below. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/vh021
 
4.      Volunteer for a day!  Give back to your community by signing up at a local soup kitchen, nursing home or animal shelter.  It will be a rewarding experience for your child, and helping the less fortunate can help ground children and help them appreciate the smaller things in life.  It will teach them not to take anything for granted and maybe they’ll change a life. http://www.volunteerflorida.org/volnow/index.html
 
5.      Theme a rainy day “SPRING” and craft, bake, and play spring activities!  It is highly likely that at least one day during spring break will be rainy.  Take this day to stay indoors, craft spring arts and bake springtime snacks and dinners. For a list of spring-themed food and fun, check out the following site. http://familyfun.go.com/spring/                                   

Visit us at http://www.tutoringbycity.com. 

Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/aquantumleap

Follow us on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/aquantumleapfl

Build an A+ Study Nook

Every child deserves a homework or study nook where they can focus on school and learning.  While your child may think he/she can multitask by watching cartoons, drinking a soda and completing their math homework, it is not exactly the ideal atmosphere for focusing.  Even if your child’s room or home office has little space, that is all it takes to create the study nook needed to reel in better grades on their report card.

First, you should communicate with your child and let them help you create it.  This will allow them to feel involved in their success and can make for a fun weekend project.  Here are the basics of what your child’s study headquarters needs:

1. A calendar:  This will help your child stay organized with homework due dates and test dates.  Planning is essential!
2. A desk:  If you cannot afford a brand new one, turn an old table into a fun, creative project, and your child will be more inclined to use it.  After all, they helped personalize it!
3. A simple setup: When choosing desk toppers like a lamp, pencil holder or other school supplies, try to keep it simple and clutter free.  Simplicity creates fewer distractions for your child while studying and will allow them to focus on their homework.
4. A clock: This will help enforce homework time or can be used as a tool to allow a specific amount of time to study for each test.
5. Extra fluff: This is where you can get creative. Help make your child’s study space feel cozy and inviting.  Though you should keep it simple, adding a pillow to the back of the chair or clearing space on the wall to display your child’s great work will keep this area fun.

We know homework time can be a struggle, but giving your child their own homework station while involving them in the process can improve their study and homework habits.  It will also show them that you care about their education and success in school.  So cut the bad habits now and create a quiet space that allows them to focus and learn. 

Sources:

http://www.babycenter.com/0_how-and-why-to-set-up-a-homework-space_67872.bc

http://www.parents.com/kids/education/back-to-school/how-to-create-homework-hq/?page=1

A Quantum Leap on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/aquantumleap

A Quantum Leap on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/aquantumleapfl

http://www.tutoringbycity.com