RedRokoTest: November 2008

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15 Minutes : Know It : Election Day

Today is an important day for this country. Today we find out who the next President of the United States will be for the next 4 years. Over the last several months I'm sure your child(ren) has noticed you watching the news or debates, listening to talk radio, or any comments you've made to your spouse, friends or neighbors.

They probably want to know more and you may be surprised with what they already know or feel. This is a great time to teach your child about the Elections and how important it is to vote.

For Younger Children
If your kids are small try using simple ways of teaching that are easy to understand. For example, practice voting at home. Vote on tacos vs. hamburgers and then tally up the results. Ask them to share their reasoning for their choices.

Older Children
Explain a little bit about each candidate. Try to be neutral with your comments so they can have the chance to create their own opinion.
Weekly Reader has a great interactive website that can teach your child more about the elections through games, quizzes and activities. Visit it HERE. Or print off a Presidential word search HERE.

Try not to make negative comments about the candidates in front of your children. It is more important to demonstrate the importance of voting rather than the particular candidate you want to win.

Remember, the best way to teach is through example, so be sure to get out there and VOTE!

For more tips on teaching your children about the election I recommend this article.

1 Hour : Make It : Bird Feeder Wreath

This is my version of an idea I saw in a magazine years ago:

Supplies:

plain grapevine wreath, available at craft stores

twine or heavy duty string

cranberries, cheerios, raisins, popcorn, or other small bird-friendly foods

needle

Make garlands by stringing the foods on the twine. Older children can use the needle to pierce cranberries, etc.; young children can easily string cheerios. Wrap the garlands around the wreath and hang your "feeder" in a place that is very visible to your children. For me, a big part of the fun of having bird feeders is watching my children watch the birds.