Scholarship guide

2010 INDONESIAN ARTS AND CULTURE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME

2010-09-29T14:12:00.002+07:00

Short Term Programme

The Indonesian Arts and Culture Scholarship

26 July – 22 October 2010

The Indonesian Arts and Culture Scholarship has been conducted since 2003 and was initially offered to and participated by member countries of the South West Pacific Dialogue (SwPD); Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, and the host Indonesia.

Bearing in mind the significance and advantages obtained from the program, the offer was expanded over the years to include member countries of ASEAN, ASEAN+3, and PIF, as well as India and South Africa. In 2008, Indonesia welcomed the participation of Azerbaijan, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States and Austria. This year, the Government of Indonesia will give the opportunity for participants from Germany, France (New Caledonia), Norway, Russia and Suriname.
Due to the limited space and the vast amount of interest in the program, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia in cooperation with Indonesian embassies and consulates overseas, hold a series of selection process. Taken into considerations are, among others, the participants’ background, gender and regional representation.

In order to deepen the participants’ understanding of Indonesian arts and culture, and to enhance their skills for the final performance, participants will be divided and assigned by the organising committee to different arts centers for the duration of approximately two and a half month. The arts centers are located in Bandung, West Java; Denpasar, Bali; Solo, Central Java; and Surabaya, East Java.

Participants will live within or around the arts centers, allowing for the chance to experience the local heritage and interact with the local community. Synergy between theory and practices shared inside and outside the art centers would undoubtedly become the driving force for shaping international cultures and norms, and will eventually strengthen regional as well as global understanding and cooperation at a people-to-people level.

B. OBJECTIVE

The program serves to demonstrate Indonesia’s commitment as an initiator of the establishment of South West Pacific Dialogue and as the originator member of ASEAN in advancing the social culture cooperation in the region. The program also has an objective to encourage better understanding amongst participants from member countries through Indonesia’s immensely diverse art and cultural heritage. Finally, the programme aims to cultivate a cultural of cooperation, emerging from direct contact and sharing of cultures amongst people involved in the program, leading to thriving diplomatic relations in the region and worldwide.

C. PARTICIPANTS

Participants of the 2010 IACS include 60 awardees of regional organizations of the SWPD, ASEAN+3, and PIF, as well as from India, South Africa, Azerbaijan, Austria, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom as well as from, Germany, France (New Caledonia), Norway, Russia and Suriname.

D. TIME

The non-degree arts and culture scholarship is offered for three months period of time, starting on 26 July to 22 October 2010.

E. LOCATION

The participants will be divided into four groups and assigned to the four arts centers (sanggar) located in Bandung, West Java; Denpasar, Bali; Solo, Central Java; and Surabaya, East Java.

F. LIST OF COURSES

In Bandung, West Java, participants will learn Sundanese art and culture namely the production, maintenance and appreciation to angklung; karawitan, wayang golek, and traditional dance of Sunda. They will also learn Sundanese and Indonesian Language as a component of the culture.

The participants will learn Javanese art and culture such as the process of batik and its significance; karawitan; traditional Javanese dance; and Javanese language and culture in Solo and Surabaya.

In Bali, the participants will learn Balinese art and culture, namely Balinese dance and gamelan. Each art centre will also arrange special visit to several historic as well as renowned tourist destinations for participants.

Prior to their residency at art centres, the participants will undertake 10 days of orientation in Jakarta and will learn issues such as the Aim and Objectives of the Scholarship; Introduction to Indonesian Culture; Information about Bandung, Solo, Surabaya and Denpasar.

G. The scholarship covers:

· Tuition fee (including extra-curricular activities);

· A round trip economy class ticket;

· Accommodation (board and lodging);

· Health insurance;

· Monthly allowance of Rp. 1.500.000,-.

H. ADDRESS

For the Indonesian applicants, the application form could be sent to:

THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Directorate of Public Diplomacy

Tower Building, 12th Floor

Jl. Taman Pejambon no. 6

Jakarta 10110

For the foreign applicants, the application form could be sent to:

The Embassy/the Consulate General of Indonesia in respective countries

I. CLOSING DATE

All applications should be received by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia on 24 May 2010, at the latest.

Terms and Conditions:

1. Candidates should preferably be between the ages of 19 to 26 years-old with at least a high school diploma;

2. Candidates should possess high interest and talent in arts. Arts students or those with an academic history on Indonesian culture are encouraged to apply;

3. Bearing in mind the intensity of the program, candidates are highly advised to ensure prime physical conditions, particularly for female candidates to ensure that they do not conceive prior and during the program;

4. Candidates must complete the application form (attached) and submit it along with the followings:

1) 3 (three) passport-sized photographs;

2) A photo-copy of passport with validity period at least two years. For Indonesian applicants could submit a copy of ID Card (KTP)

3) A photo-copy of academic diploma;

