Almost nothing beats that euphoric feeling that children, parents, (and dare I say, some teachers) feel when those first glorious days of summer begin! It is a time of universal happiness and playfulness. As one day gradually unfolds into the next, tensions and stress seem to melt away like the ice cream seeping down the side of a waffle cone!

School is out soon, but summer reading is required and should be enjoyable. Here’s a quick list of low-stress ways parents can help prepare and inspire their child for fall classroom discussions!

At one time or another, many parents question whether or not their child may have a learning difference. In reality, all children learn differently, which essentially means that all children have learning differences. However, for many young students (anywhere from 4-10% of school children depending on the study), these differences may be significant enough to have an impact on their school experiences.

We can all think of times in our life when we must exhibit appropriate self-control. Self-control is defined as the ability to control one’s emotions and desires. Most young children lack the self-control needed to refrain from crying if they are sad, yelling and pushing when they are mad, or grabbing a toy they want. While these things are developmentally appropriate, we as adults must work together to help guide children in learning how to regulate these emotions and desires.

As educators, we often talk about the importance of intentionally developing our students to be independent learners and independent thinkers. Even with the youngest preschool children, we focus daily on working to help them grow their abilities to be independent. But, is this focus on independence in direct opposition with one of the most important 21st-century skills – collaboration?

As a parent and educator, I have always believed in the power of raising children to be engaged with their local community. Looking outside of oneself builds empathy and helps each of us to be a better citizen.