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École Bannatyne News
École Bannatyne School
363 Thompson Drive
Winnipeg, MB R3J 3E5
Phone (204) 888-1101
Fax (204) 832-9199
Email: bannatyne.sjsd.net
Dates to
Remember
April 21
Grade 5
Grad Pics - 9:00 am
Early Dismissal 3:25 pm
April 22
Lights Out Canada
April 2015
Principal: Mme Roné Boyko
Dear Bannatyne Families,
Hope you’ve all had a wonderful and restful Spring Break and are re-charged and ready to
embark upon the exciting learning activities over the course of this final term. It’s amazing
how quickly time passes and remarkable that there are only a few, short months left this
school year! It’s also amazing how proud our students should feel of themselves as they look
back on their school year so far. Please take some time to reflect upon their accomplishments.
Encourage them to remember that “We Take Care of Each Other”; everyone comes to school
and can expect to feel good about themselves so they can continue to learn.
Staff Appreciation Week
April 24
Admin/Inservice
No School
April 30
I Love to Read Assembly
9:15 am
PC Literacy Night
6:30 pm
Thank-you so very much to all Bannatyne Families who treated us throughout the Staff
Appreciation week. We are all very touched and grateful for your thoughtfulness, generosity
and wonderful, wonderful treats! It is truly an honour to be surrounded by this amazing
community. Thank-you!
Congratulations to the Grade 3 – 5 Choirs and Mme Gallo
Congratulations to our Grade 3 and Grades 4 and 5 Choirs who participated in the Winnipeg
Music Festival in March and received Gold for their performances. And thank you to our dear
Mme Gllo for all her dedication to our students.
J’aime Lire
This month will be alight with Literacy Activities as we celebrate J’aime Lire and the importance of literacy and numeracy.
Thank-you so much to the staff committee for all your hard work in planning and organizing. Please see the calendar on
page 6 of the newsletter for details.
April 22 – Earth Day
The Student Voice team has collaborated and on April 22, we will be participating in the School-Wide “Lights Out Canada” in
an effort to raise awareness about reducing energy consumption. To celebrate the importance of “Taking Care of Each Other and our Earth” and in conjunction with our J’aime Lire activities, there will also be a special Earth Day Assembly outside
beginning at 1:00 pm.
Please refer to the information in a forthcoming, separate Student Voice note for further details.
Community Survey
Please take some time to complete the on-line Community Survey by following the link below. We value your feedback and
use the information collected to support our efforts in goal planning and practices.
http://bit.ly/sjsdey2015
The link to the survey is also available on the school website. Thank-you!
Sincerely,
Mme Boyko
ÉCOLE BANNATYNE
APRIL 2015
News from Parent Council
Hello Bannatyne Families,
It's hard to believe it but we are officially in the home stretch of the school year! I hope everyone had a chance to
relax and enjoy time with their families over Spring Break.
I would like to thank our March coordinators for their efforts with the following:
Staff Appreciation Week: Laurel Rose and Angela Janzen-Roth
Lego Movie Night: Tasha Biefini
Special Lunch: Pina Auriti
As well as all parents and families who donated their time and/or fine home cooking for our staff and students. Every
event was a resounding success!
April is another busy month with 'J'aime Lire/I Love to Read' and Earth Day celebrations. Parent Council is very proud
to be coordinating with the Staff literacy committee again this year. The Winnipeg Foundation Grant has enabled us
to purchase a new book for every student attending Literacy Night on Thursday, April 30, 2015. Teachers, parents
and local artists will be offering a variety of literacy experiences. Make sure to mark your calendars!
Plans are under way for the annual school picnic to be held on Thursday, June 11, 2015.
Show and Save fundraiser is currently running with the deadline being Friday, April 17. Any questions or concerns
should be
directed to Sharon Larouche @ donty@shaw.ca For every book sold, the school gets $10!!!!! This is a
fantastic way to support enriching activities at your child's school while saving a few bucks!
As always Parent Council thanks our wonderful and generous Bannatyne families for your continued support!
Happy Spring!
Peacemaker Page
Dear Parents,
This month the focus is on not giving up. Not giving up helps us persevere and keep trying, no matter what. If
someone is bullying, for example, students should not assume there is nothing they can do about it. They should
seek adult help. If someone is being picked on, students should not give up. They should either talk with an adult or
assert themselves.
Encourage your child to not give up when he/she is trying something new. Everyone gets frustrated when learning
something. With patience and determination, we can learn a new skill, but it may not happen quickly.
Fun Family Tip
Teach your child a new game, such as a card game, checkers, or chess. When teaching your child, encourage him/
her to not give up or become discouraged. Explain that it is always hard to learn something new. Have fun with your
game and praise your child for not giving up!
Thanks, and have a great month!
2
ÉCOLE BANNATYNE
APRIL 2015
Science & Technology Fair 2015
We would like to congratulate all of our students for an excellent Science and Project week. The students prepared
some excellent presentations in Science and Research. We are very proud of all the students’ efforts. We also
want to thank Mme Gabriel for organizing this event.
Congratulations to the following students who presented their work at the Divisional Science and Technology Fair
on April 8 at George Waters Middle School.
Grade 3: Lauren M. & Jaelynn R. (Gold), Scott M. (Gold), Emily R. (Gold)
Grade 4: Zaiden G. (Bronze), Madisyn K. (Silver)
Grade 5: Gabrielle B. & Jewels L. (Bronze), Meredith R. & Madison B. (Bronze)
Vision Screening
Vision Screening has been completed for this school year. Students in Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 3, Grade 5 and
all new students to Bannatyne have been screened. Students who have been referred to an eye doctor for a professional eye exam have received notification. Please have your child tested by an eye care professional and return the
form provided in the referral letter that was sent home. All students who currently wear prescription glasses have
also received a letter for their eye doctor to fill out. Please have your eye care specialist complete the form and return it to school as soon as possible.
A HUGE THANK YOU and shout out to Mrs. Larouche, Mrs. Hogg, Mrs. Melendez and Mrs. Tease for helping me out
at school with this year’s Vision Screening. I appreciate all the time and effort that you gave to help make this
year’s Vision Screening run smoothly and efficiently. MERCI!!!
