Fall 2016
Back to School Edition
An advertising supplement of the Moscow-Pullman Daily News and Lewiston Tribune
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Wednesday, August 17, 2016
For Kids. By Kids.
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VOICE OF THE YOUTH
VOICE OF THE YOUTH ›››
For Kids. By Kids.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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How to help kids transition back to the classroom Courtesy of Metro Editorial
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he dawn of a new school year is an exciting time. Kids may not want to say goodbye to days spent lounging by the pool, but such disappointment is often tempered by the prospect of returning to school with friends. For parents, getting kids ready for a new school year is about more than updating their wardrobe or organizing carpools with fellow parents. Reacclimating kids to the routine of school after a relaxing summer is a significant undertaking, and the following are a handful of ways for parents to get a head start as the school year draws closer.
• Establish a routine over the last few weeks of summer.
Summer vacations typically lack the structure of the school year, and that lack of structure can help kids unwind and make the most of the freedom that summer vacation provides. But as summer starts to wind down, parents can begin to reintroduce some structure into their kids’ lives to make the transition back to school go more smoothly. Plan morning activities so kids can readjust to waking up early each day. In addition, serve breakfast, lunch and dinner at the same time you typically serve it during the school year so kids’ bodies can begin to readjust as well.
• Take kids along when shopping for school supplies. If you
plan to buy your child a new computer or other supplies for the upcoming school year, take him or her along on your shopping trips. Kids who get to choose their supplies might be more excited about returning to school than those youngsters who are given what they need without offering their input.
• Monitor or assign summer reading. Many students are given summer
reading lists to keep their minds sharp over the summer and prepare them for upcoming coursework. Parents should monitor kids’ progress on such reading lists and even discuss the books with their kids when possible. Read the books along with them if you think it will help engage them. If kids were not assigned summer reading lists at the end of the school year, assign your own books, rewarding kids when they finish a new book. Kids who read throughout the summer may be more likely to start the school year off on the right foot than those who don’t crack a book all summer.
• Encourage kids to sign up for extracurricular activities. Many school-
aged athletes get a head start on the new school year by trying out for sports teams.
Editorial sy of Metro Photo Courte sevveral can employ rigors ts n re a p r, re the readjust to r draws nea school yea gies to help their kids classroom. As a new e te sttra of th
Such tryouts often commence a week or two before a school year is scheduled to begin, and this can help kids ease their way back into the school year. But even nonathletes can begin pursuing extracurricular activities before the first school bell of the year rings. Theater programs may begin auditions or encourage interested youngsters to attend orientation meetings before the dawn of the school year, and such sessions can be a great and pressure-free way for kids to ready themselves for a new school year. The arrival of a new school year can be both exciting and daunting. But parents can help their youngsters readjust to school in various ways after a relaxing summer.
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For Kids. By Kids.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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VOICE OF THE YOUTH
Stock up on students’ tech supplies Courtesy of Metro Editorial
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hopping for back-to-school supplies was once limited to picking up a few folders, spiral-bound notebooks and assorted writing implements. But today’s students need much more, including a variety of technological gadgets, to keep up with their classmates. Technology is now an integral part of many classrooms, where Internet-ready devices such as tablets, computers and smartboards are part of daily lessons. Although some educators believe overuse of such devices in the classroom can have a negative impact on students and make it more difficult to capture and hold students’ attention, many feel that technology integrated into the curriculum improves students’ learning processes and outcomes, noting that interactive media and use of technology are conducive to project-based learning. Many students already know how to browse the Internet, create blogs or manipulate photos. But they may not know how to make use of digital resources with regard to their education. Students cannot learn such lessons unless they are equipped with the tools to facilitate digital learning. Parents who want their youngsters to embrace technology as part of their education may want to consider the following devices.
• Internet-ready devices: Internetready devices include desktop computers, laptops, Chromebooks, tablets, and even smartphones. Assignments may require that students use the Internet, and many of today’s teachers create their own websites where they list assignments or post links to supplemental materials. Students may have to confer with teachers via email or share materials with classmates. • Word-processing applications:
Whether students are writing a 20-page term paper or have to type up a short summary for a homework assignment, eventually they will need access to word-processing software that includes basic typing, editing and desktop publishing functions. Many computer software bundles come with a word processor pre-installed. If not, software is available for purchase or parents can download free shareware. Examples of wordprocessing software include Microsoft Word, Wordperfect, TextMaker, Corel Write, and Google Docs.
years ahead. Students who need to stream movies or other content or upload and download large picture or text files often find high-speed Internet invaluable.
