Inspired by the Olympics!

I'm excited about the start of the 2014 Winter Olympics! This year, the 22nd Winter Olympics in Sochi features 12 new events, including women's ski jumping. This unique world wide event presents learning opportunities for our children. I previously wrote about "the art of teaching by example ". The idea that you need to work hard for your goals is an inspiring message. I believe the Olympic athletes are great role models and it's refreshing to see how their hard work and dedication reaps its own rewards. I also think it's a great opportunity for young girls to see women who are revered for their physical strengths. Encouraging our girls to value their bodies for its strengths is a beautiful thing.

Here are some ideas to help you further enjoy the Olympics:

- Check out the official site to learn about the mythology surrounding the games www.olympic.org

- Lately, we've been into the Magic Tree House series. It's fun to read books about the Olympics. Suggestions for children in first through fourth grades include G is for Gold Medal: An Olympic Alphabet by Brad Herzog, Magic Tree House #16: Hour of the Olympics and the coordinating non-fiction Magic Tree House Fact Tracker #10: Ancient Greece and the Olympics,  both by Mary Pope Osborne and Natalie Pope Bryce.

-Enjoy the exciting live coverage, of course!

Be Happy, Be Healthy!

Aysha Hagene, LCPC

www.simplycounseling.com

My child has recently picked up inappropriate language from peers. How can I handle it?

Parent's question of the week: "My child has recently picked up inappropriate language from peers. How can I handle it?"

It's always a good idea to have an awareness of the words we use so that we set a positive example for the kids in our presence. Try as we may, kids pick up new words from their environments and like to try them out. They may find it funny or interesting.

Here are some helpful ideas:

1) Have a talk with your child to let them know that word is not to be used.

2) Suggest an alternative, acceptable word.

3) It might be necessary to explain how that word can be hurtful to others. Gentle reminders on the importance of kindness is helpful.

4) Check in to see if your son or daughter is experiencing anger or frustration. Help them acknowledge the feeling rather than focus on the expletive. This helps your child in the long run by teaching them how to more clearly express what they need when they are feeling distressed.

I appreciate your questions!

Be Happy, Be Healthy!

Aysha Hagene, LCPC

www.simplycounseling.com