How to build up your child’s confidence in maths

It’s a common experience… your child sits down to work on Maths homework but very quickly becomes visibly stressed, frustrated, or upset. For many kids, doing Maths can seem like a daunting task, even a scary one. And while many do overcome it, some of us carry this Maths anxiety with us for much of our lives. If you’re looking to help your child reduce their Maths anxiety, we have a few suggestions.  Be Empathetic to Maths Struggles  Empathy can go a long way. Whether it’s because you experienced similar struggles as a child or watched someone else struggle, making your child feel like they’re not alone can help ease their stress. When kids hear that others in their lives faced similar challenges it can help them to feel understood and a little more confident to tackle the task in front of them.   Teach Them to be OK with Making Mistakes  Learning to be OK with making mistakes is distinct from addressing the emotions that bubble up with failure. Once your child is no longer feeling overwhelmed, helping them to feel OK with making mistakes is all about showing them that mistakes are often how learning happens. We often remember our mistakes more clearly than the times we didn’t need to struggle at all. Identifying where we went wrong is one of the best ways to learn how to get to the answer or solution on your own. Understanding the path it took to get something right means committing to memory the path to success.   Tip: Try pointing out something that was previously hard for your child and is now easy because they figured out their mistakes and practiced until they got it. For example, learning to ride a bike, practicing a sport, or an earlier Maths concept.   Explain the Importance of Finding (And Filling) Gaps  Lastly, very often the cause of Maths anxiety is the fact that earlier concepts weren’t mastered. Gaps in foundational knowledge create a shaky foundation for more challenging concepts. Particularly, if children don’t do well in Maths at an early age, it can have a cumulative effect.   At Kumon, we focus on mastery. We start students off at a comfortable starting point, which can sometimes mean starting on material that is below their current grade level. Current struggles might be top of mind for parents and the kids themselves, but often the solution to current struggles is filling in gaps in knowledge of earlier concepts. If a child never fully mastered addition, multiplication, division, and other foundational concepts, they are likely to hit a wall when more complicated concepts are introduced.   Enrol In a Maths Programme to Help Them Practice and Master their Skills  Enrolling your child in an additional Maths study programme (such as Kumon) can help them fill those gaps as they consistently practice their Maths skills. While school studies march on, often leaving a child feeling overwhelmed and increasingly left behind, a supplementary programme can provide additional practice in key concepts and allow them sufficient time to truly master a concept before progressing to the next. This additional support can often help a struggling child to catch up, become confident and finally succeed in a previously dreaded subject. Maths anxiety is a condition that can be very detrimental to a child’s long-term school success, causing them to feel inadequate, not smart enough or even a failure. Anxiety can cause a child to get into a negative reinforcement cycle that perpetuates their feeling of inadequacy. When Maths work comes up they feel anxious because they don’t understand the work. This anxiety causes their brains to become confused or shut down which then prevents them from thinking logically or rationally and reinforces the experience that “I can’t do Maths!”  So, in conclusion, it is important to notice how your child feels about their Maths work and to identify Maths anxiety as early as possible. Then, if you notice this occurring, take every step possible to address the anxiety and to enable your child to overcome, feel confident and believe in themselves. The Kumon Maths programme helps children of all ages and ability levels to develop maths skills and a love of numbers. To find out more about what Kumon has to offer, visit www.kumon.co.za This article is courtesy of the Kumon North America website*   * https://www.kumon.com/resources/how-to-build-up-your-childs-math-confidence/ 

September 26, 2024

Seven tips for supporting your child to develop a love for reading

As well as providing children a window through which to explore their imaginations, reading books allows for the development of essential skills for school and later life. These include comprehension, a wider vocabulary, increased concentration and self-motivation, an awareness of the world around them (particularly if they are interested in non-fiction), and higher levels of empathy and emotional intelligence through relating to the characters they encounter in their favourite books. Some children have a natural interest in reading – they will happily nestle down and read a book of their choice. Christopher Melrose, Deputy General Manager of Kumon Australia & New Zealand, recalls that he was such a child. “I used to enjoy reading the Doctor Do-Little series, and a series called The Three Investigators, about three young boys who solved crime mysteries”, Christopher says. “There was a book by Gerald Durrel called, My Family And Other Animals, which I loved. It was set on a Greek island named Corfu”. “I also used to get given our school textbook list at the end of the year. I remember I was always really excited on the day that I received all my school books [and] I’d actually read all of the novels that were on the reading list for that year. I wasn’t doing it to get ahead or for academic reasons; I just liked reading”. Now Christopher is adamant about encouraging children to read for enjoyment, both for children who are naturally inclined and those who might be a bit more reluctant. Below, we provide some solutions for parents who want to see their children develop a love for reading. When they are young, read aloud with your child Children are never too young to be exposed to reading. Reading aloud to your children introduces them to the beauty of language. When your child observes you reading, they will follow your example and in time, will start to read on their own. We recommend you spend 5-10 minutes reading a book to your young child every day. When reading aloud, make it fun When reading together with your child, let them hold the book. It’s often easier to sit behind your child as they do this. Make sure you read with lots of expression. Put on different voices for book characters – the more fun you make it, the more they will develop a love of books and reading. Before reading a book aloud for the first time, it is best to read the book to yourself first. This will allow you to add more expression when you read it to your child. Establish a routine for reading We highly recommend creating a reading routine. For example, 10 minutes reading before school or at bedtime will demonstrate the importance of daily reading. You may like to schedule in regular visits to your local library to attend events such as story times that promote reading together with your child. If your child is reading independently, spend time at the library or bookstore (or even online for e-books) choosing books together. You can then read passages from each other’s selected books to share the excitement and love of reading. Choose books that are appropriate for their current ability As your child reads, always keep in mind whether the book is suitable for their ability. If your child is having trouble reading a word, simply tell them what the word is so they can continue reading. If they are making many mistakes and losing enthusiasm for the book, it may be best to choose an easier book instead. Visiting Kumon’s Recommended Reading List could be a helpful first step in choosing the most appropriate book: https://www.kumon-english-rrl.com/  When they are ready, encourage your child to read a wide-range of books Children can be encouraged to read on their own at any age. Most children will develop a strong reading habit and love for reading when parents actively read to them from a young age. Reading a range of books broadens knowledge and interest in further learning. Consider recommending not only fiction but non-fiction books for your child to read. This will broaden their knowledge of particular topics. Turn reading into a family activity Be sure you ask your child to describe to you their favourite part of the book they are currently reading. Some families have special book-reading times where all family members sit together and quietly read their own books. This is often followed by a few minutes of discussion. Seek out reading opportunities that go beyond books When visiting public spaces like museums or parks, draw your child’s attention to the great variety of information that can always be found at such places. This helps link reading to real life. The Kumon English programme aims to foster a love of reading and learning in every child. To find out more about what Kumon has to offer, visit www.kumon.co.za. This article is courtesy of the Kumon Australia website* __________________________________________________________________________________ * https://au.kumonglobal.com/seven-tips-for-supporting-your-child-to-develop-a-love-for-reading/ 

