Today’s Motherhood

Introducing Learning Resources new multisensory reading tutor, the Reading Mentor! An interactive and hands-on, the Reading Mentor is an electronic aid suitable for children of different age groups and developmental levels. From children who are just beginning to learn letters and sounds, to children who are already proficient in spelling but need additional help in forming sentences.

What’s more, the Reading Mentor reinforces on all the basic reading skills:
• Letter recognition
• Letter-sound associations
• Phonological awareness
• Sight-word reading
• Decoding
• Spelling
• Word recognition
• Vocabulary development

Interesting features
- An automated rod channel, which will scan and read the letters on the topmost surface of the Reading Rods
- Children will be amazed to see their reading rods being moving on its own, and being read aloud after passing through the ‘scanner’.
- The ‘sound it’ function breaks down each word phonetically, allowing children to better understand the connection between words and sounds
- It is able to read individual letters, words, and sentences.

Recommendations for use
Rhyming words
• Your child can build several rhyming words by linking blue consonant rod to a yellow word family rod. Ask your child to try and read the word, before using the Reading Mentor.
• After building on several words from the same word family, ask your child what happens if the initial consonant is changed.
• Ask your child to identify rhyming words from their favorite stories and construct these words using the Reading Mentor

Spelling and Vocabulary
• Provide your child with a list of spelling or vocabulary words
• Ask him or her to build each word and place it in the Reading Mentor to be read
• Ask your child to write the word they have heard, and check their spelling by looking at the word on the Reading Mentor’s screen.
• If the word is misspelled, your child can press on the ‘sound it’ function and listen to the word’s individual sounds.

Overall Comments
Due to the technicality of the Reading Machine, younger children will probably need a few practice sessions with adult assistance, before they will be able to use it independently. Apart from that, the Reading Mentor greatest strength lies in its multi-sensory approach. It appeals to visual, auditory and kinesthetic learners, as children can listen, see and ‘build’ their own words. In addition, it can be used individually or in a group setting. This makes it an effective and versatile reading and writing learner tool.

The Reading Mentor is now available at Smart Alley.

To view other Smarty Alley products, check out their website.

Product reviewed by Michelle Ang

Children Storybooks Giveaway. Read our May 11 Story Book Recommendations and Stand a Chance to Win One of the following books. See end of post for details. Contest ends 20 June 2011!

1. When the World Was Waiting for You by Gillian Shields

Synopsis:
When the World Was Waiting for You is a endearing story of a family of rabbits awaiting for the birth of a new member in the family. The story narrates a sequence of events surrounding a birth – from preparing the baby’s room, the birth of the bunny down to the baby showers with visit from friends and family.

The story is warm and heart-warming, great read for children and family awaiting the arrival of a new member in the family. It will help children to comprehend the situation and prepare them for the sequence of events that may follow. The beautiful illustrations complement the warmth of the text, be sure to captivate these young readers’ interest and attention.

Age: Recommended for aged 2 and up

2. LEGO CITY: Police Chase Activity Book with LEGO Minifigure

Synopsis:
LEGO CITY: Police Chase Activity Book is a fun-packed adventure book for children. They can join the LEGO police in this action-packed adventure as they build your very own LEGO City minifigure, read the interesting contents and complete the puzzles. Building on children’s interest is good start to encourage children to enjoy reading.

Not to miss for LEGO fan! Check out the whole series of LEGO City now!

Age: Recommended for aged 5 and up

3. When Katie’s Parents Separated by Sarah, Duchess of York

Synopsis:
When Katie’s Parents Separated is a book that talks about Katie who is experiencing a tough time coping with her parents’ separation. Like most children, Katie starts to ponder whether it is her fault for all these that have happened. Does she have to choose between the two most important people in her life? What is going to happen when Daddy don’t live together with her anymore?

This book addresses the issues and thought that children experience through when their parents are going through separation or divorce. In addition, It will be a great book that provides the assurance for young children and help them to comprehend the situation better. Don’t miss out on the 10 helpful hints that will provide good advices for you and your child to manage the situations better during this period of time! Do not forget to check out the series of books by Sarah, Duchess of York that educate and enrich young children’s lives.

