Back to School Transition: Parenting Tips

Many parents have prepared for the past several weeks by purchasing school supplies, uniforms, clothes, books, and other necessary items to start their new academic year.

They also are staring a new schedule at home.  Summer is over and it is back to getting on a schedule.

Here are some tips for the first week of school transition for parents:

Clear your own schedule. To the extent possible, postpone business trips, volunteer meetings, and extra projects. You want to be free to help your child acclimate to the school routine and overcome the confusion or anxiety that many children experience at the start of a new school year.

Make lunches the night before school. Older children should help or make their own. Give them the option to buy lunch in school if they prefer and finances permit.

Set alarm clocks. Have school-age children set their own alarm clocks to get up in the morning. Praise them for prompt response to morning schedules and bus pickups.

Leave plenty of extra time. Make sure your child has plenty of time to get up, eat breakfast, and get to school. For very young children taking the bus, pin to their shirt or backpack an index card with pertinent information, including their teacher’s name and bus number, as well as your daytime contact information.

After school. Review with your child what to do if he or she gets home after school and you are not there. Be very specific, particularly with young children. Put a note card in their backpack with the name(s) and number(s) of a neighbor who is home during the day as well as a number where you can be reached. If you have not already done so, have your child meet neighbor contacts to reaffirm the backup support personally.

Review your child’s schoolbooks. Talk about what your child will be learning during the year. Share your enthusiasm for the subjects and your confidence in your child’s ability to master the content. Reinforce the natural progression of the learning process that occurs over the school year. Learning skills take time and repetition. Encourage your child to be patient, attentive, and positive.

Send a brief note to your child’s teacher. Let the teachers know that you are interested in getting regular feedback on how and what your child is doing in school. Be sure to attend back-to-school night and introduce yourself to the teachers. Find out how they like to communicate with parents (e.g., through notes, e-mail, or phone calls). Convey a sincere desire to be a partner with your children’s teachers to enhance their learning experience.

Familiarize yourself with the other school professionals. Make an effort to find out who it is in the school or district who can be a resource for you and your child. Learn their roles and how best to access their help if you need them. This can include the principal and front office personnel; school psychologist, counselor, and social worker; the reading specialist, speech therapist, and school nurse; and the after-school activities coordinator.

Source:  National Association of School Psychologists

Be sure to print our the 2011-2012 Broward County School calendar here.  This can help you schedule arrangements for days off, teacher work days, half days  as well as holidays.

Most teens go to school with cell phones.  Here are 10 rules parents should enforce about cell phones and also check their school’s policy on them.

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Back to School: Learning Difference Can be a Struggle for Some Teens – 25 Tips

Learning disabilities manifest themselves in countless ways, varying in severity from the very mild to the debilitating and those that impact different elements of education. Yet they almost universally end up equally stereotyped, misunderstood and sometimes even unfairly stigmatized. The rigid traditional classroom structure rarely provides the learning disabled with the resources necessary to meet their reading, writing, math, social and mobility skills or sense impairment.

Because of this, many learning disabled students feel marginalized by their peers and instructors alike, oftentimes hindered more by imposed isolation than the conditions themselves. But as technology marches on, so too do opportunities for academic success. No matter their struggle, these perfectly competent, capable individuals probably have something available to close any unfortunate, challenging gaps. It’s all a matter of finding the right answer and finding ways to pay for it — though the more financially strapped have a few options available, depending on their situation and what they require.

Please be aware that this article is not meant to take the place of legitimate medical advice. Different individuals require different solutions based on numerous factors, and only a small sample of the myriad assistive technologies available receives representation here. Take it as a brief overview rather than something even one atom definitive or professional — save diagnoses and prescriptions for the experts.

1. Talking calculators

   Both the visually impaired and the learning disabled can greatly benefit from these simple devices, which relay mathematics via audio. For those with dyscalculia, such a gadget renders it much easier to check and double-check assignments.

2. Electronic worksheets

   Students struggling with properly lining up words and equations using standard pencils and paper sometimes use electronic worksheets when completing assignments. Some even come with text-to-speech or speech synthesizing capabilities, depending on what assistance is necessary for academic success.

3. Word prediction software

   iPhones and Androids haven’t won word prediction programs much mainstream favor, but for the learning disabled, it can prove an absolute godsend. Those grappling with reading and spelling, such as the dyslexic, or difficulties writing and typing use these fantastic technologies to help complete assignments to their satisfaction.

4. Text-to-Voice

   Just like the talking calculators, text-to-voice devices and software make classwork much more tolerable for learning disabled students. They do an excellent job of assisting individuals struggling with checking their spelling and grammar in addition to improving reading and writing comprehension skills.

5. Free-form databases

   When used along with word processing software, free-form databases organize notes for students grappling with disorganization. All they need to do is type out the necessary information and use a quick and easy search function to browse through everything.

6. Personal FM systems

   Personal FM systems come in a few different varieties depending on student needs and school resources. Some of the most sophisticated transmit audio directly from instructors’ microphones directly into a hearing aid!

