Teach Kids How https://www.teachkidshow.com/ Preparing Your Child For Life Tue, 09 Jun 2026 15:22:00 +0000 Teach Your Child About the New Food Pyramid Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:22:00 +0000
  • Orange = grains
  • Green = vegetables
  • Red = fruits
  • Yellow = fats and oils
  • Blue = milk and dairy products
  • Purple = meat, beans, fish, nuts
    • You will notice the pyramid’s sections are now vertical and thinner at the top than on the bottom. That is because not all foods in a category are created equal. For example, cherry pie would be on the top of the fruit strip as it has less nutrition than fresh cherries, which would be on the bottom of the fruit strip. In terms of volume, you can eat more fresh fruit than its cooked and sweetened form. There is a children’s version of the pyramid featuring a girl climbing up the side of the pyramid, representing the need for exercise and play- the complements to healthy eating habits. Preschool Preschoolers love to be in the kitchen with you. Take these opportunities to teach them about nutrient dense foods, such as fruits and vegetables. By preparing and serving balanced, colorful meals together, your young child will become accustomed to eating that way. One way to get your older baby or toddler to eat from all food groups in the pyramid is to serve “finger foods” from each group throughout the day as snacks. When you travel with your child, take along bite size pieces of cheese, fruit and vegetables, and some whole grain crackers. As your child grows, reinforce the idea that all foods can be eaten, but some foods are better at building health and helping them grow strong. Main points to address:
    • Serve a variety of nutritious and colorful foods.
    • Let your preschooler help with food preparation. Teach as you go!
    • Travel with healthy finger foods.
    Grades K-3rd Young school age children have already developed preferences for certain foods. As long as they are getting a variety from each food group, it is best not to force any one food item on them. If your child does not like milk, they may like yogurt. Early elementary children are actively learning things that will prove useful as they continue to grow. Most schools teach basic nutrition which will back up your efforts to teach your child about healthy eating. The visual representation of the food groups as a pyramid will appeal to your child and bring home the intended message. If your child’s school provides lunch, they will most likely be using the New Food Pyramid as a guideline for preparing and serving food. Most schools post the pyramid in their cafeterias. If your child takes a bagged lunch, let them help you pack it. This is a good time to check which food groups you have included and which ones you may need to add. Main points to address:
    • Children this age are enthusiastic learners and will understand the visual representation of food groups in the pyramid.
    • Don’t worry if your child refuses specific foods. Make substitutions from the same food group.
    • Packing a healthy lunch together can be a learning experience.
    Grade 4-6th The New Food Pyramid is designed to guide people of all ages and differing nutritional needs. The built-in flexibility will appeal to this age group. Older children may have a better understanding of the adaptability of the food pyramid for special needs. If your child likes to cook and bake, you may have fun adapting recipes to make them more nutritious. Substituting whole wheat flour for half of the flour in a cookie recipe will make a healthier cookie. Using half a cup of applesauce in a muffin recipe to replace half the oil or butter will lower the fat content. As your child grows, they will be eating a greater volume of food. Have healthy snacks ready to eat so they will not be tempted to choose foods that are not as healthy. Celery and peanut butter, berries, nuts, cheese sticks and whole grain bread sticks will hold them over until mealtime. If your child has been taught that their body requires high quality foods to look and feel their best, they will save foods on the top of the pyramid meant to be eaten rarely or in small amounts for holidays and parties. Helping your child to eat what will keep them healthy may have just gotten easier! Main Points to Address:
    • The New Food Pyramid addresses special needs.
    • Have fun substituting healthy ingredients for less healthy ones.
    • Keep healthy snacks ready to prevent unhealthy food choices.
    • Save high calorie and high fat foods for rare occasions.
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-the-new-food-pyramid/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=156     Teach Your Child About Self-Esteem and Body Image Mon, 08 Jun 2026 08:58:24 +0000 Preschool Helping your child develop a positive body image starts at birth and continues into adulthood. Babies naturally take pleasure in their own body and in yours. Watch any nursing baby! Preserving your young child’s delight in being inside their own skin will take thoughtfulness and conscious effort. Every baby’s smiling face holds the image of true beauty! Modern cultures have unfortunately held up ideals of beauty that are not natural or healthy. Issues of height, weight, skin color and muscular development have blurred our perception of what beauty really is. Media influences reinforce this. Being careful with how we view others and how we remark about ourselves will keep young children from developing a skewed idea of what beauty is and isn’t. Valuing each child as precious, helping them develop their gifts and talents, dealing with each one in a generous way will help them build a strong sense of self. Main points to address:
    • Developing a positive body image and good self-esteem starts at birth.
    • Protect your young child from the world’s idea of beauty.
    • Treasure your child the just way he or she is.
