Teach Kids How https://www.teachkidshow.com/ Preparing Your Child For Life Sun, 05 Jul 2026 01:44:02 +0000 Teach Your Child to Make Paper Airplanes Sun, 05 Jul 2026 01:44:02 +0000 Preschool Preschoolers will laugh with delight when you try out your first plane. If it flies, they will want to do one of their own. If they are able to watch while you model folding and follow your directions, they are ready. It is best to practice making a simple airplane, such as the basic Arrow. You can then progress to something different. Your library will probably have a how-to book on paper airplanes. The Internet also has a wealth of designs and information, including how-to videos. You will need:
  • A pattern to follow
  • Light paper- 16-20 pound copier paper is good
  • A flat surface to work on
These directions for the Arrow are adapted from a great Website called 10PaperAiplanes.com.
  1. Fold paper in half, lengthwise.
  2. Unfold keeping paper lengthwise.
  3. Fold top right hand corner over to meet the center line formed by the first fold.
  4. Repeat, folding the top left hand corner to meet the center line.
  5. Starting at the tip of the point, make another fold, folding each side over so that the edges meet the center line.
  6. Turn the plane over and fold it in half, creating the arrow form.
  7. Now, fold the first wing over with the line of the fold running nearly parallel to the centerline of the plane about ½ to 1 inch from the center.
  8. Repeat with other wing.
  9. You’re ready to fly!
Your airplane may require some adjustment. If it dives, turn the edges of the rear wings up slightly. If it swoops up, then crashes, do the opposite. Trial and error will help you get some distance. Other simple designs are available and easy to do. Experiment by shortening the length of the paper, varying folds and using paper clips as weights. You can also customize your planes with crayon or markers before or after folding. Little one’s results may not be perfect, but that’s okay. They will still love the finished product and want to fly it around the house. Save them in a safe place for the next sunny day! Main points to address:
  • Your child is ready if he or she can watch, then follow directions with your help.
  • Start with a simple design, like the Arrow.
  • Your plane may need some adjustments.
  • Vary the design by changing paper size and types of folds.
Grades K-3rd Young school age kids are ready for fancier designs. Having something to look at while creating a new plane is helpful. Try to be sensitive to your child’s learning style. Some children can follow spoken directions better than watching a demonstration. Others need to read the directions and carefully digest each step. Most kids will need to make several tries before getting their plane to fly the way they want. Let them know that’s what the Wright Brothers did! It took them several years of not giving up until their plane flew. The Internet has many sites that offer free designs, some with very detailed instructions and some with animated or videoed directions. Some of the fancier designs are the Stealth, the Moth, the Zump, the Slider and the Spinster, to name but a few. There are even delicate origami-type designs. Each time your child makes a different model, they are learning something additional about aeronautics. If your child is really excited about this craft, you may want to use paper airplane making as a theme for a party. The supplies are cheap, the kids will stay engaged, and they will have a neat favor to take home when the party’s over! Make several models and decorate so they can see what is possible. Have an extra pair of adult hands to assist. Main points to address:
  • School-age children can handle more complex designs.
  • Try to consider your child’s learning style while they are attempting to follow directions.
  • Try making paper airplanes a theme for a birthday party.
Grades 3-6th Older school children will be able to attempt quite complex planes. Refer to some of the sites referenced below to see some examples. You may need a ruler, scissors and white glue to make a more sophisticated plane. Supplies are still cheap and easily had. Kits are also available when your child is able to follow more detailed directions and manipulate multiple parts. Airplanes available from kit manufacturers make a nice display or collection. Of course, airplanes are meant to be flown and kids love to compete against each other for both distance and time aloft. Wind conditions are a factor in paper airplane flight, just as with actual airplane flight. Pick a slightly breezy to still day and make sure you are flying with the wind, not against it. Ken Blackburn, an aeronautical engineer from Florida in the USA, holds the Guinness World Record for time aloft at 27.6 seconds! There are many historical books on early airplane design that might make good gifts for a child this age. Biographies of early flyers, like Lincoln Beachey and others who flew balloons, dirigibles, biplanes and monoplanes may inspire your child. If your older child is interested, there are several online clubs for kids and adults where ideas are shared and successes celebrated. Some localities may have hobby clubs of the same sort. Many young people interested in paper airplanes as children have gone on to do research or engineering work with flight. For these kids, what started out as a passion for flying things turned into a meaningful, and highly rewarding occupation. Main points to address:
  • Older children can handle more complex designs. Kits are also available.
  • Your child and his or her friends may want to compete for flight distance and time aloft.
  • Support your child’s passionate interest in flight with books, by providing materials to build with or by finding a club to participate in.
Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]> https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-to-make-paper-airplanes/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=182 Teach Your Child How to Make a Tie-Dye Shirt Sat, 04 Jul 2026 00:38:40 +0000 You will need:
  • various colors of fabric dye, available at craft stores. (You can use RIT dye, which works well with this method, but produces less intense colors.)