4) A photo-copy of the latest valid health certification from a qualified medical practitioner. On the day of leaving the origin country, participants should equipped themselves with a valid health certification from a qualified medical practitioner;

5) A letter of recommendation;

6) A personal statement declaring the following:

a. the willingness to be subject to Indonesian laws and regulations during his/her stay in Indonesia;

b. the willingness to follow all the rules and regulations set up by the organizing committee and art centers;

c. the willingness to accept the facilities provided by the organizing committee and arts centers and stay at the designated accommodations;

d. not to work or be employed for financial benefits during the program;

e. the willingness to follow the travel arrangements arranged by the organizing committee to and from Indonesia;

f. the willingness to participate in all the program arranged by the organising committee and art centers, unless, during the program, declared unfit by a qualified medical practitioner;

g. the willingness to leave Indonesia immediately after the closing ceremony, at a date determined by the organizing committee. (not required for Indonesian applicants)

5. The programme will include Indonesian language lessons. A minimum skill in Bahasa Indonesia or English will be an advantage for candidates, but is not a main criterion for the programme.

Programme:

I. Orientation programme in Jakarta, 26 July – 1 August 2010

§ Bahasa Indonesia courses;

§ Introduction to Indonesian history, culture and foreign policy;

§ Visits to museums and other Indonesian tourism landmarks;

§ An outbound training.

II. Indonesian Arts and Cultural Training, August – October 2010

§ Sundanese culture (in Bandung)

a. Angklung and arumba (traditional Sundanese instruments);

b. Wayang golek (traditional Sundanese puppetry);

c. Selected Sundanese dances;

d. Pencak silat (traditional Sundanese martial arts);

e. Extra-curricular activities, excursions and field study.

§ Javanese culture (in Solo and Surabaya)

a. Selected Javanese dances;

b. Karawitan musical arts;

c. Extra-curricular activities, excursions and field study.

§ Balinese culture (in Denpasar)

a. Selected Balinese dances;

b. Gamelan (traditional Balinese instruments);

c. Extra-curricular activities, excursions and field study.

Download Application Form "Click Here"

* For Further Assistance Please Contact :
Phone : (+62 21) 3863509
e-mail : iacs_2010@yahoo.com

Fujitsu Offers Scholarships for Indonesia

2010-01-11T16:32:00.000+07:00

computer manufacturers Fujitsu open enrollment management scholarship program's global leadership in the Japan-America Institute of Management Science (JAIMS) period of 2010. The program is open to all Indonesian people.

Achmad S Sofwan, Chief Operating Officer of Fujitsu Indonesia, said the scholarship program is aimed at providing opportunities for communities in Asia Pacific to contribute through the learning of values and different cultures, and global business.

"Until now, there have been 370 business professionals, including from Indonesia, which had won a scholarship Fujitsu. The scholarships are open in 18 Asia Pacific countries," he added in his statement

Fujitsu provides scholarships for new programs in JAIMS, the East-West Leaders Program (EWKLP) which aims to prepare a new generation of business leaders.

Registration of this scholarship application open until March 10, 2010. Followed by interviews in April and the election participants in May.

EWKLP JAIMS Fall Term 2010 will run from October 11, 2010 until January 6, 2011 in Hawaii, the U.S. and Japan. EWKLP program combines best practices from the East and West with an intensive learning format.

After the lecture in Hawaii, participants will be invited to Japan to participate in various activities related to cultural, Fujitsu and deepening of the award.

According to the story of one alumni JAIMS EWKLP Spring 2009, Angeline Melissa Simanullang, all materials provided by professors who are experts in their fields, ranging from the Western scientific tradition to the East.

"Through this program I get a profound knowledge of global business through the material a short but very practical," said winning Student's Choice Award at JAIMS-EWKLP program that followed.

"There are also a number of specific topics interesting because it provides another perspective from a business point of view of non-business," said Angeline who has now become Art Director at MAC909.

As for, another alumnus of EWKLP JAIMS-2005 is Jessica Schwarze. Beautiful woman of German descent is now known as the Head of Marketing SAP Indonesia.

"The benefits of the lessons I learned during the program an intensive four-month in Hawaii and Tokyo is truly priceless," he said.

Fujitsu awarded scholarships to JAIMS EWKLP include tuition, transportation, health insurance, and allowance for living expenses.

The requirements prospective scholarship applicants, among others, scholars of all backgrounds with a minimum GPA of 3.0, achieve a minimum TOEFL score 577/233/90 (paper / computer / internet), or a minimum TOEIC 750 or IELTS 6.5.

Applicants also must have experience of working full time at least three years (preferably five years). Further information about these scholarships can be found through http://www.fujitsu.com/scholarship site.

Fujitsu scholarship has been held since 1985 to commemorate 50 years of foundation Fujitsu. While JAIMS itself was founded in 1972 by Yoshimitsu Kohra and current president of Fujitsu Limited.

What Makes a Highly Successful Scholarship Winner?

