Experts

Learning about Learning Styles

2010-01-28T23:31:00Z

Ever have difficulty helping your children understand their homework? Do your children ever try to convince you that it's easier to study with the TV or music blaring? Or with friends over? Well ... they may be right! It all depends on their learning style.

You likely already know something about learning styles--the idea that people learn in different ways, and that we all have preferences as to how we learn best. But most discussions focus solely on whether a person is an auditory learner (likes to hear things), visual learner (likes pictures or diagrams) or a kinesthetic learner (needs to move / be active in order to learn). However, I recently ran across the book, Discover Your Child's Learning Style by Mariaemma Willis & Victoria Kindle Hodson which greatly expands the most common definition of learning styles by offering parents and educators not one but five aspects by which we can better define how our children learn best. They include:

Disposition
Talents
Interests
Modality
Environment

Disposition. This is the part of their personalities which seems hard-wired, more inborn than developed, and therefore is often very hard to change. According to the authors, all of us are inclined to act in a certain way, and therefore prefer to learn through different types of activities. For example, you might like to:

Perform - move and be active
Produce - organize thoughts and ideas
Invent - learn through discovery
Relate/inspire - interact with others
Think/create - create things and ideas

Talents. These are activities that come easily to us. For example some people excel in math, logic, or working with words, while others have talents in the areas of music, humour, or body coordination.

Interests. These are what we enjoy doing, and do not necessarily correspond with our talents. Sometimes we have a talent, but are not interested in pursuing it. Other times we are interested in something but are quite bad at it.

Modality. This is the most common type of learning style described in literature today, describing how we like to access new information and ideas--through hearing (auditory), sight (visual), or through touch or movement (tactile-kinesthetic).

Environment. In what type of environment do you like to work and learn? This might include examining the lighting (bright, low, sunlight, etc), sound levels (quiet, noisy, music or people talking), body position (sitting, standing, lying down, etc.), temperature, and level of interaction with others (like being alone, with others, with a pet, etc.). Other environmental factors that can affect how we best learn can include how hungry or thirsty we are, the time of day (related to our energy levels), and even if we are around our favourite or least favourite colours.

The Implications ...

For students. Helping your children to better understanding their styles & preferences can empower them to make better choices when it comes to studying and/or talking to their teachers about how they learn best.

For parents. Looking at your children's learning preferences through an expanded lens can help you to better understand and advocate for them at school. It can also help to inform you about how best to assist your kids with homework and studies without imposing your own preferences upon them.

About the author

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Ready to give your child a head start on success? Check out Rob's coaching programs, workshops, and newsletter for parents and youth. Visit www.YouthCoachCanada.com or call 905.515.9822.

An award-winning educator and Parenting & Youth Coach, Rob Stringer BA, BEd, CPC has spent almost two decades helping kids, teens, and adults meet with success, and live lives they LOVE! Although based outside of Toronto, Rob's coaching practice is global with teen and adult clients around the world.

Sale Away...

2010-01-19T17:05:15Z

Three weeks into January. Still a ton of winter to go. If you're already weary of your winter wear, check out the season's sales for some pieces to add versatility and vavoom to your cold weather closet. Some of the best buys around include:

Sassy sweaters - you know you'll be in sweater territory for a few more weeks. Add to your current collection with a cheerful colour. This sweater dress is from Banana Republic - layer with slim turtle necks on the coldest days. Perfect as is, when Spring kicks in.

Awesome outerwear - look for a great deals on a coat you have been craving. Winter white might not be everyday wear, but scoop up this closet classic in the sales and you'll have it for years. This is Banana Republic's version:

Update your current coat - with a new accessorry or two such as a sunny-coloured scarf or new style of hat. Here's a cute cap from Reitman's:

Inside out - can't face another sweater or scarf, coat or cap? Cheer yourself up with an undies update. Here's a light-hearted look from La Senza's sale:

Boot blahs - "But my boots weren't going to last til Spring..." Feel free to use this affirmation to justify your footwear purchase. There are still some beautiful boots on sale. This cute boot is from Aldo:

Statement necklace - there were lots around during the Holidays and many are on sale now. The statement necklace will continue to be hot this Spring. So, invest in a great piece to accent your winter wear now, and augment your tanks and T's as the temperature rises. This one is on sale at Banana Republic:

Cosy robe - what's the state of your robe? This is an item that often gets ignored. So if yours has seen better days, now's the time to treat yourself. You'll be glad you did, especially during those winter pj parties with your little ones (and if anyone comes by the house before you get dressed!) Take a look at this one from La Senza:

One final closet classic - the sheath dress is a must-have. It suits most body types and is soooo versatile - perfect for office, everyday events, parties and more, season after season. If you haven't got one, you won't regret getting one. Banana Republic has an ideal design:

Hope this helps you make the most of the sales and relieve winter wear boredom. Next time - we'll look ahead to Spring - I promise.