  • soda ash (available at craft and fabric stores)
  • rubber bands
  • rubber gloves (long, cuffed are best)
  • tap water
  • salt
  • marbles and coins
  • pre-washed white cotton tee-shirts
  • 4-5 gallon plastic buckets or dishpans
  • stainless or old plastic tongs and long-handled spoons
  • large plastic bags or plastic sheets
  • medium-size Ziploc bags
  • white cotton tee-shirts
Preschool-6th Even toddlers can take part in tie-dyeing if they have the patience and ability to follow your directions. Older children will still need your active participation to avoid mishaps and poor results. Go over the steps together before beginning and obtain the cooperation of your child, explaining that the process cannot be altered or the end result will not be the same. You may want to have your child put his shirt design on paper while you are preparing the dyes and getting equipment ready. Watching an Internet video on tie-dyeing while they wait might give your child a better idea of what they will be doing. Remember to wear old clothing or an art smock, protect your floor and table or counters with several layers of newspaper, or plastic sheets or bags, and to keep dye away from eyes, nose and mouth. You may want to do this project outside on a picnic or folding table. Basic Method: Note: If working with a very young child, do the first two steps ahead of time.
  1. Pre-wash white cotton tee-shirts in warm water to remove sizing and to pre-shrink. Dry on the normal cycle or line dry.
  2. Soak shirt in soda wash solution, mixed according to manufacturer’s directions. Keep shirt wrung-out but still wet.
  3. Create the design or pattern desired using rubber bands alone, or coins or marbles tied with rubber bands. There are many cool designs in the resources listed below.
  4. Dip shirt in one or more dye baths to add color where you want. The longer you leave the material in the dye bath, the deeper the color will be.
  5. Wring out shirt, fold and place in a Ziploc bag to set overnight.
  6. The next day rinse shirt with warm water until the water runs clear. Make sure to use rubber gloves. Remove rubber bands while rinsing, being careful not to get dye on anything else.
  7. Machine wash each shirt by itself with cold water, then line dry or machine dry on the coolest setting.
After wearing, remember to wash separately. Your child will enjoy wearing their tie-dye creation and be proud they designed and made it themselves. Your family may also want to try making tie-dyed bandanas, hats, shorts, curtains, tablecloths, or placemats using the same method or one of the other methods that can be found in the resources below. Main points to address:
  • Tie-dyed creations have universal appeal.
  • There are several methods of tie-dyeing.
  • Make sure to protect clothing, furniture, floors and utensils from dye, which is permanent.
  • Follow steps precisely for best results.
  • Experiment with other projects and methods.
Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]> https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-how-to-make-a-tie-dye-shirt/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=181 Teach Your Child About the Solar System Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:25:16 +0000 The Terrestrial Planets:
  • Mercury
  • Venus
  • Earth
  • Mars
The Outer Gas Giants:
  • Jupiter
  • Saturn
  • Uranus
  • Neptune
The Dwarf Planets:
  • Ceres
  • Pluto
  • Makemake
  • Eris
Each planet has its own unique characteristics. Scientist theorize there may have been life on the planet Mars, but at this time, only Earth hosts life as we know it. Space exploration has helped us expand our idea of the Universe as a territory so vast that we cannot begin to know its dimensions or true composition. We know that it is composed of space (nothing) and matter (something). But there is so much we do not know. Many of the questions your child will ask may need to remain a mystery. Our solar system has been studied enough, however, that we can provide some answers as to the makeup, size and movements of the Sun and the planets. Some basic facts about our sun:
  • The Sun comprises 98 percent of all material in the Solar System.
  • It is a medium sized star, formed around 5 billion years ago.
  • The Sun was “born” when dust and other space matter came together and ignited.
  • The diameter of the Sun is about 864,000 miles, or 1.4 million kilometers.
  • We are 93 million miles, or 150 million kilometers, from the Sun.
  • It takes 8 minutes for the Sun’s energy to reach the Earth.
  • We only get about 1 billionth of the Sun’s total energy.
Some facts about the planets:
  • The planets in our Solar System are held in place by the Sun’s gravity.
  • The planets each have their own orbit duration, depending on their distance from the Sun, so each planet’s “year” differs.
  • Jupiter is the largest planet in our system.
  • Pluto has been reclassified as a dwarf planet.
  • The Earth is the only planet in our system that has water. It covers three-quarters of the Earth’s surface.
  • The planets in the Solar System have a total of 166 moons.
  • Copernicus theorized the planets moved around the Sun (rather than everything revolving around the Earth) about 500 years ago.
  • Galileo invented the telescope about 400 years ago, opening a whole new arena of exploration, and proving Copernicus was correct.
