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The Noah Webster Educational Foundation's (NWEF) blog articles turned into a podcast thanks to generous support from donors. NWEF aims to educate and collaborate with individuals and organizations to tell the story of America’s education and culture, identify foundational principles that improve it, and advance practice and policy to change it.
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How can you help your children or students practice thankfulness? In this episode, we’re bringing you ten of our best tips to do just that. But don’t worry, teaching gratitude doesn’t have to be complicated! There are many simple and practical ways to teach thankfulness. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://nwef.org/2022/11/21/10-ways-to-teach-gratefulness/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nwef.org/ Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NWEF_org F...
Today, we’re continuing our series on the looping method. In part one, we talked about what looping is and how it might help teachers and students in your school to form strong relationships and increase chances of success for both students and teachers. Now, in part two, we’re going to talk about some of the drawbacks of looping. Is it really the right choice for every school, teacher, and student? LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://nwef.org/2023/09/25/looping-part-2-why-it-may-not-be-the-pe...
Back-to-school photos are a tradition many families have had for generations. But is it safe to post those pictures online, especially while pedophilia and online bullying are on the rise? Experts share their advice on today’s episode. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://nwef.org/2023/08/22/should-you-post-back-to-school-photos/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nwef.org/ Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NWEF_org Follow us on Instagram:https://www....
More and more parents are turning to the realm of religious private schools as a preferred alternative for their kids. In today’s episode, we unravel the reasons behind this shift. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/why-do-so-many-parents-choose-private-religious-schools/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nwef.org/ Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NWEF_org Follow us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com...
What is family health? It looks a little different for everyone, but the basics are always the same: food, sleep, mental and emotional resilience, and movement. As a parent, how can you be sure you’re cultivating these well? What are some strategies you can use to do even better and shake things up and make it fun? We’re diving into all these questions on today’s episode, so stay tuned. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://nwef.org/2023/02/13/four-key-ways-to-cultivate-family-health/ GET CONNE...
Christian education for public school students. Does that make you stop and think? Is that even legal? Yet that’s what LifeWise is doing. They want children to know about God and have a safe area to practice their faith. How are they able to do this? What does the law have to say? We’ll answer these questions, and many more, in today’s episode. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE :https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/christian-instruction-for-public-school-students-is-it-legal/ GET CONNECTED ...
Parents are a child’s first educator. After they leave for school at five or six years old, a lot of that responsibility is transferred to teachers. But not all of it. As a parent, you still have so much work to do! And that includes making small changes at home so your child’s teacher has a good foundation to work off. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/teachers-helper/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nwef.org/ Foll...
Who gets the final say in children’s gender issues? That’s right: parents. Not long ago, Virginia established this as standard policy in schools. Let’s take a look at what this means for parents, children, and school staff, as well as what Governor Glenn Youngkin had to say about these changes. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/vdoe-new-model-policies-parental-rights-transgender-students/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook...
Does your child need special help in school? Maybe he or she is struggling with a disability that makes it difficult to cope with the typical public school curriculum. In that case an IEP, or Individualized Education Program, can come in handy. In this episode, we’ll explore the qualifications for an IEP, how to get an assessment, and more. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE :https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/whats-an-iep-individual-education-program/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on F...
Parental rights in California have gone downhill in recent years, and now parents may face new challenges as they fight for their children’s safety in school board meetings. In this episode, we’ll be discussing a bill that recently came before the California senate which targets these concerned parents and may make it even more difficult to question schools’ authority. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE:https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/ca-bill-targets-parents-for-speaking-up-at-board-meeti...
The modern education landscape is full of choices. Some schooling methods are experimental. Others are tried and true. Today, we’re looking at a fairly new twist on traditional public school: magnet schools. What are they? Are they an option you should explore, or should you steer clear? LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE :https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/the-pros-and-cons-of-selecting-a-magnet-school-for-your-student/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/...
Do you strive to have lasting relationships with your students? Do you like the idea of having the same students for more than just a year? This is actually made possible with a teaching method called “looping.” And it’s not just an interesting idea: teachers, parents, students, and administrators across the country are coming to see the benefits of looping. Could it be just the thing you’ve been looking for? LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/why-looping-...
