AND
A BLANK SLATE MEDIA SPECIAL SECTION • MARCH 18, 2022
26 Guide to Schools & Education • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022
WANT TO STAY CLOSE TO HOME?
COME TO ST. THOMAS AQUINAS COLLEGE Begin your college search process at
SPRING OPEN HOUSE Saturday, April 23, 2022 at 10 AM Tour our 72-acre campus and walk the path of a student and visualize your future with us as a Spartan!
Register for Spring Open House at www.stac.edu/open-house Did you know we’re SAT/ACT test-optional and offering Scholarships amounting to at least $50,000 over 4 years? Come to Spring Open House and find out more! NYC Metropolitan Area (45 minutes from the heart of Manhattan) 125 Route 340 • Sparkill, NY 10976 • 845.398.4100 • WWW.STAC.EDU
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022 • Guide to Schools & Education
27
Guide to preparing for college admissions Junior year is a pivotal time in the lives of high school students. Junior year marks a transition to upper classmen, and students begin to ponder their post-high school academic careers around this time as well. The college preparatory process can seem daunting, particularly if a student does not have a sibling who recently went through the steps and can offer advice. Well-meaning parents may want to share their own experiences, but much has changed since parents were looking ahead to their own college experiences. That doesn’t mean parents can’t offer important assistance, particularly when they learn the ropes of today’s college preparatory process. Speak with a guidance counselor to plan courses Parents and students can meet collectively with a guidance counselor to talk about goals and coursework. Many high schools offer Advanced Placement classes or dual enrollment courses that enable students to earn college credit. Discuss extracurricular activities Colleges and universities do not just look at grade and test scores; they consider the entire applicant. Therefore, high schoolers should dabble in various clubs, organizations and sports to make them more appealing to admissions departments. Enroll in a test preparation course Though a growing number of American colleges and universities have abandoned ACT and SAT scores as part of their admissions process, many schools still require those scores. Students can benefit from taking test prep classes either in school or through outside tutoring businesses. Learning strategies for the tests as well as seeing sample questions can remove some of the anxiety associated with the tests.
Visit schools and attend college fairs Parents and students should make appointments to visit several college campuses that offer courses students are interested in. Getting one’s name in admissions departments’ databases also opens up students to emails about upcoming events and application deadlines. Learn about The Common Application The Princeton Review says most schools will use The Common Application as part of the admissions process. This enables students to enter all of their information and apply to multiple schools using the same account.
However, schools will typically have different supplemental essay topics or test score requirements. Essays typically are required to be around 650 words. Get financial paperwork in order Applying to college and applying for financial aid (which every student should do regardless of income) are two separate processes. In the United States, students will start with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The FAFSA will help determine eligibility for grants, scholarships, federal work-study, and student loans. The FAFSA requires information taken from federal income tax statements.
8:((*88 89&798 <.9- 4:7 8>1;&3 89*2 &(&)*2.( (&25 -XO\ WK $XJXVW $0 30 6WHP &DPS 30 30 $FDGHPLF &DPS
:KHQ VFKRRO LV RXW 6\OYDQ DQG 67(0 LV LQ 3OHDVH FRPH DQG MRLQ XV IRU WKHVH IXQ ¿OOHG GD\V RI URERWLFV HQJLQHHULQJ FRGLQJ DQG VFLHQFH 2XU 67(0 FDPSHUV ZLOO KDYH WKH RSSRUWXQLW\ WR ZRUN LQ VHYHUDO SURMHFWV LQ ZKLFK WKH\ EHFRPH PDG VFLHQ WLVWV EROG EXLOGHUV DQG SURJUDPPHUV DQG FRRO FRGHUV $YRLG VXPPHU OHDUQLQJ ORVV ZLWK 6\OYDQ¶V ZHHN DFDGHPLF FDPSV 2XU FDPSV ZLOO ERRVW FRQ¿GHQFH DQG HQKDQFH DFDGHPLF VNLOOV WR VHW \RXU FKLOG XS IRU VXFFHVV LQ DQG RXW RI WKH FODVVURRP +HOS \RXU FKLOG JDLQ WKH FRQ¿GHQFH QHHGHG WR VWDUW WKH QHZ VFKRRO \HDU VWURQJ