Teaching your youngster about the Solar System will be fun and easy, as their curiosity will generate questions the two of you can explore together. And it is one topic where it is okay to say, “I don’t know! Let’s see what we can find.” Preschool Preschoolers love to look up. The moon is a favorite object for many little ones, its bright face changing all the time. Just standing outside under the night sky and quietly observing together will trigger an instinctual knowing in your child. They will know the stars are farther away and the moon is closer. Let them know that stars are suns similar to ours. Your child may enjoy having glow in the dark stars and planets decorating their ceiling. Stars and planets are popular decorating themes for children’s rooms. Night clothes and bedspreads can be found with stars and moons. Kids this age may also enjoy a trip to a planetarium. They won’t understand everything, but will be fascinated by the magnitude and movement of the stars and constellations. One early connection to our Solar System is the weather. The Earth’s position in relation to the Sun, along with your position on the Earth determines the weather and the seasons. Some children may be intensely interested in the weather and the seasons, which will give you an opportunity to learn more by exploring books and internet sites about the Solar System. The phases of the moon will not escape your child’s notice. Spend some time finding an explanation you both understand. You may be surprised! This is also a good time to introduce the calendar to your child, which will later be useful when adding to what they know about time, the seasons, and the weather. For now it is enough to know we have a vital relationship with the Sun and that we live on a planet we’ve named Earth. Main points to address:
  • All children are fascinated by the moon and stars.
  • Our weather, seasons and how we keep time all hinge on where we are in our Solar System.
  • Young children may enjoy a trip to a planetarium.
Grades K-6th Young children will begin formally studying the Solar System and our place in it. You can expand on what they are learning by visiting some of the high-quality websites available, a few of which are referenced below. Camping under the night sky will recreate the wonder of their earliest experiences with the night sky. Take along a flashlight and a book of constellations and see how many you can find! Some scouting groups work toward astronomy badges and complete learning projects on different aspects of the Solar System. A trip to the library can supplement your child’s research. As your child grows and is ready for more detailed information on the Solar System, you may want to consider a “Space Camp” where kids have a chance to learn serious science and work on real life projects related to space travel and exploration. Probably the best resource at this time is the Internet. Spend some time gazing at the Hubble photographs. They will render you speechless. Check out some of the sites that have information and activities geared toward your child’s age group. If your child has a real passion for the planets, the moon and for space, foster this by creating opportunities to develop his or her interest. Who knows- your youngster may belong to the next generation of space explorers! Main Points to address:
  • Supplement your child’s learning with trips to the library and exploring some of the excellent sites found on the Web.
  • Camping and scouting may spark your child’s interest in the Solar System.
  • “Space Camp” is a wonderful experience for young astronomers.
Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]> https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-the-solar-system/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=180 Teach Your Child About Oceans and Ocean Life Wed, 01 Jul 2026 23:44:20 +0000 Preschool Even very young children have an inborn sense of the ocean’s immensity. Standing on the water’s edge, it is clear that there is no “other side”! Children are fascinated by large ocean animals- whales, dolphins, sharks. Their mysterious and sometimes threatening appearance have inspired tales throughout the ages. Children’s literature featuring ocean creatures abounds. A trip to the library can spark your child’s interest and imagination. Some titles to consider:
  • Water Beds by Gail Langer Karwoski
  • Dolphins: What They Can Teach Us by Mary M. Cerullo
  • Destination Deep Sea by Jonathan Grupper
  • Across the Wide Ocean by Karen Romano Young
  • Sea Critters by Sylvia A. Earle
  • Sea Shapes by Suse Mac Donald
  • Oceans and Seas by Nicola Davies
  • Usborne First Encyclopedia of Seas and Oceans by Ben Denne
  • The Sea: Exploring Life on an Ocean Planet by Robert Burleigh
  • Oceans: How We Use the Seas by Dana Desonie
Of course, there is nothing more valuable than direct experience. A trip to the ocean will not only be fun, but a real learning experience. The sun, sand, and billowing waves alone are awe-inspiring. Add seashells, sea birds and of course the fish, and you have an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to take a pail and shovels, some sunscreen and a camera! Main points to address:
  • Preschoolers have a natural appreciation for the ocean’s vast size.
  • Books about the ocean and its creatures can delight your young child.
  • A visit to the ocean is the best teacher!
Grades K-3rd Young school age children will have an opportunity to study the ocean and ocean life in school. Our weather is dependent to a large extent on the water cycle, which is greatly impacted by the water in our ocean. The plants and animals in the ocean are included in our food chain. Commerce is conducted on, in and across the ocean. Every aspect of our lives is connected in some way to the oceans. The ocean itself is a symbol of life and death and everything in between. Children this age can become fascinated by the ocean and ocean life. Visiting a seaquarium will give your youngster an up close view of sharks, manta rays, sea turtles and other ocean life. A salt water fish tank can be expensive, but beautiful when filled-with strikingly colorful varieties of ocean fish. Even taking a trip to a shop that sells salt water creatures can be fun and give your child an idea of the wide spectrum of colors, shapes, markings and adaptive features of ocean fish. Children this age can begin to take advantage of the many wonderful websites dealing with the ocean and ocean life. Time spent with your child doing an Internet exploration of targeted sites can spark your child’s interest in one of the many special areas of oceanography and marine biology. Main Points to address:
  • Life on Earth is highly impacted by and dependent on our oceans.
  • Visit a seaquarium to observe ocean creatures up close.