Mme Lydia Tanner
Resource Teacher
To all Grade 5 students going to Golden Gate for 2015-2016
Do you have a child who will be entering Grade 6 at École Golden Gate Middle School and taking band
next year?
We would like to make you aware of two important dates. To make sure everyone gets an instrument that they are
best suited for, Golden Gate will be hosting two “Choose Your Instrument” nights on Wednesday, April 22
and Thursday, April 23 from 4:30-6:30PM.
Parents are asked to call Golden Gate at 204-837-5808 to make a 15 minute appointment for ONE of these evenings. During the appointment students will have the chance to try all of the instruments available to them next year
and choose the instrument they wish to play. It is very important that students attend this evening as there will be
instrument specialists on hand to assist students in making their choice. If you have any questions, please contact
one of the band teachers - Mr. Popiel (cpopiel@sjsd.net) or Mme Martin (cmartin@sjsd.net). You can also reach us
by phone at the number listed above.
3
ÉCOLE BANNATYNE
APRIL 2015
Physical Education News
Jump Rope Club
There is a grade 2/3 club and a grade 4/5 jump rope club. All students in the club have the opportunity to further
their jump skills and tricks. Each practice students are introduced to new tricks (short rope and long rope), have
the opportunity to practice and the chance to try to ‘skip their grade’. ‘Skip your grade’ is when you try to skip for
the amount of minutes equivalent to your grade. If you are in grade one you need to skip for one minute without
stopping, grade two skip for two minutes… and so on. When a student achieves this they get to write their name
on the ‘skip your grade’ poster!
Every student in the jump rope club will have the opportunity to showcase something that they feel they have
been working very hard on.
Jump Team
The Jump Team has been working very hard. They put in many hours of practice to put together a
routine to share with the school at our Jump Rope for Heart kick-off on March 24, 2015! They did an
incredible job. Great job Jump Team!
Jump Rope for Heart
Our Jump Rope for Heart kick-off was held March 24 and fundraising envelopes were send home by March 27. If
you did not receive one and would still like one please e-mail Mme Tease at stease@sjsd.net OR you can register
online at JumpRopeForHeart.ca! We are so excited to work together to reach our goal of raising $6,700 for the
Heart and Stroke Foundation. We ask that all fundraising forms (whether completed or not) be returned to the
school no later than April 23, 2015. Keep an eye out for some fundraising incentives coming soon! We thank
you for your support for this great cause!
Speed Stacks
Speed stacking club is taking place every day during the first recess (10:30 am). Students are invited to come
practice their 3-6-3 or cycle to improve their time, as well as have some fun! The students with the fastest six
times from grades 4 and 5, for 3-6-3 and for cycle, will have the opportunity to move on to compete in the divisional speed stacking event on April 22.
Zone Handball
The students have formed teams for a zone handball tournament. This is a fun introduction to the game of
handball and is great for working together, working on offensive and defensive strategies, for getting active and
for having fun!
Upcoming…
Marathon Club will be starting up in early May (weather dependant). Look for more information coming soon!
4
ÉCOLE BANNATYNE
APRIL 2015
Musical Notes
Congratulations to our Gr. 4/5 Choir on their amazing performances at the Winnipeg Music Festival!
Friday, March 6 - OWN CHOICE CLASS
Oceanus
- beautiful tone and resonance
- dynamics very effective
- Wow! Gorgeous! So musical!
Kuwa Furaha
- so vibrant and energetic while keeping outstanding tone
- choreography adds a lot!
- Bravo!
Awarded GOLD Distinction for our performance.
Thursday, March 12 - FOLK SONG CLASS
Dreamcatcher
- great, open, free tone!
- well-prepared! Great energy!
- focused and talented group
El Pajarito
- amazing style
- Spanish is excellent!
- ending was brilliant.
- loved the freedom in your sound
Awarded GOLD Distinction for our performance.
Congratulations to our Gr. 3 Choir on their amazing performances at the Winnipeg Music Festival!
Monday, March 9 - OWN CHOICE CLASS
The Beautiful Rain
- excellent diction
- polished performance from such young singers!
- love the energy in this piece
Scallyway
- Wow! Brilliant performing.
- choreography is effective
- diction is clear and easy to understand
- rhythm is solid
Awarded GOLD Distinction for our performance.
Thanks to all of our parent volunteers for chaperoning during this busy time of year and making the performances
possible! Thank you to all of the Bannatyne staff for their on-going support during festival season. Thank you to all
our parents who sent their children dressed and ready to go on performance days.
Gabriela Gallo
Music/Choral Specialist
École Bannatyne School / Director of Divisional Junior Concert Choir
ggallo@sjsd.net
5
avril 2015
ÉCOLE BANNATYNE
DIMANCHE
LUNDI
MARDI
MERCREDI
APRIL 2015
JEUDI
VENDREDI
SAMEDI
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
Gr 5 Grade
Pics 9:00 am
26
27
28
Admin/
Inservice Day
29
30
I love to Read Assembly 9:15 am
PC Literacy Night 6:30 pm
avril 2015 - J'aime Lire!
