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July 23, 2008
 The global community has become increasingly more accessible to our children. They encounter other cultures and groups different from their own in the news, the internet and from inside their own neighborhoods. Find out how you can expose your children to the diverse global community and why doing this can increase their knowledge base and foster an accepting attitude.
By Elisheba Haqq-Stevens
HELPING CHILDREN TO EXPLORE NEW FOODS
One of the best ways to allow children to experience another culture is to encourage them to eat and enjoy different foods. Many families have access to restaurants which specialize in ethnic foods. Try a few new foods one at a time and avoid the restaurants which are too westernized. For example, if you go to an Indian restaurant and there are no South Asian-Americans dining there, chances are the food is less then authentic.
A meal is a reflection of the culture from which it is derived and each country has its regional favorites. For instance, before arriving at an Indian restaurant, find out why North Indians favor naan and South Indians prefer rice. Ask the proprietor to explain how the food is prepared and about the spices or flavorings used. While inside the restaurant, note the décor and point out objects that reflect the culture. Often the colors and patterns used are very different. In India, the mango or paisley pattern is very popular as are the bright, vivid colors. Many times the host or hostess might be attired in traditional clothing.
Even though the food may be unfamiliar, children are often much more open to new experiences, especially when they see their parents enjoying them. By tasting food that is from another country, children can get some exposure to the traditions and cultures of that region.
TRAVEL OUTSIDE OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE
While family vacations to Disney World or the beach can be fun and relaxing, why not take a trip to Italy, Peru or even Tanzania? Many counties have become much more kid- friendly in recent years. For instance, going on a safari to visit the Ngorogoro crater in Tanzania is a wonderful opportunity to relax while learning about wild animals, their habitats, the Tanzanian people and their culture, in a country that is well accustomed to hosting tourists of all ages. The safaris, guides and lodges are familiar with the particular needs of western travelers. Like many countries in the African and Asian continent, most people speak and understand English.
Before parents take their children to visit an exotic locale like Tanzania, they should spend some time studying about the historical past of the country. This way when visiting a monument or locale, the whole family can learn not only verbally but also visually. With supervision, parents can encourage children to interact with the locals by asking about their home life, their work, their faith and their hobbies. Enjoying the local diet should also be encouraged. While eating street food may not be wise, ordering authentic dishes while dining in restaurants will add another layer of experience.
Children will learn more by keeping travel journals, gathering organic souvenirs instead of just buying trinkets and snapping their own photos. No history book can ever replace a real life experience. Children can also be encouraged to share their observations in the classroom.
RECOGNIZE CULTURES WITHIN OUR OWN COUNTRY
The USA is one of the most diverse in the world. People from every background and culture call America their home. Children should be taught how to politely and respectfully ask questions when they meet someone who has a background different from their own. Instead of asking “Where are you from?” A better question might be, “Could you please tell me more about your ethnic background?” Children should express their desire to learn and usually this will begin an interesting dialogue.
Parents should not forget about the diverse cultural background that is uniquely American. A trip to the Southern part of the United States can be a valuable lesson not only about the Civil War, but also about the rich and unique characteristics which make up the southern culture.
By exposing children to diverse backgrounds, parents will help children to understand and respect cultures other than their own. Children will become well rounded, aware, knowledgeable and accepting about the ever changing world around them.
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July 14, 2008
Whether an elementary school student or a high school senior, kids who move to a new school from another town face their own unique challenges, from making friends and figuring out the popular hangouts to missing their old neighborhood, school, and acquaintances. Read on to find out some tips on how to make the transition to a new school a smooth one.
By Mary Fetzer
How can you ease the anxiety your child may feel about starting a new school? One thing to consider is the time of year you move. Some experts say that summer is the best time to move school-age children because it avoids disrupting the school year. Others suggest that mid-year is better because a child can meet other kids right away. Here are more tips to prepare your child for making the move to a new school.
Visit The New School
Many schools offer orientation for new students who will begin in the fall. Children and their parents can take a look at the preschool, new sixth graders can visit the middle school, freshmen can tour the high school, and so on. Orientation helps new students find their way around the building, meet some teachers, and maybe even get to know some fellow students, making it nice to recognize familiar faces and places on that first day at the new school.