7. Digital Pens

   Different digital pens each feature different perks, but ones equipped with audio recording and the ability to convert handwriting seem to be particularly valuable. Best of all, learning disabled students need only write on traditional paper to reap the full benefits!

8. Variable speed recorders

   Whether the devices use tapes or some other sonic equipment, students with learning disabilities involving auditory processing issues from variable speed recorders. Depending on their needs, sound can be slowed, hastened and sometimes even pitched up or down in order to render classwork more accessible.

9. Abbreviation expanders

   Students who find typing extremely difficult use this neat software in conjunction with word processors. Along with some possible presets, they can customize their own unique abbreviations, which automatically expand into longer specified words.

10. Graphic organizers

    Considering so many types of graphic organizers exist out there, anyone requiring assistance will more than likely find something perfectly suitable. The one thing they do have in common, though, is their ultimate goal — helping users better sort and browse their notes and assignments.

11. Portable word processors

    These extremely valuable gadgets usually cost less than a laptop, but still provide all the essential word processing learning disabled students need to get work done. Some even come equipped with text-to-speech capabilities, talking calculators, word prediction programs and other fantastically useful features.

12. Alternative keyboards

    The learning disabled with specific visual, ergonomic, spatial and/or other requirements have plenty of viable options available. Whether they have to have larger keys or an arrangement other than QWERTY, technology has them pretty well covered.

13. Alternative mice

    As with alternative keyboards, different styles of mice have been developed to help learning disabled students complete their assignments. Joysticks, head mice, touchpads, rollerballs and other options address a plethora of different movement, spatial and/or cognitive impairments.

14. Speech recognition

    If alternative keyboards still prove unwieldy or otherwise unviable, speech recognition software might prove the better fit. Like the name says, these technologies convert talking into typing, making them ideal for the learning disabled struggling with movement or visual conditions rendering it very tough to click at the keyboard.

15. Switches

    Usually attached to the head or a hand, switches allow users remote access to various computers and other devices with far more ease than a mouse or keyboard. Like many other wondrous assistive technologies, they come in a staggering variety of structures in order to address the widest number of needs possible.

16. Optical character recognition

    Learning disabled students requiring assistive technology to help them with reading, grammar and spelling can turn towards these seriously cool devices, which come in a variety of forms. All of them, though, allow users to scan different documents and convert text into something more digital and interactive; some even provide text-to-speech capabilities as well!

17. Communication Access Realtime Translation

    Also referred to as CART, this technology is meant to reach an audience rather than a single student, making it a perfect fit for classrooms with multiple learning disabled individuals — provided they have similar requirements, of course. A swift-fingered typist inputs what’s being said, which in turn ends up displayed on a screen for easy reading; it’s essentially real-time subtitling benefiting the hearing-impaired.

18. Outlining software

    Students struggling with organizational issues might want to look into software that automatically generates outlines and allows them to play around with them. Similarly, mind-mapping and brainstorming programs provide them with other opportunities to turn great ideas into great assignments.

19. Personal data managers

    Whether carried around as a PDA or installed onto a laptop, the learning disabled needing memory assistance have some excellent options open to them when it comes to finding the right personal data manager. Even some of the simpler varieties available offer up plenty of amazing ways to better sort through thoughts, schedules and classwork alike.

20. Phonetic spelling software

    Dyslexics and others with learning disabilities disrupting reading and writing assignments might want to consider this very useful assistive technology. Some with the condition find anything other than phonetic spelling a challenge, and tools designed to automatically convert their typing into the proper words will undoubtedly render their lives easier.

21. Visual systems

    Although not used exclusively for students on the autism spectrum, such an arrangement is most often used when assisting them. Visual systems, as one can probably assume, use effective images (obviously customized to the individual’s unique requirements) to relay information about schedules, instructions and plenty more.

22. Videotaped social skills

    Another very useful tool for autistic students comes in the form of prerecorded social interactions, meant to help them better absorb necessary life skills without inadvertently acting inappropriately. Such a concept, however, extends beyond improving interpersonal skills — videos are also used to address linguistic, emotional, academic and self-help issues.

23. Scholastic keys

    Many common classroom software programs come with scholastic keys administrators, teachers and parents can implement to simplify their interface. This allows learning disabled students easier access to Microsoft Office and other tools; as an added bonus, many of them work fine with other assistive technologies, such as text-to-speech.

24. Audiobooks

    They’re nothing new, obviously, but audiobooks will always remain a staple of assistive technology — even if their formats change over time. With so many free and low-cost works available on a staggering variety of platforms, it’s never been easier to bring great literature to learning disabled students.

25. Low-tech solutions

    Just because so many assistive technologies embody digital, emerging and advanced mechanics doesn’t mean simpler, more low-key solutions should go entirely ignored. Learning disability experts can and have rendered education more accessible to students using resources as simple as highlighters, note cards, construction paper and anything else imaginable. Viable solutions, no matter what form they come in, should never be dismissed because they lack slick, shiny digital pizazz.