A winning solution for a New Year resolution

2010-01-05T23:36:38Z

If one of your resolutions is to clean out your closet, but like most resolutions, it's hard to get started, then perhaps this idea might inspire you.

Step One

Identify a not-for-profit organization to receive your closet donations. My choice in Toronto is Dress Your Best, which helps new and underprivileged Canadians find attire for starting out in the workplace. But, perhaps your choice is a women's shelter or Goodwill or other organization that you connect with. Identify their needs and collection/delivery process.

Step Two

Challenge your friends and colleagues to clean up their closets too! Ask them to bring their ready to wear items along to your home and turn it into a social event. A little wine, a few snacks and an opportunity to exchange unwanted items with one another before the remainder is packed up ready for your chosen charity.

Step Three

Deliver or arrange delivery of the clothing. Some organizations collect and some receive deliveries. Everyone at the clothing exchange can either donate a small amount for courier or volunteer to make a delivery.

Step Four

Reflect on a win win win situation. You and your friends not only had a fun afternoon or evening out, but now have clutter-free closets, and possibly, a few new pieces for free! And, most importantly, a worthy organization and its clients will benefit from your group donation.

Before you plan your event, here are a few tips to help make it a success:

1. Review what your chosen charity requires and how it likes to receive donations. Not surprisingly, the typical request is for clean, ready-to-wear items.

2. Give your invitees at least a couple of weeks notice of the event, advise them whether clothing should be bagged or on hangers. Add closet clean-out tips. Feel free to use these guidelines:

a. Divide everything in your closet (including accessories, footwear, seasonal and sportswear) into the following piles -

i) things I wear all the time,

ii) things I no longer wear,

iii) things I would wear if i had something to coordinate with them.

Be honest. If something no longer fits, doesn't suit your lifestyle, isn't in style and isn't a classic that may come into vogue again in 3-4 years, it has to go. As do items that are wornout (they are most likely not even suitable for your charity and must be disposed of - what's lurking in the back of that underwear drawer?)

b. Return all the frequently worn and items you would like to find something to coordinate with to your closet (without the clutter, it will now be easier to figure new ways to coordinate your pieces to make new outfits and/or make a list of a few new things you might need to purchase to make your closet fully functional.)

3. Try to have three rooms available for your event - space for socializing (your usual sitting room, family room or kitchen), space to deposit and display clothing (a sitting room or bedroom - all the better if you can borrow a few clothing racks) and a "fitting room" (probably a bedroom with a full length mirror.)

4. Have fun and feel good about helping those in need, and about your newly coordinated, clutter-free closet.

Btw: You can run the event very successfully simply as a clothing drive (no-need for the swapping among participants.) I did this recently at my home, and here I am getting ready to load my car for the drop off.

Two SUV trips loaded to the roof!

If you have hosted a similar event, do share your stories and tips in the comments below. Here's to a happy new closet!

Five Fab Frocks!!!! (As sung to the Five Gold Rings bit of the Twelve Days of Christmas.)

2009-12-02T01:00:35Z

Yay! December 1st. A little snow this morning, an advent calendar, festive music on the radio. The Holidays are here, and if you're heading out for a cocktail party or formal gathering you need a delicious dress. There are so few invitations these days that call for a fancy frock, that when the occasion arises, you want to look and feel your best. So, get inspired with these awesome options...

1. Lovely lace: layers of lace re-occur every few years, and you can't go wrong with this classic design from Suzy Shier:

2. Pretty in pink: fuschia flourishes this season. If you go for this strong colour statement, balance it with subduded styling, as seen in this stunner from Banana Republic:

3. Red Alert: The festive favourite can be tough to wear. So, shop with a friend to select the right shade for your skintone. Here are options in true red and red wine from Ann Klein:

4. Get ruffled... and not just by traditional Holiday havoc - 2009 is the year to wear feminine flounces. Just keep you proportions in mind. Ruffles add volume, so you can enhance your upper body or balance out your bottom half with the right use of ruffles. Ann Klein offers this option:

5. LBD - the little black dress is always in style and never more so than NOW - choose the cut that best flatters your figure and you'll have a closet classic for years to come. These are from American Eagle, Esprit and Banana Republic.