“Homeschoolers aren’t very social.” It’s a phrase that’s been repeated so many times it’s become a stereotype. But is it true? That’s what we’re going to unpack on this episode of the blogcast. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/the-truth-about-homeschooling-and-socialization/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nwef.org/ Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NWEF_org Follow us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/...
We’ve only just begun to understand how babies and toddlers think and grow. But there’s no doubt that they have incredible little minds. Today we’re diving into the science behind instinctual learning in children, from the time they’re still in the womb to their first words and beyond. We’ll also answer the question: how can a parent foster curiosity and exploratory learning? LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/from-birth-to-brilliance-the-science-of-instin...
Holistic educational models have been around for a long time. Throughout history, from classical education to unschooling, parents and educators have hoped to instill a love of learning in children and allow them to grow at their own pace. In this episode, we’re looking at yet another method of education that pulls from this holistic model. Listen in as we discover the Montessori method, its origins, popularity, and whether a Montessori school is right for your child. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICL...
Generally speaking, standardized tests are administered in most first-world countries. But the objectives (and outcomes) of these tests vary dramatically across the globe. For the U.S,. standardized testing is a drawn out debate spanning decades. The Center for Global Development has their own case to present on the matter: standardized tests are a brilliant tool when properly implemented. Are we in the U.S. using ours to the best advantage for our students? LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE:&n...
Deschooling is a popular term that sounds rather alarming, but don’t worry. It doesn’t mean throwing reading, writing, and arithmetic out the window. It’s more of a transition stage from a public or private school setting to a homeschooling one. Obviously, there’s a big difference, and it’s important that you and your kids ease into learning at home. You don’t want to get overwhelmed right at the start! So listen in as we share some tips on deschooling and help you decide if it’s the right ch...
Does your teen know what they want to do after high school? Kids today are bombarded with possibilities, so it’s no wonder that they’re often uncertain. They could start a career, go to college, learn a trade, start a business, get a job. Today we’re bringing you part two in our series on the pros and cons of some of the common school and career paths. By the end, we hope you’ll be equipped to help your teen sift through the options and find the best fit! LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://no...
Options: they’re freeing, yet sometimes overwhelming. And as our kids grow older and think about life after high school, the options begin to pile up. College, gap year, trade school, career. It’s not an easy decision for a teen to make. To be the supportive parent is even more difficult. But don’t worry. In this two part series, we’re going to lay all the choices out there and see if they’re a good fit for your teen. In this first installment, we’re going to compare the benefits of the big t...
Cyberbullying is worse than ever. Social media, games, and messaging platforms make it easy for people to attack our kids and experience little to no consequences for their actions. As a result, children rarely have any real safe spaces and mental health is plummeting. Today we’re discussing how to tell if a child is being bullied online and how we can better protect them at home and in the classroom, so stay tuned. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/cyber...
Have you ever attended a school board meeting? Most Americans haven’t, but maybe it’s time to change that. Today we have a bunch of tips to arm you for your first visit. Why should you attend and what should you listen for? Should you speak up or keep quiet? Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just a concerned citizen, you can and should participate in your local school board meetings, even if that just means showing up to listen. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfou...
Wondering how you can introduce money concepts to your kids in a way they’ll understand? In today’s modern, technological world it’s become, in some ways, much harder to teach kids about money. But that same technology can actually help us. Today we’re bringing you some tips and a ton of apps and online resources to help in your quest to raise a financially literate child. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/technology-an-open-door-to-financial-literacy/# ...
You are qualified to homeschool your child. Every parent is. Like with every difficult job, however, doubt tends to creep in: am I doing this right? What if my kids don’t turn out as smart or capable as their peers? Today, we’re putting those anxieties to rest. Let’s explore why you’re actually the best person to teach your kids and some tips for improvement. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/how-to-be-a-great-homeschool-teacher/ GET CONNECTED WITH...
Is America infatuated with sports? To be sure, all nations of the world have their favored athletic teams and programs. But America seems to hold sports in a prestigious place, compared to the rest of the world. Especially in our schools. And now that we have declined on the international education ranking scale, we must question whether or not we’ve made too great a sacrifice in the name of sports. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/pros-and-cons-of...
Schooling and education aren’t the same thing. What’s the difference, you ask? It all comes down to learning. Are your kids learning things in school? Are their minds engaged? Or are they simply moving from class to class, hearing information but not retaining it? Today’s episode is all about ensuring your kids are getting a real education, not just a school experience. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/why-education-doesnt-equal-schooling/ GET CONNECT...
