Teachers have to work harder because parents are doing a bad job of teaching morality and values? There was a time when teachers didn’t have to teach morality, values and “behavior?” This kind of talk can only come from people who don't understand education.

Connecting is the key to educating. The relationship we build may not be the only thing we accomplish when we teach, but it is far ahead of whatever else is in second place.

When we parents advocate for our children, let's make sure we advocate for the right things.

When a child isn’t playing the game of school perfectly, it is not a problem; it is a challenge. Description rather than diagnosis is called for, creative thinking rather than problem solving. The medical model does not apply in education. It’s a different discipline all together.

Being comfortable with our gender, race, personality, appearance, or abilities is something that most people struggle with well into adulthood. So it’s no wonder kids feel insecure about traits or characteristics that are perceived as “different.”

New Year’s is a time to reflect on the past and make plans for the future. Why not use this time to reflect on the genius in your child, and then make plans to nurture that genius throughout the year?

So much of what we read about combatting bullying, instilling morality and teaching empathy leaves out our greatest resource: the natural inclinations of children to care about other people. The secret to empowering children to be socially responsible is to treat them as if they are already on it.

In June, we spent an hour on #PTchat talking about whether Awards Assemblies were best for all kids. We agreed it was good to recognize students for all they do, but one takeaway highlighted how difficult it is for some students to be a part of the audience when year after year, their names are NOT the ones called, even if they made great strides during the school year.

While traveling recently, I had the pleasure of coming across the most enjoyable playgrounds for children both at schools and in public areas. These playgrounds were so simple yet wide open for creative imaginative play. I discovered that Europe is a leader is uniting children with spontaneous play in playground design.

Do you think bullying is strictly a kid problem? Well, think again. Adults may be inadvertently engaging in behavior that aids and abets bullying. Examine your own words and actions, and be a role model for kindness, caring, and understanding!