Educational

Tips for Learning How to Write in Cursive

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1. Familiarize yourself with the cursive alphabet and letterforms. Pay attention to the different letter connections and shapes. Common connections include the loops at the top of letters like “b,” “e,” and “o,” as well as the tails on letters like “g,” “j,” and “y.” Practice writing each letter individually before attempting to write words.

2.  Make sure to maintain proper posture. Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor and your writing surface at a comfortable height. Position the paper at a slight angle to the left (for right-handed writers) or to the right (for left-handed writers) to improve control and visibility.

3. Cursive writing typically has a consistent slant, usually between 45 to 60 degrees. This slant adds a more elegant and uniform look to your cursive writing. Maintain this slant throughout your writing.

4. Emphasize proper spacing. Space between letters should be consistent, and words should be evenly spaced. Avoid overcrowding or excessive spacing between words.

5. Control your speed. Take your time when practicing cursive. Speed will come naturally with practice, but initially, focus on forming each letter correctly. Write slowly and deliberately to improve your control and legibility.

6. Develop your signature style. As you become more proficient in cursive, you can develop your unique style. Experiment with the shape and size of your letters to create a personalized script.

 Remember that the goal of cursive writing is not just legibility but also aesthetics. Take pride in your writing, and over time, you’ll develop a unique and beautiful cursive script. If your child needs help learning cursive, call us at 727-441-4444.

Jen NickersonTips for Learning How to Write in Cursive
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The Link Between Nutrition and Education

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A crucial aspect that often goes overlooked in the quest for academic excellence is nutrition. Nutrition plays a pivotal role in shaping your child’s cognitive development, concentration, and overall ability to learn. Nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates are essential for brain development and maintenance.

Inadequate nutrition can lead to cognitive impairments, reduced attention spans, and difficulty in processing information—all of which can hamper a student’s ability to learn effectively.

Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like fish, nuts, and seeds, are essential for building and maintaining brain cell membranes. Additionally, choline, present in eggs and leafy greens, is crucial for memory and cognitive function.

Balanced blood sugar levels are essential for maintaining focus and concentration. Consuming complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains and fruits, provides a steady supply of glucose to the brain, preventing energy crashes and the inability to concentrate. Nutrition also has a profound impact on mood and behavior. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can contribute to better emotional regulation and overall well-being.

One of the most crucial aspects of nutrition in education is breakfast. Often referred to as the most important meal of the day, a breakfast with a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats provides the brain with the energy it needs to kick-start your child’s day. 

Kristen HarperThe Link Between Nutrition and Education
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Tornado in a Bottle Science Experiment For Younger Kids

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  1. Fill your bottle about ¾ full with clean water.
  2. Add a small squirt of dish soap to your water.
  3. Add food coloring or glitter for a more vibrant effect (optional).
  4. Tightly seal your bottle.
  5. After all of these steps are finished, rapidly spin your bottle in circular motion until you see a tiny spinning tornado!
Kristen HarperTornado in a Bottle Science Experiment For Younger Kids
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Ways to Help Your Child with Spelling

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  1. Drill daily: Make sure your child is keeping in the work to improve and progressively getting better day by day as he trains to become a better speller.
  2. Encourage spelling: Always acknowledge good work and remind him to keep it up. If he ever loses confidence, be willing to work with him and make learning more enjoyable.
  3. Make spelling fun: Incorporate games in the activities. Learning to spell will be much more fun when your child is able to look forward to games that will help with his progress.
  4. Let your child move at his own pace: Never rush him to learn anything that he’s not getting. Every child has his own gradient. Allow him to process what he is learning at his own pace. It is also important to recognize his progress. Don’t keep him on a spelling level that he has already spent enough time drilling. Acknowledge his progress and allow him to move on once he’s ready.
Kristen HarperWays to Help Your Child with Spelling
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Ways to Improve Your Child’s Reading Skills

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  1. Read aloud together: Make it a habit to read aloud to your child every day. This helps them develop a love for reading and exposes them to a variety of vocabulary and storytelling styles.
  2. Set aside daily reading time: Have them choose a convenient time each day to read independently. Encourage them to choose books from genres that they enjoy and find most interesting.
  3. Create a reading-friendly environment: Set up a cozy reading nook in your home with comfortable seating, good lighting, and a selection of age-appropriate books. Make sure it is a quiet and distraction-free space, where your child can concentrate on reading.
  4. Visit the library regularly: Take them to the library on a regular basis and let them choose their own books. Librarians can also recommend age-appropriate books and help your child find topics they are interested in.
  5. Encourage writing and storytelling: Encourage your child to write their own stories, poems, or journal entries. This helps them develop their writing skills and allows them to express their creativity.
  6. Be a reading role model: Make sure that your child knows why reading is so important and that they are going to need it in life. Encourage them to keep reading and to find the definition of any misunderstood words so they can always understand what they’re reading.
Kristen HarperWays to Improve Your Child’s Reading Skills
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Is Your Child Having Trouble in School?

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Imagine the impact that low academic skills can have on your child’s future. Visualize the disappointment they feel when they find it difficult to understand concepts in class or struggle to complete assignments. These obstacles can hinder their progress and limit their potential to achieve greatness. However, there is a solution that can turn the tide in their favor: one-on-one tutoring that is customized to fit what your child needs.

Our students regularly achieve a full grade level of improvement with less that 30 hours of tutoring. Please call us at 727-441-4444. We are eager to help your child succeed!

Kristen HarperIs Your Child Having Trouble in School?
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