A parent shared information about children learning to code rather than just playing games. Thanks to Katalina! Hi - As a parent, I’m always looking for meaningful learning experiences for my child. Like many kids, mine was spending too much time on video games, until I found this guide: https://www.websiteplanet.com/blog/safest-coding-sites-for-kids/. It helped them discover safe, fun platforms for learning to code (safely), and instead of just playing games, they started creating them! It’s been incredible to see their confidence grow. Since I thought this guide might be a valuable addition. Would you consider sharing it? Maybe … [Read more...]
Study finds video games lead to decreased learning interest in boys
Screen time (whether computers, tablets, phones, TV or other sources of broadcast content) has grown and grow. More studies are looking into the subject and some of the findings are concerning. Give this article a read. It appeared in The Washington Times. School-age boys become less interested in learning reading, writing and math the more they play video games, a Canadian study has found. Researchers from the University of Sherbrooke followed 1,631 children in Quebec, including 785 boys, as they played video games daily from ages 7 to 10 in the early 2000s. They found that every additional hour boys spent gaming at age 7 predicted a 2% drop in academic motivation by age 8, a … [Read more...]
Children’s Brains Shaped by Their Time on Tech
Today's article comes from the Taylor and Francis Group. Time spent watching television or playing computer games has measurable and long-term effects on children’s brain function, according to a review of 23 years of neuroimaging research, which while showing negative impacts also demonstrates some positive effects. However, the researchers stop short of advocating limits on screen time, which they say can lead to confrontation. Instead, they urge policymakers to help parents navigate the digital world by promoting programs which support positive brain development. The evidence review, published today in the peer-reviewed journal Early Education and Development, is an analysis of … [Read more...]
Unlocking Indoor Adventures: Stimulate Minds While Having a Blast with Your Kids
Today we bring you an article by Emily Graham (she has contributed several pieces). When clouds gather or when outdoor excursions are not on the agenda, the challenge of engaging children in productive and enjoyable activities emerges. This article from Southwest Washington Education delves into indoor activities that not only entertain but also foster educational growth for children. From strategic games that develop cognitive skills to creative outlets for artistic expression, there’s something for every young mind to explore. The Allure of Board Games Long gone are the days when board games were only about passing time. Today, they are vital tools for cognitive development, … [Read more...]
Puzzles
We found a site called The Goodwill Librarian that shares a wide range of puzzles for kids. Check them out: 2023 Puzzles Archive (goodwilllibrarian.com) Or how about Jigsaw Puzzles (small)? Jigsaw Puzzles for Kids | Online Simple Puzzles (roomrecess.com) Do you remember the Highlights Magazine? Games & Puzzles | Highlights Kids How about games for Grandma? Free, no registration...Games4Grandma Hidden Object Games offers some free: 🕹️ Play Hidden Object Games: Free Online Hidden Objects Finding Video Games for Kids and Adults (plays.org) Finally, for today, Hidden Object Zone offers free games, nothing to download and no registration: Free Hidden Object … [Read more...]
Story Time: How SEL is Injected Into All Subjects at School
Today we share an article written at The Free Writer. You can access the original post at: https://codybenson.substack.com/p/story-time-how-sel-is-injected-into?utm_source=facebook&sd=pf “Okay class,” the teacher says as she moves a strand of blue hair from her face and tucks it behind her ear. She picked up an eraser and finished cleaning everything off the white board except the words 2nd grade and the class schedule indicating that it was the start of the math lesson. “We have a simple word problem today. If you look to your handouts, it is question number one. Anyone care to read it out loud?" The teacher scanned the classroom only to find kids refusing to make eye contact … [Read more...]
Classroom Resources to Sharpen Your Brain
Today we bring you an article from a guest writer. Jenny Wise (http://specialhomeeducator.com/) She is a home-based teacher whose role is to help students and parents in the home and community work year-round. Her focus is looking for great new ideas to make learning fun and keeping students engaged. She is constantly gathering resources. She says "I’ve come across a lot of really exciting lesson plans and strategies lately, so I’m passing a few onto you with the hope that you can find a way to utilize them." So today, give Jenny's article a read and drop by her website for a look... While opening up a math textbook or reading a book are tried and true methods to sharpen a … [Read more...]