September 18, 2024

Effective study habits for school: Classroom and real-world skills

To be successful at school, children need effective study habits. It’s never too early to begin thinking about the skills needed in and outside of the classroom. Here are 7 effective study habits that are essential for students of all ages. Establish a study area at home Communicate with the teacher Keep assignments organized Avoid procrastination Take notes in class Highlight key concepts in the reading materials Prepare your book bag before going to bed Establish a study area at home Find the perfect place to designate as the homework station. Stock the study space with school supplies including pencils, sharpeners, erasers, highlighters, and index cards. Remove distractions such as the TV and portable devices like cell phones. Communicate with the teacher It’s important to understand the assignments and the expectations for class. Students should ask the teacher questions for clarity when needed. If homework is missing, it’s important to speak with the teacher about the reason. Keep assignments organized Students should keep the details of their assignments organized in a planner or notebook and write down the dates for tasks, tests, and projects. Some work requires multiple steps to finish. Thus, making a plan is essential. Avoid procrastination Many students wait until the last minute to do their work, but procrastination must be avoided. Unforeseen problems occur like getting sick, a family emergency or even another school assignment due at the same time, which could make it hard to complete the task. Take notes in class Listening and note-taking are important study habits for school and careers. Students identify the most relevant information they need to retain and write it down in order to review it later. Highlight key concepts in the reading materials Students can use different color highlighters or sticky flags to highlight key points, Keywords, definitions and other important information that might need to be referenced later. Creating a colour-coding system is not only great for organization, it is also fun! Prepare your book-bag before going to bed Forgetting to bring back completed homework leads to poor grades. Students should ensure their bookbag is prepared with homework, books, and school supplies before going to bed. At Kumon we aim to give our students the tools they need to enjoy learning and thrive academically. To find out more about what Kumon has to offer, visit www.kumon.co.za.   This article is courtesy of the Kumon North America website*   ________________________________________________________________________________ * https://www.kumon.com/resources/7-important-study-habits-for-school/#studyhabit1 

September 11, 2024

THREE TIPS FOR EASING TEST ANXIETY

It’s normal for your child to get nervous before a test or quiz at school. The intensity of their anxiety though is dependent on how confident and calm they feel. It’s important for your child to properly prepare, practice healthy habits, and be optimistic about the results. Follow these tips to help ease test anxiety for your child: 1. Develop Efficient Study Habits. Preparing for a test is a very important step in reducing test anxiety. It’s key to remember that every child is different. While some can capture everything after the first review, others may need to highlight key topics or write down notes on flashcards or do something unique that works for them. Some students may even need to create mnemonics (memory devices that help learners recall larger pieces of information, especially in the form of lists like characteristics, steps, stages, parts, etc – for example, to remember the spelling of “because” – Baby Eats Candy And Usually Says E). Test and try different study habits and see which is the best fit for your child. Avoid pushing them to study a different way, or your way. What works for you may not work for them. Additionally, sit with your child and determine a study plan together. Designate a time and place to study daily.  Begin strategizing on how the studying will be broken down. Help your child prioritize and delegate their time between different chapters or sections. 2. Provide Proper Resources. Often students feel too embarrassed to ask for help on something that was taught weeks ago. They become unsure about the topic while studying and end up puzzled during exam time. To avoid this, have your child create a list of topics or sections that they are struggling with. Then, take some time to review the list. Identify if your child simply needs a refresher on these topics or if they need further help. If it is a matter of needing a refresher, encourage them to review work they have done previously, remind themselves how they solved certain problems or completed those sections of work, make summaries and / or mind maps to make the information more manageable and easier to remember. If it is a matter of needing further help the first port of call would be to address it with their teacher. Depending on your child’s age, you can reach out to their teacher or you can encourage them to seek help from their teacher. Making the teacher aware of what your child is struggling with may lead them to find different ways of explaining difficult topics in class.  You can also go online to find resources / video clips that can explain the work better or seek out extra-mural programmes (such as Kumon) that can supplement their learning and increase their confidence and knowledge retention. 3. Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle. The week of the test can be a very exhausting week. Be sure that your child is not only balancing homework and afterschool activities, but also eating and resting adequately. It’s important to plan. If your child needs more time to study during test week then be sure to make alternative arrangements with extracurricular activities. However, if your child is on track with their studying, be sure to keep these activities. Going to a sport practice or ballet class is a good reward after spending hours of preparing for the test. Taking a break to do some physical activity is excellent to clear and refresh the mind, release tension and anxiety and give renewed energy to focus on studying again.  Another good way to reinforce and motivate your child is by providing them with positive affirmations. Have them repeat after you. It can be a simple “I got this!” or something more inspiring like “Hard work will pay off!” Engraving these positive thoughts will make your child feel optimistic and rewarded for their hard work. You can also schedule a fun evening or weekend activity after the test to reward your child for their hard work and preparation. In Closing Test anxiety is very challenging to manage and adds extra stress. With proper preparation and study habits your child will succeed. It’s crucial to see what tactics and strategies work best with your child. Ultimately, the most efficient approach of studying will be what determines their test grade. Be a supportive parent by putting into practice these steps to help ease your child’s test anxiety. Should you be interested in learning more about Kumon and how it can support your child, visit www.kumon.co.za  This article is taken directly from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website:  https://www.kumon.com/resources/three-tips-for-easing-test-anxiety/

