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Sitting Still In School
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volume 37 • number 4
WHY SITTING STILL IN SCHOOL IS NO LONGER THE RULE
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EDUCATION GUIDE
Why Sitting Still In School Is No Longer The Rule By Sandi Schwartz
I recall a very funny bit by Jerry Seinfeld who described how parents and other adults always use the word “down” to direct kids. Calm down. Slow down. Sit down. The whole concept of keeping our kids calm and controlled, particularly in the classroom, is now being proven wrong by science. Because of this latest information, classrooms look very different than in previous generations as educators turn to innovative approaches to help children learn. The average American student sits at school for about 4.5 hours a day. Then add the hours they sit staring at screens—such as computers, iPads, phones, or television—and we find that our kids are sitting 85 percent of the time they are awake. That sure is a lot of sitting! Up until now, it was believed that children needed to sit still in order to concentrate and succeed in school. But experts today find that kids are not wired to sit all day long. Instead, they benefit from breaks in which they are physically moving to help energize their brain and be more productive in the classroom. One teacher said that she watches her third graders struggle to sit still 4
Our Kids Magazine | July / August 2021
throughout the day. Even during short lessons, they are fidgeting and moving around the classroom.
Reasons Movement Is Better Many studies in recent years helped educators realize that forcing children to sit still is not the best approach; instead, moving around enhances their educational experience. A 2013 report from the Institute of Medicine found that children who are more active show greater attention, have faster cognitive processing speed, and perform better on standardized tests than children who are less active. According to a New York Times article, John Ratey, an associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and the author of “Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain,” said: “Movement activates all the brain cells kids are using to learn, it wakes up the brain.” Moving around stimulates more blood vessels in the brain to support the creation of new brain cells. Finally, low-level movement like standing improves students’ attention and alertness because their blood circulation and oxygenation levels increase. LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA
EDUCATION GUIDE Movement breaks in the classroom also help address childhood obesity and the many other health concerns about children not getting enough physical activity since play time has been dramatically reduced for reasons like increased technology use. As we know, extensive medical evidence shows that regular physical activity is related to lower body fat, greater muscular strength, stronger bones, and improvements in cardiovascular and metabolic health. It also helps reduce anxiety and depression.
Changes In Classrooms To Encourage Movement Educators are beginning to look for alternatives to the current classroom environment to improve how children learn, More and more schools are bringing active learning styles into the classroom including movement breaks, standing desks, and yoga ball seats. Not every option will work for each student, so it is helpful to try different approaches to see what is most successful. Movement Breaks I don’t know about you, but my kids won’t stop talking about GoNoodle. Now used in more than 60,000 elementary schools in the United States, it is one of several creative online programs that teachers are using to give their students active breaks throughout the school day. The idea is that kids need time between lessons to move
around and give their mind a rest. Plus, if these breaks are done a few times a day, that can add up to an extra hour of movement per week. The unique aspect about these types of programs is that they are not intended to be focused solely on exercise. Instead, they are aimed to entertain the students, while at the same time getting them up and moving. For example, GoNoodle videos have kids running alongside their desks through a virtual obstacle course or following along with dance moves. The kids are laughing and having a blast without even realizing they are getting exercise. According to the chief executive and a co-founder of GoNoodle, by investing three to five minutes for our kids to move in the classroom, students can learn more effectively for the next 45 minutes. Other movement break programs include Just Dance Kids, BrainErgizers from the National Association of Physical Literacy, and more listed on the “Let’s Move! Active Schools” site.
Standing Desks Another new trend in classrooms to encourage movement is standing desks. These are raised desks that can be adjusted to each child’s height and comfort needs. My children now have a couple of standing desks in their classrooms, which is a big change from just a year ago. My
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EDUCATION GUIDE son says he enjoys occasionally going over to the standing desk to get work done if he feels like his legs can’t stay still. Standing desks have been proven to be beneficial to children from both health and learning perspectives. A report in Pediatrics reviewed eight studies showing how standing desks in classrooms decreased sitting time by about an hour each day. Some of the studies also found that this increased physical activity improved the students’ behavior. Next, a study in the International Journal of Health Promotion and Education published by scientists at Texas A&M found that students who used standing desks were more engaged in the classroom than those who sat during class. Nearly 300 children in second through fourth grade were observed during the school year. Their engagement level was measured by behaviors like answering a question, raising their hand, or participating in discussions. Researchers found a 12 percent rise in engagement by students using standing desks, which adds up to an extra seven minutes per hour of effective instruction time. Finally, a study by Loughborough University in Great Britain assessed a class of 9 and 10 year olds who used standing desks. The teacher rotated the children around to ensure the they were exposed to the desks for at least one hour a day. The study found that overall classroom sitting time dropped by about 52 minutes per day, and teachers commented that the students’ concentration,
attention to task, and general behavior showed significant improvement. Standing desks are becoming so popular now that organizations focusing on their benefits and use are sprouting up. Stand Up Kids and JustStand.org are both great resources to learn more about this effective classroom option.
Yoga Balls Seats Yoga balls are also popping up more in classrooms. They stabilize the core, promote better posture, and allow students to move and bounce around a bit at their work station when they feel antsy. Kids can essentially get a miniworkout just by sitting on the yoga ball while they do their work. According to an article in California Educator, teachers have noticed that the yoga balls decrease unwanted movement, while students’ attention spans have risen. The children are thrilled with their yoga chairs because they have more freedom to move around. What Parents Can Do Some school districts have not yet added these inventive movement options to their curriculum for various reasons such as funding and time constraints. It may take parents advocating—and sometimes donating their own money—in order to push schools to bring these options into the classroom.