  • A salt water fish tank is a beautiful addition to the home.
  • Explore the oceans via the Internet with your child.
Grades 4-6th Older children will already have a good basic idea of the role oceans play in our lives. The variety of ocean life and the interconnectedness of all life will probably be part of your child’s consciousness by this time. Because of this, your child may have already developed a passion for one aspect of oceanography or another. A cruise or fishing trip on the ocean can be a real adventure for a young person, if it is possible and convenient to do. Make sure safety precautions are taken- check the weather forecast, sail with an experienced seaman and carry and use safety vests and rafts. There is no real substitute for being on the ocean! Make sure to take along some Dramamine or other remedy for sea-sickness, just in case. Older children will be sensitive to the health of the ocean- to global warming and to the dangers of pollution to ocean life and to us. Encourage their awareness and compassion by supporting any efforts to become actively involved. Many organizations for kids exist today that offer a way to make a difference. Whether it is a letter writing campaign, exploring alternative energy sources, or rescuing animals affected by the carelessness of humans, your child can make the world a better place by doing his or her part according to their interest. Opportunities to explore the ocean exist for older children through various schools and foundations. If your child has a real passion for some aspect of oceanography, you may want to look into one of these exciting possibilities. Main points to address:
  • An ocean fishing trip or cruise can be a great learning experience.
  • Older children realize the implications of failing to care for the ocean.
  • Support your child’s interest and involvement in keeping the ocean healthy.
Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]> https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-oceans-and-ocean-life/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=178 Teach Your Child About the Use of Foul Language Tue, 30 Jun 2026 23:05:44 +0000 Preschool Young children are acutely aware of the energy behind words and how they are used. Preschoolers may not yet be able to distinguish right use from wrong, but they are able to see and feel the response evoked by the use of certain words in their environment. If they hear grownups use foul language, they will likely repeat it when the occasion calls for it. First and most importantly, monitor your own use of objectionable words. If you have a habit of swearing when you are surprised, hurt or angry, make a decision to drop those words from your vocabulary. If grandparents, aunts, uncles, or care providers are careless with their speech, ask them to please refrain from cursing around your little one. Most adults will comply. Children are exposed to coarse language when the television, radio or videos are on, even as background noise. What we take for granted on popular TV shows and in popular music lyrics as being okay, is many times the source of bad language for our children. If your child uses an objectionable word or phrase at this age, simply say, “Some people use that word, but we do not.” Then suggest a substitute word that speaks to the emotion attached to the cuss word, like “darn” or “Meanie” or “Wow!” At this age your calm and matter of fact response will serve the situation better than an emotionally-charged and dramatic one. It is very hard to insulate your child completely from foul language. Having an age-appropriate strategy that both Mom and Dad agree on will be helpful. Main points to address:
  • Monitor your own language. You hold the greatest influence over your little one.
  • Television, videos, movies and music are common sources of objectionable words.
  • Your child may not know exactly what he is saying. Simply state your objection and suggest a substitute phrase.
Grades K-3rd Young school age children work and play alongside children who may be raised differently than they. Language is the major mode of cultural expression. What may be acceptable or expected in one family may be offensive in another. If your child comes home with some new words, don’t be surprised- but do be ready! A first time use of a swear word provides an opportunity for gentle correction. Laying down the law at this point may backfire, causing defiant and persistent use of the word or phrase. Also- do not laugh if you can help it. This may confuse the issue and cause a repeat performance. Until your child is eight or nine years old, they will not know for sure which words are clearly right or wrong. Your job is to provide the basis for their developing judgment. If a teacher reports the use of swear words, discuss the specific context the word was used in and help your child come up with an alternative to using unacceptable language. If the problem is persistent, a reasonable age-appropriate consequence, determined ahead of time, could be imposed. Keep in mind that trying out “power” language is normal and pretty much universal. Your child will eventually drop the word or words if he or she does not hear it at home and reasonable consequences are consistently administered. Main Points to address:
  • School provides a new context for language acquisition, including objectionable language.
  • Respond calmly but firmly. Resist any urge to laugh. Apply reasonable consequences for repeat offenses.
  • Children are not clear about right and wrong use of language until age eight or nine. It’s up to you to teach them.
Grades 4-6th Older school age children are able to distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable speech. Knowing this may cause you to anger or become discouraged with your child. Resist the urge to over-react. Instead, look into the reason or reasons behind the use of offensive language. Is she frustrated? Is he succumbing to peer pressure? Is anger an emotion he or she has difficulty expressing? Knowing the reason behind the swearing will likely give you the right approach to the problem. Continue to make your boundaries clear while helping your child to problem-solve. If your child seems determined to retain certain words in his speech, you may want to compromise by limiting when and where he or she speaks the word. Specify places and occasions where foul language is absolutely not acceptable, such as in school and other public places and around younger siblings. If they will accept an alternate phrase or word to express their feelings, so much the better. Meanwhile, try to effectively deal with the underlying problem if indeed there is one. Objectionable language should fade out around this time, but may emerge later in the teen years. If swearing seems to be part of a larger pattern of defiance, you may want to get professional help. But for most children this age, your explanation that words have the power to hurt or heal, to lift up or tear down, and that foul language causes hurt and confusion will be enough. Telling them that a person is often judged by their manner of speech and the degree of respect it reflects or lacks may help them understand why this area of personal conduct is so important. Controlling speech is an important form of self-control, and as with any area of personal growth and character development, it is a process, often involving trying out and modifying behavior. Your child will likely grow up to be reasonable in speech and manner if they have had your good example to model after and your guidance to lean on. Main points to address:
  • If older children continue to swear, this may be a sign that their heart is troubled in some way.
