Archive for August, 2011
Teaching Moments – Helping Others
In today’s world there are plenty of people who belong to the “it’s all about me” club. Many people believe it’s a “me, me, me” world and miss an essential part of life– helping others.
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: “To laugh often and much, to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children, … to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others, to leave the world a little better; whether by a healthy child or a garden patch … to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is success.”
In today’s world there are plenty of people who belong to the “it’s all about me” club. Many people believe it’s a “me, me, me” world and miss an essential part of life– helping others.
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: “To laugh often and much, to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children, … to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others, to leave the world a little better; whether by a healthy child or a garden patch … to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is success.” Helping others and contributing to their happiness is an important component of your own success. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: kids and teens development, youth developmentRelated posts
Teaching Moments – The Power of Thinking Big
Have you ever seen the high hurdle event at a track meet? The racers have clear vision and are focused on the finish line. They view each hurdle as a minor obstacle to overcome on their way to reaching their goal – winning the race.
They see the big picture and their focus becomes their motivation. The race becomes a vehicle they use to evaluate their strengths and the areas that need attention. Each racer understands that the event will measure all of their training, their pre-race routine and the other competitors. They remain focused on reaching their goal.
The race will measure their level of mental and physical preparation. What if your child could see the big picture and do the same thing with their education?
Students who do well in school have a clear sense of purpose. They see the big picture and understand that teachers and other adults are there to help them succeed. They ask questions, listen in class, read, do their homework on time, and do extra credit Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: kids and teens development, youth developmentRelated posts
Teaching Moments – Fight or Flight
In this teaching moment fight or flight refers to how we handle new challenges. It is a fundamental concept each of us needs to address. Life will test our resolve on this principle many times.
Do you run (flight) from new challenges and opportunities? Or, do you accept the test that is being presented and make the best of the learning experience (fight)? Fight doesn’t mean getting into an actual fight. It means being determined to make the best of a new or difficult situation.
Certainly there are many times you will need to run (flight) from a treat or danger. However, in some cases we use flight as a reason to avoid something. Question: Are you taking flight simply because you don’t like something or it’s too hard or because you are afraid of what someone else might think?
Let’s say that your worst subject is math. In the past you may have blamed others and made excuses for your poor performance. That is flight. An example of fight is when you decide to meet the challenge of improving your grade. In this case fight means getting extra help, studying harder before the tests and doing extra credit work. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: kids and teens development, youth development