SCHOOLS - ACADEMIC - SECONDARY & ELEMENTARY Brooks Academies is a premiere tuition-free public charter school with four campuses located in San Antonio. Serving grades PreK-12 with specialized programs in STEM, Dual Language, Fine Arts, Sports Leadership and Management. We have both In-Person and Virtual learning settings. Applications are now available for the 2021-2022 School Yearapply via our website!
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EDUCATION GUIDE SCHOOLS Anne Frank Inspire Academy 11216 Bandera Road, San Antonio, TX 78250 Elementary School - (210) 638-5910 Middle & High School - (210) 638-5900 AnneFrankIA.com Anne Frank Inspire Academy - NW Military, inside the Barshop JCC, is a free, public charter school opening this fall with grades kindergarten through 2nd, eventually serving through 8th grade. Our 100%-certified teachers inspire our small, safe, and modern classrooms of students to find joy in learning through an empowering inquiry-based curriculum, help uncover their inherent strengths, and lead children in discovering new skills to be great! Apply today! www.AnneFrankIA.com/ admissions BASIS Texas Charter Schools Four San Antonio locations. (480) 289 2088 enrollBASIS.com BASIS Charter Schools are world-class, tuitionfree public charter schools serving grades K–12. Currently, we have four campuses in San Antonio— three well-established, award-winning campuses and our newest addition, BASIS San Antonio Northeast, now enrolling for grades K–7. Each school offers our STEM-infused liberal arts curriculum, a well-balanced variety of advanced academic courses, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Students in the primary grades benefit from our dynamic co-teaching model. Find your BASIS Texas Charter School campus today!
Bexar County Academy Charter School 1485 Hillcrest Dr. San Antonio, TX 78228 210-432-8600 www.bexarcountyacademy.org Bexar County Academy is a TUITION FREE charter school, serving grades Pre-K3 to 8th grade. At Bexar County Academy Charter School our mission is to provide an Academia Environment that prepares students to function as Entrepreneurs, Workers, and Citizens in a Globalized World. Our blendedlearning model provides our scholars with the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial and life skills not often offered in traditional public-school districts. Our life skills-based curriculum provides the tools to develop character, creative, critical, and innovative thinking. Apply Today! www.enroll. bexarcountyacademy.com Bright Ideas Enrichment Center 9433 Fredericksburg Rd. San Antonio, 78240 210-694-4622 brightideasdaycare.com We realize that each child is unique with a specific set of needs. It is our sincere desire to accept the challenge and work toward the goal of meeting each of those needs. We offer Infant and Toddler care, Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 and Private Kindergarten, with breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack provided. We also offer Swimming lessons, Ballet, Gymnastics, Karate and Spanish for Tots. Brooks Academies of Texas 4802 Vance Jackson Road 210-541-0051 brooksacademy.org ABrooks Academies is a premiere tuition-free public charter school with four campuses located in San Antonio. We serve grades PreK through
The International Baccalaureate Schools of SAISD Supporting the growth and development of active, compassionate, life-long learners Apply today for the 2021-2022 school year at www.saisdchoice.com Nine in-district charter schools from Pre-K to graduation
12 with a variety of specialized programs: STEM, Dual Language, Fine Arts, Sports Leadership and Management. Please contact us today to find the right fit for your child. Applications are available for the 2021-2022 school year. Apply online today!
Cardinal Montessori Academy 6506 W Hausman Rd San Antonio, TX 78249 (210) 558-3627 www.cardinalma.com We offer an authentic Montessori experience with an emphasis on S.T.E.A.M. in beautiful, clean, and prepared classrooms. Our curriculum follows the child, focusing on their individual needs and interests. Our school day is structured with a fair amount of fun, excitement, and free play mixed in! We are accepting enrollment for our summer program (July- August) and 2020-2021 academic year (August 25, 2020-May 30, 2021) Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church & Early Childhood Center 5323 Blanco Rd. San Antonio TX 78216 210-732-7223 – Church 210-733-9444 Daycare www.christoursavior-sa.org Sharing and teaching the love of Christ as we reach out to all people. “Viviendo,compartiendo –yensenando el amor de cristo mientras alcanzamos a toda persona. Our acre supplements the home by providing a place in which the child may develop in an arranged environment with trained staff. Opened all year round.
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EDUCATION GUIDE Colonial Hills United Methodist School 5247 Vance Jackson San Antonio, TX 78230 210-349-1982 www.chums-sa.com CHUMS is NOW REGISTERING for the 2021-2022 school year. Tours available by appointment only. 18 months through Kindergarten. Please call the school office to schedule - 210-349-1092. Cornerstone Christian Schools 17702 NW Military Hwy San Antonio, TX 78257 210-979-9203 • sa-ccs.org At Cornerstone Christian Schools, we face adversity and make history every day. At the onset of this pandemic, we led the way in adopting digital learning instruction within a week and the first to hold a physical graduation on campus. And now once again, CCS is leading the way by welcoming students on our beautiful campus for in person teaching this Fall. Learn how by visiting sa-ccs.org or call 210-979-9203 today. Country Home Learning Center 210-687-1002 www.countryhome learningcenter.com Quality childcare 6 weeks – 13 years. Students enjoy our water park, indoor playground, putt-putt golf course, and gymnasium. After school care with pick-up from area schools available. Check out our ourkids-sa.pdf website for location near you. 1 6/2/21 1:51
Jubilee Academies 4434 Roland Road San Antonio, Texas 78222 210-333-6227 Jubileeacademies.org A Better Approach to Public Education! Serving Pre-K(4) - Graduation; offering College Credit, Career Readiness and Character Development. There are six Jubilee locations in San Antonio – call for the one nearest you. Keystone School 210-735-4022 119 East Craig San Antonio, TX 78212 www.keystoneschool.org Keystone school has been a haven for bright, motivated children since 1948. Master teachers lead small classes with an accelerated, collegepreparatory curriculum. Academics, extracurriculars, arts, outdoor education and technology combine in a challenging, nurturing environment to develop academic excellence, ethical growth, community involvement, and responsible leadership. Grades PK3-12. KIPP Texas Public Schools San Antonio kipptexas.org 210-880-8080 KIPP Texas Public schools focuses on protecting the health and safety of our students, staff, and families to the fullest extent possible. Provides our students with an academically excellent, joyful, and equitable learning experience with a consistent focus on college readiness regardless of whether we are inside or outside of our school buildings. Show care for our entire Team & Family so we can PMthrive in the new normal.