Q <7.9.3, (&258 *UDGHV .LGV OHDUQ VWUDWHJLF DQG FUHDWLYH ZULWLQJ WHFKQLTXHV WR ERRVW FRQ¿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¿FLHQW ZLWK PDWK DQG SUREOHP VROYLQJ VNLOOV Q 1&3,:&,* &798 (&25 *UDGHV 3UH. .LGV GHYHORS WKH EXLOGLQJ EORFNV IRU YRFDEXODU\ HDUO\ UHDGLQJ DQG ZULWLQJ VNLOOV WKURXJK IXQ DQG HQJDJLQJ DFWLYLWLHV
0DLQ 6WUHHW 3RUW :DVKLQJWRQ 1< SRUWZDVKLQJWRQ Q\#V\OYDQOHDUQLQJ FRP ZZZ V\OYDQOHDUQLQJ FRP
:HHN (QJLQHHULQJ :HHN $PXVHPHQW 3DUN :HHN 6LPSOH 0DFKLQHV :HHN -RXUQH\ LQWR 6SDFH :HHN 3UHKLVWRULF 7LPHV :HHN )XQ 6FLHQFH :HHN &UD]\ &RQWUDSWLRQV :HHN &UHDWLYH ,QYHQWRUV
57.(*
IRU :((. 6DYLQJV
IRU :((. 6DYLQJV
IRU :((. 6DYLQJV IRU :((. 6DYLQJV
5*7 &(&)*2.( (&25 0 ) SP SP &\FOH , &\FOH ,, &\FOH ,,, &\FOH ,9
28 Guide to Schools & Education • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022
Important ways music education benefits students Researchers increasingly are finding that “do-re-mi” may be just as essential to children’s development as “A-B-C.” Music education, which was once required in the classroom, is increasingly absent from school curriculums. However, proponents feel there should be a greater push for musical education as part of school curricula because of the many benefits students reap from music education.
Taps into multiple skill sets Music participation goes beyond playing an instrument or singing notes from a page. Experts at Music Together, an early childhood music development program, say that participating in music education involves many different skills, including listening, vision, fine motor skills, problem solving, and utilizing large and small muscle groups.
Transformative effects A growing body of research points to music for its transformative effects on youngsters. Participation in music education may help improve communication skills, foster better memory and help children focus their attention more effectively, according to the instrument retailer Zing Instruments. Music may provide the common ground to unite children in pursuit of a common goal. Improves language skills Neurobiologist Dr. Nina Kraus participated in “The Harmony Project,” which involved a series of experiments among second and third graders. Dr. Kraus discovered conclusively that music enhanced sound processing and cognitive skills (memory and attention). Music helps students develop the left side of the brain, which is known for processing language. A 2014 study by Arete Music Academy found children who study music tend to have larger vocabularies and more advanced reading skills than those who do not participate in music education.
More consistent attendance rates The National Association for Music Education determined that schools that offer music education have better attendance rates (93.3 percent) than those that don’t (84.9 percent). Higher grades A study in The Journal for Research in Music Education found that students who participated in excellent music programs scored higher on tests in mathematics and English/language than students enrolled in lower-quality music programs or none at all. Researchers concluded there is a correlation between music education and better retention of material. Support from parents and teachers Both educators and parents strongly believe that music education has a positive impact on overall academic performance, indicates NAMM Foundation and Grunwald Associates LLC. They also feel that budget cuts in music education or deficits in supplies and insufficient allocation of resources is detrimental to students. Increased IQ scores An experiment published in a 2004 issue of Psychological Science conducted by E. Glenn Schellenberg at The University of Toronto at Mississauga found that, over the course of nine months, six-yearold participants who were given piano and voice lessons tested on average three IQ points higher than those who had drama lessons only or no lessons at all.
