Tag Archives: learning

Mommy 101, News, Parenting 101, Video

Distance Learning during Coronavirus

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I don’t know about everyone else, but this distance learning is not easy! It was one thing to help my kids with their nightly homework assignments and try to figure out how to do “common core,” but managing their assignments, tempering emotions (theirs and mine), plus keeping them focused and on track for school, is tough to say the least!

A lot of us have questions about online learning, especially as we all learn as we go. I know one of my concerns has been making sure they stay on target as far as meeting education standards for their grade level and also keeping them sharp and prepared, as they will transition to the next grade level (hopefully this fall), without ever having gone back to the teacher they abruptly left.

At any rate, it is challenging and we could all use some support, reassurance and insight on how to not only get through this period, but also what it may look like when we come out o the other side, as well as why it’s important to embrace the digital tools available to us and spin our perspectives to the positive.

I spoke with the CEO and Co-Founder of Study.com, Adrian Ridner and he offered some tips, advice and guidance on distance learning and what we can do to help our kids as they do school from home. A few of his key points included managing expectations for ourselves and the kids, viewing this “screen time,” as a benefit where we can connect and access the resources we need and he doesn’t believe online learning will replace our traditional learning institutions.

Mommy 101, Parenting 101, Product & Gear

Educational Activity Kits for Kids

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My new “normal” of juggling work from home, schooling from home and just being home ALL THE TIME, is making me anxious. On the one hand, I was thrown back to my days of being the stay at home Mom when the kids were still rolling around in a stroller…which is sort of like self-quarantine, because one thing I always craved was adult interaction.

Fast-forward, now the kids are school age and while they are self-sufficient in some ways, distance learning and keeping them (educationally) engaged are the new challenges. I try to give my kids balance, some screen time as long as they complete school assignments, and then encouraging them to play outside or inviting them to join me for my walks and workouts.

However, a common theme and complaint is the “I’m bored.” I wish it was as easy as saying, well let’s go here, or why don’t we invite so and so over for a playdate. *sigh* All this to say, I created a roundup of Children’s Activity and Craft Kits/Boxes/Sets…ideas really that are all “Aubrey Approved!”

I do this segment (for work) of items that I hand-pick and create product roundups with a theme. I felt this one was very necessary, since I’m sure many parents are also looking for different activities and projects to keep their kids busy, while also having some fun.

The thing I like about these items is they offer multiple activities and really help the kids be creative and encourage them to think independently to complete the tasks and assignments.

Among my picks are artistic pieces the kids can bring to life, STEAM and STEM, coding, cooking, jewelry making and current events centered projects. From monthly subscription boxes to one-off projects, I put something in the mix for everyone!

Watch the video for all the details and here’s the complete rundown of items for more info!

Mommy 101

Brought to you by the Letter “P”

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My older toddler has an obsession with the letter “P.” I’m not sure why the 16th letter of the alphabet has become his favorite. His first name doesn’t start with it, nor do his middle or last names…but he has a clear affection for the letter “P.”

letter p

When we’re driving around town – and we live near a downtown area, so you know, the “P” sign are everywhere because “P” is for parking. He is also quick to point out the P’s and the number of them in any given sign when we are out and about. But perhaps the most amusing instance of his use for a P is when we’re at home watching Wheel of Fortune and he keeps shouting the letter at the television, so that the contestants can hear him! It’s even better when a P is actually called, because he gets uber excited and says, “Look Mommy…P!!!!!!!!!!!!!” I mean seriously, the letter P gets this kid giddy with his legs swinging anxiously off his car seat when we’re driving and he sees the P’s, and you can hear his voice filled with excitement.

wheelp

I guess it doesn’t really matter why he likes “P,” if anything it’s a testament to him being able to read letters and now associate them with real life and words, as well as when we watch game shows and he realizes it’s a letter you can call out. Following up the “P” are “R” and “A”… For whatever reason, when he is excited, he’ll say “P-R-A.”

Now if he could only apply and use his favorite letter “P” for the things that really matter…you know,  PLEASE and POTTY. 🙂

Product & Gear

Discovery Toys

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I’ve been working hard on gift guides for television segments at work and I came across Discovery Toys which I love! First off, the company is based in Nor Cal aka the Bay (my hometown)…but what I truly appreciate about these “toys” is that they all have educational value. I mean when kids play they are learning, but it’s makes these toys extra attractive because while they play they are tapping into many senses…creating…and being educated!! Childhood development professionals recommend these toys…just saying.

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For babies…there’s a new Earth Play collection of hug-and-hold take along animal buddies for babies, all produced with certified organic cotton. Among the neutral colored items in the collection are a lovie, squeakie, musical pal, rattle and puppet..not too much pink or blue, just perfect for any baby!

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Then they have classic toys like the award winning Measure Up! Collection. Watch learning in action with this kitchen-themed set…sine they love all real kitchen utensils and stuff anyway… Spoons, cups and pots are all accurate sizes, perfect  for interaction. Introduce a host of fundamental concepts related to counting, sorting, volume, size, patterns, measurement, clock time & more.

marbleworks

And for your bigger kids, the Marbleworks raceway sets are fun, who doesn’t love marbles. They have several sets that all work together, so you can add to the set as desired. Connect colorful tubes, chutes and bases together in different ways to create an infinite number of raceway configurations. As the marbles speed through the course, children learn about the laws of gravity, object permanence and cause and effect. Marbleworks products inspire girls AND boys to pursue higher education in the fields of engineering, math and technology. Yes inspire them to love and pursue a future in the STEM fields!

fashion

The Fashion Friends are perfect for the diva designer in your little one. Fashion design with math in mind! Mix and Match tops, bottoms, skirts, hairstyles and accessories with hundreds of combinations! I remember my fashion plates when I was a youngin and it was one of my favorite things.

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Finally, check out Change-the-Story books. These are guaranteed to inspire the imagination and induce a ton of giggles. Story crafting builds vocabulary and early reading skills. This engaging interactive book lets the reader change the story every time it is read.

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Every item in the Discovery Toys catalog is BPA Free, meets or exceeds all required safety standards, and is backed with an unconditional satisfaction guarantee. Discovery Toys products are available through DT Educational Consultants and at www.DiscoveryToys.net