Kids and Eating Disorders

Humans need food and water to live. Kids especially need to eat healthy food and enough of it  to grow and develop. But for some kids, they hear about food making them "too fat" or they start to worry about food and some kids stop eating right, eat too little, or try to make themselves throw up after they eat

Doing this can make kids get very sick without enough food, or if a kid keeps throwing up it makes our bodies stop growing and developing in a healthy way. If this goes on for a long time, kids can get very sick and need to go to hospital to be fed through a tube in their nose. Sometimes people can't stop their bodies getting so sick, and it can even lead to death. Why, then, would anyone do it? Well, there isn't just one answer  there are many.

Some say it's because there are lots of too-thin models and movie or TV stars. We see these people's bodies on TV, the computer, or in a magazine and might feel that we want to look like that too because they seem rich and happy all the time. A lot of us like the way that TV stars and sports celebrities look, or they wish their own bodies looked different.
But that's probably not the whole story. Most kids just enjoy looking at pictures of famous people and seeing them on TV, but it doesn't make them change their own lives. Some might start trying to eat healthy and exercise, or ask their parents if they can help them to be more healthy.
But some people go on a diet, which means they start eating less food  and sometimes dieting can get out of control. Some kids at school might start competing about how little they have eaten that day. Some brag about having a diet soda for breakfast. But this can be the start of unhealthy eating problems.

Imaginary friends

It is quite common for children of about three or four years of age to have an imaginary friend. This may be another child or could be a magical person or an animal. Sometimes the imaginary friends change as the child grows older.

Often children who have imaginary friends are only children, or oldest children in the family; but having an imaginary friend does not mean that your child is lonely. They are usually creative, imaginative children.

As the child grows older the real world takes over and by the time the child is going to school the imaginary friend usually just quietly disappears

Are imaginary friends a problem?

Imaginary friends are a part of normal development and rather than being a problem they can help children to deal with some of the stresses in their lives.
Sometimes an imaginary friend can help parents to see where a problem is.

• For example if the imaginary friend is afraid of the dark it is likely that the child is afraid of the dark and learning to manage her fears through the friend.
• If the friend is always misbehaving and getting into trouble it may be that the child is having too may rules or punishments.

Sometimes children can use their imaginary friends to avoid doing something they don't want to.

If your child plays happily with others and enjoys doing things with you and other children there is not likely to be any problem. If the child continues to choose the friend very often rather than doing things in the real world it is helpful to have a look at what is going on in his life and think about ways to help him enjoy doing real things as well.
 

What to do when baby lisp?

The lisp is manifested by the lack of pronunciation of words.

This is a common occurrence in children. A priori, there is nothing more worrying because until the age of 6 years, medical treatment is unnecessary. But if this problem is exaggerated and that person can no longer understand what the child wants to transmit, then it is essential to consult a specialist.
Medical examinations will focus on the mouth, nose or ears These diagnostics will detect any abnormalities in these organs. There is talk of a closer look at the tongue and jaw to see if there is a malformation or serous otitis which prevents small to hear.
If it is proved that the lisp from a bad position of the tongue, the speech therapist to teach the child to better position his tongue. And here, parents also have an important responsibility to encourage the baby to stop the bottle, or tototte his thumb that could aggravate the problem.

Bedwetting

Most children begin to stay dry at night around three years of age. When a child has a problem with bedwetting after that age, parents may become concerned.

Physicians stress that enuresis is not a disease, but a symptom, and a fairly common one. Occasional accidents may occur, particularly when the child is ill. Here are some facts parents should know about bedwetting:
Approximately 15 percent of children wet the bed after the age of three
Many more boys than girls wet their beds
Bedwetting runs in families
Usually bedwetting stops by puberty
Most bedwetters do not have emotional problems

Bedwetting beyond the age of three or four rarely signals a kidney or bladder problem. Bedwetting may sometimes be related to a sleep disorder. In most cases, it is due to the development of the child's bladder control being slower than normal. Bedwetting may also be the result of the child's tensions and emotions that require attention.
There are a variety of emotional reasons for bedwetting. For example, when a young child begins bedwetting after several months or years of dryness during the night, this may reflect new fears or insecurities
Sometimes bedwetting occurs after a period of dryness because the child's original toilet training was too stressful.
Parents should remember that children rarely wet on purpose, and usually feel ashamed about the incident

Parents may help children who wet the bed by:
Limiting liquids before bedtime
Encouraging the child to go to the bathroom before bedtime
Praising the child on dry mornings
Avoiding punishments

Internet Addiction and Children -Warning Signs

Timothy was twelve when his parents bought him a computer for his room, thinking it would be helpful to him with his homework, as he was entering junior high. Timothy took to the Internet immediately and soon discovered chat rooms and email. At first, Timothy's parents watched over his shoulder frequently to make sure he was using the Internet safely. After a little while though, they stopped monitoring his online habits. Soon problems arose, however. Timothy began to spend all of his free time in his bedroom, and was moody when asked to spend time with his family. His average grade dropped from an A to a D and he became irritable and angry when he was away from his computer. Timothy is a high risk for Internet addiction.

