Baby Blog Month in Review: July 2008

Two of my three children are summer babies. That is, they were born in the summer and had their first months surrounded by sunshine streaming in the windows, the sound of birds chirping, and days spent wearing nothing but a diaper and a “onsie.” I made sure that they had Fourth of July outfits ready, even though one of them arrived a week after the holiday. I guess he just wasn’t interested in the parade. Do you have a summer baby, too? We had a lot of new information to share this past month, such as recall notices and new … Continue reading

Ideas for Science at Home

As you know, there are now ideas that a child’s attitude about science comes greatly from home. It is very important for parents to encourage scientific thinking in both boys and girls. Everyday is full of science learning opportunities for children. Parents can easily instruct children in scientific thinking without chemistry sets or expensive equipment. In this article, I would like to offer some very simple and easy ideas for parents to complete with their children to encourage a positive attitude about science. ยท Observe a flower or vegetable in your yard. Make estimations on how long it will take … Continue reading

Science Gender Gap

I have always heard that boys are better in math and science than girls. On the other hand, girls are better readers and writers. At one time, it was thought that the biology of men and women was the cause. However, some researchers believe differently. From a very early age boys are introduced to science. They are given tinker toys, Lego blocks and dinosaurs. Boys are given the opportunity to explore simple machines and racecars. Girls often miss out on this opportunity. Girls are flourished with dolls and arts and crafts. Girls lack the experience in science and feel that … Continue reading

Are Schools Designed for Boys or Girls?

For years we have heard how girls have been left behind in terms of science and math. It has been said that boys far exceed the girls and that we must place a focus upon women in these careers. I agree with those statements. However, girls make up the difference in other areas and perhaps far exceed the boys. Brain research shows that girls well out do boys in reading and writing. Girls are also generally higher achievers in our traditional classrooms. Boys and girls learn differently. Boys have extra, sometimes uncontrollable, energy. Their attention spans are shorter. It appears … Continue reading

Education Week in Review: April 7 – April 13

This week, I continued my focus on science and began a new focus on adults returning to school. In the area of science, I offered outdoor activity ideas and insight on gender gap. I also discussed study tips for adults returning to college. I hope that you enjoyed the week! Sunday, April 8 Outdoor Activity Ideas Many schools do not have outdoor classrooms. Even if you do not have access to outdoor instruction materials, you can easily conduct outdoor lessons. I offered some ideas in this article. Parents Prepare for Parent Teacher Conference It is important for parents to attend … Continue reading

Parents Encouraging Scientific Thinking

As I discussed in a previous article, the gender gap in science and math is likely due to parent expectations and attitude. It is very important for parents to nurture and encourage scientific thinking in both boys and girls. Scientific thinking is not a mysterious concept that can only be accomplished by a select few. Scientific thinking is simply being curious and questioning the world around you. Most children are naturally curious about their surroundings. Children need direction in helping to find answers and make sense of their observations. Parents do not need a science degree to help their children … Continue reading