lundi
mardi
mercredi
jeudi
1
POETRY CAF´E BEGINS
WITH MME MCLACHLAN
Stop, Drop and Read
(1:05 - 1:20)
2
Chaque mercredi:
Munsch after lunch
(Lire des livres de Robert
Munsch après dîner)
Chaque lundi: Stop,
Drop and Read
(1:05 - 1:20)
THEME: POETRY
6
vendredi
THEME: POETRY
THEME: POETRY
7
Poetry café - dîner
8 THEME: POETRY
TEACHERS, PARENTS
AND GRANDPARENTS
ARE INVITED TO SHARE
THEIR FAVOURITE
CHILDREN'S STORIES
Stop, Drop and Read
(1:05 - 1:20)
9
Munsch after lunch
THEME: CLASSICS THEME: CLASSICS THEME: CLASSICS
13
14
15
THEME: CLASSICS
16
THEME: AROUND
THE WORLD 27
THEME: AROUND
THE WORLD 28
EXPLORE STORIES
FROM/ABOUT DIFFERENT CULTURES
**SPIRIT WEEK**
**SPIRIT WEEK**
"Did You Know?" Day
Read around the school
Stop, Drop and Read
(1:05 - 1:20)
THEME: AROUND
THE WORLD 29
THEME: CLASSICS
17
Vire-langue vendredi
THEME: MYSTER- THEME: MYSTER- THEME: MYSTERIES THEME: MYSTERIES
IES 20
IES 21
22
23
**Assembly: Earth Day,
Intro to Spirit Week**
Munsch after lunch
THEME: POETRY
10
Vire-langue vendredi
Poetry café - dîner
Munsch after lunch
EXPLORE THE GENRE
OF MYSTERY BOOKS
Stop, Drop and Read
(1:05 - 1:20)
3
Chaque vendredi:
Vire-langue vendredi
(Répéter/créer des
vire-langues)
24
Poetry café - dîner
JOUR DE CONGÉ
THEME: AROUND
THE WORLD 30
THEME: AROUND
THE WORLD 1
**SPIRIT WEEK**
**SPIRIT WEEK**
**SPIRIT WEEK**
Dress up as your favourite
Snuggle up and read
Wear a Joke to School
character
(PJ day)
Day Munsch after lunch
J'aime Lire - assembly
Vire-langue vendredi
**LITERACY NIGHT**
6
ÉCOLE BANNATYNE
APRIL 2015
Family Story Time
Join us for stories, rhymes and activities for the whole family. (Geared primarily for children 3-5 years, but everyone
can join in the fun!)
Drop in. No registration required
Saturdays, 10:30 am
April 18 - June 1, 2015
St. James-Assiniboia Public Library
1910 Portage Avenue
Is it a book? Is it a purse? No, it 's
BOOKCOVER BAGS for Adults!
Recycle vintage book covers into colourful and unique handbags!
Discover the character of old book covers and create practical - yet fashionable - handbags.
Free. All supplies provided.
St. James-Assiniboia Library
1910 Portage Avenue
Saturday, April 18
2 - 4 pm
Call 204-986-3424 to register
Explore Métis culture, history and language, while learning literacy skills that benefit the whole family, with fun activities for both adults and pre-school children.
Thank you to The Winnipeg Foundation’s Literacy for Life Fund and the Louis Riel Institute for their support.
ST. JAMES-ASSINIBOIA LIBRARY
1910 Portage Avenue
Wednesdays, April 8 to May 13
10:15 – 11:30 am
Call 204-986-3424 to register.
Inspirational. Clever. Funny. Exciting. Challenging. Dark.
Join the conversation. Join a book club.
St. James-Assiniboia Book Club
Meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 6:45 p.m.
Winnipeg Public Library * Bibliothèque
April 21 The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
May 19 A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra
June 16 Keeping Hope Alive: One Woman, 90,000 Lives Changed by Hawa Abdi
Register at the Information Desk or call us at 204-986-3424
7
Bringing families and the community
together to help our children
reach their full potential
Spring
FAMILY F cus
2015
Rhythm, Rhyme and Family Time
Join us for an evening of musical fun and
movement. Create your own instruments
then join the band as we move
and groove with Ms. Sonja!
ge
o
T
G
t
5:45 - 6:00 p.m. (Sign-In)
6:00 - 7:00 p.m. (Program)
Location: Messiah Lutheran Church
400 Rouge Road
Pre-registration required, please leave
name, phone number and ages of children.
Online: Email: Phone: Thursday
April 16th
in the Comm
her
Time:
un
ity
enerations at Play
Build a Birdhouse
Wednesday May 20th
9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Deer Lodge Parent Child Drop In
323 Bruce Avenue
www. sjapcc.ca
familyresource@sjsd.net
204-998-8400
The St. James-Assiniboia Parent Child
Coalition and the St. James Assiniboia 55+ Centre are joining together to promote
and encourage activities
amongst the generations.
This is an exciting new initiative bringing
together people of diverse
age groups to play, share and learn
from each other.
A variety of activities have been
planned for all to enjoy.
Please join us for our inaugural event
as the St. James Assiniboia 55+ Centre share
their expertise and skills in woodworking.
Families will be provided with materials to build
and creatively decorate their own birdhouse.
We encourage young children
to actively participate under adult supervision.
www.sjapcc.ca
INFANTS & TODDLERS
10
Things your baby wants you to know:
(Attachment Network of Manitoba)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Delight in me – Sharing joy helps my brain to grow.
I need to be held – Holding me gives me pleasure, comfort and security.
Gaze into my eyes – Lots of eye contact will help me feel reassured and connected to you.
Follow my need – Knowing I can rely on you helps me to feel secure as I grow up.
You can’t spoil me, I’m a baby! – When I’m really little, I only ask for what I need.
Stay with me when I’m unsettled – This will teach me I am not alone.
Talk out loud to me about feelings – When I hear you talk about feelings (yours and mine),
I will start to understand feelings.
8. Perfection is impossible, aim for “good enough’ in parenting – Parenting takes practice.
9. Be bigger, stronger, wiser and kind – The heart of secure attachment is when I know
I have a parent who can be counted on to lovingly provide tenderness, comfort,
guidance and protection everyday.
10. Take good care of yourself – Getting rest, eating well and finding support will help
our family be the best we can be.
For more information on attachment visit: www.attachmentnetwork.ca
Visit our Parent Child Drop In Centres!
Families of children birth – 6 years of age are invited to play with us. We offer creative
activities, nutritious snacks and circle time with songs, rhymes and story. Drop in and visit and get to know
other families in the community. All programs are free and no registration is required.
Monday Mornings
9:30 – 11:00 a.m. Sansome School
Tuesday Evenings
6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Lakewood School
Thursday Mornings
9:30 – 11:00 a.m. Crestview School
Great Expectations
An opportunity for moms-to-be and parents of children under
one year of age to learn more about various health and
nutrition areas for the baby, themselves and the whole
family. Children under age one remain with their parent
during the session. A qualified childcare provider will care
for older children.
Please call one week prior to session if child care is required.