Mount Sacred Heart School 619 Mt. Sacred Heart Rd San Antonio, TX 78216 210-342-6711 www.mountsacredheart.org Mount Sacred Heart’s school year begins on August 17th and with great joy we begin our inaugural year of the Mother Cabrini Formation Center. The MCFC will increase the involvement of religious Sisters at Mount. Please give us a call and schedule a tour to see why Mount’s rich tradition and innovative learning environment is the school for your family. Visit our website or call us at (210) 342 - 6711. Play Today Drop-In Daycare 17319 IH 35 N. Suite 302 Schertz, TX 78154 210-651-3610 Playtodaydropin.com Play Today is a unique child care facility that offers flexible drop-in care for children 12 months to 12 years. We believe that children are unique individuals who need to be respected and cared for in a safe, nurturing environment. Your child will enjoy a fun learning facility with songs, finger play, games, arts and crafts, and sensory play. After school pickup available. Mother’s Day Out available for 2-5 years with age appropriate curriculum. Positive Solutions High School 1325 N. Flores, Suite 100 San Antonio, TX 78212 210-299-1025 www.facebook.com/positivesolutionshighschool Brief Description: Positive Solutions High School, chartered by the State of Texas in 1998, is an open enrollment charter school offering an accelerated high school diploma program for grades 9-12 as well as a GED program (4 hour sessions available in AM or PM). Positive Solutions High School students
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EDUCATION GUIDE will succeed academically and in society.
Pre-K Academy at West Avenue North East Independent School District 3915 West Avenue San Antonio, TX 78213 210-407-8600 www.neisd.net/prekacademy A recently renovated campus dedicated solely to prekindergarten students. Each classroom has a certified teacher and an instructional assistant. Students learn important skills through exploratory play and age-appropriate steps for resolving conflicts. We have a full-time physical education teacher, music teacher, librarian, STEAM teacher, counselor, family specialist, registered nurse, and instructional coaches for our teachers. We offer a two-way dual language program, transportation service, and after-school care. School begins August 17. Pre-K 4 SA North 210-206-2800 East 210-206-2850 South 210-206-2700 West 210-206-2900 https://prek4sa.com/ Pre-K 4 SA is San Antonio’s premier prekindergarten program that is changing the educational and workforce trajectory of our city in one generation. Pre-K 4 SA offers full and extended-day prekindergarten for 4-year-olds in San Antonio. With four Education Centers with stringent safety protocols, as well as a distance learning model, Pre-K 4 SA supports a foundation in concepts like math, science, language, and art through a play-based learning environment. Contactless Application Process. Apply now!
San Antonio ISD 141 Lavaca Street San Antonio, TX 78210 210-554-2660 www.saisd.net SAISD will start school on Aug. 17, and for the first three weeks, all instruction will be 100% remote. After Labor Day, parents can continue with the teacher-led, online learning or transition their children to on-campus learning – both will provide your child a high-quality option. Students learning remotely will be provided devices if they don’t have one at home. We prioritize safety, strong academics and social-emotional learning for our students.
to include both remote and in-person learning options for students for the 2020-21 school year. Enrollment is now open at www.swprep.org.
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran School & Child Care 6914 Wurzbach Rd. MEDICAL CENTER San Antonio TX 78240 210-614-3741 www.shlutheran.org Shepherd of the Hills is a Christ-centered, family focused, community dedicated to serving children ages Infants through Grade 8. We provide a faithbased, fully accredited educational program in addition to a state-licensed Early Childhood Center. In accordance with state education and healthcare guidelines, we plan to begin the 20202021 school year in August, with children in classes on campus! We are currently enrolling for the fall! Call today!
St. Peter Prince of Apostles School 112 Marcia Place San Antonio, TX 78209 210-824-3171 stpeterprince.org St. Peter Prince of Apostles School in Alamo Heights has on-campus and virtual class options for the 2020-2021 school year. Ideal class sizes for distancing and outstanding parent reviews during distance learning. Call today for more information!
Southwest Preparatory Schools 4 Campuses listed below 210-829-8017 www.swprep.org Southwest Preparatory School is an open enrollment - tuition free charter school serving grades PreK-12 with four campuses in San Antonio and Seguin. All four campuses have current plans
St. Matthew Catholic School 10703 Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio, TX 78230 (210) 478-5044 www.smcssa.org St. Matthew Catholic School is dedicated to the mission of educating a strong, faith-centered community through a commitment to the spiritual, moral, intellectual, social and physical development of each child. Register now for Pre-K – 8th grade.