Happy Holidays and enjoy dressing up in your festive frock!

Top Five Party Pieces

2009-11-17T18:47:38Z

Hooray! Party season is about to begin. And, I don't mean sportball/princess/sticky/loot bag parties. Real grown-up parties, where no one cries (hopefully) and you can complete a conversation!! Time to book a sitter and dress up a little.

Here's a selection of party pieces that will turn your closet classics into luminous holiday looks.

1. Playful pumps - add interest to basic black or dress up jeans with some hot heels. The stores are full of playful, powerful pumps, and you don't need to break the bank to get some. Get flirty feet with ruffles, shiny sateen or animal accents. These are from Spring, Suzy Shier and Payless.

2. Shine! - with a satin, silky or sparkly top. There's something for everyone and every budget out there right now - so choose the colour or style that suits you best to top off classic jeans, black pants or pencil skirt. Here's just a glimpse of this season's glamour:

Show off your shoulders with a hot new halter. This one is from Banana Republic and the not-too-tight fit allows for a few holiday indulgences!

The classic cardie has made a comeback this season and can take you from office to family function to cocktail party in style and comfort. Here's a Reitman's revival with trendy satin trim:

Don't sew them on yourself. Seek a sequinned tank for up-to-the-minute party pizazz. This one is from American Eagle:

3. Bountiful Bling - No need to buy anything else but a statement piece of costume jewelry this year. Make your basic black T's and sweaters or plain white shirts party perfect with the addition of a statement necklace, bracelet or pair of earrings. (This is an especially great trick for expectant moms with a limited maternity wardrobe.) Here's a few examples of some of the hottest holiday must-haves, starting with a snowflake stunner from Aldo (imagine how sharp this will look over a black or grey background):

Add a twist to your wrist with a cuff. Here's a Reitman's example that would accent black, white, grey or this season's hot pinks and purples.:

When it comes to earrings, it's essentiel to go BIG this holiday season. Take a look at these two-tone babies from Banana Republic. Beautiful with black, white, grey and just about any shade this season has to offer:

4. Get uptight - but only where your legs are concerned. If you decide to wear a skirt or dress, glam up your gamms with opaque or patterned tights. It's an instant update for that classic pencil skirt or sheath dress. For the longest, leanest look, match the colour of your shoes, tights and skirt. These are from Spring and Banana Republic

5. An itty-bitty bag - as long as it holds your lipstick, you are good to go. Remember, you'll be without the kids and won't need to haul diapers, Thomas the Train, a dolly, a Nintendo DS, snacks and drinks. Look for a cute clutch that's not only your purse, but an additional accessory. The sea blue sparkly is from Aldo, the black and white bow is from Guess and the red ruched is from Banana Republic.

So there you have it, pick one, two or three from the fab five above, accent your closet classics, and you will be prepped for party season. Next time - five fabulous frocks!

Buried in Paper

2009-11-05T00:57:05Z

The most frequently asked question we get is "How do I organize all my paperwork?". The answer is create a system and then stick to it. Sounds easier than it is - we know! Here are our four simple steps to help you tame the paper monster.

1. Create a system

Try to write down all the things you do with paperwork on a regular basis. For example, you probably create a pile of paperwork to be actioned. Then you flip through the pile when it gets big and spend a few hours actioning the items, probably discovering along the way that some items are overdue. Then you put the actioned items in a pile to be filed away. When the "To be Filed" pile gets too big you spend a few hours filing everything, probably stuffing everything into overstuffed folders because you haven't gotten around to purging! Don't worry we are all guilty of doing some of these things. Now.... let's fix it!

Group the paperwork into categories - i.e. Utilities, Investments, House, Car, etc. Set-up a separate file folder for each category. Designate an inbox for all the bills that need to be paid. Designate a folder for items to be actioned - this could be school permission forms, registration forms, invitations, home maintenance flyers, etc.