If the school doesn’t have a formal orientation, students and their parents should plan a visit over the summer. It can be as simple as driving by and taking a look, or scheduling a tour with the building principal or a teacher.
Prepare For The First Day
Prior to the first day of school, students and parents should do their homework, so to speak, and touch upon all of the bases that can be covered in advance. Being informed about the following can lessen uneasiness:
• What books or supplies are students required to bring? Some schools distribute supply lists before the year begins.
• What time does school start and finish? This information may be mailed during the summer or published in a local newspaper.
• If the student is taking a bus to school, what are the pick-up and drop-off times and locations?
• Will the child pack a lunch or purchase one at school? Does he/she need money for lunch?
• Does the school have a dress code or require a uniform?
• If the student has an advance schedule of class times and locations, he or she should review it the night before the first day and remember to bring a copy to school with them.
Offer Support
Parents can help just by being there and talking them through their anxieties.
Here are other ways to show your support:
• Reassure their child that it’s normal to feel nervous or frightened at first and that most other kids feel the same way.
• Help them make good decisions, even when it’s as simple as, “What should I wear to school today?” Parents can use their children’s age and maturity levels to determine how much input they should offer: preschoolers may have a choice of two outfits, while high school teens can select their own wardrobe.
• Remind their children they will make new friends. Just as they were able to establish friendships in the past, they will do so again. Encouraging involvement in school activities and clubs will offer more opportunities to meet other kids.
• Develop routines. Whether a child is in preschool or high school, morning and bedtime rituals provide numerous benefits. Any time a child knows what to expect, he or she feels more secure and less anxious.
• Be attentive and really listen. Recalling their own difficulties at various times in their school career, parents can offer a truly sympathetic ear. Not all listening sessions have to end with “advice.” Sometimes, kids just need a sounding board.
Most importantly, parents must continue to show unconditional love and support, no matter how young or old the child.
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July 7, 2008
We love our children more than life itself and Double Stuff Oreos, but dealing with their bodily functions can be mentally draining. Or, in this case, bodily dis-functions when an older child (age five and up) has a problem with bedwetting. Joanne Kimes, author of “Potty Training Sucks: What to do When Diapers Make you Miserable,” explains why your child is wetting the bed and what can be done about it.
By Joanne Kimes
As frustrating as it can be to deal with waking up to a full load of laundry each morning, bedwetting is no picnic for your child either who has to deal with the embarrassment and humiliation. So let’s see what we can do about this situation because, if you’re dealing with bedwetting after potty training, “urine” need of some education.
Primary Bedwetting
To begin with, there are two types of bedwetting in older children. The primary being when your child has never been dry at night for longer than a six-month period. This type occurs more often in males, and will decline with age. The causes are varied but not one of them has to do with the child’s laziness or any improper parenting skills, despite your feelings to the contrary. No amount of scolding, pleading, or candy-coated bribes will make the situation go away.
The most common reasons for primary bedwetting are that the child’s bladder is small, the muscles that control the bladder aren’t working together correctly, or too much urine is produced either due to late night drinking or a hormonal issue that prevents their body from producing less urine at night like it should be. There can also be a problem with the signal from the bladder to their brain that’s supposed to alert Junior that it’s time to make a pilgrimage to the potty. Studies also suggest that children who wet their beds are deeper sleepers than those who don’t.
Secondary Bedwetting
The secondary type of bedwetting is when a child has been dry for at least a six-month period and then starts wetting their bed. In this case, the cause may be due to severe stress such as a death in the family, a divorce, a bullying peer, or even sexual abuse. It could also be due to a new medical condition such as diabetes or even a seizure disorder.
So, what’s the solution? First, no matter the type, make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician to find out if the reason is physical. If it is, there are medications to take and minor surgeries to correct any abnormalities. If your child is going through a stressful period, have your pediatrician suggest a child psychologist.
If your child is given a clean bill of health both mentally and physically here are some other ideas:
1. Restrict liquids two hours before bedtime and do away with diuretics like caffeinated colas.
2. Wake your child before you go to bed at night and have him use the bathroom to reduce the amount of urine he’ll have to hold during the night.
3. Buy an alarm that is snapped into your child’s pajamas and goes off whenever liquid is detected (there are several brands, all of which are available on-line).