    Grades K-3rd Most children enter school having limited exposure to people who may be different than them. They will be playing and learning with others who will be more or less tolerant and kind than they. Confusion and hurt feelings in these early years out in the world can cause youngsters to develop doubts about their appearance and abilities. As a parent you can counter this with by loving them and reassuring them that they are wonderful. Remind kids ages 5 to 9 that they are unique- formed just the way they were meant to be. Make sure your family has healthy eating habits and that all family members get plenty of exercise. Avoid bringing issues of size or weight to the dinner table. Studies show that children who are told they must go on a diet or who are around others who are forever dieting may grow up to have eating disorders, such as bulimia, binge eating or anorexia nervosa. All children go through stages during growth that may cause them to temporarily be “skinny” or “chubby”. If you keep your child physically active and provide healthy meals and snacks they will likely even out at maturity. Main points to address:
    • Teach your child to be tolerant of the differences in others.
    • Remind them they are unique and wonderful just as they are.
    • Keep discussions of dieting away from the dinner table.
    • Serve healthy meals and provide opportunities for physical activity.
    Grades 4-6th Children 9 to 12 are probably beginning to enter puberty. Girls start earlier than boys. This can be a time of great self-doubt and confusion for your child due to the changes that occur in the brain, the body and the emotions. Helping your child maintain good hygiene will save them from the unkindness of school mates. Make sure they have their own grooming supplies and that they have an opportunity to bathe each day. Take them to get their hair styled in a neat and age-appropriate style. As you teach them about the changes they will experience during puberty, remind them that they will go through several stages that might feel strange or awkward to them. Reassure your child that everyone goes through these same stages in their own unique way. Continue to promote physical activity and provide healthy and appealing meals to ensure they have what they need to feel good and develop healthy bones, teeth, skin and hair. Letting your child have their own tastes and preferences, and encouraging their gifts, will help them build and maintain a good self-concept. Providing the resources they will need to follow their own natural bent will enable them to become more of who they are. Children who are good at their “own thing” have stronger self-concepts. Above all, listen to your preteen. They need to be able to express their hopes and dreams, doubts and fears. Your child will appreciate your non-judgmental and open manner. If you feel your child’s self-esteem is low, and does not seem to be improving after a bit, whether due to a negative or unrealistic body image or not- get the help of a counselor or physician just to be sure the problem is not serious. Most of the self-esteem and body image issues your child will encounter growing up will correct themselves in time if he or she feels loved and valued. Main points to address:
    • Provide the supplies your child needs to maintain good hygiene.
    • Prepare them for the normal changes all children go through while growing up.
    • Promote your child’s self-esteem by encouraging their gifts and talents.
    • Listen to them!
    • Get professional help if you suspect an eating disorder or low self-esteem that does not seem to improve.
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-self-esteem-and-body-image/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=155     Teach Your Child About Puberty Sun, 07 Jun 2026 08:11:57 +0000 Preschool Preparing your child for puberty happens long before it starts happening. Helping your baby or preschooler feel good about themselves and their bodies will set the stage for a less bumpy transition to adolescence. Experts recommend using the correct names for body parts. Using substitute words for anatomical parts and systems implies there is something wrong or different about those parts. Being casual but straightforward when discussing bodily functions will help your child be less likely to be embarrassed when the topic comes up. Puberty is not only physical, but involves emotional and mental changes and upheavals. If you have been open with your child when they ask questions and have helped them develop a good self-concept, they should be able to handle the changes of adolescence when they happen. It is not necessary or recommended that you discuss in graphic terms human reproduction. Letting your little one know that a man and a woman are needed to make a baby, and that they come together in a special way for that to happen, is probably enough. Children under 8 or 9 are not developmentally ready to receive the specifics of reproduction without experiencing fear or confusion. Main points to address:
    • Help your preschooler feel good about their body.
    • Refer to body parts by their correct names.
    • Be open to your young child’s questions by responding in a matter-of-fact way.
    • Wait to discuss the specifics of puberty and reproduction until they are developmentally ready - at about 8 years for girls and 9 for boys.
    Grades K-3 Children this age will ask questions indicating a growing awareness and readiness for more sophisticated knowledge. Boys and girls go through different but equally baffling changes. Some girls will begin puberty as early as 8 or 9; others not until 13 or 14. Physical and emotional changes will precede the mental changes that happen later in puberty. Boys begin puberty somewhat later, some as early as 9, others not until 14 or 15. Physical changes precede emotional and mental changes. Your son may be ready for specific information about puberty and preparing for reproduction at about 9 or 10. Kids need to be prepared for the changes they will experience. You don’t need to be an expert in anatomy and physiology. A simple explanation that lets them know what they will experience, and more importantly, how to cope with the changes will be sufficient. If they have questions you are not comfortable with, or that you don’t have answers for, search out the answers together, either in a book, a good website, or with a physician or nurse. Girls and boys 5-7 will need less specific information. If they ask questions, explain that humans go through many stages in their lives and so will they. Again, reproductive questions should be answered in general terms at this age. Main points to address:
    • Children ages 5 to 7 need only general information.