September 4, 2024

Active technology can benefit students in a digital world

In today’s classroom, students might be as likely to talk about the Elmo Visual Presenter, a computerized digital projector, as Elmo the red, fuzzy and lovable “Sesame Street” character who loves hugs. It’s the digital world they live in, and today’s children are enveloped by it in both their home and school lives. How they embrace technology and use it in their lives matter. If implemented thoughtfully and with balance, technology can more deeply enrich the educational journey of a student. Today, technology surrounds every facet of modern life. It’s prevalent in school, college and the workplace. It can be used for digital skill development, research, collaborative learning, job hunting, general time management and organizational skills. Learning proper technology habits early can help set students up for success. Kumon has launched Kumon Connect, a web-based app that allows students to complete their worksheets using a tablet and stylus. Passive Technology  Eyes can glaze over as users scroll through endless streams of YouTube videos. The same goes for swiping through the latest viral crazes on TikTok or posts on Instagram. The threshold for engagement for a user of one of these platforms is extremely low. In social media and entertainment platforms like these, the user isn’t required to do anything to interact with what is happening on the screen. The same can be said for television programmes. In each instance, the user isn’t required to interact with the programming presented, and no skills are gained in the process. They are consuming viewed material rather than having meaningful interaction that facilitates creating and discovering new skills. This passive consumption of technology isn’t healthy or appropriate for young learners, and the lack of engagement may be more detrimental than the hours spent in front of screens, says the American Academy of Pediatrics. At home and in the classroom, passive screen time could include watching too much television, social media scrolling or playing non-educational games on a tablet or phone. Active Technology At the other end of the spectrum is active technology, which can be used as a learning tool by parents and teachers to engage children in specific learning activities that develop skills meaningful to student development. Those tools can be delivered through various kinds of devices – tablets, computers, televisions and mobile phones. A number of large-scale studies have shown that integrating educational technology into a student’s life can improve academic outcomes, according to the Brookings Institution, a nonprofit based in Washington, D.C. The key is using the devices and the programmes on them for constructive use that engages the students in a meaningful way and encourages learning, creativity, active play and exploration. Technology can make many aspects of a child’s life more accessible and convenient – even practicing their Kumon. Just like with paper Kumon worksheets, students using Kumon Connect attend class at their local Centre twice per week and do homework the other five days; the difference is they do their worksheets on the tablet. After assignments are submitted, they are graded within 24 hours, and students are notified if corrections are necessary. The student’s next assignment will be ready when they sign in. Instructors can replay the work of completed assignments to see skill development and provide feedback, and parents can see their child’s progress in real time on the app. Engaging technology can be fun. Digital games and online videos provide an outlet to let children visually learn and reinforce educational concepts like sharing, collaboration and problem solving. Online audio programmes help younger students with auditory cues and instructions that give them a more immersive learning experience. These games and audio books develop similar skills but also provide a chance for the student to hear proper pronunciations and the ability to speak with the instructor or programme. Virtual reality and augmented reality experiences also provide for other active learning experiences where children are surrounded, through a headset, in a virtual learning environment. This allows them to be able to see and visit places they otherwise wouldn’t experience outside the digital realm, like zoos, aquariums, historic sites or outer space. Conventional thinking might lean toward an oversimplification of how digital devices and screen time should apply to students. While no child should be figuratively glued to a phone, tablet or computer, for the next generation of students to miss out on a digital world that encourages educational experiences would be a shame. As mentioned above, Kumon has introduced worksheets in a digital format via KUMON CONNECT, making Kumon’s tried and tested worksheets even more accessible and convenient for students to study using their tablet and stylus. To find out more visit www.kumon.co.za/kumon-connect/    This article is courtesy of the Kumon North America website* _________________________________________________________________________________ * https://www.kumon.com/resources/active-technology-can-benefit-students-in-a-digital-world-2/?doing_wp_cron=1714137736.1361100673675537109375 

May 8, 2024

BUILDING READING SKILLS AT HOME

Reading is an important activity that everyone can be involved in. Not only does it help to expand knowledge, but it can also be a ton of fun! If your child has no interest in reading, there are a variety of ways to help them start building reading skills at home. It may be a challenge to encourage reading with reluctant readers or even ones who are frustrated by reading. We put together a list of tactics that can help build reading skills and inspire children to find enjoyment in doing so. Here are some ways to build reading skills at home: 1. Offer Different Reading Options Be sure to provide your children with a variety of reading options. They may be more inspired to read books about certain topics or genres, as well as books of varying lengths. Having a few to choose from will give them the opportunity to explore their interests and find something they enjoy. 2. Set Aside Time to Read Setting time aside to read is great for anyone, any age! Show your children that it’s important to make time to read for fun by doing so yourself. Seeing you read will help to encourage their own reading and can even become a part of your family routine. 3. Read Aloud Reading aloud can be fun for the reader and the listener. Take turns reading aloud by using different voices and reading in an interesting way. While it may seem silly at first, this can help build excitement and curiosity for the story. It can even make the reading experience more fun and inspire them to read more on their own to get better at their story telling! 4. Use dictionaries (traditional or online) and flashcards If your child is coming across words that are unfamiliar try looking up these words in a traditional dictionary or online to discover the meaning. Online dictionaries usually have the added feature of being able to play a soundbite to hear the correct pronunciation. Your child could then write the definitions onto flashcards to help them remember the meaning. Knowing the meaning and pronunciation will help them read more fluently as they build their vocabulary and spelling skills. (An added benefit of using a traditional dictionary is learning about alphabetical order and how to find words in this way.) 5. Define Reading Goals Whether it’s learning 5 new words, reading a chapter book, or even reading 10 books over a period of time, there are tons of ways you can set your reading goals. Talk with your child about different goals they may have and help them set these. Depending on their age, you could use a star chart or some similar tracking system to recognise and reward achievement. 6. Participate in Reading Challenges or Activities There are a variety of reading challenges available online (for example: https://growingbookbybook.com/reading-challenges-for-kids/). Many of these challenges can be done at home and even incorporated into reading goals. It’s fun for children to have something to follow along with and be encouraged to read. You can also do different activities such as acting out scenes of the book or having them draw their favourite scene to encourage them to think through the story in a new perspective.  7. Ask Questions About the Book It’s beneficial to have discussions about the book before, during and after reading the book. This helps them get interested in the story before reading it and then keeps them engaged as they read the story. After the story concludes, it’s interesting for them to see what they learned or what they found most interesting from the book. Asking questions will keep engagement up and also get them thinking more analytically about what they read. 8. Join a Supplemental Reading Programme Another way to build reading skills is to join a reading programme that is individualized for your child. A programme that considers your child’s comfortable starting point while continuously building their reading and writing skills. The Kumon English Programme does just that and can be incorporated into your daily reading routine. There are also tons of Recommended Reading List options to take away the guesswork of books that accommodate your child’s skills best. The Takeaway – Have Fun! Most importantly, building reading skills at home can be a lot of fun! As your children begin to explore new books, learn new words, and strengthen their skills, they will develop more confidence and be inspired to read independently. The confidence they build from regular reading practice will help your child develop a lifelong love of reading! This article is taken directly from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website:  https://www.kumon.com/resources/building-reading-skills-at-home/