Suburban School 210-696-0213 5409 Encino Park Road general@suburbanschool.com www.suburbanschool.com Suburban School, a place where children can learn in a unique, natural setting and are encouraged to become independent, caring individuals. Suburban School exceeds State Minimum Standards and follows national accreditation (NECPA and NAEYC) guidelines. Suburban School embodies a relaxed, comfortable learning atmosphere with an emphasis on our outdoor environment to enhance gross motor development. We believe
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EDUCATION GUIDE that a happy and successful childhood with clear expectations leads to a positive self-image. Our program is designed to be age level appropriate, blending traditional and progressive styles of learning. We use hands-on experiences and learning centers to encourage creativity and a better understanding of concepts. Time is spent learning in a group setting as well as one-to-one with a teacher.
Sunshine Cottage 603 E. Hildebrand San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 824-0579 www.sunshinecottage.org Sunshine Cottage offers a listening and spoken language environment for all children with hearing impairment as well as for typically hearing children. Sunshine Cottage provides students the opportunity to excel and experience new learning adventures each day. Pre-school through fifth grade. TTU K-12 PO Box 42191 2515 15th Street Lubbock, TX 79409 800-692-6877 k12.ttu.edu TTU K-12 is a Texas Education Agency and National Collegiate Athletic Association-approved kindergarten through 12th grade school. The fully online diploma track and individual course options meet the same standards as traditional schools. TTU K-12 also offers credit by exams and bulk testing, helping students achieve their goals – anytime, anywhere!
The Circle School 217 Pershing Ave. (near the Witte Museum) San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-0461 http://www.thecircleschool.org This PK3-8th grade family cooperative combines academic excellence with a nature-based education model. The distinctive curriculum bridges the arts and sciences and includes gardening, sustainability, oral storytelling, and respectful conflict resolution encouraging empathy and compassion. On-campus instruction provided with small classes, maximized outdoor time, and evidence-based safety policies. Distance learning options available and classes are prepared to pivot to different models. Virtual Info Session for interested families Feb. 2nd, 2021 - details and registration on website. The International Baccalaureate Schools of the San Antonio ISD Nine, centrally located IB and IB Candidate schools IB@saisd.net, www.saisd.net/ib San Antonio ISD’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools are tuition-free, in-district charter schools offering innovative, rigorous education with a global perspective. IB Programmes are known around the world for their focus on the personal development of all students. Limited seats are still available. Apply now at www.saisdchoice. com. Elementary Schools (PreK-5th): Briscoe, Huppertz* and Woodlawn Hills*; Academies (PK/ K-8th): Woodlawn and Fenwick*; Middle Schools: Harris and Longfellow; High Schools: Burbank and Jefferson. (*IB Candidate school).
The Montessori School of San Antonio 210-492-3553 17722 Rogers Ranch Pkwy San Antonio Texas 78258 www.montessoriSA.org At the Montessori School of San Antonio, we guide children to be passionate learners, independent thinkers and engaged citizens. We partner with parents, guiding students to achieve their full potential in academic, social, physical, intellectual, aesthetic and moral development from early childhood through adolescence. The Winston School San Antonio 8565 Ewing Halsell Drive San Antonio, Texas 78229 (210) 615-6544 www.winston-sa.org Winston is a college preparatory school for students with learning differences, including but not limited to ADHD, dyslexia, and dysgraphia. Teachers focus on providing a personalized education to every student. Winston is continuing with plans to open the school for in-person classes this fall, and will be adhering to all safety and health guidelines.
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July / August 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com
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EDUCATION GUIDE Sunshine Cottage 603 E. Hildebrand San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 824-0579 www.sunshinecottage.org Sunshine Cottage offers a listening and spoken language environment for all children with hearing impairment as well as for typically hearing children. Sunshine Cottage provides students the opportunity to excel and experience new learning adventures each day. Pre-school through fifth grade. The Clowvazar Academy (210) 690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120 San Antonio TX 78249 www.clowvazar.com The Clowvazar Academy is a private year-round school for kids with learning differences. Students are placed in each subject according to ability, not by age. We accept students with a wide range of struggles in three broad programs: General Ed., Special Ed. and Gifted-and-Talented students. We work with kids with anxiety, ADD, ADHD, mild Autism, Autism and other learning challenges. With a wide range of electives, including Culinary Arts, Fine Arts, and Job Readiness Internships, our students are given amazing opportunities to excel in different ways.
TUTORING Brainiacs Academic Enrichment and Support 210-570-5611 www.mybrainiacs.com Brainiacs provides one-on-one mentoring services. Our mentors tutor in targeted subjects, but also establish a supportive connection with a student. GRIT & GROWTH-MINDSET are organically woven
into conversations around life strategy and longterm academic success. Brainiac also offers small group programs in Reading & Literacy, Study & Organizational Skills & ACT/SAT Test Prep.
Inspiring Excellence 210-722-4947 InspiringExcellenceTutoring.com With affordability in mind, I teach step-by-step methods, helping my students learn effective strategies to improve their confidence and become independent learners. I begin each session with a fun review to make learing an enjoyable experice! Clowvazar After School Tutoring 210-690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120 San Antonio TX 78249 www.clowvazar.com We provide One-on-One tutoring for kids with high functioning autism, dyslexia, dyscalculia et cetera. Tutoring & Coaching sessions available for both Students and Parents. We provide comprehensive assessment and affordable packages.
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES Abby’s Attic Sewing & Crafting Studio North Central at 281/ Thousand Oaks 210-375-5241 Far West Side at Culebra 210-541-5088 www.abbysatticsewingschool.com Abby’s Attic provides in-person and online sewing classes for ages 8-16. Learn beginner and intermediate sewing skills, with your machine or by hand. Introduce your child to a dying art while they work on fine and gross motor skills, pattern reading, problem solving, mathematics skills and
more! Moms, we have a great variety of classes for YOU to learn to sew, too!”