    • The onset of puberty varies between individuals and between boys and girls.
    • Prepare your child for the changes that they will experience.
    • Use books, a good website or your physician to help answer your or your child’s questions.
    Grades 3-6th Preteens will be experiencing some or all of the indications of puberty. For girls: body hair, developing breasts, adding height and weight and menstruation. For boys: body hair, changing voice, night emissions, and increased weight and height. Both boys and girls may develop acne and have body odor. Helping children understand these changes before they happen is very important. Not knowing what is truly happening and why may cause them to imagine something horrible is happening. Letting them know that their body is “practicing” for when they are fully grown will ease their mind. Kids this age may be embarrassed to discuss details with you. But hearing how they can deal with changes in a practical way will be appreciated. You may want to tell your child a little about your own “rite of passage”. Knowing they are not alone and that these changes are normal will help them get through this time of hormonal changes. Provide your child with their own bathing supplies and deodorant to help keep body odor under control. Making sure girls are prepared for menstruation with sanitary napkins and a plan if indeed it starts when she is not at home will help her be less anxious. Parents: Prepare yourselves for the emotional upheaval that puberty sometimes brings. The human brain goes through important changes at this time. Your child is beginning to think in more abstract terms and may question your beliefs and ideas. Regard them with compassion during this time. Give them a little space, but keep boundaries in place. They need to know you are still there for guidance and reassurance. Main points to address:
    • Puberty may start as early as age 8 or 9.
    • Prepare them for the experiences they are likely to encounter. Share your own stories.
    • Keep necessary supplies handy. Teach your child how to cope with the practical aspects of puberty.
    • Remember that emotions and thinking are impacted by puberty.
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-puberty/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=154     Teach Your Child Proper Sleep Habits Sat, 06 Jun 2026 07:20:33 +0000
  • Ease your child into a routine with consistent naptimes and bedtimes.
  • Keep sleep areas cool, dim and without outside stimuli such as toys, television, and noise.
  • Develop a set of bedtime rituals that work for your family.
  • Avoid caffeine and sugary foods that may interfere with sleep.
  • Have a specific cutoff time for activities that stimulate.
  • Put children to sleep when they are drowsy, not asleep. They need to be able to fall asleep on their own.
    • Preschool Newborns sleep between 10.5 and 18 hours a day. Waking is linked with the need to eat. As your newborn grows, he will sleep for increasingly longer periods, but when very young, babies may sleep for only 30 minutes to 2 hours at a time. Help your baby to fall asleep on his own by waiting till he is very drowsy and laying him down. If you soothe him to sleep, he will not be able to drift off on his own. This may cause problems later. It can be necessary at times, however, to stay with your child if they are sick or when they are very fearful. If your baby seems to sleep a lot during the day, it is okay to keep him up longer during the day and gradually shift to a nighttime schedule. Older babies should start to sleep through the night at about 6 to 9 months. Hopefully by this time they are able to soothe themselves to sleep. Toddlers sleep between 12 and 14 hours per day. By 18 months most take only one 1 to 3 hour nap during the day. Try to keep from having naptime too close to bedtime. Toddlers and older preschoolers may resist bedtime, or wake during the night. It is quite common to have nightmares or other sleep disturbances. A preschooler’s drive for autonomy may also cause resistance. Keeping the same time for bedtime and night time rituals is extremely important. A bedtime of 8 or 9 o’clock is probably late enough. Distracting noises, such as television and other sounds, should be kept to a minimum. If your baby or young child has great difficulty settling or staying asleep, ask your pediatrician for advice. Main points to address:
    • Individual sleep needs vary.
    • Strive for regular nap and bedtimes.
    • Put babies and young children down for sleep when drowsy, not asleep.
    • Nightmares and night fears are common.
    Grades K-6th Children ages 5 to 12 need 10 to 11 hours of sleep. Most 5 and 6 year olds no longer nap. Because children are busy with school and outside activities as well as computers, video games and television, they need to adhere to a regular bedtime and routine. Sleep disorders are common at this age. Eliminating stimulating activities, especially television and video games before bed may decrease insomnia and sleep resistance, as well as nightmare and night terrors. Children this age still enjoy and benefit from a routine that may include reading a story or poem, singing a song together or praying. Being “tucked in” remains important- even to older children. Having comfortable sleep clothes and a cool (but not cold) room facilitates sleep. A warm (not hot) bath also can help your child wind down. Toys should not be taken to bed. A single security item, such as a blanket or stuffed animal may be helpful. A night light may provide a feeling of security. Teach your child the value of sleep. Tell her that a good night’s rest will give her the energy she needs for play the next day. Make bedtime a pleasant, but not prolonged part of your child’s day. Soft music or sounds of nature such as falling rain or soft ocean waves may help your child drift off. Aromatic oils such as lavender may also relax your youngster. You can buy a diffuser for this purpose. If your child frequently has difficulty falling or staying asleep, or wets the bed, snores loudly, has extremely restless legs, or grinds their teeth at night, get help as soon as you notice, as these may signal a medical problem. Main points to address:
    • Maintain a consistent bedtime and routine.