October 12, 2023

DEVELOP YOUR CHILD’S READING RETENTION SKILLS

Children read a lot more than you may think. Every subject your child studies in school requires reading comprehension and retention. Whether it is math, history or science, reading retention is critical to success. Here are some ways you can help your child grow and develop solid reading-retention skills. Start Early Remember, a child’s listening skills are years ahead of their reading skills. Beginning readers can still practice comprehension and retention skills. An easy way to do this is by inserting an extra step into an already existing nightly routine: bedtime stories. As you read your child a bedtime story, take note of some key story lines or events. When the story is over, you can ask your child, “Do you remember how Sam-I-Am finally got his friend to try green eggs and ham? Did he try them in a house? Did he try them with a mouse?” Even though your child is not reading for retention at this level, he or she is still learning to comprehend and retain ideas. Practice and Improve Like any skill, reading comprehension and retention require practice. Board games offer an opportunity for children to read instructions and rules that test their retention skills in a fun way. Try to find a game that your family has never played. Read the rules first to understand how the game works. After you grasp the rules, ask your children to read them. When they’re finished, ask them to explain the rules to you before you begin. For families with more than one child, this exercise can provide a unique perspective on how each child understands what he or she has read. One child may see the game in one light, while another will view the rules completely differently. Listening to your child explain the rules will identify comprehension strengths and challenges as you learn the new rules together. After everyone understands the rules, game on! Encourage Self-Correction When your child shows signs of confusion or frustration with a homework assignment, encourage them to reread the material before explaining the problem to you. In the interest of saving time, you may lean toward explaining the problem yourself. While this may be easier, letting your child self-correct builds their problem-solving skills. Guide your young child toward understanding the problem independently. After conquering the problem on their own, your child will have more self-confidence for the next challenge and greater pride in being able to tackle the problem independently. Reading is one of the most valuable tools in your child’s academic tool belt. Understanding and retaining the material are just as critical as the skill of reading itself. Encouraging the development of this crucial skill will set the stage for a lifetime of success. The Kumon English Programme is designed to build the critical reading skills that will help your child develop a lifelong love of reading – and a solid foundation for academic success. Building strong reading comprehension from an early age will prepare your child to advance through primary school with confidence and appreciation for learning.  When you enrol in the Kumon English Programme, the Kumon Instructor will assess your child’s current reading skills and introduce the appropriate level of Kumon Reading Worksheets. This provides just the right start for building comprehension and writing skills. As each worksheet is completed, you’ll see your child building a stronger vocabulary, a more thorough understanding of the proper use of grammar, and an ability to interpret content. This, together with enjoying books from the Kumon Recommended Reading List, enhances your child’s appreciation for and understanding of the English language and helps to develop a lifelong love for reading. For more information you can visit our website on kumon.co.za This article is from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website: https://www.kumon.com/resources/develop-your-childs-reading-retention-skills-2/  

September 19, 2023

HOW TO MAKE MATHS MORE ENGAGING FOR KIDS

Have you ever heard your child say that maths isn’t fun? While maths can be challenging, there are a variety of ways to make maths more engaging and fun for kids of all ages.  First, help your child understand how they can use maths in real-life scenarios. From cooking to careers, there’s a ton of instances that maths is useful, and recognizing that can help them understand why it’s important to continue practicing. Once they understand a bit more about how maths is used, try some of the below methods to make learning maths more engaging. Play maths games There are a ton of maths games out there that effectively teach while being entertaining. No matter what maths level your child is on, there is a game that can tie in learning a new concept or strengthening one that they want to improve. Playing maths games takes away a feeling of intimidation and encourages kids to have fun while practicing their skills. Incorporate it into their interests Let’s say your child loves to help you cook. You can incorporate maths seamlessly into your preparation by discussing recipes while cooking. If your child loves soccer, you can talk about how maths can be used to figure out different plays and positions, and how the statistics side of it can tell a story. Incorporating maths into an interest that they love will show kids that maths is useful and something that can help them expand their skills. Hands-on learning experiences Have you ever seen a jar filled with sweets and the option to guess how many are in the jar? This is a great example of a hands-on learning experience because of the options to incorporate maths skills. While guessing is a fun element, counting different coloured sweets can bring in addition, multiplication, and even fractions. It’s a great way to show maths beyond paper and pencil problems. Read books that talk about maths If your child is interested in reading or learning about maths in a different way than just through numbers and equations, try finding books that incorporate maths. Many children’s picture books use maths to count or talk about objects. A short search on the internet will give you so many book suggestions, but one that might be really useful is this one from Stanford University: “40 Children’s Books That Foster a Love of Math” Enrol in an enrichment programme Sometimes maths isn’t fun because a child is struggling with the foundational skills. To make maths more engaging, consider an enrichment program that consistently challenges and incorporates practice. This will help to build their skills and ability to problem solve which in turn can help them feel more confident to tackle maths concepts. The Kumon Maths Programme develops strong problem-solving and calculation skills from the four basic operations through algebra and calculus. In the Maths Programme, students will develop a solid foundation of maths skills that can help them excel in and out of the classroom. In addition, the Programme develops confidence, concentration, perseverance, self-discipline and the ability to learn new work on your own. If you would like to find out more about the Kumon Maths Programme, visit us at www.kumon.co.za  This article is taken directly from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website:  https://www.kumon.com/resources/how-to-make-maths-more-engaging/?doing_wp_cron=1656500380.2784550189971923828125

July 26, 2023

DO CHILDREN STILL NEED STRONG MENTAL AGILITY WHEN THEY CAN RELY ON TECHNOLOGY?

With calculators, spell-checkers and predictive text now being a common feature on computers and mobile phones, will today’s children still need strong mental skills to get by? Using technological software may be quick and easy, but there are real disadvantages that come when a child is so dependent on online assistance; namely, they will lack mental agility, fluency and accuracy, and they probably won’t be using their brain to its full capacity. Everyday tasks as simple as checking they’ve received the right change, or working out ratios of ingredients when preparing meals, require mental calculations which a child reliant on technology could struggle with. A student who looks to spell-checker to ensure the accuracy of their work will struggle when completing it offline; they’ll be marked down for inaccuracy during handwritten exams, or perhaps they know an answer but their poor spelling lets them down because the examiner is unable to understand their intention. Looking to the future, strong mental arithmetic and literacy skills are important in whatever career a child chooses to pursue, and are still noticed and sought after by most employers. A child who has these abilities will feel more confident and at ease in the workplace. In addition to all of the above, reading and writing, and solving mathematical calculations exercises the brain and keeps it healthy.  The brain is a muscle, and like the other muscles in the body, it needs to be exercised and stimulated regularly to stay healthy and keep functioning at its optimum.   Dr Ryuta Kawashima is a professor at Tohoku University in Japan and he is a leader in the field of Brain Imaging in Japan.  He has conducted numerous experiments and research to discover what activities activate and stimulate the brain and what activities don’t. One activity that Dr Kawashima discovered that is excellent for stimulating the brain is performing mathematical calculations regularly, even simple ones.  He conducted research to find out which activity exercised the brain more:  playing very complex video games, or solving mathematical calculations of adding one digit numbers to each other e.g. 1 + 2 + 5 + 3 + 6 etc.  Although at the outset he was sure that the video games would activate the brain more, when he measured activity using MRI scans, he saw that video games actually stimulated the brain very little, but that the arithmetical calculations had the brain firing on all cylinders.   This surprising finding urged Dr Kawashima into further research and he has shown that mathematical calculations stimulate the brain, help to lay down neural pathways and keep the brain from degenerating.  Dr Kawashima has this to say, “The prefrontal cortex, the area for thinking and learning, of both hemispheres [of the brain] is active during simple calculation.  Dealing with numbers is an important and sophisticated activity for human beings. … From primary school to college, simple calculation triggers brain activity. … Calculation is extremely helpful in training and developing your brain.” (p.34).   Another activity that is vital for the brain is reading, especially reading out loud.  Through his research, Dr Kawashima has found that when reading, many parts of both sides of the brain, as well as the prefrontal cortex (the most important place in the brain for thinking and learning) are activated. (p.26). Reading out loud activates the brain even more than reading silently.  This can be a useful tip when it comes to studying.  Reading work out loud can help a learner to remember it better.  Mental agility skills do take time to develop and improve but through practice they will make all the difference! How can you encourage the development of these skills in your child? Turn everyday experiences into learning opportunities – when shopping, ask your child to work out how much your bill will cost before you get to the checkout, and have them look at the receipt afterwards to check it’s correct. Have a weekly spelling bee at home or a times tables challenge – competitions and rewards are good incentives to encourage children to learn and make learning fun. When reading with your child, ensure they are familiar with all the words on the page and get them to write and spell out new words. Encourage your child to write regularly as this offers opportunities to spell. Through this, you’ll be able to see spellings they struggle with, and employ tracing, mnemonics and/or other strategies to help them improve. At Kumon, we aim to foster independent learners through our maths and English programmes. Our students do not rely on calculators, dictionaries or coping strategies to advance through their study; instead they are encouraged to become self-learners who develop in academic ability and skill with each worksheet they complete. Through daily practice our students develop in understanding, fluency and pace, allowing them to advance to more complexed work. If you’re interested in enrolling your child to Kumon, visit our website www.kumon.co.za to find your nearest study centre and contact your local Instructor for more information. Sources for this article: https://www.kumon.co.uk/blog/do-children-still-need-strong-mental-agility-when-then-can-rely-on-technology/  Kawashima, R. 2003. Train Your Brain. Kumon Publishing Co, Ltd. Tokyo, Japan Kawashima, R. and Koizumi, H. ed. 2003.  Learning Therapy.  Tohoku University Press. Sendai, Japan