2009-12-28T12:43:00.004+07:00

Review the following habits of scholarship winners for tips on how you can
make your scholarship quest successful.

 * Successful students always remember the five P’s – Prior
preparation prevents poor performance. Prepare for the scholarship
search early. Do not wait until your senior year.

* Successful students vigorously avoid mistakes on their essays and
applications. They always spell-check, proofread, and allow one
other person to proofread their applications and essay for errors.

* Successful students do not ignore scholarships that may be local or
those for small amounts. Scholarship amounts, even as small as
$50, can add up.

* Successful students do not rely on only one source such as the
Internet for their scholarship search. They use many resources.
Many scholarships on the Internet or in the free scholarship
searches that you find on the World Wide Web are nationally known
and are harder to win due to greater competition. Local and regional
scholarships are not found as easily through an Internet search,
although they may be easier to win because the applicant pool is
smaller. You have to use a combination of resources to find as
many scholarships to apply for as possible.

* Successful students market themselves well. In their applications,
they highlight positive aspects about their lives, especially
community involvement.

* Successful students do not apply to one or two scholarships and
wait for the best. They apply for all scholarships they are eligible to
win. They keep applying until the total they have won exceeds what
they need to pay for the college they want to attend or until they
graduate with a degree.

* Successful students are organized. They keep track of deadlines
and materials required to complete an application.

* Successful students are well rounded. They participate in
extracurricular and community activities. They write about these
activities in scholarship and college essays in a descriptive
manner. They try to benefit others as well as themselves with the
extracurricular and community activities in which they are involved.

* Successful students understand that SAT scores and grades alone
do not win most scholarships. Scholarship programs look at many
factors such as community activities, leadership, presentation of
your application package, special or unusual talents or skills, etc.

* Successful students do not look for the easy way out. It is harder for
them to believe in a scholarship scam that promises to do all the
work for them. They understand that those things for which we work
hardest often bring the greatest rewards. Hard work in the
scholarship process as a high school student could result in an
easy college life without work later, or a loan-free life after college.

Open Society Institute/Foreign and Commonwealth Office Chevening/University of Nottingham Scholarship

2009-12-22T11:13:00.001+07:00

Realise your potential!
8 Full Scholarships:
Each covering tuition fees, living expenses, return air fare, plus agreed allowances

Available for students who

* are from Indonesia, Jordan or Syria AND
* are nationals of, and resident in, the selected country AND
* already hold a first university degree equivalent to at least a good UK second class Honours Degree AND
* have a very good knowledge of English AND
* are classed as an overseas student for fee purposes AND
* have applied for a place to study on a full time Masters degree programme at Nottingham in September 2010 – for the LLM in Human Rights Law, MA in International Relations, MA in Social & Global Justice, MA in European & Global Politics, MA in International Security & Terrorism, MA in Diplomacy or MA in Politics & Contemporary History

Please read the attached Guidance notes for Applicants before completing and returning the scholarship application form, which is included at the end of the guidance notes

The closing date for applications is 4th February 2010 and application forms must be completed and returned to the local British Council Office by that date

Preference will go towards applicants who have not previously studied outside their home country

International Office
The University of Nottingham
C Floor, International House
Jubilee Campus, Wollaton Road
Nottingham NG8 1BB, UK

Tel: +44 (0) 115 951 5247
Fax: +44 (0) 115 951 5155
See the official websitehanz

How to Get Scholarship Money

2009-12-22T09:11:00.003+07:00

One of the biggest challenges college-bound seniors face is how to pay for school. Applying for scholarships should be one of the first steps in their search. However, scholarship myths continue to flourish and need to be dispelled.

Myth #1: Billions of scholarship dollars go unclaimed. In reality, the number of unused scholarships is minuscule.

Myth #2: Scholarships only go to the best students. Many scholarships are awarded based on elements other than academic achievement. Some scholarships are based on the student's major field of study, involvement, ethnicity and geographic origin, as well as other factors.

Myth #3: Scholarship searches are worth paying for. This myth eventually will die as people discover the many free resources available on the Internet or in print media. In many cases, scholarship search services charging fees turn out to be a scam.

So how do students and their parents sort through the myths and get to the facts?

Start the process early, December or January for the next school year, and utilize the resources around you. To find scholarship opportunities, start with your high school guidance counselor and local library for a list of possible resources. Next, check with your college financial aid office. Most states and many colleges offer scholarships, so students should also inquire about them. Finally, the Internet and organizational Web sites are excellent places to search. Remember, this information should always be free.

"Don't count yourself out just because you are not the valedictorian, class president, or star athlete," says Kandi Teeters, assistant director, Financial Aid and Scholarship Office at Eastern Washington University. "There are scholarships available for many interests, backgrounds and abilities. The bottom line is -- APPLY. And, the more scholarships for which you apply, especially local and regional opportunities, the better your odds are to be selected."