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SIZZURP – Cough Syrup Teen Drug Abuse

What will teens come up with next to get high from?  Why don’t some of them understand the dangers of substance abuse – the risks that come with even experimenting with some of these drugs?  We just heard about the alcoholic whipped cream, now we have this next trend.

PACT Coalition of St. Johns County, FL sends out a newsletter. It always has valuable information.  This week it informed parents about Sizzurp.  What is it????

This was their trend for the week:

We’ve had several requests for information about cough syrup abuse recently. This is a good reminder to keep a close eye on the items in the medicine cabinet. Cough syrup is a main ingredient of Sizzurp. This is a mixed drink which consists of codeine cough syrup, a fruit flavored soda and often a Jolly Rancher. The codeine causes a feeling of euphoria which can impair driving, cause lethargy and extreme tiredness. Pop culture has embraced this trend in many songs and movies.

During this month – Partnership at DrugFree.org has also rolled out their campaign – You Are Not Alone.

Many parents are more fearful of the stigma attached to having a teen use drugs than they are concerned for the teen that is using the drugs.  It is time to stop being a parent in denial -know that  you are not alone, and there is help and resources to get your teenager the help they need.

Get involved today!

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/partnershipdrugfree

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/YOU_R_NOT_ALONE

Website: http://www.drugfree.org/youarenotalone

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/youarenotalone

Drug Guide: http://www.drugfree.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/drug_chart_10.25.10_opt.pdf

Intervention ebook: http://timetogethelp.drugfree.org/sites/default/files/intervention_guide.pdf

Treatment ebook: http://timetogethelp.drugfree.org/sites/default/files/treatment_guide.pdf

Time To Get Help: http://www.timetogethelp.drugfree.org

Parents Toll-Free Helpline:  1-855-DRUGFREE

If you have any further questions, partnership ideas or comments, please feel free to email us at youarenotalone@drugfree.org.

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Teens and Tats: Know the Risks

Between piercings and tattoos, parents are finding themselves facing another issue to discuss with their teens.  What do you do when your teens wants a tattoo or a piercing in a less than desirable area?

Tattoos are permanent, so spur of the moment decisions to get a tattoo are never a good idea. Even when the decision has been made for quite some time, there may still be good reasons to reconsider.

Here are ten of the ways that people use to try and convince someone not to get a tattoo.

1. Pain – There is pain involved in getting a tattoo. How much pain will depend on where it is located on the body, the size of the tattoo and the pain tolerance level of the person receiving the tattoo. If the person has a low pain tolerance, emphasizing the pain involved in the process, and the time needed to complete the tattoo can sometimes be enough to get them to change their mind.
2. Cost – Tattoos are not inexpensive, especially at the best shops. In addition, the cost of having one removed if you should change your mind about it in the future will be even more costly. Is a little bit of colored skin really worth that much money?
3. Social impact – Not everyone has an appreciation for the art of tattooing. Your tattoo may negatively impact future relationships, both personal and in the employment/business arena. The cost of that is impossible to gauge.
4. Bad results – What if it doesn’t turn out looking like you expected it too? Not everyone is happy with the results they receive from a tattoo artist. It doesn’t grow out like a bad haircut.
5. Personality changes – What is appealing to you now may not be in 5, 10 or 20 years. Everyone’s personality continues to evolve with their life experience and level of maturity. What you will be like in the future is impossible to predict.
6. Lifestyle changes – A tattoo may fit perfectly with your current lifestyle, but just as with personality, lifestyles change. Having to deal with trying to cover or explain the ‘fashion’ of your past could be something you’d rather avoid.
7. Body changes – Ten years could mean adding or losing twenty pounds or more. With those changes in weight, the look of a tattoo is going to change too, in a negative way.
8. Infection – In spite of precautions, infections do still occur. That can mean medical costs and disfigurement of the tattoo. Do you really want to risk that?
9. Disease – It is possible to transfer incurable diseases like Hepatitis C with tattoo needles. You’re trusting in the word of your tattooist that the needles are sterile. In addition, tattoo ink is not regulated by the FDA. You have no idea what might be in that stuff that is going into your skin.
10. Aged tattoos – Show them some pictures of people who have carried their tattoos on their body for a lifetime that are no longer colorful or appealing on their 70-80 year old bodies. Is that what they want to look like when they’re a grandparent?

In reality, you may not be able to convince a person not to get a tattoo with these arguments, but they should at least encourage them to think it through more carefully. It is their body and their life, but often times tattoos done in youthful years are regretted later on in life. Sometimes convincing them to simply wait a few years will be more effective than trying to convince them not to get a tattoo at all.

Source:  Best Dating Sites

Tattoo laws for teens under 18 vary from state to state, and in some cases even from city to city.  According to Florida Tatto Laws:

(3) No body of a minor shall be <tattooed without the written notarized consent of the parent or legal guardian.

Be an educated parent, you will have healthier teens.

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