  • Specify places and situations where foul language is absolutely not to be used.
  • Controlling speech is an important part of character development. It is a process! Kids may try out swearing, later forsaking it.
  • Your example remains the single most influential factor.
Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]> https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-the-use-of-foul-language/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=177 Teach Your Child to Play American Football Mon, 29 Jun 2026 22:13:00 +0000 Preschool Even very young children get excited about football. Buying a Nerf football is a safe way to start learning to throw and catch. Because of the unique shape of the ball, throwing and catching is not as easy as it looks! The football is generally thrown “overhand”. Start with catching by standing very close to your child and holding the ball lengthwise with fingertips aligned with the ball’s laces, thumb supporting the underside of the ball. Gently throw the ball so that your child can successfully catch the ball at about waist or chest height. As you both gain ease with throwing and catching, you can gradually expand the distance between you. Keep practices short and more like play. Probably the best way to introduce your preschooler to the basics of the game is to go watch a local children’s team play. Your child will very quickly pick up the object of the game with a few explanations from you. Main points to address:
  • Use a Nerf ball with your preschooler.
  • Teach catching, then throwing.
  • Use patience. Keep it short and fun!
Grades K-3rd Young school children can benefit from playing on a team. By joining a local kids’ team they will learn and practice specific skills useful for play as well as learn the basic rules of the game. Even more importantly, they will learn how to work as part of a team and to accept the direction of a coach. How can you help? Back up the coach by letting him or her do their job. Practice specific drills and skills at home (there are some helpful sites listed below). Take your child to football games so they can see older children or adults executing the skills they are learning and playing the specific “positions”. The rules will start to become clear to them as they experience the game as a player and as a spectator. Flag and touch football are excellent alternatives for kids this age. The rules are basically the same, but play is less rough and injuries less likely. As with any sport, there is always some risk of injury, but the benefits gained by playing a team sport like football usually outweigh the risks involved. Main points to address:
  • Team play has many benefits.
  • Back up the coach by resisting the urge to interfere. Remember your child is learning!
  • Practice catching, passing and other skills at home or at the park between team practices.
  • Go to local games with your child.
  • Flag and touch football are excellent alternatives at this age.
Grade 4-6th Older children, if they’ve played as part of a team, will be familiar with the rules of play and the basics of the game. If your child genuinely has a passion for the game, encourage their participation by making sure they have opportunities to play. Girls at this age may continue to be very interested in playing. As long as protective equipment is worn, there is no reason to discourage them. Girls are often skilled players and excellent strategists, making them valuable team members. Going to a semi-pro or pro game is an effective way to inspire your child and show them the finer points of play. The whole family will enjoy supporting “their” team. The teamwork involved in American football can build and test character and give you and your child material for discussion and many opportunities for you to support their developing sense of self. Being a good listener after practice or a game will be far more meaningful to your youngster than your advice or correction. Go easy and stay positive! Football camp in the summer, a Sunday afternoon game on the television, or informal practice in the backyard can provide your child with extra time with the game. Football is one of those sports you can really fall in love with. If your child seems drawn to the game, do what you can to support them. Main Points to Address:
  • Support your child by providing opportunities to play.
  • Girls can continue to participate.
  • Make football a family pastime.
  • Be a good listener for your child. Stay positive and remember– it’s a game!
Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]> https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-to-play-american-football/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=176 Teach Your Child the Importance of Appreciation Sun, 28 Jun 2026 21:34:11 +0000 Preschool Nature is a major doorway to appreciation. The unarguable beauty and power encountered in natural places inspires a young child’s appreciation. The sound of a bird in the tree overhead, the rustling grass as the wind passes by, a butterfly lighting briefly on a blossom- all are breathlessly beautiful and awe-inspiring! Take frequent forays into wild places. Let your child experience the wonders of nature through their senses. Walk through well-tended gardens and notice the colors, shapes and smells you encounter. They will see your obvious pleasure and join you in your appreciation. Share what you’ve experienced later by reviewing the experience. Care is an important aspect of appreciation. Help your child take care of their things. Teach them to respect their belongings and the property of others. Demonstrate an attitude of thankfulness for what you have and for your life together. Prayer, celebrations and shared reflection are simple ways to express your gratitude. Affection is a powerful way to express appreciation. Hugs, kisses and loving words show your child how much you value him and others. Simple thank-yous given often and sincerely introduce your child to the graciousness of appreciation. There is no more powerful teacher than your own example! Main points to address:
  • Being close to nature brings out appreciative feelings, as this activates the heart. This is accomplished through the senses.
