Send Factor

Each child has a unique way of learning.  The three learning modalities are the sensory channels we use to obtain and process information.  Visual learners process information best with pictures and diagrams; these children learn best seeing things.  Auditory learners learn best by listening and discussing things.  Kinesthetic learners learn best with a hands on approach.  Most children learn through all three learning modalities.

Temperament theory states that all people differ in their interests, attitudes, judgments, and perceptions.  This greatly affects how we want to learn, what we want to learn, and the way we learn.  When a parent learns what their child temperament style is, they can plan out how to effectively teach their child.  There are four temperament styles:  where the attention is focused, how information is acquired, how decisions are made, and work habits and lifestyle.  The child is either extroverted or introverted, which means either focusing on outside objects, people events or inner world of ideas.  The child is either sensing, which means the child acquires information from the senses (concrete and present) or intuition, which focuses on insight, inspiration, future, and possibility.  The child either makes decisions based on logical analysis and cause and effect (thinking) or on personal values and the affect on the self (feeling).   Lastly, the child prefers their life to be orderly and structured (judging) or spontaneous and flexible (perceiving).

Howard Gardner, originator of multiple intelligences, defines seven kinds of intelligence.  Most children have strengths in two or three of them and need work on the rest.  One kind of intelligence is verbal/linguistic, which is speaking and reading.  Another type of intelligence is logical/mathematical, which is concepts and abstract patterns.  Another kind of intelligence is visual/special which is thinking in images, pictures, shapes, and colors.  Another kind of intelligence is musical, such as rhythm, pitch, melody and harmony.  Another type of intelligence is bodily/kinesthetic, which is touch, making, and doing.  And yet another type of intelligence is interpersonal, which is relating and cooperating with people.  Last but not least is intrapersonal, which is independence and self-motivation.

Learning how your child perceives the world around him/her and learns will allow you to maximize their intellectual strengths and teach them effectively.

Immunization

There is a lot of information out about immunizing your child, and a lot of opinion and controversy.  There is a lot of mis-information available as well.  No matter what choice you make, these are things you need to do before your child can start school.  Before your child starts kindergarten, he or she will need to have a physical performed by a doctor.  Your school should provide the forms, including the immunization paperwork.
If you have completed immunizations, the nurse can complete the dates for all the shots and give any that are still needed.  If you have chosen not to immunize, you will probably need to make an appointment with the healthy department.  This will vary from state to state.  In Utah, you have to meet with a nurse who will tell you all the harmful effects to your child by not immunizing.  You have to stick to your decision, and then they sign the waiver.  There can be a lot of pressure on you if you have chosen not to immunize your child.  Make sure you are well informed and can explain your choice.
As your child progresses through school, they may need boosters to their previous shots.  When they begin junior high, they will need all the paperwork completed again, or copied from the elementary school.
Whatever choice you make with your children and their health, make sure you are aware of the pros and cons and make your choice wisely.  It’s often easier to immunize and avoid the pressure that is associated with choosing not to.  However, if you feel strongly about not subjecting your children to the shots, be informed about your choice.  Make the right choice for you and your children.

Proper eating at home can make the difference in your child’s behavior during the school day.  If they have good nutrition at home it will give them the energy they need to get through the day, and give their brain what it needs to think.
Children that don’t eat breakfast or don’t eat well can be too tired during the school day.  It is difficult to learn when you can’t stay awake.  Morning time can be a big rush out the door, but it is important to take the time for breakfast.
Stocking up on fast breakfast choices is easier than you think.  I usually cook a hot breakfast on the weekends and Monday mornings.  I make extra pancake batter for waffles or pancakes and freeze the cooked item.  I lay out each pancake or waffle flat on a cookie sheet until they are frozen and then toss them in a freezer baggie.  They keep their shape because they are frozen and my kids can pop them in the toaster for breakfast.  There are other ideas you can come up with to make breakfast easier.
It’s easy to provide a nutritious breakfast in the midst of the morning scuttle.  My kids usually fix cereal before I get up in the morning.  If this happens in your home as well, supplement the cereal with some orange juice or other fruit drink.  Add toast with jam or try some slices of fresh fruit with their cereal.
There are many products on the market that make breakfast fast and simple.  Breakfast bars can provide many nutrients that are needed for healthy bodies.  Adding milk or juice can give an extra boost.  Make sure whatever you fix for breakfast will fill your child up until lunch and will give them the energy they need.