Artworks Art Studio 1840 Nacogdoches Rd, San Antonio TX 78209 210-826-2787 www.artworksartstudio.com New Wording: NEW Arts Enrichment & Academic Assistance for Home Learners - we offer Small Class Sizes with Student-Centered Curriculum and Unique Learning Experiences! Boy Scouts of America, Alamo Area Council 2226 NW Military Hwy, San Antonio, Texas 78213 210-341-8611 www.AlamoAreaBSA.org The BSA continues to prepare young people for life by providing the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training, utilizing outdoor activity, citizenship, and fitness. The Alamo Area Council manages over 1,500 acres of outdoor adventure for boys and girls from 5-20 years of age at three premier camps – Bear Creek Scout Reservation, Mays Family Scout Ranch, and McGimsey Scout Park. Also Check out our Virtual Merit Badges and other Scouting at Home programming. Code Ninjas Shavano Park 12651 Vance Jackson Road, Suite 101 210-570-2467 www.codeninjas.com/tx-shavano-park Your kids will have a blast Learning to Code! At Code Ninjas San Antonio (Shavano Park), kids learn to code by building their very own video games. Our flexible coding programs for kids make it easy on parents with convenient drop-in hours on weeknights and weekends.
Boone Pioneer Education Foundation
Nancy Eggert - Director of Boone Pioneer Education Foundation,
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“Highly trained in linguistics for rapid reading fluency in English.” We use a systematic, research based instruction for reading. We are experts with many learning disabilities to include dyslexia, language delays, attention deficit disorder, and many other learning challenges. Call to set a date for testing and a full grade level evaluation.
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S . Matthew CATHOLIC SCHOOL Register Now • Pre K4 - 8th Grade Near USAA & the Medical Center
210-478-5044 www.smcssa.org 12
Our Kids Magazine | July / August 2021
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EDUCATION GUIDE Dorothy Keck Dancers 210-829-8454 1532 Austin Hwy www.dorothykeckdancers.com We are a dance instruction studio offering classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hiphop, tumbling/acrobatics, and dance team. Enjoy our 55 years of teaching experience, flexible hours, and fair prices that are sure to keep us a San Antonio favorite. First Tee Greater San Antonio 915 East Mulberry, San Antonio, TX 210.736.9592 www.firstteesanantonio.org First Tee Greater San Antonio will be hosting fall programming both online and in-person. On-site programming adheres to local, state and federal safety and health protocols to ensure a safe environment for participants and families. Jump Rope Express 269-0725 coachbobby7755@gmail.com www.coachbobbysports.com Let Jump Rope Express get your child in top form. We offer one-hour jump rope classes that keep kids active with unique jump rope games, activities, challenges and drills developed by Coach Bobby. The kids will have a funfilled time and get a lot of exercise! Contact Coach Bobby at 210-2690725 / coachbobby7755@gmail. com for availability ad pricing. www. coachbobbysports.com
Mad Science of Austin & San Antonio P.O. Box 92701 Austin, Tx 78709 210-651-1143 http://sanantonio.madscience. org Mad Science programs are designed with exciting, fun and hands-on science activities. Your child will become a junior scientist, having the opportunity to experience a variety of handson adventures. Children will design, create, build and assemble a variety of interesting projects. Many different themes are available including robots, rockets, spies, yuckology, invention and more! Ages 5-12. Programs starting in January and through the Summer $18-325. Locations Include Virtual with Supplies delivered to your door!
PARTIES & FIELD TRIPS for Kids Ages 5-12
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Parties, Classes, Camps, and More! Register your child today! imagineartsacademy.com
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Witte Museum 3801 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 210-210-357-1910 www.wittemuseum.org The Witte Museum is developing programs for schools and families for the fall. We are open and encourage families to visit us when they are ready for an outing! We have a wide variety of educational videos available on our website. “Witte Where You Are” brings a little bit on the museum to you! Watch our website for new program announcements.
3915 West Avenue u San Antonio, TX 78213 u 210-407-8600 u www.neisd.net/prekacademy
APPLICATION
FULL-DAY PROGRAM
CURRICULUM
Applications available for qualifying and non-qualifying students
School Hours: 7:40 a.m. - 2:55 p.m. Drop off begins at 6:50 a.m.
Enrichment including: physical education, music and library programming
TRANSPORTATION
Kid Involvement Network (KIN) After school care available until 6:30 p.m.; Healthy snacks
Convenient bus hubs located throughout the District for pick up and drop off
Breakfast and lunch available
provided
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) Instructional Focus Dual Language Classrooms Social Emotional Learning July / August 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com
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Baby
6 Aspects of Motherhood That Former Nannies Say They Never Expected By Pam Moore
What if you could do a parenting internship before becoming an actual parent? Imagine it: You’d take your baby home from the hospital with a bunch of diapers and formula samples, along with some experience. Such an “internship” exists. It’s called working as a nanny. While most nannies agree that their work experience was useful once they became parents, there are certain aspects of parenthood that nothing could have prepared them for.