• Digital planners: Many devices come with calendars and planner functions built in, and those that don’t can often be upgraded by simply downloading an app that performs such functions. A calendar is a handy tool for students who need to keep current on assignments and tests, extracurricular activities and other important dates to remember. Students may want to lean toward a calendar app that is integrated across many platforms. This way calendar events can be synched and viewed on phones, laptops and tablets.
• Phones: Smartphones are akin to mini computers capable of more functions than one can imagine. Kids can use their phones to get a head start on homework assignments or to email teachers if they forget an assignment at school. In addition, students who have their own smartphones can easily contact their parents in case of emergencies, and parents can rest easy knowing their kids are always just a phone call or text message away. Depending on the courses they take, students may need additional gadgets, such as graphing calculators, scanners and printers. Parents can speak their kids’ teachers to determine which devices will support lessons students are learning in the classroom.
• High-speed Internet: Households that have not yet upgraded to digital Internet services are well behind the times. Many cable and fiber optic television providers now offer television, Internet and phone bundles for reasonable fees. Compared to the dialup services and initial coaxial Internet of yesteryear, today’s Internet speeds are light
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VOICE OF THE YOUTH ›››
For Kids. By Kids.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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Indicators of kids’ readiness for kindergarten Courtesy of Metro Editorial
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indergarten can be a pivotal time in a young child’s life. Although many kids attend preschool or receive guided learning at home, kindergarten marks students’ first official foray into the classroom. This is an exciting time for kids and parents, and also one that may be fraught with nerves. That is especially true for parents who are not quite sure if their children are ready to begin their academic careers. While many school districts mandate that students must be at least five years old to begin kindergarten, age is not the only factor to consider when gauging kids’ readiness for school. Child-education experts note that there is no single factor that determines kids’ readiness for school, but rather there is a host of factors that, when taken together, can help parents determine if their youngster is ready for the rigors of the classroom. The following are some factors parents can consider as they try to determine if their children are ready to enroll in kindergarten.
• Separation anxiety: Does your child handle separation well, or is he or she prone to meltdowns each time you leave for even a short period of time? School requires kids to spend several hours away from home and away from their parents, and parents might need to take steps to increase youngsters’ comfort levels away from home before school begins.
• Follows instructions: Experts at BabyCenter.com advise that children who are able to listen to simple instructions and follow them will be more apt to thrive in classroom settings. They also will be more capable of keeping up with teachers and peers.
• Self-sufficiency: Has your child exhibited signs that he or she can be selfreliant? This includes putting on his or her coat, dressing himself or herself and being able to use the bathroom on his or her own. If not, then you might need to work on the child’s self-sufficiency before school begins. • Cursory knowledge of letters/ numbers: While children on the verge of
entering kindergarten need not be experts in language and mathematics, kindergarten curricula has become more rigorous thanks to the implementation of new standards. As a result, children should be able to recognize some letters and numbers before starting school. They do not necessarily have to enter school knowing them all or being able to read fluently, but the more familiar they are with language and mathematics the more likely they are to have a successful year in kindergarten.
occasionally cry in the kindergarten classroom, it’s important that your child be able to cope with some of the ups and downs of classroom life without shedding tears.
• Interest in learning: Another indicator of school readiness is a general experts affiliated with Care.com say that interest in learning. Children who like hearing children on the verge of entering kindergarten stories, enjoy participating in discussions and should be able to control their emotions to a activities and are stimulated by information certain extent. While children may and interactions with others are probably • Coping strategies: Parenting
ready to begin their academic careers. Kindergarten readiness can be determined by many factors. Age alone does not dictate a child’s readiness, as there are many additional potential indicators that can help parents determine if their youngsters are ready to begin school.
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For Kids. By Kids.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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VOICE OF THE YOUTH
Latah County Youth Ambassadors and Gritman Junior Volunteers recently held their 4th annual retreat to discuss community programs and opportunities. The afternoon sessions included adults from each of our six Latah County communities working together to provide #DrugFreeFun activities. What is an LCYAC Youth Ambassador?