4. Get a waterproof mattress pad!
5. For sleepovers without shame, buy specially made diapers for older children that go virtually undetected under pajamas.
Most importantly, don’t yell at your child. In fact, if you or your spouse was a bedwetter as a child (which is more than likely since the condition tends to be a genetic) tell your child stories. Kids can’t get enough of embarrassing mom and dad tales like “when I was young I farted during an oral report”. And, as hard as it may be to do, relax and know that (unless the cause is psychological or due to a physical abnormality), over time your child’s internal plumbing will mature, and the accidents will decrease along with the size of your pile of laundry!
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July 3, 2008
 It’s more than just the Macy’s fireworks display. Independence day is the most important holiday of the American calendar year. So parents should take this opportunity to explain a little bit about the country we live in. Although your kids may already be off from school for the summer, it’s still a perfect summer lesson. Questions may arise as to why we celebrate this holiday as a country and what it really means. Why is this important? Well, children should know why they are Americans.
By Amanda Fornecker
Parents should not be intimidated to teach their children about patriotism. “Teaching patriotism to children is similar to teaching anything else,” says Brenda Nixon, author of The Birth to Five Book (Revell, January 2009). “It demands good role models, such as parents who are patriotic or respectful and it demands simple instructive words that kids can understand.”
Check out some ways below to really get your kids into this patriotic summer holiday we know as the Fourth of July.
REPETITION
When attempting to teach your kids the Pledge of Allegiance, an excellent way to get the words ingrained in their little brains is with repetition. “Repetition is key,” says Nixon. “Kids need to see or hear something over and over to internalize the lesson.”
TIP: While in the pool or doing your summer crafts, try to say the Pledge of Allegiance or sing the Star Spangled Banner. Songs tend to be very catchy and stick in a child’s mind longer than just a quick explanation.
MAKE HISTORY FUN
Now what year did July 4th become an important date? And why can’t I remember back to my fifth grade history lesson? The significance of this important American holiday is great, but if you can’t exactly remember all the reasons as to why, you can pick up something as simple as The Complete Idiot’s Guide to American History (Alpha, 2006). Here you can find dates, events, and some quick facts that will get you and your kids started on an important historical conversation.
TIP: Try making a Jeopardy-like game for your kids after you’ve given them all the historical facts.
VOCABULARY BUILDING
What do allegiance, indivisible, and pledge really mean? Break down the Pledge of Allegiance for your children by explaining what each word and phrase means. In this way, they’ll be able to really understand what they may say each day at school, while being able to believe in what they say.
CRAFTY TIP: Help your children make up fun and colorful flash cards with vocab words and various dates so that they can quiz themselves later on.
HISTORICAL OUTING
Sometimes the best way to teach children is by showing them. So why not get out of the house for a day or even save yourself from the rainy day blues by taking a trip to the museum? You may be surprised as to what your area offers you with respect to historical artifacts and other documents.
TIP: If you have some more time and are looking to get away, take a trip to somewhere historical like Philadelphia or Washington, D.C.
FUN FLAG FACTS
The symbol of our country is the American flag so sit down with a flag and explain what each of the stripes, stars, and colors symbolizes. This way they can understand what they are actually pledging their allegiance to and will know what it means to be patriotic. In addition there are many other flag symbolisms, such as folding it, putting your hand over your heart when you pledge allegiance, and more.
TIP: Break out the crayons and/or markers and construction paper so you can teach your kids how to make a flag. Another great way to teach is through action.
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June 21, 2008
 Walk down the street, and you’ll see children riding their bicycles while chatting on cell phones. Every kid in the mall has one and stores cater to kids by offering cool phone accessories like charms, covers, and carrying cases. They certainly provide parents with the peace of mind that they can be in contact in case of an emergency, but are they forcing our children to grow up too soon?
GeoParent talked with Bob Lotter, CEO of Radar, My Mobile Watchdog, about the dangers of cell phone use among children.
By Mary Fetzer
GeoParent: It seems that every kid in America has a cell phone…
Bob Lotter: Parents are giving phones to their children at younger and younger ages. It is estimated that 75% of children ages 13 to 17 have cell phones, with a growing trend toward younger children.
GP: Why should a child carry a cell phone?