Should middle schoolers be asked to start LGBTQ+ clubs at school? Or be told that they can psychologically believe and identify as a completely different gender than their biological sex? Should parents be kept in the dark about their kids gender preference, sexuality, and pronouns of choice? Kids are being given conflicting information, in some cases being outright lied to—and led into a life of confusion and despair because of it. Now more than ever, parents must engage and be aware of what...
Someday, your child or student will be old enough to finish school and start job hunting. Of course it seems like a long way off right now, but in fact, every day can prepare that child to become an adult with a successful career. Career exploration can begin at the earliest age if parents and teachers are willing to encourage ideas and foster curiosity. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/career-exploration-can-and-should-start-early-and-you-dont-have-to-...
Every parent knows how difficult teaching teens about money can be. Most teens would love to spend hundreds on clothes, dates, and video games, which is not a recipe for success. It’s time to begin teaching our teens about financial strategy and stability. Yes, your kids are ready to think about things like wise investments, preparing for college or career, and saving for a house, car, or future family. Make sure you’re ready to help guide them! LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebster...
We’ve all heard of school choice, but understanding it in all it’s nuances is another matter. How do you even begin to take advantage of your state’s school choice options? Well, one way is through vouchers. Today, we’ll go over what a voucher is, how America’s voucher system works, and how you can utilize a voucher for your child’s customized education. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/what-are-school-choice-vouchers/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF L...
Money matters have always frustrated millennials. So now that the next generation of kids are old enough to have jobs, write checks, and do taxes, parents are wondering how to introduce them to the financial world in a way that actually helps them succeed. Should your teen get a job? How do you explain budgeting? Should you let them do their own taxes? We'll explore all this in today’s episode. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/introducing-your-teen-to-th...
Parental involvement in education is essential, especially when it comes to mental health and well-being. Yet some schools have all but excluded parents from their social-emotional learning programs. Needless to say, some popular SEL curriculum is controversial for this very reason. So let’s take a look at how parents can once again get involved in their children’s social-emotional education. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/parental-involvement-in-soci...
As an American, you’ve probably been told to “get involved” and “use your voice” more times than you can count. You want to live a life of impact and teach your kids how to be action-oriented citizens. But maybe you’re also just not sure how. We have good news: getting started is really simple. Voting has perhaps become the most underrated mover and shaker of American society. Listen in and find out how you can practice your right to vote and teach the next generation how to leverage this cri...
Do you worry that you aren’t doing enough to make a difference in your child's school? Many headlines today urge parents to do something big, like run for school board. Even though parental involvement is critical to kids’ success, you may be looking at “involvement” the wrong way. Not everyone needs to set aside huge chunks of their time to create meaningful change! Here’s some ways to stay involved as a busy parent. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/ho...
Does a love of reading come naturally to your child? Or is it like pulling teeth just to get them to sit down with a book for ten minutes? If you identify with the latter, you’ve probably brainstormed ways to improve the experience for your kid. Maybe you did a quick search online and saw influencers spending small fortunes to create the perfect reading space for their kids. But what if instilling a love reading was simpler than that? LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducational...
We believe school choice is a freedom every family is entitled to. And one of the most popular ways to fund school choice today is through ESAs, or Education Savings Accounts. Listen in to discover what an ESA is, plus how to create one and use it to prepare a stable academic future for your child. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/what-are-esas-an-in-depth-look-at-a-popular-school-choice-option/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www...
Do you struggle with teacher burnout? Do you wonder just how long you can keep showing up to the classroom every day? You’re not alone. Teachers all over the country are struggling, just like you. Thankfully, while the workload may remain the same, there are a few things you can do to relieve stress and become more productive at the same time. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/is-teaching-wearing-you-out/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: ht...
Does your child stress over homework? Or does it help them engage with what they learn in class? Over the decades, the efficacy of homework has been debated by professionals, teachers, and parents. And today, we’ve compiled the primary pros and cons to help you explore this controversial topic. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/pros-and-cons-of-homework/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nwef.org/ Follow us on Twitt...