How to Win a Scholarship

2009-12-21T12:56:00.003+07:00

The students that win the most scholarships may not have more positive qualities than you, but they use the following strategy to get noticed by the scholarship committees:

Get Prepared:

Get letters of recommendation from teachers, guidance counselors or leaders in your community. Choose these wisely (make copies).

Get a copy of your high school or college transcript (make copies).

Get involved in your community or in school activities or in your church. If your time is limited due to personal circumstances, working to help with family expenses is also an advantage.
hanz

Keeping Kids Active

2009-12-04T10:31:00.002+07:00

Anyone who's seen kids on a playground knows that most are naturally physically active and love to move around. But what might not be apparent is that climbing to the top of a slide or swinging from the monkey bars can help lead kids to a lifetime of being active.

As they get older, it can be a challenge for kids to get enough daily activity. Reasons include increasing demands of school, a feeling among some kids that they aren't good at sports, a lack of active role models, and busy working families.

And even if kids have the time and the desire to be active, parents may not feel comfortable letting them freely roam the neighborhood as kids once did. So their opportunities might be limited.

Despite these barriers, parents can instill a love of activity and help kids fit it into their everyday routines. Doing so can establish healthy patterns that will last into adulthood.
Benefits of Being Active

When kids are active, their bodies can do the things they want and need them to do. Why? Because regular exercise provides these benefits:

* strong muscles and bones
* weight control
* decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes
* better sleep
* a better outlook on life

Healthy, physically active kids also are more likely to be academically motivated, alert, and successful. And physical competence builds self-esteem at every age. Keeping Kids Active

COMMON MISTAKE PARENT MAKE

2009-12-03T15:55:00.003+07:00

We all make mistakes as parents. There are times when everyone wishes they hadn't said something, bought something, or been so hard on our kids. Parents are only human, after all. Here are ten common mistakes and why you should avoid them.

1. Too much junk food.

Junk food is convenient. It can be used to pacify an irritable child and is used as a reward for good behavior. As adults, many of us self-medicate with food. Often, we teach our children these same behavior patterns and reward with treats. To break this habit, start rewarding yourself
and your child in other ways.

2. Not reading to your child often enough.

Reading is one of the easiest ways to spend quality time with your child. It is free, teaches valuable lessons about a wide range of topics, and fosters a strong imagination. Reading to children should be a daily habit. Begin reading to your child from birth and continue into the teen years.

3. Formula feeding.

Infants need breast milk, not formula. In the rare instances that a woman cannot breastfeed, formula is available. But, for most women, there is no physical limitation to breastfeeding. Ear infections, infant hospitalizations, and many other things could be decreased significantly in our society if more women chose to breastfeed for longer. Why start your child off on what is second best nutrition? Give them the best from the start and you will see the benefits immediately as well as long term.

4. Being too strict.

Children need guidance and need to know that the adults are providing them with security and love. They do not need drill sergeants. Too many limits and too much control will build resentment in children, which will often boil over in the teen years. Lighten up and give your child some age appropriate control over their own life.

5. Being too permissive.

The flip side of the overly strict parent is the overly permissive parent. A parent's job is to provide structure. No structure is a recipe for disaster. Children need limits in order to feel secure. Letting your child call all the shots puts too much responsibility on the young person's shoulders and not enough on your own.
hanz

Food Allergies in Babies

2009-12-01T09:16:00.001+07:00

Food allergy in babies may make the baby break out in rashes or cry inconsolably after trying a food. Babies may have vomiting or diarrhea due to food allergies. Most common allergies in kids less than 5 years old are to milk, eggs and peanuts. It may take a few times, before the baby gets sensitized to a certain allergen and so crying inconsolably is one of the first signs, accompanied by other symptoms that should warn the parents in time. Children may also inherit allergies that run in the family though if a child does not want to have a food, he or she is not necessarily allergic to it. The child may not simply like it.

Children may develop food allergy by consuming a food directly or through nursing where they may become allergic to something moms may have eaten. To prevent food allergies, it is recommended to introduce solids gradually in a child’s diet between ages of four to six months and pay attention to any signs and symptoms that may manifest themselves when you introduce a particular food. One should start with rice cereal, followed by barley and oat cereal and them move on to yellow vegetables, fruits, green vegetables, meats and at last, wheat. Keep a gap of five to seven days before moving on to another food, so you can watch whether any symptoms such as incessant crying, rash, diarrhea or vomiting, develop during this period. If they do, you may call the doctor.

Doctors may do tests to confirm the allergy. If the child is allergic to certain food, you may need to avoid giving it to him or eating it until you are breastfeeding the child. Milk allergies may warrant you to give non-allergenic formula or soy formula to your child and you should not drink milk during the nursing phase. However, the good news is that most kids outgrow food allergies in few months to perhaps, few years. Then, the food can be re-introduced to their diet without any problem.