    • Have a cutoff time for television, video games and stimulating activities. Keep TVs and computers out of the bedroom.
    • Use soft music or aromatic oils to ease your child into sleep.
    • Get help from you pediatrician for persistent bedtime or night time problems.
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-proper-sleep-habits/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-proper-sleep-habits/     How to Teach Your Child About Motivation Fri, 05 Jun 2026 07:13:08 +0000 Preschool Very young children watch us and listen to us. Eventually they know that there are reasons for what we do. If it is cold, we may put on a sweater. If we are hungry, we eat. Many of our actions are motivated by our need to survive or be comfortable. Other needs are clearly motivated by other factors. For example a hug is motivated by love or by fondness. Going to the park is motivated by the desire to have some fun! The observations kids make and the connections that happen as a result, cause kids learn about motivation. Very young children often ask “Why?” Your explanations will help them understand the motivation behind actions and decisions. Thinking out loud when doing something or weighing the factors while making a decision is an everyday way to help them learn about motivation. As they grow, you can help your child get in touch with what motivates them by listening closely and reflecting back what they say. Their wants and needs along with their reactions to events around them will be the indicators of what motivates them. Main points to address:
    • Very young children learn about motivation by watching and listening to us.
    • Thinking out loud can help kids know the “whys” behind things.
    • Listening to your child and reflecting back to them what they’ve said will help them become aware of what motivates them.
    Grades K-3rd Early school experiences will spark the motivation of your youngster. The excitement of a new environment, new people and new things to do will cause your child to be highly motivated. Curiosity is one of the major motivators at this age as they take in information about the world. Kids this age are also motivated by the need to connect and interact with others. The need to please and be noticed- heard and seen- is strong at this age. Viewing behavior, both positive and negative from this perspective will help you and your child understand why they do what they do. Motivation from fear can manifest in many ways: a reluctance to go to bed, refusal to get on the school bus, hesitancy to join activities in school. Understanding your child’s motivations will help them resolve their fears. You can also help your child understand the puzzling behavior of others by exploring the possible reasons why people do what they do and say what they say. Keep such conversations light and without blame. The aim is to make your child aware of the motivations of others without criticizing or judging. By this time, you will have a good idea of what motivates and inspires your child. Perhaps it is enthusiasm. Maybe it is ordering things around them. Or it could be their desire to be center stage. Motivate them by using their individual bent as a springboard. Children are always motivated when they are pursuing their interests or expressing their preferences. Main points to address:
    • The need to be seen and heard is strong at this age.
    • Motivation stemming from fear can explain some negative behaviors.
    • Recognizing and encouraging your child’s natural bent and gifts can motivate them to succeed.
    Grades 4-6th Children this age are actively discovering their natural gifts. Parents recognizing and supporting the development of these gifts, without pushing, are helping their child develop intrinsic motivation. Experiencing success is highly motivating. A child who learns in a natural environment, employing their creativity is learning to take risks and try new things. Dealing with failure and persisting until successful motivates further exploration. Listening to your child’s hopes and dreams without criticizing and without a great deal of input helps them experience and verbalize their own inner motivation. Kids at this age love to explore different possibilities and often fancy themselves as someone remarkable. This hope is a priceless element of motivation. All of us have the potential to impact the world in meaningful and positive ways. Activities that touch the heart, mind and spirit of a child are motivating. Volunteering at an animal rescue, participating in a community cleanup, or reading to a lonely senior can spark compassion and creativity- both great motivators. In group situations, a sense of community is essential to maintaining motivation. Having a shared purpose that dovetails with individual purpose or vision inspires positive action and shared responsibility. Teach your child the power of thought over their lives. What you think determines what you become. Show them the connection your thoughts have with the words they speak. Older children have the capacity to see the relationship between positive thought and words to positive and productive action. Bringing this truth to conscious awareness will help them monitor their own thoughts and words. Believe in your child’s ability to function as an independent and constructive person. Talk to them about why, or why not, you do or choose not to do something. Help them become competent in areas that turn them on, even if it is not what you would have picked. The confidence and satisfaction they will gain from being involved and successful in something meaningful to them will cause them to experience first hand what true motivation is. Main points to address:
    • Success at something of personal interest and meaning is motivating.
