There Is Hope

Rebekah

First, Mom take a breath! You need to take a step back . If possible, put this subject to the side for a bit, or go back a chapter, just step back. I would then go to prayer for guidance. I seek daily for wisdom to see the BIG picture and to know the best way I can encourage and grow this amazing child. My biggest advice is for neither you nor your child to give up on mastering a subject. I had one student struggle with reading for years. However, once he had mastered a firm foundation, through repeated practice, that child advanced several grade levels in reading all in just one year! It was on his own timing. He ended up embracing reading not hating it. I think that was because we would not let him give up. He kept getting back up and trying again. A lesson that crossed boundaries and impacted all of life. Often, it only took repeated practice and so I would offer rewards for hard work and consistent training. An athlete does, so why not a student? I also found that often it was I who needed to change my approach in teaching the subject. Maybe I needed to make something more Hands-On, or a video worked better than just reading a text. Sometimes I just needed to offer something that was more visually appealing or centered around a passion. We might add in some music or a field trip. We try to make everyday a little different. Create an atmosphere for family life long learning and make learning fun! Everyday, we also all needed encouragement! By focusing on the positive growth while pointing out the errors, the child grew in confidence and was soon spotting errors on his own. Before long the child was encouraging me and others as he learned that it is a gift we all need. These are just a few tips to enocurage you to keep on encouraging and running your race. Best wishes!

Rebekah

Ok, so I have a fourteen year old son and a husband who love having food in their fingers! Anything I can have on hand for those hands. Constants have been "Goldfish" Crackers, Crackers and Cheese , Mini Tacos, Pizza Rolls, Chicken Nuggets and any cold finger dessert (ex: Ice Cream Sandwich). You may cringe at these ideas, but I assure you there are ways to make them healthier. Also, with balance, it can be a fun part of their daily intake. Our son has remained healthy and active despite his love for finger foods and several small meals throughout the day. He is on too something! Paper Towels are a must, so be sure and keep them on hand. Be ready for finger prints everywhere. Just smile and wipe them up, for they come from the joy of giving food for the health of your family. Visit our fun life, as we embrace each day at www.thereishopeblog.blogspot.com