Tips for Working with Shy Children, Nervous Children, or Children who Lack Self Confidence

2009-03-01T10:50:00.003+07:00

It can be frustrating to work, teach, or parent children who lack confidence who seem shy or nervous. Especially when you are an outgoing, confident person, shy and nervous children can seem like a mystery. That acknowledgment aside, you need to be sensitive and tolerant of children who are shy or nervous, or who lack confidence.
When working with shy or nervous children, remember to…

(1) Tell them never to fear asking questions: Questions lead to knowledge and knowledge leads to confidence.Don’t toss off questions as trivial, silly, rude or annoying. When children question, they learn.

(2) Share Your stories about trials to triumph: When they hear your struggles and how you overcame them, they will learn that they can overcome their struggles as well. You can be a role model in action as well as in discussion.

(3) Highlight that persistence leads to success: We’ve heard it before. It doesn’t matter how many times you fall but rather, how many times you get up. People value persistence! Let them know that perseverance is more important that getting it right the first few times.

make child be confidence

2009-02-28T07:28:00.002+07:00

How make child have self confidence? One of the way is Appreciate Who They Are.
What I mean here is that you should never compare your child to someone else, especially another sibling. While we are all guilty of it at one point or another, I just don’t know that it can be helped, but it can be limited. When you compare your child to another child you are undermining who they are as individuals. We did not come from a cookie cutter, therefore we are each unique and should be celebrated for what us that way not criticized for not being a cookie cutter cut out.

Ten Tips for Parents of Children Starting Preschool

2009-02-23T13:57:00.001+07:00

1. Visit the preschool to become familiar with the setting
The more familiar your child is with the preschool staff and the environment, the easier it will be for your child to settle into the preschool. If possible, make a time to visit preschool during school hours. Parents/carers can observe the preschool in operation and have the opportunity to meet the staff, ask questions and discuss any concerns. Your child will have an opportunity to mix with other children, meet the preschool staff, and become familiar with the environment while feeling secure that someone familiar is close by.
2. Be well informed
Parents/carers need to be prepared for preschool, too. Talk to the principal and the preschool teacher to find out as much information as you can about your child attending preschool. If you know about the new routines and experiences your child will encounter, you will be ready to answer any questions they might have, such as: How will I get there? How long will I be there? How many days do I have to go? What if I want to go to the toilet? What room will I be in and what am I going to do there? Will I get to play?
The first day of preschool can be an anxious experience for both you and your child. Preparing your child for preschool by answering all their questions honestly and in as much detail as they can understand can curb potential anxieties.
3. Find out what your child will need to bring to preschool
Talk to your principal or preschool teacher to find out the preschool's requirements regarding lunchboxes, drink containers and other necessary personal items.
4. Encourage independence
Children who are able to care for themselves and their belongings will feel more confident at preschool. Parents/carers can encourage children to practise personal hygiene, such as wiping their nose and toileting independently. Help your child to feel confident and independent by dressing them in clothing which is simple enough for them to manage with little adult help.
Children who assist in packing their bag at home each morning will readily identify their own belongings during the day.
5. Label equipment and clothing
Children's belongings may look very similar to their classmates'. Labelling your child's equipment and clothing with their name will help prevent loss, confusion and possible upset for your child.
6. Pack a change of clothes for preschool
Accidents do happen. There may be a toilet mishap, wet sleeves from hand washing, or mess from craft or outdoor experiences. When accidents occur children prefer to change into their own clothes, rather than "school clothes". Pack a spare set of clothes, labelled with your child's name, in your child's bag.
7. Share information with the preschool teacher
Children learn best when parents/carers and teachers share together in a partnership. Your child's preschool teacher has many students to get to know. Because you know your child best, you can help the teacher understand your child by sharing information, concerns and insights. Regular communication between parents/carers and teachers bridges the gap between home and preschool and provides opportunities to exchange information which support children's learning.
8. Keep the preschool teacher informed of changes
Changes to your child's family situation can impact on their emotional and academic well-being. If you keep your child's teacher informed of any changed circumstances the child can be supported if necessary. Examples of changes include the birth of a sibling; moving house; divorce or separation or the death or hospitalization of a loved one. It is also important to notify the school of changes to contact details, such as address and emergency telephone numbers.
9. Participate in the preschool and the school
Parents/carers are welcome to participate in the preschool by attending special activities and by volunteering to help in the classroom. This may assist to reassure your child that you are interested in them and their preschool.
10. Provide information about your child's immunisation status
Your child will be coming into contact with other children and infections can spread quickly.
Immunisation records will be requested for preschool enrolment. Under the Public Health (Amendment) Act 1992, children who have not been immunised may be sent home during an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease.

Brain gym exercises for smarter kids?

2009-02-18T13:33:00.002+07:00

Every cell in our body is part of a perfectly engineered masterpiece. Here you will find easy and fun brain gym activities exercises for toddlers that can improve their concentration. The movements are surprisingly simple yet very effective.

If you want to learn how to raise smart kids during this crucial period of development, then Raise-Smart-Kid is here to help you to gain the latest updates on brain development in early childhood, early child development in general and child development research.