Computers have long been used by both children and adults as reliable sources of information. Over 20% of children now have computers in their own rooms and through the Internet have access to an unlimited supply of information and interaction. However, the risks of addiction are very great among children who are exposed to the Internet without strong parental guidelines.
Excessive Internet use in children can lead to health problems like obesity, headaches and general ill health due to lack of physical activity. Children may become socially maladjusted and less able to communicate well with friends and family. Pedophiles can and do target children online. There is a high risk that children who use the Internet excessively will be exposed to inappropriate sexual content as well as scams. Excessive game play and use of online services can also result in children spending money without their parents' knowledge. Finally, a majority of popular online games depict excessive use of violence. Viewing trivialized violence in a virtual world, like television or the Internet has been linked to marked increases in behavioral violence among young viewers.

Warning signs for Internet addiction:
1. The Internet is frequently used as a means of escaping from problems or relieving a depressed mood.

2. Your child often loses track of time while online.

3. Sleep is sacrificed for the opportunity to spend more time online.

4. Your child prefers to spend more time online than with friends or family.

5. He/She lies to family member and friends about the amount of time or nature of surfing being done on the Internet.

6. Your child becomes irritable if not allowed to access the Internet.

7. He/She has lost interest in activities they once found enjoyable before getting online access.

8. Your child forms new relationships with people they have met online.

9. They check their email several times per day.

10. They eat in front of the computer frequently.
 
11. Your child develops withdrawal symptoms including: anxiety, restlessness, or trembling hands after not using the Internet for a lengthy period of time.

12.Your child is preoccupied with getting back online when away from the computer.

13. They have trouble distinguishing between the virtual world and the real world.

It is very important that parents identify Internet addiction in their children at an early age and set limits on their Internet use.


 

 

Dealing With Feelings My Emotions & Behaviors- Being Afraid

Have you ever been afraid? Everyone gets scared sometimes. Maybe thunder and lightning make your heart beat faster. Or maybe your mouth goes dry when your teacher announces a pop quiz, or your palms sweat when it's your turn to give your report in front of the class. Perhaps you get butterflies in your stomach when you see the bully who picks on you.

Everyday Worries

We all have fears from time to time. That's true no matter how big we are or brave we can be. Fear can even be good for you sometimes and even help you stay healthy. Fear of getting too close to a campfire may save you from a bad burn. And fear of getting a bad grade on a test might make you study more

What Happens When You're Scared?

Have you ever wondered why being scared makes your heart beat faster and makes you breathe quicker? The body's reaction to fear is called the "fight or flight" response. And people have had it since the beginning of time.

Here's how it works. Imagine you're a caveman or cavewoman living 100,000 years ago — and you come face to face with a hungry saber-toothed tiger. You have two choices: 1) Run for it (that's flight), or 2) pick up your club and battle the tiger (that's fight). A final choice (be eaten) doesn't seem like such a good one!

Today, you can apply fight or flight to that bully who confronts you and won't listen to reason. You have two choices: 1) Turn and walk away (flight), or 2) fight, even though you know fighting won't solve the problem.

What Is Anxiety?

Usually, our bodies go into fight or flight only when there is something to fear. However, sometimes this occurs when there doesn't seem to be anything to be frightened about. When you feel scared but there doesn't seem to be a clear reason, that's called anxiety

Dealing With Anxiety

Anxiety can be treated successfully. Tell your mom or dad if find yourself more scared than you feel you should be or if your anxiety becomes strong and is getting in the way of what you want or need to do.

Your parents might take you to a doctor, who can help find out if a medical problem is making you feel anxious, or to a therapist, who can help find a way to lessen the anxiety through talking, activities, relaxation exercises, or medication

Baby talk :)

It's a short piece of TV program. It shows us how little babies comunicates in early years of their lifes - for example we can indentify few diffrents sounds of baby cry - each mean something diffrent :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEFefKdSGWM

enjoy watching!

First months of baby's life :)

After 9 months of waiting, a child finally comes out of the mummy'ss tummy ! 

FIRST WEEK
Initially baby may have appeared red and a bit swollen, especially if it was a  vaginal birth or a long labor. Expect the redness to subside during the coming days, swelling to reduce, and her facial features to realign quickly. You'll also notice how she keeps her hands clenched and arms and legs curled in. This is a familiar, comforting position to your little one who it'll relax it's muscles during the next several weeks.