O T E D I U G
CAMP A B l a n k S l a t e M e d i a S p e c i a l S e c t i o n M a r c h 18 , 2 0 2 2
30 Guide to Camp • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022
Get prepared for the summer camp season Summer camp season is just around the corner. Each summer, millions of children depart for campsites around the country to swim, hike, craft, and enjoy the companionship of friends. Summer camps in North America were first established in the 1880s and were attended by children without their parents for overnight stays. By the 20th century, summer camps had become an international phenomenon, and various organizations hosted traditional summer camps or camps geared toward religion, sports, music and other subjects and activities. According to the American Camp Association, each year more than 14 million children and adults in the United States attend camp. America is home to more than 14,000 day and resident camps (8,400 are overnight camps and 5,600 are day camps). Nonprofit groups are the largest sponsors of summer camps. Many people put off summer camp planning until it is too late. Parents should keep in mind that camps begin registration early in the year and have specific cut-off dates for enrollment. Parents who want to beat the crowds this year can use this guide to help plan a summer camp agenda. · Attend an orientation seminar. Take the time to visit prospective camps for a tour, and use this open house as an opportunity to learn more about the programs offered. If available, find a camp employee to discuss your child’s eligibility for enrollment. Some camps may offer webinars for convenience. · Fill out the enrollment package completely. Each camp has their own requirements for registration. Expect to submit some personal information, including a
medical background and proof of insurance, names and numbers of emergency contacts, and any other pertinent information as it applies to the camper. This may include allergies, fears, physical or mental disabilities, or even preferences in camp courses. · Establish payment schedules. Summer camps vary in price. The ACA says camp costs range from $100 to more than $1,500 per week. However, many accredited camps offer some sort of financial assistance for children from families with limited financial means. If cost is a factor, be sure to broach the subject. · Prepare children for the physical challenges a camp may present. Summer camp activities may be rigorous, and campers may need to be cleared by a physician before starting. Be sure to schedule your child a physical and bring along any pertinent forms. Children also can increase their levels of physical activity compared to the often sedentary nature of winter. Such preparation can prevent injuries when engaging in outdoor and physical activities. · Shop for supplies. Camps are likely to provide a list of requirements with regard to clothing and other equipment campers will need. Make sure kids have enough shorts, T-shirts, socks, athletic shoes, swimsuits, toiletries, and other camp necessities before they leave. · Keep children in the loop. Engage children in the planning process to help alleviate their fears and get them excited about summer camp. Summer camp can foster lifelong memories. Parents can help kids prepare in advance for the fun that’s soon to arrive.
Start gearing up now for summer camp plans to guarantee kids attend the camps they prefer.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022 • Guide to Camp
31
32 Guide to Camp • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022
How children can have memorable summer camp experiences As hours of sunlight increase, thoughts may turn to summer vacation. For many children, summer vacation wouldn’t be the same without camp. Adults may have their own fond memories of going to summer camp when they were children because of the opportunities it presented to be independent and meet new people. Campers often bond over shared experiences, whether they are planned activities or unexpected “disasters” like a rainstorm washing out a canoe trip. That is why so many parents choose to carry on the summer camp tradition when they have their own children. However, some kids may not be ready to jump right into the summer camp lifestyle. Such youngsters may need extra reassurance and support to make the most of their time at camp. The following are some tips for making summer camp an enjoyable experience.
Try many new activities Summer camp is about expanding boundaries and interests. Campers should sign up for many activities, including those that normally may be out of their wheelhouse. A camper may be pleased to learn that a new craft activity or a sports game piques his or her interest.
Connect with fellow campers in advance If the camp has a social media presence, follow the camp’s posts and connect with other like-minded campers even before they arrive. Talking with others who share similar interests can help campers feel more comfortable about meeting up once they arrive at camp.
Follow the safety rules While campers may spread their wings a bit at summer camp when not under the watchful eyes of parents, any mischief should not come at the expense of safety. Campers should stick to the safety protocol so that camp is not memorable for the wrong reasons. Change another camper’s experience A camper who recognizes a fellow camper is reserved and shy can invite that person to come sit with other friends at meals or to participate in an activity. This can help build a lasting friendship and make camp that much more enjoyable for someone in need.