But remember …

To optimize the learning experience, the activities should be fun!!

What we don't always realise is that our kids practice this every day through their daily activities.
Daily living skills

* Eating
* Washing hands
* Putting on their clothes
* Taking off their shoes
* Picking up the toys
* Brush their teeth
* Wipe after they have spilled

Brain Gym consists of 26 easy and enjoyable targeted brain gym activities exercises that bring about rapid and often dramatic improvements in concentration, memory, reading, writing, organizing, listening, physical coordination, and more.

During my research I came across a few brain gym exercises (or brain gym excercises as some people prefer), some of which might be too complicated for babies or toddlers. I’m briefly going to discuss it for you to be aware that they exist.

* Drink Water

Water comprises more of the brain than of any other organ of the body. Water is the substance that can help “grease the wheel”. It is important that your child drinks lots of water. Promote water consumption from an early age. Children perspire a lot during the day because of all the activities they undertake. They are very energetic and dehydration can negatively affect their concentration.

* Brain Buttons

This is one of the exercises I feel is too complicated for our little ones. In a nutshell, this exercise helps improve blood flow to the brain to "switch on" the entire brain specifically when needed. The increased blood flow helps improve concentration skills required for reading, writing, etc.

* Cross Crawl

This exercise is a very simple yet effective one. It helps coordinate right and left brain by exercising the information flow between the two hemispheres. It is useful for spelling, writing, listening, reading and comprehension.

* Stand or sit. Put the right hand across the body to the left knee as you raise it, and then do the same thing for the left hand on the right knee just as if you were marching.
* Just do this either sitting or standing for about 2 minutes.

* Hook Ups

This is another exercises I feel is too complicated for our kids. This works well for nerves before a special event such as making a speech or singing in front of people. Any situation which will cause nervousness calls for a few "hook ups" to calm the mind and improve concentration.

* Mind Maps

Mind maps (or similar concepts) have been used for centuries, for learning, brainstorming, memory, visual thinking, and problem solving by people in general.

According to the dictionary, a mind map is a diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks or other items linked to and arranged radically around a central keyword or idea. It is used to generate, visualize, structure and classify ideas, and as an aid in study, problem solving, decision making, and writing.

The mind map utilizes the full range of left and right human cortical skills and balances the brain.

Exercise this with your child to let them get used to using mind maps. An example of this might be to take something simple such as making a cup of coffee. Break it down into the logical steps. What ingredients do you need to make coffee? What utensils are best suited? Draw a picture to present these ideas around a central keyword “making coffee”.

Your toddler will enjoy these brain gym activities exercises while you stimulate his/her brain.
Problem-solving skills

* Provide games and toys which involve problem-solving skills, such as puzzles, shape bucket, blocks etc.
* Try not to interrupt when a toddler is busy
* Show them more than one demonstration on how something works.
* Give them things to figure out how it works.
* If a child struggles, don’t jump in and help him immediately, first see what he does.
* Take an empty toilet roll and a piece of material. Put the material inside the toilet roll and let the toddler pull it out. Later on the toddler can put it in by himself.

There are lots of brain gym software and brain gym cd's available that can be used to do gym brain training. Brain gym research is still a hot topic for discussion and there exist criticism against the whole brain gyms concept. You have to decide yourself if you would like to have a brainy child (or at least give it a try).

All brain gym movements and each brain gym activity will help your child become positive, active, clear and energetic for learning and learn you how to raise a smarter child.

hanz

10 Tips for Food- Smart Kids

2009-02-17T08:33:00.001+07:00

1. Do not restrict food. Restricting food increases the risk your child may develop eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia later in life. It can also have a negative effect on growth and development.
2. Keep healthy food at hand. Children will eat what's readily available. Keep fruit in a bowl on the counter, not buried in the crisper section of your fridge. And have an apple for your own snack. "Your actions scream louder than anything you will ever tell them," says Sothern. Remember, your child can only choose foods that you stock in the house.
3. Don't label foods as "good" or "bad." Instead, tie foods to the things your child cares about, such as sports or appearance. Let your child know that lean protein such as turkey and calcium in dairy products give strength to their sports performance. The antioxidants in fruits and vegetables add luster to skin and hair.
4. Praise healthy choices. Give your children a proud smile and tell them how smart they are when they choose healthy foods.
5. Don't nag about unhealthy choices. When children choose unhealthy food, ignore it. Or if your child always wants fatty, fried food, redirect the choice. You might try roasting potato sticks in the oven (tossed in just a bit of oil) instead of buying french fries. Or, if your child wants candy, you might make fresh strawberries dipped in a little chocolate sauce. Too busy? Then keep naturally sweet dried fruit at home for quick snacks.
6. Never use food as a reward. This could create weight problems in later life. Instead, reward your children with something physical and fun -- perhaps a trip to the park or a quick game of catch.
7. Sit down to family dinners at night. If this isn't a tradition in your home, it should be. Research shows that children who eat dinners at the table with their parents have better nutrition and are less likely to get in serious trouble as teenagers. Start with one night a week, and then work up to three or four, to gradually build the habit.
8. Prepare plates in the kitchen. There you can put healthy portions of each item on everyone's dinner plate. Your children will learn to recognize correct portion sizes. And you may find your slacks fit better as well! Please remember that small children must have VERY Small portions or else they become overwhelmed.
9. Give the kids some control. Ask your children to take three bites of all the foods on their plate and give it a grade, such as A, B, C, D, or F. When healthy foods - especially certain vegetables -- get high marks, serve them more often. Offer the items your children don't like less frequently. This lets your children participate in decision-making. After all, dining is a family affair.
10. Consult your pediatrician. Always talk with your child's doctor before putting your child on a diet, trying to help your child gain weight, or making any significant changes in the type of foods your child eats. Never diagnose your child as too heavy, or too thin, by yourself.