Baby will need special loving care for the next several years. It entered the world ready to meet the challenges of growing up. His  first few days are guided primarily by instinct. Already at birth he's able to recognize his mother's voice and, you'll likely notice his turn her head toward that single sound even when visitors crowd the room. Soon he'll identify other familiar voices he's heard from the womb.

Most babies drift off to sleep an hour or so after birth. Remember that it's been through a traumatic experience and is now facing the transition from the womb to the outside world. It is normal for this sleepiness to last for a few days. Enjoy watching his snooze this week and, take advantage of this sleepy period to rest yourself. If yours is not a sleeper, cuddle often and rest when he does decide to nap. 

SECOND WEEK 
Child will greet his second week of life in much the same manner as the first. Expect him to remain in the curled up position he had assumed while in utero. His tiny hands will remain tightly clenched while he is awake. His eyesight is still quite immature. Objects are clearest at a mere 8 to 10 inches from his face. While he is unable to see across the room, he can clearly see Mom's face as he nurses. Partners and siblings can hold him close and talk to him face-to face to achieve similar results.

Remember that breastfeeding is the best possible source of nourishment for baby. Expect some breast fullness and tenderness as your milk supply increases. You can apply warm or cool compresses to help ease discomfort. Frequent feedings will help establish your supply and keep your breasts comfortable.

THIRD WEEK

Baby will continue to adapt to life outside the womb. You may notice occasional muscle twitches. he'll be able to lift her head when placed on her tummy, but not very high and only for a quick second. Expect him to remain on his own "schedule." Allow him to dictate when he needs to eat and sleep.

he will enjoy the sound of your voice and will be able to distinguish it from that of a stranger. Spend quality time talking to her one-on-one. Maintain eye contact whenever possible. He'll find this entertaining and will know you're speaking just for him.

Womb-like sounds will help calm his when he's upset. Try patting his gently on the back or bottom to the beat of your heart. These familiar rhythms are still fresh in her mind and will help to relax her when she needs comforting. He'll continue to enjoy any and all skin-to-skin cuddling, especially when he's nursing. Dads are also skilled in this area. The quick removal of a shirt and a cozy blanket may be all that's needed to lull his off to sleep.

FOURTH WEEK

Your little one has had a few weeks to adjust to life outside the womb. While this transition is far from over, you may notice him becoming a bit more interactive this week. He'll probably begin making small sounds and wet, throaty noises. You may notice that this amuses him as much as it does you.

Just when you think he's at his cutest he's likely to surprise you with his a little smile as he slumbers. These sleep grins will quickly give way to his first interactive social smiles. Be sure to keep a camera or video camera handy to capture these wonderful faces!

He's also learning to trust this week. Each time you appear to feed, diaper or comfort him you're helping to reinforce the idea that you will be there to meet his needs. Continue to follow his schedule, whatever it may be. He'll soon learn that he can depend on you whenever he needs assistance or just a quick little hug.

 

Humpty Dumpty

To angielska rymowanka opisująca jajko, które spadło z muru. Zna ją każde angielskie dziecko

Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall.
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.
All the king's horses and all the king's men
Couldn't put Humpty together again

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDyayfFnH90

Hey Diddle Diddle

Hey diddle diddle, the cat and the fiddle,
The cow jumped over the moon,
The little dog laughed to see such sport,
And the dish ran away with the spoon. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RQDTNrC6lQ

Nursery Rhymes

The term nursery rhyme is used for "traditional" songs for young children in Britain and many other countries, but usage only dates from the 19th century and in North America the older ‘Mother Goose Rhymes’ is still often used.

nauczanie języka angielskiego dzieci w wieku wczesnoszkolnym

Zainteresowanie nauczaniem dzieci języków obcych powstało w latach dziewięćdziesiątych XX wieku. Celem staje się wychowanie człowieka otwartego względem ludzi mówiących innymi językami.

ogólnym możliwościom percepcji i rozwoju dziecka w wyżej wymienionym

Badanie: L. Penfielda, L. Robertsa i Lennenberga przeprowadzonych nad fizjologią mózgu w latach pięćdziesiątych i sześćdziesiątych wynika, że najlepszy okres do nauczenia się języka obcego przypada na pierwsze dziesięć lat życia dziecka, a po ukończeniu dziesiątego roku życia mózg staje się, coraz mniej plastyczny." (Wieszczeczyńska, 2000)

"Dziecko jest w stanie nauczyć się języka obcego w sposób naturalny i bez większych trudności." (Wieszczeczyńska, 2000)

Badania Cornell University: "Dzieci w początkowych latach swego życia, wykorzystują do przyswajania i "obróbki" języka jedną część przedniej partii mózgu jako pamięci, tzw. Przestrzeni Broka. Dorośli natomiast muszą przy nauce nowego języka tworzyć najpierw pamięć dodatkową, w której mogliby "przechowywać" nowe zjawiska językowe, przez co uczą się wolniej." (Wieszczeczyńska, 2000:7)