    • Listen to your child’s hopes and dreams without criticizing.
    • Activities that touch the mind, heart and spirit motivate repeat experiences.
    • Teach your child the power of their thoughts and words.
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/how-to-teach-your-child-about-motivation/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/how-to-teach-your-child-about-motivation/     Teach Your Child About Procrastination Thu, 04 Jun 2026 07:09:50 +0000 Preschool Very young children can be convinced that anything is important or fun to do! Having enthusiasm for completing any task, whether it be getting dressed or getting into their car seat can be done more easily when Mom or Dad are smiling and eager to help perform the task. Making a game out of performing a job or using a timer are also fun ways to gain cooperation. Toddlers and children 4 to 6 love ritual. Doing things that must be done in a certain order at a specified time will encourage compliance. Always picking up the toys before lunch or brushing teeth before bed will create rituals that will stick with your child as he grows. Setting a timetable or agenda each morning with your child will prepare them for the day, letting them know what they can expect to do or complete each day. Reviewing the day before bed will give you both a sense of accomplishment. Your youngster watches you to see what, when, how and why you do what you do. If you are in the habit of managing your time wisely and approaching tasks cheerfully, they will probably follow your example. Main points to address:
    • Young children will generally be more willing to perform tasks if you are enthusiastic.
    • Create daily and weekly rituals and be consistent in performing them.
    • Go over your agenda for the day. Each night review what you were able to complete and what you will do tomorrow.
    Grades K-3rd Young school age children really need to be able to start and complete tasks by a certain time and without complaint by the time they enter school. All children are different of course, so tasks will need to be tailored to their ability and developmental readiness. Children 5-9 love to do new things. They are actively exploring the world and learning about cause and effect. This is a good time to introduce the use of a sticker or star chart listing desired outcomes such as making their bed daily, remembering to feed the dog and completing homework by a specified time. Perhaps a small reward could be given for having a successful week. Your child may enjoy filling in important events or tasks on a calendar of their own. Learning to manage time using a visual prop is useful for people of all ages! Helping your youngster set a personal goal and identify steps to get there will be the beginning of an important organizational skill. Again, your consistency with keeping a schedule will be the best example for your child. Watching you answer a letter promptly, pay bills when due, and complete daily and weekly tasks will show them that an orderly routine and environment is possible. Main points to address:
    • The use of a sticker chart for daily and weekly activities will provide positive reinforcement for responsible behavior.
    • Children this age can use a calendar as a visual prop.
    • Help your child break a personal goal into manageable steps.
    • You remain their best example.
    Grades 4-6th Older children are fairly set in their disposition. Some may tend to be resistant to a regular routine and way of doing things, but most will be ready to take on more complex tasks willingly. The use of a day planner can help your child. Help them create a “to do” list for each day, prioritize tasks and check off jobs as they are completed. At this stage, kids are developing intrinsic rewards for their own success, but reinforcement, especially in the form of praise, is still meaningful and effective. A sincere remark such as, “I notice I did not have to remind you to change the hamster’s cage this week!” will encourage continued timeliness and independence. Setting your child up for success is important. Do they have a desk or work area with a calendar, planner, cork board and pens? If they have set a goal to complete something, have you provided them with materials and made time in your schedule to help them? Eventually you will have to do less of this! Last notes: Stay enthusiastic! Keep your expectations regarding procrastination reasonable. Guide your child for as long as seems wise, then gradually trust them to manage their own schedule and routine and to live with the consequences. The training you have provided will very likely carry over into adulthood. Main points to address:
    • A day planner and “to do” lists are helpful props.
    • Continue using enthusiasm and positive reinforcement.
    • Set your child up for success- they still need your involvement.
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-procrastination/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-procrastination/     Teach Your Child to Hike Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:09:58 +0000
  • Start with known terrain and short distances. Scout out good trails and safe stopping points.
  • Prepare for frequent stops. Every 15 minutes for very young children.
  • Bring enough water and snack items.
  • Make sure you have first aid basics- at the least antiseptic, band aids, some cotton gauze, tissues or toilet paper in a zip lock bag, insect repellent and sunscreen.
  • Wear proper footgear and high socks or long pants.
  • Wear bight colored clothing.
  • Issue whistles to all hikers. Instruct them on how and in what instances to use a whistle.
  • Use a baby sling or carrier for non-walkers.
  • Prepare your child in advance so they know you won’t be collecting or picking anything on your hike.
  • Carry out everything you bring in. Take a plastic bag for garbage.
  • Stay clear of steep overhangs and cliffs. Don’t take chances near water.
  • Stay on a marked trail and always let someone know where you will be, such as a park ranger or guide.