hanz

listen to your child

2009-02-16T20:04:00.002+07:00

The most valuable gift you can give your child is to listen to the little and big things in his life. Begin early so that the lines of communication will be open during the teenage years.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 15 Minutes

Here's How:
1.Stop what you are doing.
2.Look at your child.
3.Pay attention to your child's nonverbal language. Does the child look happy, sad, afraid?
4.Be silent.
5.Use simple acknowledgement responses that show you are listening. "I see. Oh. Uh-Huh. Hmmm."
6.Use door-openers, phrases that encourage further talking. "Tell me more. Go on. How do you feel about that? I know what you mean. Then what?"
7.Listen for and name the feelings you think you hear from what your child is telling you. "That made you pretty mad, didn't it? You seem really happy about that!"
8.Use problem-solving phrases when needed. "What do you wish you could do? What do you want to happen? What do you think will happen if you do that?"

Tips:
1.Don't feel that you must advise or help your child come up with a solution all the time. The value of listening is in the listening itself.
2.Listening helps parents and children avoid the power struggle cycle. Instead of arguing, listen. Show your understanding while maintaining your position.
3.Don't try to deny, discount, or distract the child from the feelings they are expressinghanz

buy safe toys for toddler

2009-02-15T14:46:00.002+07:00

When Buying Toys

•Read and follow the age label, warnings, safety messages and assembly instructions for the toy
Look for sturdy, well-made toys
•Remember that toys for older children may not be safe for younger children
Note: Check home-made toys for all of the same hazards listed on this sheet

Choking Hazards:

•Children under three years of age tend to put things in their mouths - small toys, small balls or small loose toy parts are choking hazards for these children
•Know how the child plays - small toys can be dangerous even for children three and over who still tend to put things in their mouths
•Check squeeze toys for loose or removable squeakers
•Check toy cars and trucks for loose or removable wheels, tires or other small parts
•Check the eyes, nose and other small items on stuffed and plush toys to make sure they cannot be pulled off
•Check that infant toys like rattles and teethers are large enough that they won't get stuck in an infant's throat

Other Hazards:

•Avoid toys with cords that are long enough to wrap around a child's neck, especially stretchy cords - the cords could strangle a child
•Avoid loud toys - loud noise can damage a child's sensitive hearing - a toy that is loud for an adult is likely too loud for a child
•Check that the toy does not have sharp points or edges - these could cut a child

make your toddler smart

2009-02-13T14:07:00.001+07:00

...As a toddler, your child, or the child you care for, will continue to learn best through play.

To make the most of your child’s playtime and encourage healthy development, here are three simple play ideas that parents, caregivers and child care providers can get excited about!
1. Symbolic Play: Why Does Jimmy Keep Calling Himself Spiderman?
From twelve to thirty months of age children begin to engage in what psychologists call symbolic play, as parents we call it make-believe or pretend play.

To encourage this kind of play pull out the dress-up box, art supplies, dolls, and random household items. As you support Jimmy in his super hero efforts you will be pleased to see how his imagination can turn an empty Q-tip box into a speedy Bat mobile.
2. Solitary Play: Is my Toddler a Loner?
Did you know that while toddlers appear to play together in a group, their play is actually solitary and not generally interconnected?

As you introduce your child to a new playmate therefore, be prepared to spend some time dispelling conflict and encouraging the basic social skills of cooperation and sharing.

Who knows? In time, when he’s ready to give up his loner status, he may actually know a thing or two about playtime etiquette.
3. Imitation Play: Child Labour is Good for Development?
Toddlers will begin to imitate those around them so you may want to pay particular attention to the words and actions your child is absorbing.

As your child "shadows" you digging in the garden for example, he will learn to be helpful and, as he inspects bugs and weeds, he will begin to understand his environment.

On the other hand however, as your toddler plays with a child who hits or uses inappropriate words his learning will become somewhat limited.