June 26, 2023

A CONSISTENT LEARNING ROUTINE CAN CURB PROCRASTINATION

You’re sitting in front of your computer or on your phone right now. Is there something else you should probably be doing? Procrastination! This is a struggle many people experience because there are endless distractions in life. Children discover this pretty early in life and that can cause problems when things that need to get done (like homework, projects, and chores) don’t get done. So we’ve put together a few tips to help you help your child learn to curb procrastination.  1. Prioritize & Plan  Making things that need to get done part of a predictable routine can help to minimize how much your brain will fight you on it. The longer you put off starting a task, the harder it seems to get started. So, don’t give the brain a chance to trip you up. Encourage your child to get started as soon as they think of the task that needs to get done and at a predictable moment of the day. They arrive at home and know they have homework to do? Get to it. Don’t give them that snack they want until after they’ve already gotten started or after they’ve completed their work.  2. Eliminate distractions  Children naturally have shorter attention spans than adults, so the key to blocking out distractions is setting up a space free of temptation. Creating an area in the house that is quiet and devoid of technology and other distractions can be key to a successful study session.   3. Set Goals  While having long-term goalscan play a big role in motivation and confidence, having short-term goals can be instrumental in the fight against procrastination. Specifically, if you’re focusing on the goal, you might be less likely to get distracted by all of the other things you might be inclined to wander off to. Help your child set small, incremental goals for themselves for each homework period. For example, instead of talking about “studying for your maths test”, try phrasing using the specific goal, “reviewing chapter 2”. One is vague and the other is specific. And if you can focus on a time frame, like aiming to finish by dinner time, this can help motivate your child to get it done. Repeatedly accomplishing these types of small goals can also improve overall motivation as it creates a sense of accomplishment.  4. Reward completion!  A reward can look like a lot of things. It can be extrinsic (external rewards) such as earned time on a device or stickers on a rewards chart. Or it can be more intrinsic (internally focused) like offering praise for work well done. This cycle of effort and praise can help motivate a child, and motivation is one of the greatest tools in curbing procrastination.  A reward can also be a way to bridge one task to the next in the form of a snack break! But take short, planned breaks in between one task and another… ideally not in the middle of tasks. That can lead to loss of momentum and further distraction.   Pssst! Most of these “tips” are actually the lessons that Kumon students learn throughout their Kumon journey. Learn more the Kumon Maths and English Programmes here. This article is taken directly from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website:  https://www.kumon.com/resources/a-consistent-learning-routine-can-curb-procrastination/

May 30, 2023

TIME MANAGEMENT FOR KIDS: HOW TO HELP YOUR KIDS EXCEL

Time management for kids is a life skill that can set them up for success. It is particularly important for children to learn time management at an early age in order to be successful in their education, as well as other areas of life. Having time management skills as a child is important because it allows them to focus on priorities and accomplish tasks without feeling overwhelmed. But how does one establish good time management skills? We put together some steps to help you work with your child to develop these essential skills. 1. Help them become aware of their time It’s important to remember that time is limited. When considering all the tasks to complete, break them down into sections by prioritizing and planning. Talk with your child to help them know what is urgent and important to ensure that is where they begin. Explain the breakdown to your child to show them that time is being allotted for different topics such as school, extracurriculars, family events, etc. 2. Define priorities It helps to know what needs to or should get done. For school activities, make sure to have discussions with your child’s teachers or review the assessment information that comes home to know the main areas that need attention. Talk with your child to help them understand the importance of each task and then develop a routine that will ensure enough time is set aside for each activity. Discuss these priorities and let them know that their schedule can be made to give them time to focus on these tasks. 3. Create a schedule and develop a routine Once you have an idea of what to focus on, create a daily and weekly schedule together with your child. Make this process fun! You can do this by allowing them to work on a visual board with pictures or writing down the time slots on a calendar and colour-coding, adding stickers or decorating it with drawings. 4. Break down goals A schedule will help plan time, but what is done in that time depends on your child’s goals. Compile a checklist to encourage them to know their goals and work independently to accomplish them. For example, if your child needs to learn three new maths concepts, they may need to focus on assignments that help master them. In other words, they may need to read and practice examples in the textbook. It may even be chores that should get done after school. Plan out the goals to know what to focus on in the timeframe. This will help them feel less overwhelmed and help to track progress for each goal. 5. Track progress and reflect on time spent As your child continues to complete tasks, track their progress to see if there are any areas for improvement or accomplishments to celebrate. Together you can reflect on what happened within the time frame to see if they need to reassess their time in the future and understand how to plan accordingly. Also, your child can see how their time well spent led to an achievement, which will encourage them to continue setting aside time and planning for future goals. 6. Celebrate even the small wins One of the biggest motivators for kids when it comes to time management is celebrating small wins. Completing tasks and becoming closer to the main goal is a huge accomplishment! Be sure to celebrate the successes by praising your child and encouraging them to continue making strides while managing their time. Seeing that their hard work resulted in something positive will make them more inclined to continue these efforts in the future. The Takeaway Time management for kids may seem like a challenge, but it is beneficial to establish this life skill early with them. Focusing on these steps when completing schoolwork is a great place to begin, as other tasks will likely fall into place throughout the process. Being able to manage time as a kid will help them feel less overwhelmed and in turn make them feel more accomplished and confident in completing tasks throughout all areas of life.  The Kumon Maths and English programmes not only help children to improve academically but also develop other life skills which including goal-setting. Should you be interested in learning more about Kumon and how it can support your child, visit www.kumon.co.za  This article is taken directly from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website:  https://www.kumon.com/resources/how-to-help-your-kids-with-time-management-skills/