    • These hiking tips will help you have a safe and enjoyable time. Preschool Parents can enjoy hiking with their baby or very young child. Starting off with a specific goal in terms of time and distance will help you best plan for the hike. Unless you are an experienced hiker, you may want to hike the area first or go to a park or hiking area that would be considered a beginner course. Babies enjoy being held and walked in a baby carrier. Many will snooze through the whole hike! Bring a small blanket to sit on if you need to nurse or feed the baby. Small snacks like Cheerios or teething biscuits can be carried in a plastic zip lock bag. Sunscreen and a hat or visor will protect your youngster from the sun. Bring enough water, but travel relatively light. As you begin to extend the distance of your hikes, you may want to buy a good hiking pack with several compartments. Adults should always hike with another adult. Both should carry whistles, matches, a red bandana and a hiking knife with several kinds of blades, such as a Swiss Army knife. Remembering to be safe and leisurely when your child is still little will make hiking a lot more fun. Main points to address:
    • Always carry basic first aid supplies, insect repellent and sunscreen.
    • Use a baby sling or carrier to free arms.
    • Start out “short and sweet” in known terrain. Build up speed and distance gradually.
    Grades K-3rd Younger school age children love the idea of hiking. Their curiosity with the natural world will become very evident during outings. Plan your hike around frequent stops to examine and appreciate what you come across. Children this age need to be instructed on safety and conservation rules. They must never leave the trail or run off away from you. They are too young to anticipate being hurt or getting lost. Always keep them under your direct supervision. Allow no running on the trail. Your child may want to carry something into the woods. A good choice is something that leaves hands free. Binoculars, a water canteen, or a compass on a strap are good choices. Heavy or awkward items will engender complaining and you will end up carrying them! Travel light. Take no unnecessary items, such as toys. Dress in layers to account for changes in temperature. Keep distances for 5 and 6 year olds at 1 to 2 miles, or less than 2 hours at first. As they get older, you can extend time and distance. You may want to put the slowest hiker first and set your pace to their speed. Teach your child to respect the creatures and plants they encounter by having a “no keep” policy. Let them know that your hike should not disturb or alter the environment. Main points to address:
    • Instruct your child on hiking safety and conservation rules.
    • Keep children under your direct supervision. Do not leave the trail.
    • Gradually extend the time and distance of your hikes.
    Grades 4-6th Older children, whether they are veteran hikers or not, are a joy in the woods. They do not tire as easily and are naturally a little more aware of their surroundings, both the wonders and the potential dangers. This age child can carry and operate a camera. They may even like to bring a sketchbook to record some of their findings during breaks. They are also more able to carry a knapsack, fanny pack or lightweight hiking pack. Nine to twelve year olds are able to use a compass if instructed. They also should be taught how to orient themselves using the sun as a reference. Longer hikes are possible and enjoyable at this age. Kids like to bring along a friend to share the experience with. Camping overnight with this age child can be fun. There are a number of pocket size field guides of birds, trees and wildflowers that your child might enjoy. Some children become quite able to identify what they see in the woods. Keep snacks healthy. If you are hiking for 3 or more hours, plan on hydrating often and eating something substantial, as you’ll burn lots of calories. Most of all, have fun. Be flexible and enjoy a leisurely pace. The times you spend hiking together as a family may be among your child’s most treasured memories! Main points to address:
    • Older children can go longer distances without tiring.
    • A compass, camera, field guide and a friend are great to take along.
    • Camping is a natural extension of hiking.
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-to-hike/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-to-hike/     Teach Your Child About the Five Senses Tue, 02 Jun 2026 05:41:49 +0000 Preschool Very young babies are a “bundle of nerves”. Although they have been using their senses before birth, coming into the world means entering a whole new arena. The sights, smells, textures, sounds and tastes have changed. New information streams in without much of a filter. That is probably why some babies often seem unsettled. A soft song, gentle rocking, the sight and smell of Mom and Dad, are sources of reassurance and comfort. The interaction you have with your baby will shape the way they use their senses to perceive the world. Studies of babies who are not held and touched, sung to or rocked, point to the real need for stimulating the senses. Normal development cannot happen without the senses being engaged. So sing a lullaby, read a story, show your child colors and shapes, let them experience various textures and sensations and hear and smell the sounds and smells of the kitchen and the outdoors. At this age, giving your young child a balance between receiving stimuli and rest will help the nervous system develop naturally and according to their own bent. Main points to address:
    • We perceive the world through our senses.
    • Meaning is derived from the interchange of information gained from the senses.
    • Your manner and the way you handle your young child will affect the way they perceive the world.
    • Find a balance between stimulating and over stimulating. Kids need rest from the world. We do too!
    • Sing, rock, read to your child. Take them outdoors. Let them explore within a protected environment.