Ewa Wieszczeczyńska w swojej publikacji, pt.: "Dlaczego warto rozpoczynać naukę języka obcego w okresie wczesnoszkolnym?" podkreśla, iż z badań wynika, że jest to okres dużej swobody i łatwości intonacyjno-artykulacyjnej, który pozwala opanować prawidłowo wymowę w języku obcym. Później wpływ języka ojczystego i nawyki językowe są znacznie silniejsze, zanika również tzw. Okres bezakcentowy /wpływ akcentu języka ojczystego/. (Wieszczeczyńska, 2000)

Jerzy Brzeziński "Nauczanie języków obcych dzieci" podaje: "Ucho dziecka reagujące od początku swego rozwoju na wszystkie długości fal, po dwunastym roku życia przestawia się na takie długości, które są charakterystyczne dla języka ojczystego". (Brzeziński, 1987: 29)

 "wskazując na otwartość dziecka w stosunku do nowego języka, na jego ciekawość świata, radość eksperymentowania i potrzebę komunikowania się z otoczeniem." (Wieszczeczyńska, 2000:9)

Hanna Komorowska. "Dziecko charakteryzuje przede wszystkim myślenie konkretne i pamięć mechaniczna, nie jest u nich wykształcone myślenie abstrakcyjne i pamięć logiczna, które pojawiają się dopiero w okresie dojrzewania". (Komorowska, 2002)

Ponadto dzieci charakteryzuje szybkie zapominanie pomimo szybkiego zapamiętywania, krótkie odcinki koncentracji uwagi, stała potrzeba zabawy i fizycznej aktywności, podejmowanie działań dopiero wtedy, gdy czują się do tego gotowe. (Komorowska, 2002)

Reakcje dzieci na lekcji są spontaniczne, dlatego dzieci powinny uczyć się w  życzliwej atmosferze. Nauczyciel musi rozbudzać ich entuzjazm poprzez zabawa, humor i komizm. Wszystko to po to, aby osłuchać się z językiem i zachęcić a nie zniechęcić gramatyką. Praca z dzieckiem musi opierać się na prostych i zrozumiałych dla niego aktywnościach.  Zadania powinny być dopasowane do zdolności, możliwości tak, aby łatwo osiągnąć sukces. Winny one bazować na ćwiczeniach ustnych

Destination Modern Art

Muzeum Modern Art w Nowym Jorku wyszło z ciekawą propozycją interaktywnej zabawy dla najmłodszych. We współczesnym świecie wrażliwość na sztukę jest bardzo istotną cechą, dlatego możliwość samodzielnego poznawania dzieł znanych artystów jest moim zdaniem bardzo ważna dla najmłodszych. Platforma e-learningowa na stronie internetowej muzeum, zabiera maluchy w zupełnie nowy nieznany świat. Dzieci mogą samodzielnie eksplorować muzeum, bawiąc się „w sztukę” z takimi artystami jak:  Picasso, Van Gogh czy Kahlo. Obrazy wydają dźwięki, tak np. podziwiając „Gwieździstą noc” możemy usłyszeć odgłosy świerszczy, sowy i wiatru.

Strona może również zaciekawić i trochę starszych. Gorąco polecam zajrzeć chociaż na chwilę:

 http://www.moma.org/interactives/destination/#

Problem in schools - Bulling

Bullying is when a person or group repeatedly tries to harm someone who is weaker or who they think is weaker. Sometimes it involves direct attacks such as hitting, name calling, teasing or taunting. Sometimes it is indirect, such as spreading rumors or trying to make others reject someone.

Often people dismiss bullying among kids as a normal part of growing up. But bullying is harmful. It can lead children and teenagers to feel tense and afraid. It may lead them to avoid school. In severe cases, teens who are bullied may feel they need to take drastic measures or react violently. Others even consider suicide. For some, the effects of bullying last a lifetime.

Twinkle Twinkle little star

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCjJyiqpAuU

Twinkle, twinkle, little star,
How I wonder what you are.
Up above the world so high,
Like a diamond in the sky.
Twinkle, twinkle, little star,
How I wonder what you are!

When the blazing sun is gone,
When there's nothing he shines upon,
Then you show your little light,
Twinkle, twinkle, through the night.
Twinkle, twinkle, little star,
How I wonder what you are!

In the dark blue sky so deep
Through my curtains often peep
For you never close your eyes
Til the morning sun does rise
Twinkle, twinkle, little star
How I wonder what you are

Twinkle, twinkle, little star
How I wonder what you are

http://learnenglishkids.britishcouncil.org/en/read-and-write