(Prenatal to 12 months)
Friday Mornings
9:30 – 11:00 a.m. Buchanan School
BREASTFEEDING
SUPPORT GROUP
A group for anyone breastfeeding
and needs support or help. Or just an
opportunity to connect with other
moms like yourself!
Thursdays 1:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.
Heritage Victoria Community Club
950 Sturgeon Road
Tuesdays 9:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Sturgeon Heights Community Centre
210 Rita Street
Thursdays
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
*New day, time
and location*
For more information call Traci 204-885-5415
Issue 18
Wednesday Mornings
9:30 – 11:00 a.m. Deer Lodge Community Club
2
Sturgeon Heights
Community Centre
210 Rita Street
Call 204-940-2040
Spring 2015
THE PRESCHOOLER
Do you have a child entering Kindergarten this fall? If so, Literacy Links is for you!
The program runs from May 19th- August 21st
Call today as spaces fill up quickly!
Literacy Links is a FREE summer literacy program in the St. James
Assiniboia School Division that supports parents in understanding
how to develop a positive literacy environment
in the home setting and make the important
links between home and school.
A literacy facilitator will:
• contact families and arrange to meet them for
four visits at mutually acceptable times.
• demonstrate and provide developmentally appropriate and enriching
activities that focus on daily reading and writing,
environmental print, math activities and rhyming games.
• provide a home package of materials that includes
literacy information, books, activities and games.
Rock & Read
To register, please email literacylinks@sjsd.net or
call 204-885-1334 ext. 2304.
Nursery School
Nursery School offers children (3 & 4 yrs old) an opportunity
to learn and practice many important skills. Nursery
School children are exposed to a number of activities
that help them develop socially, cognitively, physically
and emotionally. If your child will be three by the end of
December, perhaps you would be interested in enrolling
them in one of the following Nursery School programs
available in the St. James area.
Note - Nursery Schools usually begin accepting
registrations in March for September 2015 enrollment.
Discovery Children’s Centre
889-2689
*(Enhanced Nursery School)
Westwin Children’s Centre
833-2500 (2491)
*(Enhanced Nursery School)
Lakewood Children’s Centre
832-5802
*(Enhanced Nursery School)
Heritage Park Children’s Programs Inc.
831-5950
Kirkfield-Westwood Nursery School
889-2392
Sigfusson Nursery School (Athlone School)
885-6476
Sigfusson Nursery School (Bannatyne School) 889-0435
Sigfusson Nursery School (Voyageur School) 832-5786
St. James-Assiniboia Montessori School Inc. 888-5700
For information on licensed family child care homes,
centres and nursery schools go to:
www.manitoba.ca/childcare
Issue 18
3
Rock & Read is a five-week family literacy
program where parents and children will enjoy
a variety of songs/rhymes, fingerplays and
books together. Children will explore
themes in books through art activities
and activity centers, as well as make
some new friends! Parents will create a special
homemade book that their child will cherish as they
begin their first school year. Please register for one
session only, beginning May 4th, 2015.
To register, email literacylinks@sjsd.net or call
204-885-1334 ext. 2304.
Spring Session:
Summer Session:
Monday Mornings
Tuesday Evenings
Wednesday Afternoons
Wednesday Mornings
Thursday Mornings
Thursday Mornings
10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
May 25 & June 1, 8, 15, 22
Heritage Victoria
Community Centre
950 Sturgeon Road
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
May 27 & June 3,10,17, 24
Messiah Lutheran Church
400 Rouge Road
10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
May 28 & June 4, 11, 18, 25
Deer Lodge
Community Club
323 Bruce Ave. East
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
July 7, 14, 21, 28 & August 4
Bord-Aire
Community Centre
471 Hampton Street
10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
July 8, 15, 22, 29 & August 5
Heritage Park
Children’s Programs
1 Braintree Crescent
10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
July 9, 16, 23, 30 & August 6
Westwood
Community Church
401 Westwood Drive
Spring 2015
PARENTING
Parenting Today Workshops
Back by Popular
Demand this summer
(Sponsored by the St. James-Assiniboia Parent-Child Coalition)
Workshops held from
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Jameswood School
Tuesdays at the Park and Throwback Thursdays.
Pick up the Summer 2015 issue for
program details and locations.
(1 Braintree Crescent, off Olive & Ness)
Educational Support Services
To register please contact Arlie Williams-Taylor at 204-885-9555 or email ptregistrations@sjsd.net
TUESDAYS
at
the
Free pizza supper will be offered from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m. with the
session taking place from 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 14th, 2015
Assistive Tools for Students with Autism that Foster
Engagement
Presented by: Linda Stuart, Educational Assistant
Mia Safiniuk, Student Services Educator, Parent
Kim Campbell, Manager of Community Initiatives
This session will provide useful tools and strategies to engage
children/youth on the autism spectrum.
THROWBACK
Thursdays
FAMILY GYM DROP-IN
Families of preschool children (birth – 6yrs of age)
are invited to stay active and enjoy quality fun
time together. This free program offers families the
opportunity to play and discover fun in the gym.
No registration required so drop in and join us!
Tuesday, May 12th, 2015
Anxiety ~ Coaching For Confidence
Presented by: Dr. Maria Phelps, Educational Support Services,
St. James-Assiniboia School Division
Tuesdays 9:30 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.
Shyness and anxiety are normal human emotions. Some
children, however, are much more shy or fearful than the
average child. For these children, anxiety may interfere with
their enjoyment of school, activities with other children, new
experiences (swimming lessons, birthday parties, etc.) and
their development of independence and confidence. In this
session, parents will learn about anxiety in children aged four
to seven and gain useful tools to help their children overcome
this problem.
Westwood Community Church
(401 Westwood Drive)
Sponsored by: St. James-Assiniboia Parent Child Coalition
and Westwood Community Church
Mental Health Mobile Crisis Services
Postpartum Warmline
This team of mental health professionals will
come out and assist people in the Winnipeg
region who are in mental health crisis.
Postpartum Mood Disorders are not character
flaws or signs of weakness; they are the most
common complications of childbirth. Early
recognition and prompt treatment can help you
manage your symptoms — and enjoy your baby.
Call 204-940-2782
24 Hours a Day/ 7 Days a Week
Online ChildCare Registry
Postpartum Depression can affect any new mother.
