The Thing About Grades
At the start of the summer, my 8-year-old came to me with a concern. “When do I get my report card?” he asked. “I’m not sure, Buddy. Sometimes the school mails the final report card in June.” “Aww, man! I…
Melissa Face is the author of “I Love You More Than Coffee,” an essay collection for parents who love coffee a lot and their kids ... a little more. She lives in Prince George with her husband and two children and teaches at the Appomattox Regional Governor’s School. Read more at MelissaFace.com.
Big Kids DO Cry … and That’s Okay!
Last spring, my son played coach-pitch baseball for our county’s recreational team. The boys, mostly 8- and 9-year-olds, were hard workers and frequent criers. Some burst into tears after a strikeout or when the opposing team scored a run. Others…
Healthy New Year!
Before takeoff, flight attendants remind passengers that oxygen masks will appear before them in the event of decompression. They tell us if we are traveling with a child or someone who requires assistance, we should secure our oxygen masks first…
Be a Better Homework Helper
Few words conjure up as many feelings of dread and doom as the word homework does for school-aged children. Many view homework as a daunting task that keeps them from playing outside, hanging out with friends, or watching Netflix. Tales…
Why “Great Job!” Isn’t What Kids Need to Hear!
My daughter took dance lessons for the first time last year. At three years old, Delaney adjusted well to the routine of class, her new ballet slippers, and interacting with her classmates. She especially adored her dance instructor, Ms. Tara.…
Building Parent-Teacher Partnerships
I have just begun my twelfth year as an English teacher. I spent two years at a private school, seven at a public school, and two at a school for students who are gifted in the arts. I see my…