2. Organize

As soon as you receive a piece of paper, review it and determine what needs to be done with it. Hopefully, most of it is junk mail and can immediately go into the recycle bin! If not, put it into the correct folder NOW - don't put it in a pile for later. You want to handle the paper as few times as possible. How often do you get your mail, flip through it and then put it all down in a pile. Next time you pick up the pile you have to flip through it again and decide what to do with it. If the first time you flipped through it you organized it into the right folder you would be finished this step already.

3. Action

Establish one day each month to pay all the bills and one day a week to handle action items- make sure you check your due dates to be sure the day works. Check out this organizer! It claims to help you keep a sense of humor while keeping bill paying in order. Just file bills in the monthly pocket and record when they are due. Quotes and quips are provided each month just for grins.

As soon as you pay a bill or action an item file it away in the appropriate folder.

4. Purge Frequently

It is up to you how long you keep paperwork for but remember less is more! Once you have the history you want you should purge each time you file so it doesn't build up. For example, let's assume you decide you want to keep the previous bill until you pay the new one. Then you should throw out the previous one when you file the new one. This way you never have to set aside a few hours to go through and purge your files.

That's it - four simple steps! Go forth and conquer your paper monster.

Will you wear...?

2009-11-04T01:46:04Z

This season we're seeing lots of new shapes and textures in everything from footwear to outerwear. It's quite a change, and if you're not sure how these items will integrate into your winter wardrobe, read on.

First, the high-heeled bootie. Don't be intimidated, these babies are quite versatile and will bring everything from pants, jeans and slim skirts (with matching tights) bang up to date. Many designs have a platform sole, which balances out the height of the heel, and are surprisingly comfortable. Great for the office or an evening out.

Some designs come just above the ankle and can look "buckety" on slimmer legs. My preference is for styles that sit lower and more fitted on the ankle, like these from Payless:

You'll see more faux fur than ever before this year. I'm especially loving the versatility of fur vests. Wear over sweaters/T's now, and layer over leather or denim jackets for added warmth and interest. Here's a version from Esprit:

We'll be heading into party season soon and one way to jazz up your jeans or add sizzle to plain slacks is with a one-shoulder top. Not surprisingly great shoulders and a good strapless bra are essential. Wear under a trim tailored jacket or cropped cardie until you feel comfortable enough for the reveal. Here's a Suzy Shier sample, great for bringing the focus to your face and away from the mid section:

So...these items aren't for everyone - Thank goodness, we don't all want to look the same. But, what do you think you'll try on at your next trip to the mall, and what do you think you'll be wearing this winter? Share in the comments section below.

3 Keys to Overcoming Learned Helplessness

2009-10-22T11:20:25Z

Do any of your children suffer from learned helplessness? Do they seem to give up or quit as soon as a task gets difficult? Do they ever refuse to try activities, or get labeled as lazy or unmotivated? Are mistakes or failures usually blamed on other people or conditions? Well, the good news is that all learned behaviour can be unlearned. Here are three keys you can use to help your friends or family members overcome learned helplessness:

(1) Understand the nature of the condition

Learned helplessness is a form of conditioned response--when someone comes to expect an outcome regardless of the conditions. For example, if your son constantly studies and fails tests, then he may eventually come to believe that no amount of effort or study would ever help him pass. In this simplified example, your son's constant frustration could lead him to automatically believe that the factors for success are external and out of his control. Therefore, there is no point in even trying.

(2) Adjust the belief failure is inevitable

Once you understand the nature of the condition the next step is to help your children become aware of negative self-talk running through their heads, and try to re-write the scripts. Like the story of The Little Engine That Could, they need to immediately replace negative thoughts with positive, self-affirming ones like, "I can do this." However, they may need your help by sitting down and talking about:

• Past successes and how they were achieved,
• The factors within their control (getting extra help, studying, strategies to compensate for learning disabilities, etc.)
• New support structures or things they could try
• All the other strengths and areas of competence they have (keeping the failure in perspective)
• How mistakes are good, expected, and are opportunities from which to learn--not things to be avoided.

(3) Watch how you talk and respond

The words and phrases parents and teachers use can inadvertently help to strengthen feeling of learned helplessness. The next time you feel yourself about to say, "That's too hard for you", or "Let me do it for you", or "I'll talk with your teacher for you", or "Our family isn't good at Math," you may want to consider something like:

• "I know you can do it"
• "I'll start it for you, then you can finish it"
• "What strategies have you already tried?"
• "Let's find a way you can do this yourself"
• "How could you get more help with this?"