You are not alone.
The Online Child Care Registry is now available
province-wide. The Online Child Care Registry
makes it easier for families to find and apply for
licensed child care in Manitoba.
For a warm voice to talk to, call:
Postpartum Warmline:
204-391-5983
Peer Support Line:
204-786-0987
(Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba)
Issue 18
PARK
For more information, visit: onlinechildcareregistry.gov.mb.ca
4
Spring 2015
HEALTHY LIVING
For the Love of Food and Your Child
Lately you may have heard about the poor nutrition content in many of the store-bought toddler foods.
According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, more than seven out of ten packaged meals for
young children have too much sodium (salt) and more than a third of the cereal bars and breakfast pastries
have too much sugar. Data was collected on many popular name brand foods including macaroni and
cheese, rice cakes, crackers, dried fruit snacks and yogurt treats.
Check
The high sugar and salt content is a concern because they can cause health issues such as
extra weight and high blood pressure which are related to heart disease and diabetes.
But another major concern is these foods can affect children’s taste preferences later in
life. A salty sweet diet early in life can program the taste buds to seek out these types of
foods later on.
the Label On
Toddler Foods!
Reading labels is the first line of defense for parents. It is important caregivers of preschoolers
and toddlers limit salty snacks and pre-made dinners, sweet treats and sugary drinks. Parents can
help their children make good choices and create a respect for food and what goes into their body.
As kids grow older you can also involve them in choosing and preparing delicious and nutritious meals and
snacks. Cooking is a lifelong skill they will be able to use forever. Get in the kitchen and have fun trying and
learning together! Here’s a simple recipe you can try making together.
FOODS IN THE CHILDREN’S AISLE ARE NOT ALWAYS THE BEST CHOICE
Hurry-Up-Fill-Me-Up Burritos
Recipe makes 10 burritos. Leftovers can be wrapped in
plastic or foil and frozen for later use.
Ingredients
1 cup 1 can
1 cup
¾ cup 10
1 ¼ cup
Brown rice, cooked
Low sodium canned black beans,
rinsed and drained
Frozen corn niblets
Salsa
10” whole wheat tortillas
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Directions
1. Drain and rinse beans
2. In a bowl, mix rice, beans, corn, salsa and cheese
3. Place some of the mixture on the middle of each tortilla
and roll up, tucking in the ends
4. Bake for ½ hour at 350, until heated through.
5. Can be served with shredded lettuce, chopped
tomatoes, plain yogurt and chopped avocado.
Written by Cheryl Ogaranko, RD
Access Winnipeg West
St. James Assiniboia and Assiniboine South
Family Chefs is a 5-week cooking program for families with children three to
six years of age. Together, adults and children will prepare tasty and nutritious
recipes, participate in fun interactive activities, crafts, songs and stories.
These experiences will help set the stage for the development of life-long
healthy eating habits and behaviours.
Registration begins Monday March 23rd Phone: 204-998-8400
Mondays
Issue 18
April 13th – May 11th
9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
5
Bourkevale Community Centre
100 Ferry Road
Spring 2015
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
WINNIPEG PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Registration is required for all programs (unless otherwise indicated) and begins on Friday, March 13th
ST. JAMES-ASSINIBOIA LIBRARY 1910 Portage Ave 204-986-3425
WESTWOOD LIBRARY - 66 Allard Ave - 204-986-4747
Baby Rhyme Time
The following programs take place from April 14th - May 28th
Spring Break Special Events
Preschool Story Time
Reading with Raptors
Books, action rhymes, finger plays and felt stories for children ages
3-5 years who are ready to be on their own in a group.
Fridays at 10:30 a.m. Apr 17th - May 29th
For ages 6 and up. Saturday March 28th 2:00 - 2:45 p.m.
Karin Adams:: Writing Workshop
Family Story Time
For ages 9 - 12 years. Come plot & plan with a story board.
Tuesday March 31st 2:00 - 4:00 p.m
Stories, rhymes and activities are geared toward children ages 3 - 5.
Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. Apr 18th - May 16th
Leigh-Anne Kehler:: Interactive Storytelling Performance
(Drop-in program, no registration required)
Little Mé—–etis Sing with Me
Ages 5 and up. Thursday April 2nd 2:00-2:45 p.m.
Squishy Circuits:
Explore Métis culture, history and language with fun activities for
both adults and pre-school children.
Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. Apr 8th - May 13th
Can play dough conduct electricity?
Ages 9-12. Saturday April 18th 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Qu’est-ce qu’un CPEF?
MILITARY FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE
Un CPEF est un centre où les parents peuvent passer du temps avec leur(s)
enfant(s). On peut y trouver plein de ressources et programmes qui répondent aux besoins des
enfants francophones âgés de 0 à 6 ans dans toutes les dimensions de leur développement.
Contactez nous pour plus de renseignements au Joanne 204-885-8000 ext. 133, Email:
Romeodallaire@cpefmb.org ou visitez notre site web: www.cpefmb.org
CPEF Roméo-Dallaire | www.cpefmb.org
81 Ch.Quail Ridge | Wpg, MB | R3T 5W4 | 831-1060
What’s a CPEF? The cpef is a french resource center where parents can spend quality time with
their children. The center offers services and programs that promote healthy early childhood
development, especially in literacy, nutrition, parenting and community capacity building.
For more information on our programs contact Joanne 204-885-8000 ext. 133, Email:
Romeodallaire@cpefmb.org or visit our website: www.cpefmb.org
Register: 204-833-2500 ext. 2491 (min. 24 hrs in adv.)
630 Wihuri Road
The Military Family Resource Centre offers child care on a casual basis for children
6 mths – 5 yrs of age. If you need some time for yourself to work out/run errands/
appointments/take a break – perhaps we can help. This program meets quality
standards as licensed by Manitoba Early Learning and Child Care.
Tuesday & Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (hourly) 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
102 Comet St. / 642 Wihuri Road
For information: 204-833-2500 ext. 2491
www.familyforce.ca
www.facebook.com/WinnipegMFRC
A PARENT COMMUNITY
Fridays 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. MRFC 102 Comet St.
March 13, 20, 27
Drop in program for informal parenting discussions.