What is a Gritman Junior Volunteer?
• Youth Ambassadors are high school students from six • Junior Volunteers work with hospital staff in several Latah County schools. These students pledge to abstain hospital departments. They provide support and extra from illegal substances and participation in other risky hands that allow our caring staff to devote even more behaviors. time to providing excellent patient care. • Youth Ambassadors work to create opportunities that • Junior Volunteers are ages 14-18 and represent the promote healthy attitudes while enhancing their own Palouse region in Washington and Idaho. They actively leadership skills. They serve in their communities and support the community with Back to School Drives, a collaborate on county-wide events. Thanksgiving Food Drive and a Holiday Toy Drive. • There are 27 Youth Ambassadors representing Moscow, • There are 30 Junior Volunteers providing care and Potlatch, Kendrick/Juliaetta, Deary, Troy, and Genesee. compassion to our patients, staff and community.
#DrugFreeFun Find LCYAC and Gritman JV’s on Facebook Email lcyac@latah.id.us/volunteer@gritman.org for more information
VOICE OF THE YOUTH ›››
For Kids. By Kids.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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How parents can get involved at school Courtesy of Metro Editorial
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esearch indicates that children whose parents get involved with their education are more likely to earn better grades and less likely to have behavior problems in the classroom. The concept of parents working in conjunction with schools is nothing new. A 1987 study by Paul G. Fehrmann and colleagues documented the importance of parental involvement on their child’s grades. Published in the Journal of Education Research, the study found that when parents stayed directly involved in their child’s studies throughout high school, the child’s grades improved. There are many different reasons for parents to get involved with their child’s school and the community. Helping their children succeed is just one of them. The choice is just how to go about connecting with the school. Here are a few ideas.
Work with the teacher
Teachers are increasingly facing obstacles with regards to time and funding. Many must preside over large classes and are responsible for outfitting their classrooms with certain supplies. This presents ideal opportunities for parents to step up and pitch in. Volunteering in your child’s classroom is a good way for you to help his or her teacher and get a firsthand account of what your child is doing in class. You may be asked to prepare and package homework assignments or put together materials for craft projects. Some teachers welcome parents who come in to read books to the class or even give spelling tests. Think about chaperoning a field trip or helping with the set-up and clean-up of class parties. If you keep an open dialogue with the teacher through phone calls or e-mail, you may be presented with plenty of opportunities to get involved.
Attend meetings
Parent-teacher associations or organizations are often instrumental in helping a school to run smoothly. They are the people behind fundraisers and special activities outside of the classroom. The PTA is
also privy to information on upcoming events before the rest of the school community. Attending monthly meetings can keep you up to speed on the goings-on at your child’s school. It will also ensure your voice is heard with regards to school policy. Showing your face at meetings will also give you the opportunity to meet other parents.
Attend special events
Not every parent can serve on the PTAor be present in the daily activities of the classroom. However, you can show your support by attending special events hosted by the school -such as fundraisers or field-day activities.
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torial Photo Courtesy of Metro Edi ce. riennce xpeerie i g exp l rnin ld’ lea h ld’s e their chi the classroom to help improv in ls skil ir the eer unt vol Parents can
Volunteer your time with the setup of teacher-appreciation lunches and bake sales, serve as a tour guide for the school when new parents are invited, build sets or make costumes for a school play, or take pictures of events and create a collage to be put on display in the school.
Volunteer your skills
Some schools can benefit from the specialized skills of parents. Ask if you can come in and talk about your job or hobby and demonstrate it to the class. Individuals
who have technology skills can volunteer to install computer software or to run networking throughout the school. If you have a background in print layout, find out if you can help design and publish the school newsletter or yearbooks. Anytime a parent volunteers his or her time, that means less funding has to go to hiring an outside vendor for the job, saving the school money it sorely needs. Being involved in your child’s school sets a positive example for your kids and provides their school with some much-needed assistance.
