Dear Kids Hope USA Directors,
Taped up on a wall near my desk is a page with ‘101 ways to praise a child.’ (There’s a copy for you below.) I look at that sheet often and ask myself, am I using those words and phrases enough with my student? Things like: nice try, keep it up, you’re catching on, spectacular job, or you’re really good at that! Each of us loves to hear praise for our efforts and more importantly, our character and identity.
As mentors, we strive to establish a pattern of consistent encouragement and sincere praise for our students, trusting that our words stick with them far after the hour is over and hopefully carrying them through challenges they face on other days.
God too finds ways to encourage us through the word like this beautiful verse from Zephaniah 3:17: “The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.”
During National Mentoring Month we’re especially grateful for you—and as you offer perhaps a new phrase to praise your child, please pick a phrase for you too, and hear us cheering YOU on in 101 different ways!
Karen Pearson Ph.D. President, Kids Hope USA
8 Great Smarts: Nurturing Your Students Intelligences
Every child wants to be smart…When you and your child understand there are eight intelligences, the question changes from ‘Am I smart?’ and ‘How smart am I?’ to the much more valuable ‘How am I smart?’‘
“Smart” is a powerful word. Children who believe they’re smart excel more in school and approach life with greater confidence. But children who don’t can struggle to apply themselves. Do you wish your student could see how smart he or she is? Find hope during this webinar. You’ll be empowered and equipped with new language and creative ideas.
Really, Is It OK to Read Comic Books?
Absolutely! KHUSA always encourages making reading fun and a regular part of mentoring.
For students who may be “reading resistant,” comic books or graphic novels (think Captain Underpants, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Clifford the Big Red Dog) are great ways to connect positive associations with reading.
Because they are lighter on text – and the pictures provide support for age-appropriate vocabulary – this genre might feel more inviting and less overwhelming. Click here to learn more about these seven tips for Engaging Reluctant Readers.
- Make reading fun!
- Pick books below reading level.
- Let students choose. Use NEW Interest Inventory for K-2nd, 3rd-5th.
- Support student selections.
- Mirror students’ race or culture.
- Read out loud together using these ideas.
- Add fun activities such as these NEW options.
Tips for Discovering New Books
- Check with the school librarian or public library.
- Use the site What Should I Read Next? Book recommendations from readers like you to type in your student’s favorite book and find other books that are similar.
Stand in My Shoes:
Kids Learning About Empathy
Enjoy this book with your student to assist in developing empathy. Your school media center may carry it. Share this video for a read-aloud version you can use in virtual mentoring, or purchase the book at your local bookstore or on Amazon.
Bonus Activity: For a great discussion starter, have your student trace around their shoe, cut it out and write how they’re feeling on the cut out. Make sure to do the same.
Quick and Easy Anytime Activities
Classic Card Games – Start with these “Oldies but Goodies” ideas and carry a deck of cards in your pocket for a quick game of fun – great anytime you need a 10-minute filler.
100 “Would You Rather?” Questions – Ask your child one of these NEW questions and why they chose their response. Make sure you do the same!
Pro-tips:
- If using for Penpal communications, ask a question and write your response first.
- Your child will love your occasional goofy answer, whether you are meeting in person, virtually, or connecting by writing.
- If your child loves to draw, have them draw their answer!
101 Ways to Praise a Child
National Prayer Call
Please join us for our next National Prayer Call led by KHUSA President, Karen Pearson
Date & Time: February 17th at 1-1:30pm EST (adjust for time zones)
Meeting ID: 863 6981 6713
Passcode: KHUSAPRAY Let’s wrap our kids and nation in prayer!
Meeting ID: 815 2116 0653
Passcode: KHUSAPRAY
Visit KHUSA PINTEREST BOARDS for additional mentoring hour activities!