To facilitate positive imitation therefore, praise his good deeds no matter how small and encourage him to take part in activities that are fun and constructive- let him help fold the laundry or sweep the floor. Remember, what looks like child labour to you is actually fun for him.

By understanding what your toddler is capable of, you will enhance healthy development and your child will look forward to the fun, silly, and exciting time that you spend together!

Return from How to Make Your Toddler Smart to Articles Home Page

hanz

How can I get my child to eat?

2009-02-11T13:53:00.001+07:00

Offer your child food that is tasty and looks good, and offer the right amount. A good rule of thumb is to offer 1 tablespoon of each kind of food for each year of your child's age. If your child is still hungry, you can serve more. Don't force your child to clean his or her plate. Once he or she is no longer hungry, your child should be allowed to stop eating.

Try not to bribe your child to eat (such as offering dessert as a reward). Threats or punishments aren't good ideas, either. If your child doesn't want to eat, accept his or her refusal. Even though you may be concerned, don't show your child that you are upset by this refusal to eat. If your child is seeking attention, your disapproval fills that need, and he or she may try to gain your attention in the same way another time.hanz

help child to read

2009-02-11T07:41:00.002+07:00

Every parent want to have smart children. Normally smart child begin with reading. Many parent give their child reading course and half of them give by himself. Reading course classified into 3 part :
1.secuential . secuential is method that reading course do one by one word. This method is for child that more use left brain
2.simultan. Simultan is method that reading course do all of word, “see and speak”
3.eclectic. Eclectic is method that grouping between secuential and simultan method.

How to Discipline a Child Effectively Without Spanking

2009-02-09T13:35:00.000+07:00

Parenting is both a challenging and rewarding experience. As with any job, it requires a complete set of "tools" to be effective. Choosing not to spank your child can be especially difficult if you were raised otherwise (as most people were). Follow these steps to discover various techniques that you can use alone or combine in order to become a more effective parent.hanz

The Benefit of home schooling

2009-02-08T13:36:00.001+07:00

Will you give best education for your chil? Normaly Parent will looking for best school. But if they can’t find it, what must they do? One of way is home school. Home school have many eminence :
1.child be subject not object in learning
2.large lesson not only like government curriculum
3.parent have big role
4.flexibility in learning
5.Contextual teaching and learning can be applied maximaly

hanz

how to choose best school?

2009-02-07T13:39:00.001+07:00

Are you looking for a school for your child now? This is tips for you :

1. Hire An Educational Consultant
2. Make A List Of Schools
3. Visit Schools.
4. Admissions Testing And Applications.
5. Conclusion

hanz

tips of choosing school for child

2009-02-05T11:43:00.004+07:00

1) Check out the school district's annual report to compare the expenditure per pupil in each district you are considering. In many communities, this dollar amount will be closely linked to school quality. This information is often available on the state's department of education Web site.

2) Check to see what services are available at the school. Look for guidance counselors, an on-site nurse, a librarian, and a secretary, and check to see if they work at more than one school. If any of these key personnel do work at more than one school, be cautious!

3) Check the structure of the school year. Do you want your child in a year-round school or do you prefer a more traditional school calendar?

4) If you are looking at a high school, check to see what percentage of the students go on to college.

5) Check the local library for books and videos on moving to a new school. Look for books for children as well as adults.

6) What is the school's discipline policy?

7) How are students graded?

8) How often are textbooks and classroom materials reviewed and updated

9) Is there a school homework policy?

10) What is the school's safety policy?

11) What extracurricular activities does the school sponsor?

12) How many students are assigned to a classroom teacher?

13) Is the library/media center well equipped and organized?

14) How do the teachers teach?

15) How does the school communicate with parents

16) Is there an active parent organization?

17) Is there a before- and after-school care program?

Factors influencing child playing

2009-02-04T08:12:00.002+07:00

Some parent have opinion that playing too more will make child became lazy. This opinion don’t right enough because some psychology expert say that the playing have big influence to growth of child’s .soul

Factors influencing child playing

1. Health

healthy Children have many energy to play than unhealthy children, so healthy children finish many playtime requiring many energy

2. intelligence
smart Children more [is] active than a less smart children. smart children like game having the character of intellectual or game which is many their brain power stimulus, for example drama game, look on the film, or read the reading having the character of intellectual

3. Gender
doughter have little time to play a gme that need more energy, for example climbing, running, or other physical activity. It doesn’t mean that girl more weak than boy, but society view that daughter better become the soft child and comport smooth

Choose good preschool

2009-02-03T15:46:00.001+07:00

If you some time looking for preschool for your child, you can observe the preschool that have class decoration for student, because it will create close relation between teacher and student. It will increase learning spirit too.
The good preschool have outdoor activity, so student will not be bore.if only seriouse condition, student will bore and spirit learning will decrease.
Preschool must have good curriculum. Teacher must understand about child psychology because every child is difference. It’s means tacher have difference ways to teach student. Bad preschool don’t care ith student and don’t choose preschool like this.