We all have things we're not good at, however as adults we can often avoid these tasks or hire someone to do them for us. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for struggling students who, each day, are forced to confront their weaknesses in math, reading, and writing. While the result may be chronic frustration, it can also lead to an instilled sense of learned helplessness. What is important is that we take steps to overcome this condition before it worsens and our children over-generalize and view failure in one area to mean they are "dumb" or "stupid".

About the author

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Ready to give your child a head start on success? Check out Rob's coaching programs, workshops, and newsletter for parents and youth. Visit www.YouthCoachCanada.com or call 905.515.9822.

Fashion Gone Frantic

2009-10-20T20:55:16Z

It all too much! And, I don't just mean the homework and hockey, the scheduling and schooling, the mayhem and meals. No. I mean the ruffles and ruchng, the fringing and frills, the leggings and layers, the pattens and pleats AND the additional accessories. Fashion has turned into a fantasy world for busy folks like us moms. Who has the time to plan and put on all those pieces? Case in point this layered look from Esprit.

And, this over-augmentation of office attire from Suzy Shier:

Designers and stylists, please tone it down. I'm not advocating a return to the boring 90s trend of plain T's and khakis, but puh-leeeze, the current craving for piling on a plethora of pieces is OTT (over the top). All you see is the clothes and not the person wearing them. And it's oh sooo easy to mix it up and feel messy.

In my opinion, two strong items are enough for anyone. See how much better this Esprit look is:

This belt and bright blue top is enough to update the classic black pant suit. This look is from Suzy Shier.

Take it from me, there's no need to get frantic with your fashion. Remain calm and classic.

Do You Know What Critical Illness Insurance Is?

2009-10-19T16:17:24Z

A colleague of mine was diagnosed with brain cancer today and when I asked whether he had a critical illness policy, he said "NO! Can you believe after all these years of telling clients how important this insurance is, that I did not stop to put my own policy in place." And then he called himself a name I won't repeat.

The point of this blog is to remind you all of what this type of insurance is and why it makes a lot of sense for certain individuals to have it. Critical Illness is an insurance plan that pays you a lump sum on day 31 of a critical illness diagnosis such as cancer, heart attack and stroke. The insurance company I prefer lately for my clients provides protection for up to 22 covered conditions. Also included in the coverage are other great benefits like an early intervention benefit, which provides a percentage of your coverage for the early stages of some cancers and for coronary angioplasty.

The lump sum payment is paid tax free and can be used any way you wish. For example, you can pay for daily expenses related to your recovery, reduce or pay off debts, make alterations to your home or vehicle, seek specialized medical treatment, fund a leave of absence and more. Given that your risks of being diagnosed with a critical illness are high, but also high probability that you will recover from it, the fear is whether you can afford to be sick. The founder of Critical Illness Insurance, Dr. Barnard says it best, "You need financial independence when you're ill. Not because you're going to die, but because you're going to live."

Please read through these frequently asked questions and call me at 416-481-3433 if you feel this is something you want to discuss either for yourself, or someone close to you.

What are my chances of suffering from a critical illness?

Consider these statistics and facts:*

1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women are predicted to develop heart in disease in their lifetime.

There are 40,000 to 50,000 strokes in Canada each year.

During their lifetime:

1 in 2.4 men and 1 in 2.7 women living in Canada will develop cancer.

1 in 9 women will develop breast cancer.

1 in 11 men and 1 in 18 women will develop lung cancer.

An estimated 2,798 Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer every week.

An estimated 50,000 Canadians, twice as many women as men, have Multiple Sclerosis.

* Statistics sources: Heart and Stroke Foundation. Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. National Cancer Institute of Canada: Canadian Cancer Statistics.

What are my chances of surviving from a critical illness?

Advances in medical science and increasing life expectancies mean you have a better chance of surviving a critical illness. However, a critical illness can bring overwhelming medical and financial burden to you and your family.

Some survival statistics:

86% of hospitalized heart attack patients survive - the percentage is higher for those with their first heart attack, and lower for those with recurrent heart attacks.

80% of stroke patients survive the initial event.

Financial Strain

World renowned heart surgeon Dr. Marius Barnard helped develop critical illness insurance. Dr. Barnard witnessed the emotional strains that many of his patients faced after surviving serious illnesses. Financial stress often worked against recovery or, in many cases, left patients struggling to pay bills as they resumed their lives.

"You need financial independence when you're ill," said Dr. Barnard. "Not because you're going to die, but because you're going to live."