August 11, 2022

4 EASY WAYS TO ADD MATHS TO YOUR EARLY LEARNER’S DAILY ROUTINE

Whether you realise it or not, we use maths concepts to solve real-life situations every day. From cooking with recipes to figuring out the correct money to give at the store, maths is everywhere. Teaching your children fundamental maths skills at a young age is easier than you think! With research stating that 80% of a child’s brain develops by age five, it’s important for parents to take advantage of the critical early years. The great news is that children are naturally curious and often question the world around them, so there are many chances to naturally weave in learning opportunities. By just adding a little maths to your everyday routine, you can help your toddler or preschooler begin to recognise numbers, learn the proper number sequence and eventually develop the ability to count. Here are four easy ways to add maths into the everyday routine for early learners: 1. Play simple card games Learning about numbers is the first step in a preschooler’s maths journey. In addition to using number flash cards, playing card games using regular playing cards is another great way for children to learn about numbers up to 10. The cards between two and ten not only have the numbers on them, but also the amount of symbols that represent the quantity. The pattern on the cards helps children to conceptually understand what the number represents. 2. Count outdoors or with items you use each day To help your preschooler learn to count, start by heading outdoors. Find items in nature that can be easily counted, such as the petals on a flower, the leaves on a branch, or even trees in the yard. Ask questions such as: “How many flowers have pink petals in the garden?” “Which flower has more petals than the others?” “How many red leaves are there?” These questions will spark their curiosity to explore the answer. If needed, help your child by pointing and counting with them. By modelling how to do it, your child will feel encouraged and motivated to count with you before doing so on their own. You can also count items you use each day such as different foods or toys. 3. Sort and understand groupings Look for teachable moments during everyday play. While playing with their toys, ask your children to sort by colour, or by similarities, or by differences. You can even introduce sorting during clean-up by asking them to put toys into the right bins. One great place to start with sorting is by using different coins. These all vary in size which makes sorting by their differences simple without introducing the values of each coin. Once you show the differences of each coin, help sort these out into different groupings. For example: “Can you count the ten cent pieces? Let’s put them into groups of 10.” Once you master sorting out the ten cent pieces and setting aside the groupings, then you can count the total. Repeat this with the various other coins. 4. Cook to teach measurements and shapes Not only is cooking useful, it’s a great way to learn maths. Begin by finding an easy and fun baking recipe. Some will call for measurements such as “two cups of flour” or “three teaspoons of baking powder.” You can have your child help with counting these measurements out with you. Next, work with your child to form shaped cookies and count as you lay them on the baking sheet. Young children tend to notice the different sizes, for example, one giant cookie versus 24 mini ones. You can then get different sized plates and ask questions like “Which plate holds the most cookies?” or “How many cookies fit on the blue plate?” This will encourage your child to think through this by experimenting and counting different groupings. Maths is something we turn to for everyday tasks. With these simple tips, your child will begin learning some maths concepts without even really knowing they’re learning. It is great to start teaching these skills at a young age to get them prepared for Grade R and ensure they are on the right track for their academic future! This article is from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website: https://www.kumon.com/resources/4-easy-ways-to-add-math-to-your-early-learners-daily-routine/ 

July 27, 2022

CREATIVE ACTIVITIES TO KEEP YOUR KIDS ENTERTAINED OVER THE HOLIDAYS

It’s hard to believe, as it feels like the school year has only just started, but school holidays are almost upon us! During the break you may find yourself searching for new ideas to keep your kids entertained. Although things may look a little different, there are still so many fun activities to make the holidays fun while still keeping you and your family safe. Here are some creative activities to keep your kids entertained over the school break. 1. Take a Hike Take advantage of the beautiful weather and get outside! Research local trails in your area and explore nature.  You could also just go on a neighbourhood scavenger hunt. Draw up a list of 10 or 20 items to search for, and see if you and your kids can tick them all off. If you prefer to stay home, you can also play a game of I Spy! Look for details around your home such as, “I spy something that’s the colour red,” and try to see if your child can locate that item.  2. Take an Adventure from Home Zoos, historical landmarks, and museums alike have all created innovative alternatives to allow children to take virtual field trips and escape to destinations around the world. Some possible resources for you that allow you and your little one to explore the world without leaving the living room include: Access Mars: https://accessmars.withgoogle.com/ Viewers can explore Mars through a virtual ride-along by the Curiosity rover.  The Hidden World of National Parks: https://artsandculture.withgoogle.com/en-us/national-parks-service Google Arts & Culture takes you on a journey to places most people would never dare to go through. The Louvre Art Museum in Paris: https://www.louvre.fr/en/visites-en-ligne See the treasures of the world’s largest art museum from the comfort of your home. Go on a Game Drive: https://wildearth.tv/live-safaris/ Game drives streamed live directly from the Kruger National Park and other African game lodges. 3. Holiday Reading The magical thing about books is that they can make our imaginations soar by whisking us off to faraway lands or transporting us back into history. They can also spark new interests. Designate a cozy nook for your children where they can relax and get lost in a book. Try a hammock in the backyard or build your own reading fort with blankets and pillows. Read the same books as your kids! Tackling the same reading list as your children can be your own form of a book club. Engaging in thoughtful discussions will further develop their insight and critical reading skills. 4. Plant a Seed Planting a garden or a tree right in your own backyard is the perfect outdoor project for you and your little one. Plant yummy fruits and vegetables for nutritious snacks to enjoy. Your children will love reaping the benefits of their hard work! 5. A Night Under the Stars Plan a family campout in the backyard to stargaze. This is a fun way to learn the name of the constellations, which may even spark an interest in space exploration and Greek mythology. 6. Family Game Night Family game night is a great time to put problem-solving skills to the test with fun games and puzzles like Scrabble, Sudoku, and word searches. 7. Creative Writing Have your child tap into their imagination and write a creative story or even keep a journal. This is a fun way to strengthen motor skills and build critical writing skills. 8. Backyard Picnic Whipping up a delicious recipe with your child can be a fun way to incorporate maths, reading, and following directions. Pack your meal in a basket, lie down a blanket in the backyard, and enjoy a family picnic. 9. Outdoor Movie Night Bring the movie theater to your home! Set up a projector and screen outside. Prepare popcorn and snacks and gather around to watch a newly released movie with the family. 10. Sign up with Kumon Taking the opportunity during the holidays to enrol your child in Kumon’s Maths or English programmes will give them a good head start for the upcoming term and keep their brains active and stimulated at the same time. To find out more, visit www.kumon.co.za .  This article was mostly taken from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website: https://www.kumon.com/resources/10-creative-activities-to-keep-your-kids-entertained-over-the-summer/ 