Age: Recommended for aged 4 and up

4. Molly makes Friends by Sarah, Duchess of York

Synopsis:
Molly makes Friends is a book that talks about Molly who likes her new school, her teacher and her classmates – except for one thing: everyone else has lots of friends. She feels sad and lonely. With the help of her parents, who told her that friendship is not base on the quantity of friends but more on making friends who really care. Mom’s wise words compiled with Dad’s effort help Molly to builds a special friendship with two very special friends.

Don’t miss out on the 10 helpful hints that will provide good advices to help your child make friends! Do check out the series of books by Sarah, Duchess of York that educate and enrich young children’s lives.

Age: Recommended for aged 4 and up

5. Jacob Goes to the Doctor and Sophie Visits the Dentist by Sarah, Duchess of York

Synopsis:
Emily’s First Day of School is a book that contains two stories. Going to the doctor or dentist for the first time can be scary to a child-but this book offers comfort and reassurance by gently explaining exactly what will happen in both situations. First, children follow Jacob as a nurse gives him an injection, and then they hear about Sophie’s experience visiting the dentist for her first checkup. A perfect pre-appointment book to prepare children for a visit to the doctor or dentisit.

A good book to minimize the anxiety that children faced when they visit the doctor or dentist for the first time! Don’t miss out on the 10 helpful hints that will provide good advices to prepare your child for a visit to the doctor or dentist! Do check out the series of books by Sarah, Duchess of York that educate and enrich young children’s lives.

Age: Recommended for aged 4 and up

6. Olivia says Goodbye to Grandpa by Sarah, Duchess of York

Synopsis:
Olivia says Goodbye is a book that talks about Olivia whose has just lost her grandpa. She is sad, scared and confused. Children who go through this situation face doubts and insecurity. With the support of her family, teacher, and best friends, Olivia finds a way to work through her feelings and keep the happy memories of her grandpa in her heart forever.

A good book to address the issue of loses in the family and minimizes the uneasiness that children faced when they experience such traumatic situation for the first time! Don’t miss out on the 10 helpful hints that will help you as a parents to react and response to your child that will help her cope with bereavement! Do check out the series of books by Sarah, Duchess of York that educate and enrich young children’s lives.

Age: Recommended for aged 4 and up

Our Children’s Books are reviewed by Crystal

Giveaway Contest

We have one book of each of the above children book titles to giveaway. Total 6 winners. All you have to do is

1. Join Today’s Mother Mailing List below (existing members need not sign up again)

(Existing members need not sign up again. New members need to check your email after signup to confirm subscription)

2. Be a fan of Today’s Motherhood

3. Fill in the form below and indicate your choice of book you would like to win

The prizes are sponsored by

Terms and Conditions Apply.

Come down to Little Newton for a
Free Make Your Own Shampoo Session
and get a FREE GIFT after the lesson!

Date : 28 ~ 29 May 2011
Venue : The Atrium @ Forum

AM : 10:30, 11:30
PM : 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30

Sessions are for children aged 4 to 15
Prior Registration Required
First Come First Served

Those interested can email us at enquiry@littlenewtongroup.com
or drop us a call at 6733 6818.

Address : 583 Orchard Road #05-01 Forum Singapore 238884

For more information, visit Little Newton Facebook Page

Misulo Children Arts Adventure Holiday Programme

8 lessons @ 2 times/week (S$300)

• Clay House
• Sand
• Imaginary City
• Under the Sea
• My Bag
• My Transportat
• My Pet
• My Birthday

12 lessons @ 3 times/week (S$450)

• Clay House
• Sand
• Imaginary City
• Under the Sea
• Spring Bloom
• Bug’s Story
• Flour
• My Bag
• My Transportat
• My Pet
• My Birthday

For more information, contact us at

Contact number: 6791 1883
Email: misulosg@gmail.com
Website : www.misulo.com.sg
Address: Jurong Safra 333 Boon Lay Way #02A-02 Singapore 649848

Tolerance is an important value to impart in children. It is accepting people for who and what they are, and treating your people the way you want them to treat you. Teaching tolerance also helps to prepare your child to flourish in a world of diverse connections and interrelationships.