Pant Peeve

2009-09-28T20:26:14Z

OK, this is something that has bugged me for ever. Slashed on-seam pockets on women's pants!!! Yes, I know it's not an earth shattering crisis, and we all have wa-aay more important things to worry about. But, why oh why, do designers continue to produce pants with pockets that gap, gape, add width and worry us?? Even this model from The Gap is widening below the waist.

These horizontal built-in pockets are so much more preferable. (Also, from The Gap.)

Many a terrific, trim trouser is spoiled by those angled augmentations. Grrr! If you are proportionally wider across the hips, the effect and feel, is even worse. One option is to sew those pesky pockets closed, but that can impact an otherwise perfect the fit. (Try pinning BOTH pockets closed as you try on at the store or at home and move around (sit down, walk around) to test the sewing solution. Note: safety pins are less painful!

Here`s an Esprit example - see what I mean. Already gaping and on a model! Us, mere mortals don`t stand a chance!

Take a stand, ladies. Refuse to try on another pair of slash-pocketed pants! Demand that designers drop these diagonal demons from their trousers! Yes, it does limit your options in the search for the classic wardrobe essential, but in the long term, you will be more in tune with your trouser choices.

Here`s a built-in pocket pant from Esprit:

Phew! So glad I got that off my chest (hips.)

The Boyfriends are Back

2009-09-22T13:07:46Z

Ladies, just as you settled down and had kids, old boyfriends want back in your life. What's a mom to do? Ditch those fitted denims or be caressed by a comfortable old flame (aka boyfriend fit jeans)? Jilt your form-fitted jackets for an affair with an angular, casual type (aka the boyfriend cut jacket)? The Style File is here with advice:

In my opinion, if you are going to have a fling, Boyfriend Cut jeans are the more tempting of the two! In fact, the new Boyfriend Jean has smartened up a bit since his 80s heyday. Not quite as casual (or baggy, as per Bananarama - who incidentally went to my school), yet still comfortable and reliable (even forgiving on those fat days.) Yes, the Boyfriend Jean has reignited my passion - how about you? These are from Old Navy:

Accompany the Boyfriend Jean with a cool leather belt and boots, or get edgy, wearing them rolled above the ankle with socks and pumps.

I don't feel the same way about the return of the Boyfriend jacket. Back in the 80s he was way too square and I don't believe he's changed his ways. Somehow, the Boyfriend jacket cramps our true style. If you are tall, slim, and confident you can go out with him, but you'd still have more fun with another. There are many more flattering options. Frankly, I am so over the Boyfriend jacket, but perhaps you feel differently. Let me know in the comments below. Here's a look from Suzy Shier.

Wow, didn't think these old flames would be back. Thank goodness, I am a stronger, wiser woman now and know what does/doesn't suit me and my lifestyle. Until next time...

Learning to Remember

2009-09-14T23:13:56Z

How would you rate your memory? Excellent? Good? Fair? (Or perhaps you've already forgotten the question?!)

Every day many demands are made on your child's memory--be it learning the sounds letters make, new words, math facts, or perhaps even difficult scientific formulas. For some, this complex and often misunderstood process of storing and retrieving information is easy. However, for others, it can be the cause of great frustration and even lowered self-esteem.

While there can be many physical and psychological reasons your child's memory may not function as well as another's, here are a few simple strategies you can use or teach to your child to help strengthen the storage or retrieval of information:

Link new information to something your child already knows. Help him/her to make connections with other skills or strategies already learned through discussion, pictures, or games. This is especially true if it can be related to something he/she is very interested in, like a favourite sport, hobby, book, TV show, etc.

Give them a reason to remember. Make the knowledge or skill relevant to his/her life by discussing or applying it in real life situations. For example, grocery stores are great places to estimate, add, subtract, calculate discounts, check change, etc. As well, restaurants, ethnic markets, or trips can be great places to practice new languages.

"Chunk" the information. As the short-term memory is so small, "chunking" information into smaller, more manageable pieces (like only giving one step of a multi-step process or one item on a to-do list) can help your child have less to recall at one time. This is also good for writing assignments--limiting students to only one stage (like brainstorming) can help avoid overload. Students should also be taught how to summarize or paraphrase information themselves, limiting the amount they may need to remember on their own.

Whisper. For some children whispering important information to themselves as they hear it (e.g. during a lesson) or while reading may help. This is also a good strategy for repeating instructions back to themselves.