March 24, 2021

THE INSPIRATION OF FAIRY TALES

 Albert Einstein once said: “If you want your children to be intelligent, read them fairy tales. If you want them to be more intelligent, read them more fairy tales.”  Developing a child’s reading proficiency and igniting their passion for literature is a priority for parents all year-round, however awareness days like the upcoming International Children’s Book Day on 2 April, are beneficial in putting children’s books and authors into the spotlight and further encouraging children across the globe to develop a regular reading habit. International Children’s Book Day is celebrated on the birthday of prolific children’s author Hans Christian Andersen who, with over 150 fairy tales to his name alone, has certainly helped inspire a love of reading in children, past and present. To mark the dual occasion of International Children’s Book Day and Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday, we have looked at his favoured choice of medium, fairy tales, and considered why it is important for you to tell and read fairy tales to your child. Fairy tales help develop a range of academic skills As a young listener your child will observe your storytelling skills and learn to mimic these as their own reading ability develops. They will learn how to captivate an audience using tone, accents, acting, dramatic pauses etc., as well as the components of effective storytelling like chronology and attention to detail. In listening to you reading fairy tales and then learning to read from the books themselves, a child will develop strong memory skills; I’m sure as an adult you can still recall the details of your favourite fairy tales. From the actual fairy tale plots they will develop in critical thinking skills, as they will follow the actions of the characters carefully and see the consequences of these actions, boosting their understanding of the world. Through any sort of fictional reading a child will develop in creativity, but the fantasy, myth and magic of fairy tales offers even greater scope for them to think outside of the box. Fairy tales are full of fantastic adventures, enchanting lands and exotic creatures, all of which fuel their imagination beyond the ordinary and every day. Fairy tales teach important life lessons Of course the primary function of fairy tales is to be entertaining, but they also contain valuable and moral lessons for a child to learn. According to The Telegraph, Goddard Blythe, director of the Institute for Neuro-Physiological Psychology in Chester, said: “Fairy tales help to teach children an understanding of right and wrong, not through direct teaching, but through implication.” Of course the real world isn’t a fairy tale but a child can take the over-arching messages of these tales and apply them to their own lives, for example fairy tales teach great lessons in friendship and kindness as well in individuality and staying true to oneself. Fairy tales encourage emotional development Usually you would tell or read your child a fairy tale before bed to settle them into a peaceful slumber; this is important as it creates intimacy, routine, and a bonding experience between you and your child. The majority of fairy tale plots and the messages they convey can resonate directly with a child, and can help them to deal with an anxiety they can’t yet fully explain. Fairy tales can teach them how to better handle and deal with their emotions. Professor Yvonne Kelly of UCL said: “Children who listen to stories show better results in measures such as literacy tests and SATs – but also in terms of social and emotional development“; however, putting the research and studies aside, fairy tales are simply a wonderful way to add a bit of extra sparkle to your child’s day and encourage their love of reading. Why not pick out one of Hans Christian Anderson’s wonderful fairy tales and read it together, act it out, or watch the related movie to celebrate International Children’s Book Day this April? Thumbelina The Ugly Duckling The Emperor’s New Clothes The Little Mermaid (Disney’s version is an all time classic) The Snow Queen (Disney’s Frozen is inspired by this story) For more information about International Children’s Book Day, visit: https://www.ibby.org/awards-activities/activities/international-childrens-book-day/  Source for article: https://www.kumon.co.uk/blog/if-you-want-your-children-to-be-intelligent-read-them-fairy-tales-if-you-want-them-to-be-more-intelligent-read-them-more-fairy-tales-albert-einstein/ 

March 16, 2021

6 EASY WAYS TO ACE THE SCHOOL YEAR

Settling in to the new school year and a classroom-ready mindset isn’t always easy. Beyond the excitement of  physically going back to school full time (after the 2020 restrictions), new classes and even new friends, children and parents alike can get easily overwhelmed by the changes the new school year brings. Here are six tips that will help your family make this year the best school year yet! Stick to a Routine Children benefit from having a steady routine. Setting a consistent bedtime and wake-up time will ensure that your children are getting enough sleep. If they don’t, concentration and academic performance will suffer. Likewise, having a well-balanced breakfast each morning will ensure that the day starts off on a positive note. If your children spend a lot of time getting their uniforms out of the cupboard and preparing their school bags in the morning, add these activities to their night-time routine. Create a Distraction Free Study Area Completing homework at the same time each day will help create strong study habits. Establish a location in your home where your children will study and do homework throughout the year. Choose a location where you can keep an eye on them, but still minimize distractions like TV, phone and electronics. Support Homework Independence Once your children are able to read directions on their own, encourage them to complete their homework assignments by themselves. They may continue to ask for help primarily because they enjoy the parental attention, not because they truly need assistance. Support their independence by encouraging them to work through the problems on their own. When your children do their homework without a reminder, acknowledge their independence to reinforce the positive habit. Think Long-Term Children who set long-term goals often have increased motivation in school. Setting long-term goals with your children can help connect the relevancy of their daily activities with the future. It is also never too early to develop time management skills. Using time wisely by completing homework and chores efficiently allows children to have more time for fun activities. Have a Positive Learning Attitude Attitudes are infectious and an integral component to success. Parents who have a positive attitude towards learning and school can excite children with their enthusiasm. Show interest in your children’s studies by asking questions, which can help foster motivation and a positive learning attitude. Remember to reinforce a positive, growth mindset. Children who understand that hard-work is more important than natural intelligence are more likely succeed. Connect with the Teacher Parents who plan an active role in their children’s education make a huge difference in their success. Building a relationship with your children’s teachers can help you understand how your children are doing at school and how you can help your children at home. Try to meet with your children’s teachers at the beginning of the school year and set the expectation of working together as a team. Developing a strong, positive partnership with your children’s teachers can help the school year go more smoothly for you and your children. This article is from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website: https://www.kumon.com/resources/6-easy-ways-to-ace-the-school-year/ 

February 26, 2021

HOW IMPORTANT ARE MATHEMATICS AND ENGLISH FOR FUTURE SUCCESS?