1| The sleep deprivation Not surprisingly, all of the women I talked to found themselves blindsided by the fatigue of new motherhood. Jessica Ziegler, co-author of “The Science of Parenthood” recalls being completely unprepared for the way motherhood interfered with her sleep—and for how long it took before she felt well-rested again. She recalls feeling “out to sea” during the early weeks of her son’s life. She also recalls, “I didn’t catch up on sleep until my son turned three.” Even Stephanie, a Boston mom with over ten years of nanny experience, including sleep training says, “I did [sleep training] a lot with nanny kids but couldn’t do it until ten months with my own.” 2| The baby phase Many nannies said they were not prepared for the intensity of the early months of their first baby’s life. While many specifically mentioned breastfeeding as something totally foreign, many also remembered more generally, the feeling of being the only one their baby wanted. Lindsay Romero, now the mom of a one-year-old and a speech-language pathologist, says though she felt nannying gave her a pretty accurate picture of family life, she was not prepared for what she described as her daughter’s “constant need to 14
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be held or taken care of.” Moreover, she didn’t anticipate that she would be the only one her daughter would want in those moments. Romero says, “Moms are usually the ones kids want so as a nanny they are less clingy and fussy.” Ziegler recalls struggling with postpartum anxiety, which she says she “didn’t even know was a thing” until she experienced it.
3| The pressure Over time, kids’ needs tend to grow less physical and more emotional. However, those needs can be just as intense. Now a writer, a teacher, and a mom of grown children, Mary Lanzavecchio nannied for the same family for three years before starting her own family. She explains, “the stakes feel higher” with her own kids “[because] you are helping grow a person into a functioning, valuable, and contributing member of society.” But as much as we try to be role models for our kids, we inevitably miss the mark. Says Lanzavecchio, “There are few things that feel more frustrating than seeing the not-so-desirable aspects of yourself appear in your child.” 4| The Tetris calendar Former nannies find that the stress of a parent’s responsibilities is felt not only in their hearts and minds but also in their schedules. Lanzavecchia recalls being blissfully unaware of all the “extras” she’d have to fit into her day as a mom. “As a nanny, there were so many jobs I hadn’t considered that would be a part of mothering such as the laundry, doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping, and all night vigils when a child is sick.” Ziegler also recalls taking the ability to schedule appointments and errands during her time off for granted before becoming a mom. LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA
5| The heart-stopping-chest-exploding love More than one nanny-turned-mom described her feelings for her own children as magical—regardless of how close they were to the children they cared for professionally. O’Connor nannied for years before having her own children and even named one of her daughters after one of her charges. She says though she would “do anything” for the kids she nannied for, “having my own children took it to a whole new level I cannot qualify or quantify in words.” Stephanie, the Boston mother and nanny agrees. Despite her vast experience, she says, “Even though I loved my nanny kids as much as possible, it is most definitely NOT as much as a parent. I thought it was close but I was wrong.” Along with that heart-expanding love you feel for your own child, comes the heart-crushing pain of seeing them hurt as Stephanie discovered only when she became a mom. “Yes, I was sad to see my nanny kids hurt or upset but I still had a disconnect since they weren’t my own. Also, I didn’t realize how much your child holds your heart and how their cry and being upset just breaks your heart so much more than you ever thought possible.” 6| The messy intersection of theory and reality We all know exactly how to parent before we become parents ourselves, am I right? Mom of two and former nanny Marilee O’Connor remembers thinking, “I was never going to give in to whining. I was going to always be patient. I was going to actively play with them all the times for all of the days. I was going to follow through with everything.” That was, of course before she had kids. As a mom, she says, “I sometimes give in.” Not only is O’Connor more lenient on herself as a parent, she is also more forgiving of other parents. Where she used to wonder why other parents lost their tempers in tough situations, now she asks herself, “What the hell has your child and adult life put you through today?” with the understanding that she doesn’t have the whole picture. Stephanie echoed that sentiment, saying that as a parent she is “more understanding of why parents do (or don’t do) certain things.” When it comes to parenting, no one has a road map. And when it comes to certain things, even those of us who had the opportunity to complete an “internship” are winging it too. Pam Moore is an award-winning freelance health and fitness writer, occupational therapist, and certified personal trainer. She’s also the host of the Real Fit podcast. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com. July / August 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com
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5 Benefits of Multiple Extracurricular Activities By Cheryl Maguire
“I’m bored,” my 11-year-old daughter grumbled as she collapsed on to the couch. It was a rare unscheduled moment in her life. I cringed as I recalled what can occur when she has a spontaneous second. At the age of three, I assumed she was quietly playing with her toys only to discover the entire wall was covered with a new crayon drawn mural. We are both happier now she is enrolled in art classes. She prefers being busy which is why she partook in six different extracurricular activities this past spring. Her interests ranged from sign language class to swim team. Besides avoiding boredom (and messes) there are many benefits to having scheduled activities for your child. Research by NCES states that students who participated in after-school activities had better attendance, higher levels of achievement, and aspirations to higher levels of education.
Better Academic Performance Even though my daughter was in six different clubs or sports, she received all A’s in her academic classes. By participating in extracurricular activities, a child is able to learn new skills which can be applied to the school setting. For example, my daughter was in the garden club and she used the information she learned about plants in her science class. Sports such as basketball, baseball and football use statistics, addition/ subtraction, probability, and geometry which can be applied to math class. A number of research studies found students who participate in extracurricular activities perform better in school. Douglas Reeves studied data at Woodstock High School and found students who were in three or four extracurricular activities during the year had dramatically better grades than those who participated in no extra-curricular activities. There was a study done by the College Board, which found high school extracurricular participation is correlated with higher SAT scores, SAT math by 45 points and SAT verbal scores by 53 points. More Adaptable If a child is participating in more than one activity, they will also experience more than one coach or teacher who will have different rules and expectations. They will have the opportunity to meet kids with a range of personalities and interests. These interactions will teach a child how to be adaptable to multiple people and situations. Maddi and Deborah Khoshaba’s training guide, Resilience 16
Our Kids Magazine | July / August 2021
at Work, discussed the importance of being adaptable and how when adaptable people lost their jobs they thrived due to their ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Being adaptable is a skill that can be beneficial both in the school or work setting.