Visualize. Try making a "mental picture". This can be excellent for remembering lists, how words are spelled (see the word), or even a process (visualize doing the steps). It also uses a different part of the brain than reading or listening, which may be helpful.

If you suspect your child may have memory issues, starting a conversation with your family doctor and/or classroom teacher is always a good idea. Not only can tests be conducted, but accommodations such as giving him/her more time on tests, or loaning you a textbook or materials in advance of a new topic being studied may be options.

While there are often no "quick fixes" or to correct a breakdowns in memory pathways, or "leaky memories", teaching your children about their memories and getting them to ask questions like, "What does this remind me of?" or, "Can I picture it in my head?" can make a big difference both at school and beyond.

About the author

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ready to give your child a head start on success? Check out Rob's coaching programs, workshops, and newsletter for parents and youth. Visit www.YouthCoachCanada.com or call 905.515.9822.

Fringe Benefits

2009-09-13T12:54:34Z

Want to add a little flourish to your Fall fashions? Then consider the benefits of the fringe. Yes, the salute to 70s style is back big time.

Not surprisingly, you'll find fringing in leather goods - footwear, bags and the very 70s vest, but also in knits and jewellry. You might even have a vintage fringed fashion in your or your mom's closet.

The classic fringed vest is perfect with denim. Wear with a sleek sweater or crisp shirt or go all out in boho style, with a ruffled blouse beneath. This version from Urban Outfitters.

Fringes will frequent footweat this fall. These mocassins are from American Eagle:

Tuck your slim jeans or cords into these boots from Old Navy or wear along with tights and a knee-length casual skirt. Or, these high-heeled fringed booties add flair to office or evening attire. Great with straight legged pants or tights in the same shade with skirts:

You can keep your fringes on the ummm...fringe with a purse. Frankly, next season fringes will be sidelined, so don't go breaking the bank on an expensive bag. Here's a value velvet version from Old Navy:

If you need to update your knits, consider a new look with a fringe or its close relation - the tassle. My Grandmother made me a vest like this Esprit example when I was at school:

This sweet sweater from Victoria's Secret will keep you cosy in style.

Note the bracelet on the model above and the fringed necklace on another look from Esprit below:

Finally, simply have a fling with the fringe by the addition of a soft scarf. A Reitman's option is below:

Enjoy the benefits of fringes this Fall!

Fresh Start

2009-09-09T14:31:50Z

Summer is over and our kids are back to school. Summer went by in a flash...where did the time go? Every summer seems to go by faster and faster. I guess that's a sign of old age!

I love this time of year because it brings a tremendous sense of renewal. This is the time for new beginnings. September has always represented the start of a new year for me, even more than Jan 1st.

Gone are the lazy days of summer. Those countless days of little or no routine. Summer is a magical time. Summer is also the most difficult time of the year to adhere to a regular exercise program. Once you get into a groove, it's interrupted by trips to the cottage and family holidays.

September is the ideal time to make some promises to ourselves, to make some changes and to begin again. Once the kids are back at school, everything falls into place. We get our rhythm back and we are able to carve out some consistent exercise time for ourselves.

Now is the time to do something different...to shake things up. Why not sign up for that spinning class you've always wanted to try (but were afraid to). Perhaps signing up for the neighbourhood bootcamp with a friend? How about getting into the pool and joining a masters swim club? Or throwing on your shoes to try rock climbing?

Get outside your comfort zone. Try something you've never done before. Challenge the perception you have of yourself. Do one thing every day that scares you. You just may be surprised how capable you really are. It's amazing how we let the fear of failure hold us back from branching out and having new experiences.

Consistent exercise is just one component to a well-balanced life. Good nutrition, laughter and good friends all play a role in making us happy and healthy. Instead of getting depressed about the few extra pounds you packed on over the summer (we all did), just jump back in with both feet. Get your body moving, re-charge your batteries and re-connect with old friends over some power walking, hot yoga or pilates. Go outside, get some fresh air and renew your spirit. Especially before the kids' activities and homework starts!!! You'll need to be strong and ready for that...it's a workout in itself. Good luck and here's to the new refreshed vibrant you for 2009.

Happy trails!

Disclaimer
The way to optimal health is to combine good sensible nutrition with consistent strength training and cardiovascular exercise. Consult with a physician before embarking on a new exercise plan. Stop immediately if you feel any pain while doing these exercises.