Studying Mathematics and English can sometimes be so difficult and learners often find it hard to see how they are going to benefit from these or whether it has any relevance for their future lives. In fact, contrary to their feelings of how irrelevant these are, there are many benefits of developing an excellent ability in these two areas, both for their future studies and for their life in general.  University admission and study1 First and foremost, in order to be considered for admission to university, a learner needs to obtain good marks in matric, obtaining a complete exemption (as opposed to a conditional exemption) at the end of their matric year.  Without a complete exemption a student will in all probability not be eligible to apply to any of our top universities.  According to the SA Matriculation Board, one of the criteria to be met in order to obtain a complete exemption is that a learner passes at least two languages, including at least one First Language and one university language of instruction.  Most universities in South Africa have English as their language of instruction. The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) and the University of Cape Town (UCT) require applicants to obtain a higher grade pass in English in order to be considered for admission to these institutions.  So, already we can see that doing well in English is essential if a learner wishes to study at one of these universities post matric. Together with a matric exemption, universities in South Africa use a point system to decide whether or not a student is eligible to be admitted to their undergraduate programmes.  Learners earn points for each subject that they pass.  The better their symbols, the greater number of points they earn, and they will earn more points for subjects taken on higher grade.  UCT recommends that ‘applicants writing the South African Senior Certificate are advised to take subjects on higher rather than standard grade. … This is especially true of Mathematics and physical science’. Each faculty has its own subject, symbol and grade requirements for admission to particular degrees or diplomas, so prospective applicants will need to find out what these requirements are for the particular course that they wish to study.  However, we (Kumon) conducted some research into the minimum requirements for admission to the various faculties at Wits and UCT.  Below is a brief summary, giving one an indication of how important and crucial Maths and English are should one wish to go to university. University Courses that require Maths HG (or a very high SG pass): Commerce Department [e.g. Financial Accounting (HG only), Auditing, Computer Science, Marketing, Politics and Economics (HG only)] Engineering and Built Environment Department [e.g. Architecture, Engineering (HG only), City Planning, Urban Design and Construction Management] Health Science Department (e.g. Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Pathology, Audiology and Medicine) Science Faculty (e.g. Business Computing, Bachelor of Science (HG only): Atmospheric Science, Zoology, Marine Biology, Molecular and Cell Biology, Applied Mathematics, and Astronomy)  University Courses that require English (First or Second language) HG Law (e.g. Commercial Law, Marine Law, Criminal Justice and Criminology, Human Rights Law and Environmental Law) Humanities (e.g. Drama, Film Studies, Media and Writing, Sociology, Archaeology, Politics, Design, Sculpture and Acting and Theatre Making) For full details, please refer to the admissions department of the respective universities. From all of this it is clear that obtaining excellent results in Mathematics and English can open doors for a learner to study at university so that they can pursue the career of their choice and realise their dreams. Train your brain2 But maybe a learner doesn’t want to go to university.  They would rather pursue other dreams and ambitions.  Or maybe they’re still a long way from university and right now admission requirements for tertiary institutions aren’t of interest to them.  “So why should I study Mathematics and English?” they may ask. Well, a proficiency in these subjects is not only for those who wish to be admitted to university.  Did you know that reading and writing, and solving mathematical calculations can exercise your brain and keep it healthy?  The brain is a muscle, and like the other muscles in the body, it needs to be exercised and stimulated regularly to stay healthy and keep functioning at its optimum.   Dr Ryuta Kawashima is a professor at Tohoku University in Japan and he is a leader in the field of Brain Imaging in Japan.  He has conducted numerous experiments and research to discover what activities activate and stimulate the brain and what activities don’t. One activity that Dr Kawashima discovered that is excellent for stimulating the brain is performing mathematical calculations regularly, even simple ones.  He conducted research to find out which activity exercised the brain more:  playing very complex video games, or solving mathematical calculations of adding one digit numbers to each other e.g. 1 + 2 + 5 + 3 + 6 etc.  Although at the outset he was sure that the video games would activate the brain more, when he measured activity using MRI scans, he saw that video games actually stimulated the brain very little, but that the arithmetical calculations had the brain firing on all cylinders.   This surprising finding urged Dr Kawashima into further research and he has shown that mathematical calculations stimulate the brain, help to lay down neural pathways and keep the brain from degenerating.  Dr Kawashima has this to say, “The prefrontal cortex, the area for thinking and learning, of both hemispheres [of the brain] is active during simple calculation.  Dealing with numbers is an important and sophisticated activity for human beings. … From primary school to college, simple calculation triggers brain activity. … Calculation is extremely helpful in training and developing your brain.” (p.34).  He goes on to make the following recommendation:  ‘Before studying something difficult, do a little calculating for just a minute or two.  You will be able to study more efficiently because various parts of your brain

February 19, 2021

A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO SETTING GOALS WITH YOUR CHILD FOR THIS NEW YEAR

The start of a new school year is a time when resolutions and goals are a trending topic for many — even for kids! Many kids have dreams and ideas on what they want to accomplish, but it can be hard to remember with so many other activities going on. That’s why creating a goals list with your child is a great way to start the new school year. Why create a list of goals with your child for the year? Creating lists in general allows for better structure, accountability, and productivity, regardless of the topic. That’s why for kids to turn their goals into a reality, it helps to have a list in one place to plan and serve as a reminder. To create a list, we put together this step-by-step guide on how to help your child set goals for the year. 1. Have a discussion as a family to learn more about your child’s ideas. Have a discussion as a family to start thinking about the things you’d like to tackle this year. This can be taking a family holiday, donating items around the house to those in need, or reconnecting with friends that you may not have seen in some time. Kids are often eager to add to the conversation, and it might even bring up some new ideas you haven’t considered. It’s also a great place to start as it will get them excited to consider what they want to do on their own. 2. Ask your child specific questions Prompt your child by asking specific questions. For example, if they want to go on holiday, find out where. Somewhere in the bush? A place where they can swim? Although some locations may not be as easy to get to as others, it can spark ideas to include on the list. You can also break down the questions into categories such as learning, giving, health and wellness, personal achievements, academics, or even seasonal. Here are some questions for inspiration: How many books do you want to read this year? What new sport do you want to try? What do you want to be when you grow up? Is there a meal or snack you’ve been wanting to make? Do you have items you don’t use anymore that you want to donate? How can you help someone in need this year? 3. Break down their answers into actionable steps. If your child wants to read 10 books this year, you can break it down to one book each month. You can also incorporate smaller related goals that are related to reading such as researching / drawing up a list of book titles they’d like to read, reading a book on holiday, or even creating a reading nook at home. The items will help make that big goal of reading 10 books achievable and a fun process along the way. This step will show them that there are so many possibilities that stem from one idea! 4. Help your child create the list on paper. Once you have talked through some of your child’s goals for the year, it’s time to create the list. You can have your child write these out, type a list on the computer to print out, or turn it into a vision board to show it in a fun and engaging way. Whichever list method you choose, make sure it can be hung in your home. 5. Hang up the list somewhere it’s seen daily. Now that the list is complete, hang it up in a spot that is seen frequently. Seeing it daily will be a consistent reminder and motivator to achieve these goals. They will be excited to see items that they can check off and work towards more on their list. 6. Revise, add, or remove. A goals list can always be revised. Once your child learns a new instrument, they may want to learn to play a song. Maybe they realize they don’t love swimming but want to try karate. Continue to discuss the list of goals with your child and revise or add to it. Your child’s goals list for the year is simply a tool to help them think more about what they want to achieve and take action to do it! 7. Recognize and reflect on achievements It’s exciting to accomplish goals, big or small! Instill a feeling of success by recognizing and celebrating these achievements with your child. Once the year comes to an end, it will be an amazing experience to reflect on everything that they accomplished and set even more goals moving forward! THE TAKEAWAY Your child has a lot of things they want to accomplish. The start of the new year is a great time to discuss these goals with them and help create a list they can refer to throughout the year. Taking the time to set goals with your child will help them get motivated to take action in all areas of their life. This article is from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website: https://www.kumon.com/resources/a-step-by-step-guide-to-setting-goals-with-your-child-for-the-new-year/ 

February 18, 2021
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