Better Social Skills Children will gain social skills both from the person in charge of the activity or sport and by interacting with their peers. They also have the opportunity to learn about teamwork by either playing a sport together or doing a group class such as a musical for drama. In my daughter’s book club at the end of their discussion of the book, they have social time. During one meeting she didn’t read the book, but she still wanted to go to the club since she loved the social interaction with her peers. Less Screen Time Common Sense Media research states on average teens spend over 9 hours per day playing video games or watching TV. If children are participating in after-school activities they will have less opportunity to either watch TV or play video games and they will hopefully learn new skills. Decreased Risk of Obesity According to the CDC obesity affects about 12.7 million children and adolescents for the past decade. If a child participates in a sport they will be more active which leads to better health benefits from being physically fit. Even if a child did a club or an after-school activity they will be more active than if they watched TV or played video games. How to Balance Your Child’s Schedule Sometimes, even for my daughter, you can have too many activities. I’m always cognizant of her energy level. If she needs to skip an activity once in a while, I let her. Or when I noticed she wasn’t enthusiastic about going to gymnastics anymore, we both decided it would be best not to sign up for the next session. Most importantly you want to make sure your child is happy and definitely not bored. Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, Washington Post, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05 LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA
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July / August 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com
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Beat the Heat Indoor Fun for Hot Summer Days By Sarah Lyons
The dog days of summer have settled in and it’s too hot to play outside all day. This leaves the kids with lots of energy to burn. Here are 15 easy ways to entertain the kids and keep cool at the same time. Get wet - The obvious place to keep cool is in the water. Take the kids to the pool, splash pad, or water park. Get out the sprinkler, baby pool or water table in the backyard. Try having a water balloon fight. Movie marathon - Let the kids enjoy a movie marathon in the comfort of the house. Make popcorn or cool off with some ice cream while you enjoy relaxing and watching movies through the hottest part of the day. Often theater’s have dollar movies during the summer just for kids that make a great break from the heat of the day without breaking the bank. Get crafty - Paint, play with play dough, or make bead bracelets. Allow the kids to get creative by making their own scrapbook or finding items in your recycle bin they can make into sculptures. Library trip - Take the kids to the library to cool off and find some great books and movies to check out. When you get home, spend some time relaxing and reading. Indoor play - Check local listings for open gyms, indoor playgrounds, or other fun indoor activities where the kids can run and play without getting overheated. Cool treats - Who doesn’t love a cool treat when it’s sweltering outside? Enjoy some ice cream or popsicles with the kids. For extra fun, try making your own. Put on a show - Have the kids work together to put on a play, 18
Our Kids Magazine | July / August 2021
puppet show, or make up a dance routine and perform for you. Play a typically outdoor game inside - Try playing hide and seek, hopscotch, or jump rope inside. Picnic - Have an indoor picnic in the living room since it’s too hot to eat outside. Home science - Try a science experiment at home. Make your own volcano, mix food coloring, or make a balloon rocket to teach the kids about science and stay cool indoors. Pinterest is loaded with easy activities to enthral your children. Make cookies - Make no-bake cookies so that you do not have to turn the oven on. Get out early, or late - Run errands or play outside early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperatures are cooler. Build a fort - Have the kids make a fort with pillows and blankets for some indoor fun. A small fan can also help keep them cool and keep their blankets afloat. Race track - Use masking tape to make a race track on the floor and let the kids see who drives the fastest. Ice - Make a block of ice in advance. You can make your own art by putting on a cookie sheet or shallow pan and use salt and food coloring to melt the ice. You can also freeze things in the ice and let the kids play with the small toys as they fall out. LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA
July / August 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com
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Learning Disabilities and ADHD: What Parents Need to Know
Approximately 10% of American school-age children suffer from a learning disability (LD) and/or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control. About 4% of children have both. But for many kids, these disorders go undetected despite their ongoing struggles with school work and behavior issues that often accompany the conditions. Often, parents don’t suspect learning disabilities because many people associate it with low IQ. But LDs affect children of all intelligence levels and has nothing to do with IQ. In fact, it isn’t uncommon for a child with a learning disability to excel in one or multiple subjects, while struggling in another. Also, kids with LDs or ADHD may do well under certain conditions. Yet, in other situations, they have great difficulty. Depending on the LD and severity of it, a child might struggle in all areas.