  • Teach your child how to care for and respect their belongings.
  • Show thankfulness with prayer, celebrations and simple reflection.
  • Hugs, kisses and loving words are powerful expressions of appreciation. Use them often along with sincere thank-yous.
Grades K-3rd Young school age children are strongly influenced by those outside the home. They may encounter those who lack appreciation and respect for people and property. You will need to counter this by continuing to deliberately teach and demonstrate appreciation. One fun way to do this is to create a “Thankfulness Tree”. Using construction paper, or a cardboard tube, make a “trunk” for your tree. Cut out colorful leaves and have each family member write something they are thankful for on them. Each week add another set of leaves to the tree. Take time afterward to re-read the leaves. You’ll be surprised what your family will come up with! Keeping a family journal, perhaps alongside a photo album or scrapbook, can provide a running record of gratitude. Take time every month to update events or developments that have inspired thankfulness. Encourage but don’t require participation each time, but know your contributions are setting a standard they will internalize. Use holidays as opportunities to show appreciation for what you have, for each other, and for what you’ve experienced over the year. Your child will develop an appreciation for the “seasons of life” in this way. Sometimes an event such as illness, death or other tragedy can later viewed as a blessing. Openly thank your child’s teachers, coaches and care providers. Encourage your youngster to do the same. Again, make sure your child knows you appreciate them. Praise, noticing effort and accomplishment and kind words need to be part of the climate of the thankful home. Prayer remains a powerful vehicle for gratitude at this age. Main Points to address:
  • Counter outside influence by being deliberately appreciative.
  • Create a “Thankfulness Tree” together.
  • Use holidays as opportunities to show appreciation.
  • Continue using praise, recognition, prayer, and kind words.
Grades 4-6th Older school age children can begin to show appreciation in more tangible ways. It is important to foster the development of gratitude in order to keep your youngster’s heart open at a time when many around them are “shutting down” in this way. A good extension of the family journal is to provide your child with a journal of their own. Writing out their thoughts and feelings is a wonderful way to express what they may find difficult to verbalize. Journaling requires time, thought and reflection and opens a doorway for appreciation that might not otherwise be opened. Provide your older child their own stationary, including thank you notes. You may need to prompt them to send thank yous, but if they have seen you do this, they will feel quite grownup sending them. Show them how to be specific when expressing their gratitude. Volunteering to work at an animal rescue or shelter, read to older folks at a nursing home, or participate in a community cleanup or food shelter can provide your child with opportunities to realize their own blessings and give back by being a blessing to others. This is one of the most powerful ways of teaching appreciation- by showing them appreciation has both receptive and expressive qualities. Again, your own appreciation and how you show it will be the best teacher for your child. Know that how you view and respond to the world around you and the life you live will be the critical factor in opening your child’s heart to appreciation. Main points to address:
  • A personal journal provides a forum for thoughtful expression.
  • Sending thank you notes is a grownup way to show gratitude.
  • Volunteer activities can keep your child’s heart open and give them a chance to be a blessing to others.
  • Your example is the most powerful teacher.
Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]> https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-the-importance-of-appreciation/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=175 Teach Your Child to Be Safe With Electricity Sat, 27 Jun 2026 19:56:14 +0000 Indoor Safety: Never turn on a light switch or electrical appliance while you are wet or while you are in the bathtub. Be careful not to leave electrical cords where people might step on them. Wear and tear on the cord can cause it to become unsafe. Check electrical cords for exposed wiring before plugging anything in. If you see a worn-looking cord, point it out to an adult. Never put any object other than a plug designed for that purpose into an electrical outlet. If you have questions about whether a plug is safe to use, ask your parent or a teacher. Never touch electrical outlets with your fingers or with objects. Ask an adult to help you change light bulbs. Always turn lamps and other light fixtures off before changing a bulb. In case of an electrical fire at home get out of the house, then call the fire department and an adult. Never use water to try to put out an electrical fire—you could be electrocuted. Outdoor Safety: Never climb utility poles, transmission towers, or fences around electrical plants or substations (which house equipment that reduces high voltage electricity so it can be used by consumers). If you see other people doing these things, tell an adult you trust right away. Stay away from areas or buildings marked with signs that read “Danger: High Voltage.” If you enjoy climbing trees, avoid trees that are near electrical power lines. Never, ever touch an outdoor electrical pole or wire that has fallen to the ground. It could kill you! Stay away from and never touch transformers (usually large metal boxes attached to utility poles or on the ground) or substations. They contain high-voltage equipment that can hurt or kill you. Come inside during a thunderstorm (or even occasional flashes of lightning with no rain). Many people around the world are struck by lightning each year. Nearly all are badly injured and some are killed. Call 911 if you see a person who has been or is being electrocuted. Do not touch the person because they could be carrying the flow of electricity. Never swim during storms. As soon as you hear thunder or see lightning, get out of the water. These rules are listed in their entirety because every one is crucial- your child will likely run into one or more of these safety situations at least once before they are grown up. Preschool Very young children are not ready for detailed descriptions and explanations about the dangers of electricity. Using strong, consistent language can let them know you mean business when they approach an electrical danger. Little fingers are strongly tempted by electrical outlets. Use outlet covers cheaply obtained at any dry goods or hardware store on every outlet. Make sure wires are in good repair and that they are not where your child can get caught in them. Be extremely careful with electrical appliances such as irons, mixers, blenders, blow dryers and curling irons. Make sure to unplug and properly store these items after each use. The same goes for power tools and other workshop equipment. Because preschoolers love to model after Mom and Dad, think out loud while you are deliberately taking safety precautions. They will learn a lot listening to you and watching how you safely handle electricity. Older preschoolers can begin to understand the power and danger of electricity, as well as its usefulness. What you teach them will begin to make sense. However- never take their understanding for granted! Main points to address:
  • Use strong, consistent language to teach very young children about electrical danger.