    Grades K-3rd Young school age children are already becoming expert perceivers. They are actively exploring the physical world and the relationships within it. Early school experiences provide opportunities each day to use the senses. Singing and clapping, watching paint flow on paper, listening to variations of tone in Teacher’s voice all exercise the senses and provide valuable information. Movement to music engages sight, hearing, touch. Dance wakes up the senses. Cooking and cleaning engage sight, smell, hearing, touch and taste! Everyday life experience will teach your child to use their senses to make decisions. If it smells like its starting to burn, it’s time to turn the heat down. The baby is awake. He is crying. Dad came home. It’s time to play! Playing outdoors is an important source of stimuli for this age child. The sounds, sights, smells and textures of nature especially appeal to this age. In school, kids may start to formally learn about the senses. But they will already have an intuitive knowledge of how their senses operate. The library should have books appropriate for this age with drawings depicting the physical mechanisms of the senses. They will be fascinated to discover the complexity of the eye, the wonder of the nose, skin, tongue and ears and how magically they work together with the brain and central nervous system. Main points to address:
    • School provides an important arena for exploring with the senses.
    • Dance, song, drawing and painting, and time in nature will utilize the senses in positive ways.
    • Kids this age can begin to understand the intricacy of the senses.
    Grades 4-6th Older school age children are fairly well established in taking in and using information gained from the senses. They may come to prefer or favor one or two senses over the others for enjoyment or self-expression. This is the time when natural talents emerge. Helping your child to find and know their gifts means fostering their inclinations. If your daughter loves the sound and feel of tap shoes on a dance floor, she will want to do more of it. If your son loves the touch, smell and colors of clay and enjoys shaping it into a pleasing form, let him work with clay. Perhaps your child loves the sensation of the wind and the spray of snow on their face. Take them skiing! Observing the way your child experiences the world will show you how they are using their senses. Having an anatomy and physiology book for children can fill in some of the blanks for your child regarding their senses. Explicit teaching can help them see how the senses operate and are connected. But the best teacher will be life itself and your child’s direct experience with the world around them. Main points to address:
    • The senses will inform you and your child of their natural preferences and gifts.
    • Foster your child’s inclinations for one sense or another by providing opportunities for exploration and experience.
    • Explicit teaching takes a back seat to direct experience.
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-the-five-senses/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-the-five-senses/     Teach Your Child the Effects of Positive Thinking Mon, 01 Jun 2026 05:27:00 +0000 - From the Dhammapadda, Chapter 1 The power of our thoughts has been recognized for centuries. For better or worse, out thoughts determine who we become and what we manifest during our earthly stay. Helping our children to understand this truth adds awareness and intention to the power they already possess as thinking beings. How can you help your child grow up knowing the power of thought, and especially the power of positive thought? Some ideas follow:
    • Keep your thoughts and words gentle, be deliberately positive.
    • Speak kindly of all family members and friends.
    • Approach your work with enthusiasm. Curtail complaining in favor of problem-solving.
    • Speak the language of hope and affirmation. Say “I will” and “I can” often!
    • Smile a lot! Laugh at yourself and allow others to laugh with you.
    • Inspire positive regard for people who may be different in one way or another. Find value in everyone you meet.
    • Let your child know how wonderful they are. Often!
    • Frame correction in positive terms. “Chairs are for sitting” rather than “Don’t stand up in that chair.”
    • Use courtesy in your interchange with others. Be an example of respect and sincerity.
    Preschool Babies come into the world with no worry, doubt or lack of self-esteem. Preserving the “clean slate” is impossible, as babies are about the business of perceiving, making connections and deriving meaning from the events and relationships around them. Handling babies and young children gently, helping them feel secure in your care is a good starting place. Singing and speaking in soft positive tones soothes even the most ruffled baby. Letting them know they are valued will be the foundation for positive self-esteem. As your child grows, have faith in their ability to learn and perform challenging things. “You can do it!” goes a long way. There is no need to push. Encourage while respecting developmental readiness. Preschoolers need to be prepared to deal with many kinds of children when they go to school. Play experiences will hopefully include playtime with kids of diverse backgrounds, abilities, and ethnicities. Main points to address:
    • Babies learn to be positive or negative from the big people they grow up with.
    • Being handled with respect and gentleness will set the foundation for positive self-image.
    • Have confidence in your toddler’s ability to do challenging things.
    • Help your preschooler appreciate diversity.
    Grades K-3rd Young school age children can experience “culture shock” upon entering school. They may encounter children who may have been abused, who handle things and people roughly and who have not been respected or cared for. They will need help understanding why some people are “nice” and others seem “mean”. Encourage them to stay positive and view others with compassion. In the meantime, live positive! Have a gratitude break once or twice a week. Let each family member tell what they are grateful for at the dinner table. Practice finding the “silver lining” when things don’t go well. Don’t deny how awful an event might have been. Just help them find a different perspective to view things from. Encourage positive self-talk by referring to yourself and others in positive ways. Teach your child to use positive affirmations to bolster confidence. Perhaps before an important game they could repeat for several minutes: “I am strong and fast. I am ready for this game.” Or after feeling left out on the playground, “I am loved. I have lots of good friends.” Main points to address:
    • Encourage your child to stay positive and compassionate even when others are not.