Mr. Lotter: The most important reason is safety. With a cell phone, children can be in direct contact with parents no matter where they are. In the event of emergencies, parents can reach out to their children and locate them for further actions. Children can contact police, fire, and other safety services and should be trained to do so.
There are developmental reasons for children having phones. Cell phones are the “new computer,” and a child who doesn’t know how to use them may fall technically or socially behind. When used correctly, cell phones provide social and intellectual value.
GP: Those are the benefits, but what are the dangers?
Mr. Lotter: Phones are a greater threat to a child’s safety than a computer. Cell phones are omnipresent with the child and most of the time out of eye and ear range of their parents, so cell phone usage is unmonitored.
Until Radar, there has been no solution to monitor cell phone usage, text messages, and surfing the net. Predators know this, thus we have epidemic-scale issues with cell phones becoming a favored communication method for child porn, sexting (children taking sexual pictures of themselves and others texting them), cyber bullying, and adult content. Predators know that the anonymity of the Internet is easily transferred to unmonitored phones and are moving from online communication to text messaging to further their goals.
GP: What is Radar?
Mr. Lotter: Radar, My Mobile Watchdog, is a service that protects children from cyber bullying, predators, adult content, and other unsafe activities on their cell phone. Radar is designed for children ages 7 to 17.
GP: How big of a threat are the dangers?
Mr. Lotter: Radar conducts pilot programs and safety studies. The last five predators caught with Radar were not listed on the Sex Offender Register, and all came prepared and appeared well-practiced.
While not all communication results in physical contact, much results in sex talk and inappropriate pictures being exchanged. Children are often tricked into believing they are texting with another child and let their guard down.
The psychological dangers to children can be as great as actual attempts to molest them. Child suicides resulting from cyber bullying are on the rise. Most children have good, diligent parents, but none are impervious to these dangers, and parents need to be proactive.
GP: Can Radar help with the growing bullying epidemic among children?
Mr. Lotter: Absolutely. Many times when kids are confronted for bullying another child, they will not own up to it. Even their parents may find the allegations unbelievable. Armed with a record from Radar, one can offer “evidence” directly to the principle, law enforcement, or the parent for immediate action. Since the phone is now the primary communication channel for children, Radar is an important tool in the detection and prevention of cyber bullying.
GP: How does Radar help parents?
Mr. Lotter: Before something bad happens to a child via the cell phone, there is typically a series of communications. Parents who are able to intercept potentially harmful influences are better prepared to stop the progress of such activities before they become dangerous. RADAR IS NOT SPYWARE. The child is aware that his or her phone is being monitored. The parent has the ability to provide a certain level of privacy by “white listing” friends and family. This allows the child to have private conversations while still alerting and forwarding communications from strangers and contacts not on the approved list. All communications are stored for later retrieval, if needed.
Monitoring is superior to blocking and spying. Children who discover they’re being spied on feel betrayed and may adopt a covert method of continuing their activity. Similarly, children find ways around blocking technologies until parents are completely unaware of any activity. Radar is a tool in the parents arsenal to improve communication and understanding with their child while providing increased protection against harmful outside influences.
GP: Isn’t it illegal to monitor phone conversations?
Mr. Lotter: There are wire tapping laws that prevent the unknown listening and taping of voice communications. Since children are aware their phones are being monitored, Radar is not in violation of the law. Radar makes copies of all pictures, written text, and email messages and forwards them to the parent in real time. Call records are stamped with the date, time, phone number, and duration.
GP: Kids seem more technologically advanced than their parents. Won’t they figure out a way around the Radar - like communicating in text code that only they understand?
Mr. Lotter: This is exactly what children do, but their codes are deciphered regularly by Radar. Radar helps parents understand what the text message means. Eventually parents become versed enough that they can text in the same language.
GP: Parents are so busy and don’t have time to learn sophisticated new technology. Is Radar user friendly?
Mr. Lotter: Radar was designed for Moms. It requires no complicated installation or setup and is available from Mom’s phone and any computer with Internet access. Radar can preconfigure phones to filter the Internet and limit use of the camera. Moms can use Radar to send calendar items and reminders to their children’s phone, and to keep track of homework assignments and other activities.
Radar is available online. Visit www.mymobilewatchdog.com for more information.
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