Plan ahead Families can visit the camp in advance and get a lay of the land. Knowing what to expect in terms of facilities and activities can assuage some anxiety. It also will help campers hone in on what to pack and what to expect over the summer.
SUMMER CAMP OPTIONS ABOUND
Develop a rapport with camp counselors The saying “you only get one chance to make a first impression” extends to campers meeting camp counselors. When campers interact with counselors for the first time, they should be outgoing, polite and open to new ideas. Counselors will appreciate easy-going campers and could be good resources of useful information, such as how to score an extra dessert at mealtime.
Summer camp season is on the horizon and campers can take several steps to foster memorable and fun experiences along the way.
Summer camp is a beloved tradition in many families. Many parents of young children fondly recall spending their summers at summer camp, where they made lifelong friends and learned the finer points of roasting marshmallows and competing in three-legged sack races. Parents looking for the right summer camp for their kids will soon discover there are various types of summer camps, each offering youngsters something different. The following are some of the summer camp options parents can expect to encounter as they search for the right camper for their kids. Day camp Day camps are not overnight camps, which means kids will return home each night rather than sleep over at camp. Day camps typically offer many of the activities people have come to associate with camps, including crafts, sports and even day-trips to experience local culture or attractions. Many day camps are co-ed, and counselors typically live within the community. Faith-based camp Faith-based camps offer many of the same activities as more traditional summer camps, but do so while simultaneously offering campers the opportunity to celebrate and further explore their religious beliefs. Some faithbased camps may focus heavily on religion, incorporating faith into daily camp activities, while others may be more subtle with regard to integrating religious beliefs and lessons into camp activities.
Sports camps Some summer camps focus on a particular sport, catering to young athletes who want to further develop their athletic talents. Sports camps may feature guest lectures and lessons from notable local athletes and coaches, while some camps may provide instruction from current and/or former professional athletes. Some sports camps are overnight, while others are day camps. Family camps Family camps are opportunities for the whole family to enjoy the summer camp experience. Family camps typically tailor their activities around tasks families can complete together, with counselors providing assistance when it’s needed. Family camps may be faithbased or secular, and families typically stay overnight, sleeping in facilities on the campsites or in lodging away from home. Special needs camps Parents of children with special needs can still send their kids to summer camp, as there are many camps that cater to such youngsters. Special needs camps may cater to campers who are blind, deaf, learning disabled, or mentally or physically disabled. Staff at special needs camps typically undergoes extensive training, which helps to calm some of the fears parents may have about leaving their special needs children at camp. Facilities at special needs camps are often built to accommodate the specific needs of campers.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022 • Guide to Camp
Door to Door Transportation 3 Heated Pools On-site Nut Free Lunch & Snacks included
All our camp family needs is YOU!!!
Arts, Swim, Sports, and more! Call 516-621-9257 or email office@bethsholomdaycamp.com to schedule a tour - weekdays and select Sundays!