Forms of learning disabilities There are multiple forms of LDs. Some pose input problems, which means a child struggles with either sound or visual input. What happens is the information isn’t processed correctly or gets stored incorrectly in the brain. This can pose problems with the retrieval of information as well as short or long-term memory. An LD can also cause output problems. This can sometimes be seen in motor skills such as handwriting difficulties. Another common problem is verbal output. This is usually evident in kids that have trouble organizing their thoughts either in writing or orally. Punctuation, grammar, and spelling may also suffer as a result. Dyscalculia is a math learning disability. Kids with dyscalculia may have difficulty learning to tell time, counting money or counting in general, learning math facts, calculating, understanding measurement, or performing mental math. Dyslexia is a reading disability, although the symptoms are not exclusive to reading. Children with this disorder may have difficulty with spelling, vocabulary, or comprehension. They may read slow, have trouble learning left from right, or have organizational problems with both written and spoken language. Dysgraphia is a writing disability. Poor handwriting and often, an awkward style of holding a pencil or even contorting the body while writing are hallmarks. A child may also have trouble drawing lines. With dysgraphia, kids can often better express their understanding of the material through speech than in writing. Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a problem with input. It isn’t a hearing problem. Instead, the brain has difficulty processing sounds. As a result, kids with APD can be distracted by loud noise or struggle to follow conversations. This can be especially problematic when there’s a lot of background noise, which makes it difficult to distinguish sounds. 20
Our Kids Magazine | July / August 2021
By Kimberly Blaker
Visual Processing Disorders (VPD) are also a problem with input. But VPD isn’t a vision problem. It’s actually a problem with the brain processing what the eyes see. It can result in a child bumping into things or being unable to distinguish the shapes they see. It can also pose difficulty in identifying letters or numbers or result in problems with visual sequencing, among other symptoms. Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NLD) is similar to Asperger Syndrome and shows up as difficulties with social skills. Academic problems are sometimes present as well. But often, these don’t show up until kids reach higher grade levels. Those with NLD may be afraid of new situations, struggle to make friends, lack common sense, and experience social withdrawal. Academic problems can include reading comprehension and working out math story problems. ADHD is marked by attention problems and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity. Girls often have only attention issues, while boys are more commonly impulsive or hyperactive. Symptoms can include difficulty staying on task or paying attention. Yet, they often hyperfocus on stimulating activity. Children with ADHD may fidget or have trouble staying seated, interrupt, and act without thinking.
What to do if you suspect your child has an LD or ADHD The first step is to talk with your child’s teacher and find out what the teacher has observed. Then speak to the school principal. Public schools are required by law to provide an assessment. This should include an IQ test, assessments of math, reading, and writing, and testing of processing skills. If your child is in a private school and it doesn’t offer this service, you can request it through your public school district. Once your child has received a diagnosis, your school psychologist should be able to recommend and help you set up services or accommodations for your kid. Depending on the specific learning disability, your child may qualify for special education services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or accommodations through Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Keep in mind, you are your child’s best advocate. So read books and articles on your child’s LD and learn how you and your school can help. Talk to your child’s teacher about additional ways the teacher can assist your child. Most teachers are eager to help. Although, depending on the student-teacher ratio and the school’s resources, it’s sometimes challenging for teachers to do as much as they’d like. There are likely other kids in their classrooms with special needs as well. If you feel your child isn’t getting the help needed, talk to the school administrator. LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA
July / August 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com
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Back to School Products MCubed Backpacks,
$29.00. MCubed Backpacks are affordable and trendy, created by a mompreneur and teacher who knows first-hand the importance of motivating young students. Roomy enough to fit for all the school essentials, yet not too large to overwhelm young children. https:// mcubedbackpacks.com/
Bunnies By The Bay
Starting at $12.00, Bunnies By The Bay provides the perfect best friend for your preschooler as they head back to school. From lovies and buddy blankets to adorable stuffed animals and dolls, their products will be cherished possessions providing comfort all day long. Available on Amazon and https:// bunniesbythebay.com/
Insulated Lunch Totes from U-Konserve, $25.95
U-Konserve’s reusable insulated lunch tote with zipper closure and adjustable strap is made from recycled plastic bottles and will keep your food cold or hot for hours. Includes an inside pocket for an ice pack, bamboo utensil and cotton napkin. Durable and machine-washable, this lunch tote is perfect for kids going back to school.
The Frost Insulated Water Bottle from EcoVessel, $24.99
This colorful bottle with fun design options such as dinosaurs, unicorns, animals and more, features an inner silicone straw for easy tilt-free drinking, making it convenient for kids to keep healthily hydrated. The FROST kids stainless steel water bottle features EcoVessel’s signature TriMax® Triple Insulation and will insulate drinks throughout the day up to 36 hours. https://ukonserve.com
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Our Kids Magazine | July / August 2021
Aquasonic Brush Monster
$39.95, Brush Monsters is the world’s first augmented reality smart toothbrush for kids that is guaranteed to improve kids brushing habits through technology and making brushing teeth fun. Featureing a real time motion sensor that tracks how long your child spends brushing each of 16 areas of the mouth and provides a brushing report. https://www.aquasonic.com
Dick & Jane Educational Snacks, $25
for 30 bags (variety pack) Available on Amazon. Delicious, all-natural snacks, and loaded with learning. These tasty treats are made with non-GMO ingredients and are 100% nut-free. Choose from six snack varieties including States & Capitals, Presidents, English & Spanish, Food & Nutrition, Fun & Fitness, and Farmers Market. Kids never stop learning so treat them to a snack that is an enjoyable way to keep their minds engaged and that encourages healthy eating year-round. https://www.educationalsnacks.us/
DINO BARS, Dino Bars are healthy and mess free snack bars wrapped in edible paper, all bars are non-GMO, USDA certified organic and free from nuts, gluten, soy, and dairy. No artificial flavors, preservatives, or refined sugar either. Kids will love the edible paper wrapping (especially picky eaters) with different cute dinosaurs on each flavor. Available in three fun flavors - Strawberry, Blueberry, and Mango. 10, 20 and 30-count boxes, starting at $21.90. Or try a sample of all three bars for $7.50. Available on https:// dinobars.com and Amazon. Making Memories Box
Single Box - $49.95, Monthly Subscription - $39.95 Take the hassle and fuss out of planning engaging activities, shopping for crafting essentials, and prepping. Offering monthly curated boxes of creative supplies and outlined instructions to take the guesswork out and get straight to the fun! Choose a single box or save by subscribing monthly. Each box includes five main categories: A Family Activity, a Kid’s Art/ Craft, a Game, Kid’s Activity, and a Keepsake. https://makingmemoriesbox.com/ FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210
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