  • Use outlet covers on every outlet.
  • Always put away electrical appliances and power tools immediately after use.
  • Never take their understanding and compliance for granted.
Grades K-3rd Young school age children are beginning to understand the uses and dangers of electrical power. Letting them plug in and use lamps and certain electrical appliances and tools is fine as long as they are in good repair. By this time they should know the basic rules of safety listed above. Don’t leave safety instruction to your child’s school, however. They may or may not include electrical safety in their curriculum. Explicit teaching is necessary. If your young child is a risk-taker, make sure you closely monitor them around sources of electrical power. Better safe than sorry! At this age children become fascinated with all sources of power. This is a good time to help them learn about the history of electricity, the various ways electricity is produced, and about ways to conserve electricity. Finding ways to save energy can become a fun family project! Main points to address:
  • Explicit instruction on electrical safety is necessary. Don’t wait for your child’s school to do it.
  • Monitor your child’s use of electricity.
  • Help them learn how electricity is produced and how to conserve it.
Grades 4-6th Older school age children generally recognize electrical dangers and know what to do to avoid them. The outdoor safety tips listed above are particularly important at this age. Your child must also be able to resist the temptations they may encounter when playing with other children and when out of your direct supervision. Teach them to say “No” to friends and to report any dangerous situations to an adult. This is a great age to teach your child about alternate energy sources and about “green living”. Using energy wisely has become a necessity. Let your child help find additional ways to ensure safety in the home and to save energy. Being energy safe and savvy is cool! Main points to address:
  • Outdoor safety tips need to be reinforced at this time.
  • Teach your child to resist temptations presented by peers.
  • Teach your child how to deal with and report dangerous situations.
  • Help your child learn about alternate energy sources.
Resources Resources that can help you in your venture: ]]> https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-to-be-safe-with-electricity/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=174 Teach Your Child How to Make a Comic Book Fri, 26 Jun 2026 19:03:21 +0000 Grades K to 3rd As soon as your child is able to grip a pencil with some control, they will be able to at least draw characters and a setting. Use another comic as a model, perhaps one you have made and shared with them. Then follow these steps: Have your child dictate a story. Distill the events and key words so there is little fluff. Don’t worry about dividing the words into frames, just record them for now. Start sketching key events on 4 or 5 inch square papers, creating a kind of story board. If your child is able, have them do this. Order them by penciling in numbers in one corner. Have your child practice drawing key characters so that they will be recognizable in the final version. Decide together what characters will be doing or saying in each frame. Eliminate extra frames and create new ones to flesh out the story. Place the text in balloons or strips on frames that need them. This is your rough draft. A younger child may want to start out with a 3 to 6 frame story. Words are optional if pictures can tell the story. Once you have gotten the story down and are satisfied with your character development, you can begin to create final frames. Working on separate frames (full page frames are good for 5 and 6 year olds; smaller ones for 7 to 9 year olds), compose the story. Use crayon or markers to color your frames. Don’t forget to add marks that express what the characters are going through- like anger, confusion, happiness, love and frustration. Make sure you leave enough room for words and speech balloons. Use pencil for words until your child is older. Place completed squares on card stock, using a glue stick to attach them in order. Design a cover with the title of your comic and list the author(s) and illustrator(s). Bind by stapling or using a punch and fastening with yarn. Don’t forget to date the final copy. Have fun sharing with your child’s friends and relatives. This simple process will probably take several sittings, depending on the concept and your child’s age. Have fun with it. If your child seems frustrated, put it away for a rainy day and then come back to it. Have fun and reserve criticism so that your child will want to continue using comics as a means of storytelling. Major points to address:
  • Start simple.
  • Some stories can be told with pictures alone.
  • Let your child dictate to you if they are not able to put their story in writing yet.
  • Stop working when your child is still enjoying it, before your child gets tired or frustrated.