Free child care available for children +18 months.
Younger children remain with their parent.
CREATIVE TOTS
Thursdays, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. 630 Wihuri Road
March 12, 19, 26
A drop in play group for parents & children,
infant - 5 yrs.
Free Programming
Programs open to the community include Nursery
School, play groups, parenting groups and
casual child care.
CITY OF WINNIPEG
FREE PUBLIC
Swimming
Fees: $5.00/Hour or
Children under 12 years: $12/3 hrs or $28/7 hrs (siblings ½ price)
Children over 12 years: $10/3 hrs or $24/7 hrs (siblings ½ price)
1 Braintree Cres.
Open Monday to Friday offering parent/child programs (prenatal - 5 yrs)
Registration Required Contact Jackie at 204-895-2519 Email: frcjackie@mts.net
Issue 18
Family Story Time
Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.
Ages newborn to 24-36 months & caregiver. Explore the world of
picture books, rhymes, finger plays and felt stories.
Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. Apr 16th - May 28th
HERITAGE PARK FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE
Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.
Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
Time for Twos
WESTWIN KIDS CARE
Preschool Story Time
Time for Twos
Ages newborn to 24 months & caregiver. Discover the joy of songs,
finger plays, simple books and bouncing rhymes.
Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. Apr 13th - May 26th
6
ST. JAMES-ASSINIBOIA ST. JAMES-ASSINIBOIA
CENTENNIAL POOL
CIVIC CENTRE
644 PARKDALE ST
2055 NESS AVE
FREE FAMILY SWIM:
FREE FAMILY SWIM:
Wednesdays
2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Fridays
7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Spring 2015
March 2015
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday March
Wednesday
2015 Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Friday
Saturday
2 Sansome
1
3
Family Gym
9:30 – 11:00
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
9:30 -11:00
Family Gym
6:00 – 7:30 PM
9
8
Sansome
9:30 -11:00
Family Gym
6:00 – 7:30 PM
16
15
Sansome
9:30 -11:00
Family Gym
6:00 – 7:30 PM
23
22
Sansome
9:30 -11:00
Family Gym
6:00 – 7:30 PM
4
Deer Lodge
9:30 – 11:00
Music Ms Sonja
10 Family Gym 11
9:30 – 11:00
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
17 Family Gym 18
9:30 – 11:00
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
24 Family Gym 25
9:30 – 11:00
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
Music Ms Sonja
Deer Lodge
9:30 – 11:00
Deer Lodge
9:30 – 11:00
Deer Lodge
9:30 – 11:00
Thursday
5
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
12
19
26
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
6
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
13
20
27
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
7
14
21
28
31
30
29
Wednesday
Spring Break
April 2015
Sunday
Monday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Tuesday
Wednesday
April
2015
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
Spring Break
6
5
Sansome
9:30 -11:00
Easter Sunday
13
Sansome
9:30 -11:00
Family Chefs
9:30 – 11:30
20
Sansome
9:30 -11:00
Family Chefs
9:30 – 11:30
26
Family Gym
9:30 – 11:00
8
Deer Lodge
9:30 – 11:00
Music Ms Sonja
9
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
Good Friday
10
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
11
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
12
19
7
4
27
Sansome
9:30 -11:00
Family Chefs
9:30 – 11:30
14 Family Gym 15 Deer Lodge 16
9:30 – 11:00
9:30 – 11:00
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
21 Family Gym 22
9:30 – 11:00
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
FAMILY NIGHT
6:00-7:00 PM
17
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
18
Messiah Lutheran
Church 400 Rouge Rd
Deer Lodge
9:30 – 11:00
23
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
24
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
25
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
28 Family Gym 29 Deer Lodge 30
9:30 – 11:00
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
Music Ms Sonja
9:30 – 11:00
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
Registration Required
for Family Chefs (Apr 13 - May 11) and Family Night Apr 16
* Registration required for Family Chef (April 13 – May 11) and Family Night (April 16)
Issue 18
7
Spring 2015
May 2015
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
May
2015
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
3
4
10
11
Mother’s Day
17
24
Sansome
9:30 -11:00
Family Chefs
9:30 – 11:30
Sansome
9:30 -11:00
Family Chefs
9:30 – 11:30
5
6
Family Gym
9:30 – 11:00
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
Deer Lodge
9:30 – 11:00
7
12 Family Gym 13 Deer Lodge 14
9:30 – 11:00
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
9:30 – 11:00
Music Ms Sonja
18
Centre
Closed
19 Family Gym 20 Deer Lodge 21
25
26 Family Gym 27 Deer Lodge 28
Sansome
9:30 -11:00
9:30 – 11:00
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
9:30 – 11:00
*Build A
Birdhouse Event*
9:30 – 11:00
Lakewood
6:00 – 7:30
Music Ms Sonja
9:30 – 11:00
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
Crestview
9:30 -11:00
8
15
22
29
2
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
Buchanan
9:30 – 11:00
9
16
23
30
31
FAMILY F cus
EDITORIAL BOARD
PUBLISHERS
Bringing families and the community together...
Sandra Doell
Family Resource Coordinator
204-998-8400
Visit St.James-Assiniboia Parent Child Coalition online at
www.sjapcc.ca
Lynda McCausland
Copy Consultant
Connect with us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Printed by Corporate Source
Ken Blackmore
204-925-1834
PROUD SPONSOR OF THE ST. JAMES ASSINIBOIA 55+ CENTRE
Ken Blackmore Direct Line: 204.925.1834
ken@corporatesourceinc.com
www.corporatesourceinc.com
Family Focus Summer Issue will be available June 2015
Issue 18
8
Spring 2015
April 2015
Vol. 26, No. 8
St. James-Assiniboia School Division
make the difference!
Attendance is
still important
at year’s end
Turn writing into a game for
your child with ‘quick writes’
W
riting can be hard work. But a
quick write is a fun and easy
way to encourage your child to get
his ideas down on paper.
Quick writes are just what they
sound like—writing that people do
in short periods of time. Usually, a
quick write is based on a question
or an idea. You ask a challenging
question and set the timer for five
minutes. Then both you and your
child write down everything you can
before the timer beeps.