Welcome Back Students! Lewiston Public Schools Open Wednesday, August 31st Independent School District #1 3317 12th Street, Lewiston ID www.lewistonschools.net 483825HQ-16
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For Kids. By Kids.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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VOICE OF THE YOUTH
How to buy school clothes without busting your budget Courtesy of Metro Editorial
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arents often note that kids seem to grow like weeds. Pants that once reached to the tops of a youngster’s feet quickly become too short, while once-loose shirts may soon become too snug. Many parents find themselves regularly in children’s clothing departments stocking up on the basics, which can put quite a dent in already stretched-thin budgets. Although children’s wardrobes are added to at various times of the year, the bulk of shopping occurs just before the school year begins. Though clothing can be expensive, families need not bust their budgets when shopping for kids’ clothing. By shopping smart and concentrating on fashion staples, it’s easier to stretch money further.
• Spread out purchases.
Shopping early allows parents to make the most of sales. Warm weather clothing generally goes on sale in July to make room for new fall lines. Considering the first few months of school still may be warm, short-sleeved shirts will still have utility and are generally less expensive than sweaters and sweatshirts. Staggering purchases also enables parents to develop a clothing allowance each and every month instead of having one large bill at a certain point in the year. Parents can even add to their children’s wardrobes during the holiday season, when clothes tend to get reduced again for holiday sales.
• Don’t discount hand-medowns. It’s trendy to recycle clothing
and also to be environmentally conscious by putting items to good use again and again. Aside from you and your wallet, no one will know if your child is wearing a secondhand pair of pants or a brand new pair. Many school moms are anxious to swap clothing with others to lessen their own financial burdens with children’s clothing. Start a clothing swap with a group of friends, and you may find you have more than you need in the way of clothes for the kids.
• Take stock of what you already have. How many times
have you run out to the grocery store for a missing ingredient only to find that very item buried at the back of the pantry? The same thing happens with kids’ clothes. Before taking kids clothes shopping, take inventory of their closets. Have little ones try on clothes to see which items still fit and which can be
discarded or donated. Make a list of the items you need too cut down on impulse spending att the store.
• Invest in the right ight g high-quality pieces. es.
Spending a fortune for a at trendy pair of pants that ned may end up getting ruined ot on the playground is not or the best way to shop for kids’ clothing. However,r, air investing in a quality pair of shoes that will last much of estment. the year is a good investment. Know when to splurge and when it’s okay to shop at the discount store.
• Stock up on staples. A straight-legg cut
lored of jeans, some solid colored ne polo shirts and an A-line dress or skirt are some es for classic foundation pieces children’s wardrobes. Such er than items tend to last longer trendy items that may onlyy re the last a few months before next trend arrives.
• Learn to layer. r.
Layering items can make ke pieces look like new byy putting them together inn different combinations. hirt Layering a summer T-shirt ts under a fall hoodie gets use out of two differentt es. season’s worth of clothes. It also enables kids to be comfortable during unpredictable weather.
• Leave it to thee kids. Parents often
worry about what otherr parents will think of their own children’s clothing. Children do not typically worry about such things until their preteen or teenage years. You may spend less money on clothing simply because your child has a few favorite shirts and pants he or she wears over and over. That’s less laundry for you and less money you have to spend on new clothes.
VOICE OF THE YOUTH ›››
For Kids. By Kids.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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How students can handle the transition to middle school Courtesy of Metro Editorial
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child's school-aged years are filled with many different lessons and experiences. While in school, kids have the opportunity to broaden their horizons and meet new people. Many students will attend various schools before moving on to college, and therefore they must learn how to adjust to new schools. While many students attend elementary school together for years, students may not know their classmates once they make it to middle school, which tends to boast larger student bodies than elementary schools. That's because many middle schools' student bodies are a combination of several elementary schools. Making the transition from elementary school to middle school or junior high can spark anxiety in students, but that does not have to be. The National Education Association says a common element of a successful middle school experience is a smooth and positive transition from elementary school. The following are a
few ways students can handle their transition to middle school.
• Participate in a school-based transition program. Middle schools
frequently host open houses for elementary school students, who can take tours of the campus. Parents can take part in these events with their children. If your schedule does not allow you to attend, then schedule a private tour with the middle school principal or a faculty member. Middle school guidance counselors or guest speakers also may make the rounds, visiting elementary schools directly. Be sure your student attends such information sessions so he or she can get an idea of what to expect during middle school.
• Dispel any myths your youngster might have heard about middle school. Youngsters hear lots of
things about middle schools, and much of what kids hear might be untrue. Ask kids what they have heard about the schools they will be moving on to, and then do your best to dispel
any myths.