Grades 4 to 6th Older children can produce more complicated storylines and more sophisticated art work. The same process listed above can be followed. Your child may want to use index cards to write and order the events of their story. They will probably be able to write a story without dictating to you. At this age, colored pencils can be used for art work and a fine roller marker for written portions and balloons. If handwriting seems too difficult, try using Word with Comic Sans or other font, cutting out strips of words to fit in the balloons. Use spell check or a dictionary to finalize spelling. Let your child know that they may need to make several tries at a frame before they get it the way they want it. Kids this age can easily produce a comic of 6 to 12 frames or more. Try to have several types of comics for your child to use as sources for ideas and examples of layouts. Your child may want to start a comic club with a few friends so that they will have an audience for their work and a supply of comics to read. Or a birthday celebration could be centered on a comic book theme where all children would have an opportunity to try their hand at making one. Your child may or may not want your help, so try to be responsive to their degree of independence. Most of all, have fun. Your child’s creation will likely be a keepsake and a source of great pride. Main points to address:
  • Older children can create more complicated storylines and artwork.
  • Let your child know they may need to revise several times, just like other authors.
  • Have several types of comics for your child to refer to.
  • A comic club or comic-themed birthday party could be fun.
Resources Resources that may help in your venture include: ]]> https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-how-to-make-a-comic-book/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=173 Teach Your Child About Nutrients Thu, 25 Jun 2026 17:48:18 +0000
  • Carbohydrates, which contain energy
  • Protein, for building and repairing the body
  • Fats, which also provide energy, but in a concentrated form
  • Water, which cleans and hydrates the body, and regulates body temperature
  • Vitamins, which regulate bodily functions
  • Minerals, performing many functions in the body
    • Nutrients come to us from foods and liquids we consume, and are broken down into usable form by digestion. Whatever we don’t need is eliminated through the digestive system or the skin. Vitamins can be broken down into groups: A, B, C, D, E and F. Each has a special set of jobs it does for the body. Vitamins work in balance with each other and with other nutrients. If you are deficient in any one nutrient, the body suffers in some way. Most packaged and prepared foods now consumed come labeled with very detailed nutritional information. Take some time to look at the labels on foods to see what they do or don’t provide. A good way to learn about nutrients and how much we need of each is to look at the New Food Pyramid designed by the U. S. Department of Agriculture. Generally, fresh and raw foods provide higher concentrations of usable nutrients. Eating a wide variety of foods will ensure you and your child are receiving an adequate amount of nutrients. Teaching your child about nutrients will equip them with the knowledge to make good food choices. They will enjoy examining labels and selecting nutrient-packed foods. Preschool Even very young children like to be involved in choosing and preparing foods. Take them to the grocery store and make it an exciting game to pick the freshest most colorful fruits and vegetables. When you pick out cereals and breads go for the whole grains. Let your child know meats and dairy foods will make them strong! Shopping can be an adventure. If you prepare healthy foods from the start they will likely gravitate toward those foods. Recognizing foods that are poor choices is just as important as knowing those that are good for them. Save the poorer choices for the occasional holiday or party celebration and be sure to serve healthy foods before and after. Making sure your baby and toddler get enough water is tricky. Parents many times feel that water will fill their child up so that they will not eat other foods. But their bodies need at least 2-3 cups of water per day besides other drinks they consume. Sometimes having a fancy water bottle or special water cup can get them excited about drinking it. Tell your little one “Good choice!” when they pick a healthy snack. Make sure to make nutrient dense foods available for snacking. Main points to address:
    • Involve your child in food choices.
    • Serve the freshest and most colorful foods you can afford.
    • Make sure your preschooler gets enough water.
    Grades K-3rd Children learn about nutrients and healthy eating in school, but many times school cafeterias do not provide many fresh or whole grain food choices. Packing a lunch with your child might be a fun way to include more healthy foods in their day. As soon as your child can read show them food labels. Make it a game to find the better choice. They will be more eager to eat it if they found it! Let them cook with you. See how colorful you can make it. This age child is old enough to understand the food pyramid. Make sure you use the pyramid labeled “new”, as this depiction takes into account the differing food needs people have. Main points to address:
    • Pack lunches with your child. Include high-nutrient choices.
    • If your child can read, involve them in finding the best food choices.
    • Use the “New Food Pyramid” to show the relative value of foods.
    Grades 4-6th Older children should know quite a bit about nutrition, but your child may need a refresher course. Having them teach a younger child about specific nutrients is a good way for them to review. You may want to try allowing your child to plan a menu once or twice a week. Let them shop for the items that will be prepared and make all or part of the meal with you. They will be proud to serve a meal packed with nutrients. Older children can pack their own lunches. Provide the best lunch foods you can and let them combine them. Having them prepare a healthy snack for their siblings and friends when they get home from school or play will give them an investment in eating right. Main points to address:
    • Older children may need more specific information on nutrients.
    • Allow your child to plan and prepare a healthy meal with your assistance.
    • If older children prepare their own lunches and snacks, they may have a larger investment in eating healthy.
    Resources Resources that can help you in your venture include: ]]>     https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-about-nutrients/ http://www.teachkidshow.com/?p=172