Once the quick write is finished,
compare what each of you has
written. The next time, let your
child choose the quick-write topic.
Here are some quick-write ideas:
• Would it be a good or a bad idea
if dogs could talk? Why?
• The best birthday I can imagine
would be ... .
333333333
Copyright © 2015, The Parent Institute®
• If I were invisible, I would ... .
• It was a stormy day, so I decided
I would ... .
• Zebras have stripes because ... .
• Ten years from now, I will be ... .
• I invented the most amazing
machine. It does ... .
• When I woke up this morning,
I was a different person. I was ... .
Even kids who usually stare into
space when it’s time for a writing
assignment may like a quick write.
They are often surprised to discover
just how much they know or have
to say about a particular subject.
Your child will gain confidence when
he sees how much he can write in
just a few minutes.
Source: L. Reif, 100 Quickwrites: Fast and Effective
Freewriting Exercises that Build Students’ Confidence,
Develop Their Fluency, and Bring Out the Writer in Every
Student, Scholastic Books.
www.parent-institute.com
You know that
being in school is
important. But this
would be such a
great time to take
a family trip. And, after all,
your child is only in first grade.
Surely a few days’ absence
won’t matter, will it?
It will. In fact, research
shows that young children
don’t have to miss much
school before their learning
suffers. In the early grades,
kids are mastering reading and
basic math skills. And research
has shown that these are the
skills most affected when
children miss school. Being in
school consistently is the only
way kids can develop a strong
foundation on which to build
the rest of their learning.
Your child will not be the
only one who pays a price.
The entire class will be affected.
When the teacher has to stop to
meet the needs of a child who
was out of school, everyone
else’s learning comes to a halt.
Source: H. Chang and M. Romero, Present,
Engaged, and Accounted For: The Critical Importance
of Addressing Chronic Absence in the Early Grades,
National Center for Children in Poverty.
Practical ideas for parents to help their children
®
Copyright © 2015, The Parent Institute®
www.parent-institute.com
It’s not too late to become more Do you find ways
connected to your child’s school! to encourage your
When parents and
schools work together,
the results can be
incredible, including
better grades, attitudes
and behavior.
In today’s busy world, however,
the idea of parent involvement
can be overwhelming. “What do I
have to do?” you may wonder. “I’m
already short on time!” Don’t worry.
Involvement doesn’t need to be
complicated or time consuming.
Even though the end of the school
year is right around the corner, it
isn’t too late to get involved. Starting
right now, you can:
• Attend school events. While at
school, make an effort to connect
with staff and other families.
• Read materials. Pay attention
to school information sent home
and posted online. Keep track of
important dates, such as end-ofyear tests and celebrations.
• Volunteer. Ask your child’s
teacher if there is anything you
can do to help out. Perhaps you
could prepare items for a craft,
organize a class party, read to
students or help in another way.
• Join the parent-teacher group.
If you can’t make it to meetings,
take time to read the minutes
from each meeting.
• Ask the teacher questions. “How
can I help my child succeed?”
“Should I correct homework
mistakes with him?” “What are the
most important school tasks for us
to accomplish each day at home?”
“At the end of the day,
the most overwhelming
key to a child’s success is
the positive involvement
of parents.”
—Jane D. Hull
Show your child the importance
of following directions on tests
Sometimes, a child may
know the answer to a test
question—but still get it
wrong. She underlined
the answer, when the
directions said to circle it. Or she chose
the true answer when the directions
asked for the one that was not true.
Helping your child learn to follow
directions exactly is an important
way to prepare her for test success.
Try these things at home:
• Help your child think about one
thing she knows how to do well—
making a peanut butter sandwich,
finding her way to school. Have
her write step-by-step directions
on how to do it. Now follow her
instructions exactly. Was anything
missing?
• Follow a recipe together. Talk
about what would happen if you
left out one of the ingredients or
didn’t do things in order.
• Create a treasure hunt. Hide a
small prize somewhere your child
won’t see it. Now write notes
your child must follow. Each note
tells her to look somewhere else.
Only if she follows the directions
exactly will she get the prize.
Source: G. Durham, Teaching Test-Taking Skills: Proven
Techniques to Boost Your Students’ Scores, Rowman &
Littlefield Education.
2 • Elementary • Parents make the difference! • April 2015
child to read?
Sometimes, kids who
can read just don’t.
Luckily, there are some
things parents can do
to encourage those
nonreaders to pick up a book.
Are you doing all you can to
encourage your child to enjoy
reading? Answer yes or no to each
question below to find out:
___1. Do you read aloud to your
child, even if she can read by herself?
___2. Do you encourage your child
to try books in a series? If she likes
one, she might enjoy the others.
___3. Do you encourage your child
to turn off the TV? Do you keep the
TV out of her bedroom?
___4. Do you let your child read
comic books? Do you sometimes
read comic books to her?
___5. Do you look for books or
magazines about the things that
interest your child?
How well are you doing?
Each yes means you are finding
ways to help your child become a
kid who will love reading. For no
answers, try those ideas.
®
make the difference!
Practical Ideas for Parents to Help Their
Children. ISSN: 1046-0446
1523-1275
For subscription information call or write:
The Parent Institute®, 1-800-756-5525,
P.O. Box 7474, Fairfax Station, VA 22039-7474.
Fax: 1-800-216-3667.
Or visit our website: www.parent-institute.com.
Published monthly September through May by
The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc., an
independent, private agency. Equal opportunity
employer. Copyright © 2015 NIS, Inc.
Publisher: Phillip Wherry.
Editor: Rebecca Hasty Miyares.
Illustrator: Joe Mignella.
463607
www.parent-institute.com
Copyright © 2015, The Parent Institute®
Building your child’s social skills
can give learning a big boost
Students learn much
more at school than
reading, writing, math
and other academic
subjects. In every class,
they practice an important skill—
getting along with others.
Research shows that problems
with social skills can interfere with
learning. Without social skills, it’s
hard to succeed in school or in life. Activities that reinforce social
skills at home include:
• Role modeling. Children notice
how parents interact with others.
Do you introduce yourself to new
people? Get together with friends?
Support people you care about?