33
34 Guide to Camp • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022
Things to consider before choosing a summer camp Summer camp is often something kids look forward to, and something they will fondly recall long after they reach adulthood. For many kids, summer camp provides a first taste of independence, as youngsters spend significant time away from home without their parents for the first time in their lives. But as great an experience as summer camp can be for youngsters, it can be just as difficult an experience if parents don’t find the right fit for their children. That’s why it behooves parents to start thinking about summer camps for their kids in winter, before camps start filling out their rosters, which tends to happen in early spring. The following are a few things parents should take into consideration when seeking a summer camp for their kids. Staff The right summer camp staff can make all the difference. Many children are understandably shy when arriving at a summer camp, as their friends from back home might not be joining them. That can make kids hesitant to participate in activities or less enthusiastic about those activities. But a good staff will know how to make kids feel welcome, which should help them come out of their shells and make the most of their summer camp experiences. The quality of staffs can vary significantly depending on the camp, so it’s important that parents ask camp representatives about their staffs before making any commitments. Ask how long the staff has been together and the types of training new and even veteran staff members undergo before the start of camp season? Does the training include first aid and emergency medical training and certification? It’s also good to ask about the vetting process the camp employs before hiring new staff, including the extent of its background checks. Are criminal background checks conducted? How many references must potential staff members supply to be considered for employment? A good camp
will be forthcoming with answers to all of your questions, so eliminate those that appear hesitant to share information about their staffs. A day in the life When vetting camps for kids, parents should ask what a typical day is like once the season hits full swing. Many parents want their youngsters to have a wellrounded experience, while others might want their kids to attend a more specialized camp, whether it’s a sports camp focusing on a particular sport or a music camp devoted to helping kids become better musicians. Regardless of the type of camp parents are considering for their kids, they should ask about what daily life at the camp is like. Ask to see schedules and how strictly camps adhere to those schedules. When considering specialized camps, ask the staff representative if kids will have the chance to simply have a little fun and which types of recreational activities are planned to give kids a break from what are often rigorous schedules. Camp goals Another thing parents must consider before choosing a summer camp for their kids is the goals of each individual camp. A camp should be dedicated to ensuring kids have fun, even when kids are attending more specialized camps that tend to be more strict. In addition, parents should look for a camp that wants its attendees to foster relationships with their fellow campers. Camp can be lonely for some youngsters, especially those attending summer camp for the first time, but a summer camp that strives to promote friendship among its campers can reduce, if not eliminate, any feelings of homesickness. Late winter is when parents should start looking at summer camps for their kids, and there are a host of factors moms and dads should take into consideration during the vetting process to ensure their youngsters have as much fun as possible.
Five reasons why summer camp is a good choice for kids Summer vacation offers students a respite from lessons and the routine of school. Children might once have eagerly awaited those final days of classes so they could lounge poolside, skip rocks across ponds and spend the long days of the season playing with friends. But many of today’s youngsters spend much of their summer vacations indoors playing with their digital devices. Perhaps that’s why one of the last vestiges of the classic summer vacation escape - summer camp - remains such a viable option for parents who want their children to get outdoors once the school year ends. Although kids needn’t be in camp all summer long, a week or two can benefit campers of all ages. The following are five reasons why summer camp might be the right fit this year. 1. Explore talents. Summer camps help young people explore their unique interests and talents. Under an organized, yet often easygoing, camp schedule, kids can dabble in sports, arts and crafts, leadership, community support, and so many other activities that may not be fully available to them elsewhere. 2. Physical activity: Lots of camps build their itineraries around physical activities that takes place outdoors. Campers may spend their time swimming, running, hiking, playing sports, climbing, and so much more. This can be a welcome change for
kids accustomed to living sedentary lifestyles. Regular physical activity has many health benefits and can set a foundation for healthy habits as an adult. 3. Gain confidence. Day and sleepaway camps offer campers the opportunity to get comfortable in their own skin. Camps can foster activities in self-esteem by removing the academic measures of success and fill in with noncompetitive opportunities to succeed. Campers learn independence, decision-making skills and the ability to thrive outside of the shadow of their parents, siblings or other students. 4. Try new things. Camp gives children the chance to try new things, whether that’s learning to cook, exploring new environments or embracing a new sport or leisure activity. Opening oneself up to new opportunities can build character and prove enlightening for children. 5. Make new friends. Camp is a great place to meet new people and make lifelong friends. Campers flood in from areas near and far. This provides kids with a chance to expand their social circles beyond their immediate neighborhoods and schools. Camps benefit children in a variety of ways. Lessons learned in camp can strengthen values, build confidence, develop coping mechanisms when adversity strikes, and enable campers to make lifelong friends.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022 • Guide to Camp
SUMMER IS MADE FOR CAMP Have the summer of a lifetime and make new memories with friends at one of our camps! Ages: 3-4 years and Grades: K-10 At Bernice Jacobson Day School & Camp, Old Westbury EST. 2009
Camp Jacobson is a place where children grow and flourish in a safe, nurturing environment built upon Jewish values and ideals. We provide children a home where they feel known, important and part of the CJ family. Everything we do is guided by our BEAR values of Bravery, Empathy, Awareness and Responsibility.
