Last week, we spoke about achieving a growth mindset, something that we parents can teach our children to do. This helps set them up for success in academics and in life! This week, we are building on some of those ideas by discussing the idea of intrinsic motivation. Read on to find out more about…
Shaping Your Mindset to Create Success I often find myself explaining to a young generation that “back in my day,” people used to fail. Can you imagine that? In a world chock-full of participation trophies, self-esteem management, and protectionist parenting, the word “failure” is a dirty word. We are a success-crazed society. But if…
So you’ve taken the SAT. You’ve gotten a decent score, and you think you’re done with standardized testing forever. Congratulations! You are like most students your age. However, if you’re looking for a bit of an edge on your applications, and you’re an excellent math student, you might want to consider the SAT Math Subject…
Your essay can make or break your college application. In fact, a stellar college admission essay can make up for a lower GPA or a mediocre standardized test score. But even if the rest of your application looks amazing, don’t slack on your essay! Your essay tells the story of you, so make sure it’s…
Thinking is an activity that we tend to take for granted. Most of us do it without… well, thinking about it. But metacognition — the awareness of one’s own thought process — has benefits for everyone, especially school-aged children. In fact, helping students to develop metacognitive skills can have tremendous effects, within and outside the classroom. The trick…
Of all the sections on the ACT, the only part that is optional is the ACT Writing section. That means you’re home free, right? No reason to take it if it’s not required! Not quite. While it’s true that the ACT writing section is separate and optional, some colleges still require that score…
Final exams season is approaching, which means it’s time to dust off those highlighters, whip out those note-cards, and get down to business! You might already have a study routine in place. But if this time of year leaves you floundering, here are some tips on how to survive your final exams. A note before…
For many students, “study” is a four-letter word. Particularly with elementary-aged children, studying seems boring and unnecessary. However, solid study skills will carry your child throughout their entire education! So it’s important to establish excellent study habits early on. Luckily, there are so many fun, engaging ways to help kids study. In fact, here are…
ACT vs SAT: which one is a better choice for you? In late 2015, we wrote about this very topic. However, College Board has since updated and changed the SAT. The ACT has also undergone some changes. Consequently, we decided it was time to write an updated post breaking down each test. Previously, colleges…
Mrs. Joanne Lund teaches 4th grade at Lily Lake Grade School in Maple Park, Illinois. The following article shares some wisdom she has gained over her 30 years of teaching. This expert advice is geared especially toward fourth graders and 4th grade parents. A student’s 4th grade year is a pivotal time for the individual as…