Let your child see you being a
good friend.
• Reading stories. There are
countless books about friendship.
Ask the librarian to help you find
some that match your child’s age
and interests, such as Lost and
Found, by Oliver Jeffers. After
reading, talk about the story.
• Role-playing. Kids need help
practicing manners. Before going
to the park, for example, you and
your child might pretend you’re
meeting new people. “Hi, I’m
Jacob. Nice to meet you!” Also
focus on sharing and kindness.
• Socializing. Give your child
opportunities to spend time with
kids. Invite friends to play. Go to
story time at the library. Visit busy
playgrounds. Sign your child up
for kids’ programs at community
centers, museums and elsewhere.
• Relaxing. Children don’t need lots
of friends. Just one good buddy is
fine, as long as your child cooperates well with others. If you have
any concerns, talk with his teacher
and work together on solutions.
Source: K. Steedly, Ph.D. and others, “Social Skills and
Academic Achievement,” Evidence of Education, National
Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities.
Three simple activities help
kids develop thinking skills
In today’s world, kids
need to know how to
be problem solvers.
They must learn how
to analyze and see things
from another point of view. Here
are ways to reinforce your child’s
thinking skills:
1. Sort things. Find something
for your child to sort—buttons,
pencils, coins or anything else
in your house. Help her sort the
items by size. Then mix everything up and have her sort them
by color. This teaches your child
that even though something is
part of one group, it can be part of
another group, too.
2. Think about opposites.
Suppose you have been
talking about fairness. Ask
your child, “What does fairness
look like? What things show
fairness in action?” Then ask
her about the opposite.“What
does unfairness look like?”
3. Talk about points of view. What does your child think
your house looks like from a
cat’s point of view? What does
your child think the school bus
driver thinks about the students
who ride her bus? This activity
will also help your child develop
empathy by seeing things from
others’ points of view.
Q: My son wants a cell phone.
Most of his friends have them.
And to be honest, there are times
when I’d really like to be able to
reach him. How can I tell if he
is old enough to have a phone?
What advice do you have for parents before they get a phone
for their child?
Questions & Answers
A: You are the only one who can
decide whether your son is old
enough to handle a phone. If he
is generally responsible about his
belongings, he is likely to be able
to keep track of a phone. And if
he usually follows your rules on
other issues, he’ll probably be
agreeable to limits you set on his
cell phone.
And that’s exactly what you
need to do. Before you give your
son a phone, set up a clear code
of what will—and will not—be
acceptable. Below are just a few
of the things your child should
be aware of:
• He will need to stay within
the limit of talking and
texting that you allow. It is a
good idea to get an unlimited
texting plan so there are no
surprises when the phone
bill comes. However, you can
still set limits on your child’s
usage.
• You will have the right to look
at any text messages he sends
and receives.
• If he uses the phone in an
inappropriate way, you will
take it away.
• He must follow the school’s
rules about cell phone use.
If your son is agreeable to
all of your limits, write up a
parent-child contract outlining
the details. Make sure both of
you sign it.
April 2015 • Elementary • Parents make the difference! • 3
Copyright © 2015, The Parent Institute®
www.parent-institute.com
It Matters: Respect
Be a respectful
role model for
your athlete!
It’s natural to want to
cheer for a young athlete.
But when parents get
too involved, kids say
they would rather their
parents just stay away.
Here are four things your young
athlete wants you to know:
1. He loves having you on the
sidelines—except when you go
too far. Your child wants you to
be supportive of his entire team,
not just him. He doesn’t want
you to yell at the referee. And he
doesn’t want you to yell at the
parents of the kids on the other
team!
2. He wants you to recognize that
the coach is in charge. Most
youth coaches are volunteers.
Most of them are trying to give
children a chance to play a
game. Even if you think you
could do a better job (and then
why aren’t you the coach?), your
child would like you to respect
the coach’s authority.
3. He wants you to be happy when
his team wins. But he doesn’t
want winning to become so
important that he doesn’t enjoy
just playing the game. It’s fine
to talk about the game when it’s
over. But don’t go on and on
about it for days.
4. He wants you to be realistic. If no
one in your family is taller than
5'6", you are probably not raising
a basketball star. Help your child
learn to enjoy sports and find the
one that’s right for him.
Source: J. and J. Sundberg, How to Win at Sports
Parenting, Waterbrook Press.
Talk to your child about how
to show respect with clothing
C
hances are you and your child
argue occasionally about what
she wears to school. That’s no
surprise, considering that many
popular children’s clothes violate
school dress codes (not to mention
parents’ values).
Parents aren’t alone in this battle.
When EducationWorld.com asked
educators about the importance of
student dress codes, the response
was clear—79% said dress codes
“help improve behavior and
academic performance.”
To make mornings easier on
you, your child and the school:
• Review the school dress code.
Which clothes and shoes are
not allowed? Some commonly
prohibited items include flip
flops, halter tops, low-hanging
pants and spaghetti straps.
• Talk with your child. Discuss
why there is a dress code. Which
clothes or shoes might be distracting? Offensive? Unsafe?
Inappropriate? This is a good
time to discuss respect for self.
• Post the rules. If you and your
child argue repeatedly about
dress, consider posting the rules.
Children are less likely to argue
with a list (especially a school
list) than with a parent.
Teach your elementary schooler
how to see beauty in diversity
Your child knows that
no two people—or
families—are exactly
alike. But does he
accept and appreciate
this? To be a successful student
and grown-up, he’ll need to respect
people’s differences.
You can nurture your child’s
respect for diversity if you:
• Are a positive role model.
Kids are naturally open minded.
When parents show respect for
others—through actions and
words—children imitate them.
Let your child know that while
4 • Elementary • Parents make the difference! • April 2015
people can be different from one
another, they also have a lot in
common.
• Learn about other cultures
by leaving your “comfort zone.”
Visit a new place, try a new food
and read books about other ways
of life.
• Speak openly about diversity
issues. It’s normal for your child
to notice differences. They’re
fascinating and amazing!
Correct any stereotyping with
kid-friendly explanations.
Source: C. Metzler, Ph.D., “Teaching Children About
Diversity,” PBS, niswc.com/diversity.