Ages: 5-21 years At Henry Kaufmann ufmann ds, Campgrounds, eights Wheatley Heights Camp Kehillaa initiates new ampers with opportunities and experiences for campers am includes special needs. Our innovative program activities tailored to children, teens, and young adults with a core focus on building social skills, -esteem. friendships, independence, and self-esteem.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON AND TO C.ORG/CAMPS REGISTER, VISIT SJJCC.ORG/CAMPS Check out our award-winning Earlyy Childhood Center for ages 2-5 years and our after-school enrichments for grades K-5! Visit sjjcc.org for more information..
Ages: 3 years and Grades: Pre-K-7th At Sid Jacobson JCC, East Hills Summer Streeters is a unique day camp experience at the most affordable price on Long Island! Campers enjoy a variety of exciting activities including swimming, sports, arts & crafts, yoga, theatre, music, dance, camp olympics, field trips, and theme weeks.
35
36 Guide to Camp • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022 • Guide to Schools & Education
37
How to help kids with math Many parents recall struggling with math at one point or another in their academic careers. According to PBS, little is known about the neurobiological or environmental causes of math disabilities. Many experts attribute them to various deficits in a handful of skill types, including difficulties connecting the relationship between numbers and the quantities they represent and an incomplete understanding of the language of math. Determining what’s behind a student’s struggles with math may require a collective effort on the part of parents and educators. Parents also may need to make a concerted effort to help their children with math at home, and they can approach that in various ways. · Learn the ways modern teachers teach math. It may not take long before parents recognize that math is now taught differently than it likely was when they were still students. Beginning in 2010, the Common Core State Standards Initiative attempted to teach math in a new way. Parents of
students who are struggling with math can contact their children’s teachers to learn the methods they’re using in the classroom. Ask for pointers on presenting the material at home and do your best to grasp the new approach. · Utilize kids’ interests to relay mathematical concepts. Kids may find material more relatable and easier to understand if parents incorporate their interests into lessons. For example, parents can use sports to reinforce concepts kids are being taught in the classroom. If a child’s favorite football team is winning by 21 points, parents can ask children to determine how many touchdowns the opponent will need to score to tie the game. Young readers can be given books that help children build fundamental math skills like counting, addition and subtraction. Incorporating kids’ hobbies into home math lessons is a great way to build their enthusiasm for math. · Speak with teachers. Ask teachers for their advice on relating concepts at
home. Teachers may be limited in regard to how they can teach math in the classroom, but they might be able to offer some tips to make materials more relatable at home. · Work with a tutor. Parents who are struggling to grasp the new ways math is taught can easily become frustrated, and that frustration could rub off on kids. Before things reach that point, parents can reach out to tutors. Some
schools provide tutoring programs, while others may recommend local tutors. Fellow parents also can be great resources and may be able to recommend tutors who have produced successful results for their children in the past. Struggles with math are not uncommon. Parents can try various strategies to help their kids grasp mathematical concepts more fully.