Parents can teach their children tolerance through the following means:

• Modeling
Let your children learn and understand respect and social skills through your interactions with other people. Be sensitive to cultural stereotypes. Your treatment to others like your neighbors and friends will be embedded in their minds. Whatever you do, children will perceive them as the right thing to do.

• Be aware of your manners when conversing with people
Children are good listeners. They pick up the way we speak and the words we use with others.

• Media Influences
Be selective with the types of books, music, toys, art and videos that you choose for your children. Choose mediums which are culturally sensitive and unbiased. Media is a powerful medium which can influence children’s minds in subtle yet profound ways.

• Respecting and tolerance which other starts at home
Respect and acknowledge differences as you begin inside your home. Let your children respect others by understanding differences in styles, interests and capabilities. Teach them to value the uniqueness of people.

• Make time for more socializing opportunities
Limit the usage of technology gadgets, and allocate time for your children to engage in activities which involve interacting with peers of their same age or older children. Playing and working with others will help them understand who they are and what makes them special. They will also begin to see the difference and uniqueness in each person.

• Embrace friends of other religion and culture
Explore festive celebrations that are not part of your tradition or culture. This will open your children’s mind to other people’s way of lives.

• Appreciating their own individuality
Help your children appreciate their own talents and traits. In turn, this will help them in appreciating others.

June School Holiday Programmes

Amusant in Learning : 3 Great Schools with 1 Terrific Holiday Programme!

Workshop 1: 6 to 10 June 2011
Workshop 2: 20 to 24 June 2011
Classes/week: 1 / 3 / 5-day options
Time: 9am to 3pm
Age: 4 to 6 years old

Literacy Jive
English & Chinese Language Holiday Immersion Programmes

Workshop 1: 30 May to 3 June 2011
Workshop 2: 13 to 17 June 2011
Classes/week: 3 / 5-day options
Time: 2.30 to 5.30pm
Age: 3 to 6 years old

Register at City Square Mall #09-09/10

Brought to you by

Bringing Up Healthy Children Quiz

Caring for the health and well being of your child’s is a big responsibility. As a parent you are the single biggest influence on your child’s health.

Find out how much you know about taking care of your child’s health and well being. Take this short 8 questions quiz and win attractive prizes.

Contest period: 23rd May 2011 to 13th June 2011.

The 1st 50 correct entries will win a copy of the international best seller “There Is No Secret To FENG SHUI Parenting” – by ANN LAW worth $27 and a 1 year complimentary $30,000 personal accident cover for their child.

The next 100 entries will win MacDonalds meal vouchers and a 1 year complimentary $30,000 personal accident cover for their child.

Thanks for your participation. The contest is now over and the correct answers are highlighted in red below

1. Why are green vegetables important to your child’s health?
A. They have lots of vitamins and minerals
B. They make their hair grow
C. They make their teeth shiny
D. They look good in salads

2. If your child is bleeding from a mild injury, what should you hold to the cut?
A. Antiseptic wipe
B. Clean towel
C. Cotton Ball
D. Your Hand

3. Which is the most important hygiene habit to teach young children?
A. Use a tissue to cover a sneeze
B. Don’t share a glass or eating utensils
C. Wash hand frequently
D. Take a bath daily

4. Seat belts and child safety seats are necessary only for long-distance driving or for travelling at fast speeds
A. True
B. False

5. When your child cuddles the family cat or dog, and the pet has a spot on its skin, what infection is your child most likely to get?
A. Tapeworm
B. Pinworm
C. Roundworm
D. Ringworm

6. Caffeine in cola and other beverages interferes with a child’s ability to absorb which of these?
A. Calcium
B. Minerals
C. Oxygen
D. Vitamins

7. The commonest place where childhood injuries occur is
A. School
B. Home
C. Playground
D. Restaurants

8. Which of these is the leading cause of death among young children aged 5 to 14 in Singapore?
A. Drug abuse
B. Unintentional injury
C. Sports activities
D. Eating disorders

Did you get them all correct? Participants who answered all questions correctly have won for themselves:

1. a copy of “THERE IS NO SECRET TO FENG SHUI PARENTING” By Ann Law worth $27
2. 1 year complimentary $30,000 Personal Accident Cover for their child
3. An invite to THERE IS NO SECRET TO FENG SHUI PARENTING workshop in July conducted by the author herself. Details will be announced once the date and venue is confirmed.

