Monday, August 24, 2009

Back to School

So our routine swung back into place this morning with the noticeable change that my daughter is much more grown up than she was at the same time last year.
We had breakfast first because she likes to talk at breakfast and if we wait to eat until after she's showered, we'll never be on time.
She did her teen thing, with the eyeliner and the fancy doo. I did my mom thing and laced up my running shoes. Ace climbed into his jogger, Susanne hopped on her bike and after sneaking past our dog, who loses her mind when she discovers she's not going with us, we were off.
It was a beautiful morning. No humidity. A soft breeze. Perfect.
Susanne split apart from us at about .5 mile (with shouts of, 'I love you!' and 'Have a great day!') Then we crossed back across to the playground. He was so happy to be back in his routine.
All said, the trip took nearly 90 minutes and I'd actually only ran for 20 of them. What a great morning!
Of course, tomorrow will be chaotic and I'll wonder why I even try, right?

This morning was definitely one for the memory books.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Brain Building Bootcamp for Kids

This is too cool.

Brain Building Games/Activities for you and your children. This week is coins and counting!

http://www.parentsconnect.com/questions/brain-building-boot-camp-cents.jhtml

Now I'll have to go back to find out the workouts prior to this one! Love it!

Monday, August 17, 2009

Get Ready for School With EXERCISE

I have been reading a ton of information about getting kids ready for school. In my case, I am extremely anxious about my oldest starting kindergarten in a few weeks. I go through bouts of anxiety, sadness, worry, and every other emotion. I mean...that's my baby! She's going to school!

At any rate, while reading tons of info on school readiness I came across some helpful info for any moms out there who have kids who act out when they get to school - or those who have ADHD - or those who have sensory disorders - or any sort of behavioral issues that they do not demonstrate at home. It seems the best way to calm kids down so that they pay attention at school is EXERCISE!!! Yep, 10 minutes of physical activity first thing in the morning BEFORE they get to school.

HERE IS WHAT I READ (from Kirk Martin from "Celebrate Calm"):

There is one thing that every child needs before school and in many ways, it is more important than a good breakfast: EXERCISE. I always get pushback from parents on this recommendation, but I cannot tell you how many skeptical parents have written to say, "This works." Exercise before school. This is exactly why we need to re-order our lives so we have more time. We need to carve out an extra 10 minutes each morning to get some kind of exercise, preferably outside in the fresh air. Riding a bike/scooter, jumping on the trampoline or playing catch with Dad are great ways to stimulate the brain, work off anxiety and meet sensory needs. Walk the dog. Stop at a playground or get to school early to play for a few minutes. You will never, ever regret taking this time-it will reduce behavioral issues and improve attention.