0SSOMRK JSV E 7YQQIV 7GLSSP JSV ]SYV GLMPH [MXL E PIEVRMRK HMJJIVIRGI 0IEVR QSVI EFSYX ;MRWXSR 4VIT 0SRK -WPERH´W 7YQQIV )RVMGLQIRX 4VSKVEQ XLEX TVSZMHIW WXYHIRXW [MXL PIEVRMRK HMJJIVIRGIW E YRMUYI MRHMZMHYEPM^IH TVSKVEQ XS IRLERGI XLIMV EGEHIQMG WOMPPW ERH JSWXIV MRHITIRHIRGI '$7(6 1SRHE] XLVSYKL *VMHE] .YP] WX ¯ .YP] XL JVSQ EQ XS TQ 'SRXEGX 1MGLIPI &IPPEXSRM (MVIGXSV SJ 7YQQIV )RVMGLQIRX 4VSKVEQ PMWYQQIVTVSKVEQ$[MRWXSRTVIT IHY \ JSV QSVI MRJSVQEXMSR
6IKMWXIV JSV ER STIR LSYWI EX [[[ [MRWXSRTVIT IHY EHQMWWMSRW STIR LSYWIW 2I[ =SVO ` 2I[ .IVWI] ` 'SRRIGXMGYX ` 'EPMJSVRME ` 3RPMRI 8LI ;MRWXSR 4VITEVEXSV] 7GLSSP HSIW RSX HMWGVMQMREXI EKEMRWX ETTPMGERXW ERH WXYHIRXW SR XLI FEWMW SJ VEGI GSPSV SV REXMSREP SV IXLRMG SVMKMR
38 Guide to Schools & Education • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022
How young children’s vocabularies benefit from being read to A recent study from researchers at The Ohio State University found that the disparity between the number of words young children who are frequently read to have heard compared to those who have not been read to is significant. The study first appeared online in the Journal of Development and Behavioral Pediatrics and found that young children whose parents read them five books a day entered kindergarten having heard roughly 1.48 million words. By comparison, children whose parents never read to them had heard just over 4,600 words by the time they entered kindergarten. Even children who are read to daily hear significantly fewer words than children whose parents read them five books a day. Such children hear just under 300,000 words prior to entering kindergarten. Exposure to a larger vocabulary is not the only benefit
Celebrating
kids reap from being read to. Reach Out and Read, a national nonprofit that champions the positive effects of reading daily and engaging in additional language-rich activities with young children, reports that language-based interactions help children develop communication skills, patience, empathy, and literacy. Reading to young children also enhances their understanding of the world by transporting them to places and times they have never experienced. One study also noted the effects that reading to young children can have on the relationship between parent and child. That study, authored by researchers at the University of Wollongong in Australia and Boston University and published in the journal Archives of Disease in Childhood, found that reading to young children supports a strong relationship between parent and child.
42 Years
New STEM Apple Computer Lab Diapers Welcome!
140 East Broadway, Roslyn, NY 11576 Phone: (516) 621-9009 www.growingtreenurseryschool.com
NEW TODDLER CLASS
9am-12pm or 9am-1pm
275 Warner Ave., Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 Phone: (516) 625-9080 www.growingtreenorth.com
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022 • Guide to Schools & Education
39
www.HarborChildCare.org Harbor Child Care has options for children ages 12 weeks to 12 years old to meet the needs of working parents year-round! Locations in Glen Cove, Manhasset, Mineola, New Hyde Park and Uniondale, licensed by the NYS Office of Children and Family Services Our early childhood education programs are taught by qualified, experienced, and fun-loving staff. We utilize the highly-regarded Creative Curriculum. Facilities serve homemade nutritious meals and snacks, and are nut-free. Music, physical fitness, and outdoor playspaces offered at alll locations! al loca lo cati tion ons! s! Summer Camp Program at New Hyde Park and Glen Cove locations. Please call Michele (516) 248-6653 or mrussell@harborchildcare.org
HTA Scholarships Available to Herricks Students The HTA is a proud organization of over 740 Herricks employees. We are committed to supporting our community in a variety of ways. We have a long tradition of offering three scholarships to graduating Herricks seniors who are pursuing a post-secondary education. The available scholarships are:
shown
+HUULFNV 7HDFKHUV· $VVRFLDWLRQ
Qualifying Herricks’ seniors are encouraged to complete an HTA scholarship application. Students should refer to the communication sent out to them from the Herricks The deadline is Friday, April 8, 2022.
Working together for our students and with our community
40 Guide to Schools & Education • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, March 18, 2022
Meet the Future. @ OPEN HOUSE April 9 > 10 a.m.
" #
$ %
Engineering and Technology # # # & # # # " ' # Management ( # # # ) * # # + $ $ # , & - # # & # ) Aviation . # # - # # " " " # # # " #
LEARN HOW YOU CAN BECOME FUTUREPROOF AT
vaughn.edu %+ " # .
ENGINEERING | TECHNOLOGY | MANAGEMENT | AVIATION