The rest of the participants have won for themselves:

1. MacDonalds Food voucher
2. 1 year complimentary $30,000 Personal Accident Cover for their child

Find out if you are a winner Parenting Quiz Winners

Contest is organised by Albert Ng & Associates and prizes are sponsored by Edu Quantum Learning Resources Pte Ltd.

All winners will be contacted by a representative from Albert Ng & Associates.

Terms and Conditions Apply.

Helping your child learn how to sleep age appropriately and through the night is a desire of all parents. However, most parents are usually so tired and frustrated that when they attempt to sleep train they often do it incorrectly and with limited results for success. All in the Family Counselling & Babysleepfairy are offering for the first time a 2-hour Workshop on how to properly sleep train your child based on clinical research on how sleep and brain development impacts a child and their sleep. Outcome of Workshop:

• Teach you about child development as it relates to sleep
• Understand how brain development affects sleep in a child
• Clarify if attachment is impacted by sleep
• Educate you on how sleep works so that when you correct the sleep problems you’ll understand the “how’s” and “why’s” of what you are doing
• Give you trouble shooting skills so that you can problem solve in the event of illness, jet-lag and as a child matures.
• Discuss in detail the 3 evidence based approaches to sleep training
• Q&A to discuss any questions you have on your sleep training choice.

Topics Covered

• Sleep Training Options
• Reasons why sleep training fails
• Transition from cot to big bed
• Jet lag

Location of Talk: 55 Market Street, Level 10. Next the Bank of Singapore Building in the heart of the CDB. The workshop location is a 3 minute walk from the Raffles Place MRT. Start and end Time:

• Start time is 11 am
• End time: 1 pm

Cost

All in The Family Counselling is giving an exclusive $50 discount for Today’s Motherhood members.

All you have to do is email Tammy at  tammy@allinthefamilycounselling.com. Please note that if you register at the website, the workshop price will be $150.

Space:

• In order to provide adequate time to answer question only a maximum of 15 parents can attend, so please book in advance. Seat is only confirmed upon receipt of payment
• For questions contact: Tammy Fontana, MS, NCC at +65 9030 7239 or tammy@allinthefamilycounselling.com

To find out more information, visit All In The Family Counselling

Kellysjy Photography New Born Photography For Babies Under 2 weeks.

Kellysjy Photography will be giving all Today’s Motherhood readers a S$30 discount on her photography services from now till 30 Jun 2011.

The package includes:

• 3-4hr newborn session
• 20-30 images in high resolution (CD)

For more information, visit www.kellysjyphotography.com or email her at greyleaves@kellysjyphotography.com. Contact Number +65 9647 3085.

Blossom Educare Centre (Hougang)

Our children had the opportunity to exercise various parts of their body through fun and enjoyable PE lessons.

Let’s Exercise and Have Fun

Using Hola Hoops as Mountains

Blossom Edugroup - The preferred choice for quality childcare and pre-school education

Blossom Edugroup has been providing quality childcare in Singapore since 2002 across four centres island-wide. By constantly updating our curriculum, we offer the most innovative and effective pre-school programme that caters to children with varying learning abilities and different learning styles. Our full day, half day and flexi-programmes are offered to
children at:

• Playgroup Level
  (18 months - 2 years old)
• Nursery Level
  (3-4 years old)
• Kindergarten Level
  (5-6 years old)

We are proud to offer parents our patented ‘e-Profiling’ service, a secure online portal that provides comprehensive feedback on your child’s development.

This user-friendly system surpasses all other conventional progress reports and is only available exclusively to Blossom Edugroup clients.

Visit us to download a free ebook on Nursery Rhymes worth $47

Website: www.blossomedugroup.com.sg

Email: info@blossomedugroup.com.sg

Contact: 6382 0560

Fax: 6382 0562

Address: 7 Lorong Batawi Singapore 536668

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