School Anxiety

School mornings can be terribly long for a parent when a child repeatedly resists going to school. Sometimes there are things at school bothering a child. If that is the case let the teacher know. Sometimes home just looks a whole lot better. When the latter is the case the most important thing is getting them here. Whatever their mood or appearance if the child is in class whenever class is in session everybody wins. Usually within five minutes of arrival they are fitting right into class and doing their work. Children who are more sensitive this way often have a more difficult time after having some time off. Whether it is due to a vacation or illness this can start the tears flowing. Calmly and quietly getting them here is usually the best choice.

Chicago Superbowl

In "86 the Art Institute lions were wearing football helmets. The S on the entrance to then Sears Tower was replaced with a B. The Picasso was wearing a headband. It was great fun. It was a good time to be a sports fan even if you weren't a sports fan. This may not be the week of the national Superbowl but in '86 we weren't playing the Packers. I have seen some brave souls here wearing green and gold. I know other Packer fans who will be watching with Bear fans. It will get us through one more winter weekend.

Bears Weather

Growing up in Chicago will not make you a wimp. The students went out for recess today. It feels like the first time in a quite a while. On the positive side, when left to a winter long choice between cabin fever, and single digit wind chill you have the opportunity to develop a serious sense of humor. January in Illinois will foster a fine appreciation for the absurd. It is no accident so many comedians grew up here. Midwestern values and stamina are nice perks too. Go Bears!

Rewarding Good Behavior

Most adults think they are more often positive than negative with children. Research shows that we are most often neutral. We have added more positive reinforcement here and have seen our already typically good behavior become even better. All you have to do is let children know you notice them doing things correctly. It really does work.