Stooling is one of the bodily functions most often taken for granted. While parents (and care providers) may be very focused on the quantity and quality of the foods that a child eats, they often pay much less attention to what's coming out the diaper end. A child's stooling pattern has a huge influence on what and how they eat. It can also have a…

Hungarian pediatrician Emmi Pikler theorized that freedom of movement facilitates infants' development and learning. The self-education promoted by freedom to move gives an infant a lasting view of herself as a competent learner. Pikler's approach also emphasizes the importance of helping each child feel respected and secure. The author examines…

The author describes the changes which classroom assistants have seen over the past 40 years in terms of their job title and role. He argues that the Plowden Report's recommendations for greater responsibilities, better training opportunities and an increase in the number of teaching assistants in schools are at last being implemented.

The role of parents in nurturing their bright or creative child is described; and activities such as reading aloud together, encouraging the child's special interest, and participating in community group efforts are suggested. (CL)

The author reviews studies supporting the individuality of children and provides guidelines for parents of highly creative children. (SBH)

Kamp for Kids, an innovative summer recreation program for disabled and nondisabled children, was begun and maintained largely by parents efforts. Families periodically spend a weekend at the camp learning to play together and to function as a unit. (CL)

The article presents guidelines for parents considering purchasing home microcomputers and software for their gifted children. Benefits of programming in developing creativity and logical thought skills are noted. (CL)

Frequently asked questions about the relationships between giftedness, reading acquisition, and development are answered. Topics covered include the significance of early reading, parents' expectations in reading instruction, and parents' roles in motivating and developing reading at home. (CL)

An inventory of symptoms of stress is provided, and parents of gifted and talented children are advised to understand stress, learn to come to terms with their own feelings, develop effective behavioral skills, establish and maintain a strong support network, and accomplish lifestyle changes. (CL)

Some tips to parents about helping their children with homework. (SJL)

Offers four steps that parents can follow to help their children develop comprehension while reading. (FL)

A young father reports on the arrangements of a dual career family for child nurturance and out-of-home care for their son. (RH)

Describes the author's personal experience with the birth of his third and fourth children using the Lamaze method of childbirth. (BF/JH)

Parents and school administrators are both stakeholders in the IEP (Individualized Education Plan) process. While the inclusion of parents in the process as full members is mandated by IDEA 2004 there remains a growing problem of conflict within this process. Research has reviewed the process of conflict during the IEP meeting and other…