• Find a middle school buddy. Ask an older sibling or invite
someone who is currently enrolled in the school to speak with your child and answer any questions he or she may have. Hearing directly from a fellow student may make your child feel more comfortable about what to expect.
• Talk about any other fears. Engage in an open dialogue
with your son or daughter about any additional fears he or she may have. If students are worried about academics, spend some time over the summer going over the curriculum. If the potential for peer pressure is a cause for concern, reinforce advice on how to react to peer pressure. Parents and their children can take several steps to make students' transitions to middle school as smooth as possible.
Palouse Empire Gymnastics Teaching cartwheels and life skills to the children on the Palouse since 1990!
Now Enrolling for Fall Semester Classes Ages 18mos-18yrs. 810 North Almon, Moscow (208) 882-6408 PalouseEmpireGymnastics.com
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For Kids. By Kids.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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VOICE OF THE YOUTH
Check out submissions from our readers! Natalie's Summer Trip by Natalie McCollum, age 7 from Lewiston, ID
I
t was a long trip, but I didn’t care, because I couldn’t wait to have fun on the beach. I spent hours doing cartwheels through the waves. My hair was soaking wet! We looked for sea shells while I dried off. I can’t wait to go back to the Oregon Coast again.
The Crown by Marissa Jo Peterson, age 8
O
nce upon a time in Pink Windfalls, it was very lonely with one elementary school, one high school and a college. But the college had something special about it. No one knew what, not even the principal. One day a lady came. She said she was an inspector, but she was really a witch in disguise. And when she came, she said, “Hi ho. Yes, no. Anything, please.” Everybody liked her except the Mana kids, which their
names are Jacksie, Josie, and Aleen. They thought that the inspector was a witch trying to get the crown that was gold. One day, Jacksie and her mom were picking up Josie from the college. While they were walking, Jacksie saw the inspector lady ask her mom to give her the password. Her mom said okay. The password was 2M0326. Jacksie knew that was not good at all. That night Jacksie talked to Tricia, her cloud friend who said to talk to Mrs. Lad and Mrs. Newt at the college.
“That will help. Okay,” Jacksie said, “but if it doesn’t work then I will be mad.” When Jacksie found them she said, “Hey, Mrs. Lad, can I talk to you and Mrs. Newt?” “Yes, you may.” “You know that inspector lady?” “Yes. What about her?” “She is a witch.” “She is?” “Yes,” Jacksie told her. “Do you know how to change the password on the crown?” “Yes, I do.” So she changed it to 25G39. And the inspector witch never got the crown. But they got her wand.
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For Kids. By Kids.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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VOICE OF THE YOUTH
We love to see our children and teens running for the goal line, hitting an ace ball, and going for the slam dunk, but do we know if they are getting the nutrition they need to fuel those activities? Our kids in sports activities need the right amount and mix of foods to support their higher level of activity. Join us for this FREE informational seminar to learn the nutritional demands of young athletes at all ages, meal and snack ideas, game day eating tips, and how to keep your kids hydrated while playing hard throughout the year.
Fueling up for Fall Sports
Fueling up all for FFall Sports! Sports!
Nutritional Demands of Young Athletes Jennifer Raykovich RDN, LD, CD Tri-State Memorial Hospital Nutrition Therapy
Wednesday • August 24, 2016 6:00pm to 7:00pm Conference Room • Tri-State Memorial Hospital For more information, call 509.758.5511 Ext. 5170
Join us for these FREE seminars! STRAINS • SPRAINS • BROKEN BONES DEHYDRATION • CONCUSSION In the United States, approximately 30 million children and teens participate in some form of organized sports with more than 3.5 million injuries each year. We love to watch our children have fun in sports, but no parent wants to see their child hurt or in danger. Join us for this FREE event to learn how to teach our children to play hard, yet play it safe in school sports and activities.
Play Hard, Play Safe! Safety in School Sports Carson Seeber, MD & Jeremy Ostermiller, PA-C Tri-State Family Practice
Tuesday • September 13, 2016 6:00pm to 7:00pm Conference Room • Tri-State Memorial Hospital For more information, please call 509.758.1450
PLAY HARD, PLAY SAFE!
Safety in School Sports
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1221 Highland Avenue, Clarkston, WA 509.758.5511 | www.TriStateHospital.org
Your Health Is Our First Priority!