    • Let them know they always have a choice how they use their power and the energy of their thoughts.
    Grades 4-6th Older school age kids are learning what they are good at and what they are not as good at. This can be a time when children compare themselves with others. Helping your child to view themselves as unique and special will curb their tendency to put themselves down. Listen to their self-doubts and fears without minimizing the issues. Then help your child look at things from a different angle. Using empathy will help your child be compassionate with themselves. Reminding your child that he or she is not “done yet” will set them free to see their development as a process that sometimes feels like three steps forward and one step back. This will help them bounce back from disappointments more easily. Praise them for not giving up. Children can tend to become perfectionist at this stage. Appreciating where your child is in their development will help them accept themselves and view their life experience positively. Convey the truth that everyone makes mistakes and misjudgments while they are learning. Tell them learning never really ends by showing them ways you are still learning. You can begin to make the connection between positive thoughts, positive words and positive outcomes. It will be empowering for your child to learn that they are in control of their thought-life and that a positive lifestyle is a choice they can embrace. Your 9-12 year old is ready to understand that: “As a man (or woman or child!) thinketh, so is he (or she).” Main points to address:
    • Encourage your child to see themselves as a unique individual with talents, skills and personal power.
    • Use empathy when listening to their fears and doubts.
    • Help your child view life as a process- better yet- an adventure!
    • Make the connection between positive thought, positive words, positive actions and positive outcome. Thoughts are powerful!
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-the-effects-of-positive-thinking/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-the-effects-of-positive-thinking/     Teach Your Child How to Floss Their Teeth Sun, 31 May 2026 04:38:07 +0000 Preschool Young babies need us to care for their teeth until around age two. Cleaning your baby’s teeth with a soft washcloth held over one finger will get him used to oral care. As soon as two teeth appear you can begin flossing gently. Children need help with brushing until about age 3 or 4. They will not be able to floss effectively until age 8 or 9. Until then you need to perform flossing every night before bedtime, right after a good two minute brushing. Sit with your child on your lap facing you. Follow this flossing technique taken directly from Colgate’s World of Care “Oral and Dental Health at Any Age”:
    • Take about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap one end around each of your middle fingers.
    • Using your thumbs and index fingers as guides, gently slide the floss between two teeth, using a saw-like motion.
    • Once at the gum line, pull both ends of the floss in the same direction to form a C shape against one tooth.
    • Pull the floss tightly and move it up and down against one tooth.
    • Pull the floss against the other tooth and repeat the motion.
    • Repeat this for all of the teeth. Be sure to floss both sides of the teeth farthest back in the mouth.
    Doing this every night before bed will provide the pattern needed to help your youngster develop good oral hygiene habits. Main points to address:
    • Flossing removes plaque with harms teeth and gums.
    • Children are not ready to floss by themselves until 8 or 9 years old.
    • There is a specific flossing technique that best removes plaque.
    Grades K-3rd Young school age children are beginning to brush their own teeth. They still need help flossing until 8 or 9 years old. It is helpful to have your child watch you floss your own teeth. Watching the grip and motions used will help them when it’s time to take on this task. When your child seems ready to floss, schedule a trip to the dentist. Have the hygienist instruct your child on the correct method of flossing. Hopefully the hygienist will let your child show her how they do it so correction can occur before ineffective methods become habit. Go to the store together and purchase floss just for your child. They will feel proud being able to perform this task independently. You will need to continue to supervise your child and check for completeness until you are sure they are consistently doing a good job. Main points to address:
    • Model good flossing for your child.
    • Take a trip to the dentist so the hygienist can formally instruct your child.
    • Supervise flossing until you are certain they are flossing effectively.
    Grades 4-6th Children this age may still need to be reminded to floss, but for most the habit will be in place. Make sure your child has their own oral care supplies and that they are brushing at least twice a day and flossing every night before bed. Having a small travel case for sleepovers will promote oral care when your child is not with you. Your child may even want to take a brush, toothpaste and floss to school with them. The dentist will be able to tell if flossing has been done correctly. If necessary, have the dentist or hygienist review the technique during visits. Helping your child develop good oral habits will give you the satisfaction of knowing you’ve given them a good start on keeping that beautiful smile beautiful! Main points to address:
    • Your child should have their own oral hygiene supplies and travel case.
    • You may still need to remind and/or supervise your child’s flossing.
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-how-to-floss-their-teeth/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-how-to-floss-their-teeth/