Did you know there’s more than one way to assess a child’s academic trajectory? If you’re seeking alternatives to the much-debated standardized testing, keep listening! With a surprisingly wide variety of options at hand, educators and homeschool parents can find the best way to gather insight on their child’s learning. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/4-alternatives-to-standardized-testing/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www...
Should teachers make more? Or less? It’s a never-ending debate that is far from simple. But one thing is certain: teachers should be valued by American society. And good teachers should be encouraged— rewarded, even—by appropriate compensation. Keep listening to find out where you fall in the great teacher salary debate. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/the-great-teacher-salary-debate/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://www.fa...
We’ve all heard that we have to get back to the 3 R’s. And there’s a lot of truth to that. But, in an advanced society, there’s more that modern children need than a basic knowledge of reading, writing, and arithmetic. Come with us as we explore the other essential school subjects and their importance to your child’s success. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/what-are-the-essential-school-subjects/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https://...
Sometimes it’s difficult to tell if kids are struggling with mental health issues. Parents and teachers bear a great responsibility to understand what their children and students face and help them work through those issues. Yet, because of the array of factors impressing children everyday: home environment, their health, their friendships, their screen time, and so on, it’s easier said than done. Truth be told, it’s increasingly difficult to navigate the world of childhood nowadays. Keep lis...
No child in America should go hungry at school. That should go without saying. But, then, there are those who validly argue that free school meals for all students aren’t such a good idea. Why? Because free meal programs are often mishandled and lead to abundant waste instead of abundant good for children. What’s the answer? Is there a balance? Dive into the “Pros and Cons of Free Lunch Programs” and find out where you stand. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducati...
As far as nations go, America is still pretty young. But that doesn’t mean she hasn’t seen her fair share of changes. Perhaps you’ve heard people say that we’re stuck in an industrial model, and while there is some truth in that, there’s much more to America’s education history. Keep listening to learn more about how our ideals and practices have shifted over the last four centuries. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/americas-education-timeline/ GET C...
Where did CRT even come from? And why is it sweeping through the education system, wreaking havoc? In this article, NWEF board member, Dr. Karen Hiltz, explores these questions and offers thoughtful answers for you to consider as you navigate the education system and its ever-growing philosophical complexities. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/illogical-theory-with-rhetoric-thats-void-of-common-sense/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us on Facebook: https...
Are you among the 45% of Americans who dread the holidays? We get it. Juggling seasonal tasks along with everyday life, including school, can turn into a mess really fast. You’re likely to feel some stress…and so are your kids. Practicing healthy communication, forming a unique view of gift-giving, or simply sticking to healthy routines are great ways to help relieve your family of holiday stress. Keep listening to discover holiday routines that keep the good times in and the stress out! &nbs...
Among the common hot topics of our day, like Critical Race Theory and sex-ed, you’ve probably heard about something else lately: Social Emotional Learning (SEL). What is SEL? It’s been around for decades. Its design and purpose are good: to teach kids how to manage emotions, have empathy, and a healthy self identity. But SEL, especially with recent changes to curriculum, has become the perfect place for ideological controversy to sneak in and become indoctrination. How did this happen and are...
Did you know that special education in the US dates back to the 1800s? But it wasn’t until the last 50 years that America began serving a broader range of children and their parents. At various times in the last two centuries, advocates and parents spoke up about the needs of their special students, leading us toward the array of special education options we have today. The history is long and hard, but fascinating and admirable. What will America improve next? LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTIC...
Both the challengers and defenders of affirmative action have been citing the Court’s 1954 decision in Brown v. Board of Education. One side argues that the ruling intended for school admissions to be colorblind, whereas the other side says that it is necessary to see race to ensure equality. Is there a fine line? LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/supreme-court-hears-affirmative-action-college-application-cases/ GET CONNECTED WITH NWEF Like us o...
Suicide is the third leading cause of death for young adults. In recent years, youth cases of mental health issues have greatly increased. Parents and teachers need to be aware of behaviors that indicate their child or student might be struggling. Keep listening to discover nine warning signs that help parents and teachers identify mental health issues in youth. LINK TO PUBLISHED ARTICLE: https://noahwebstereducationalfoundation.org/teachers-are-your-students-struggling-with-ment...
When the country, and soon the world, shut down in early 2020, we quickly realized that things as they were wouldn’t be the same again for a very long time…if ever. Among the great structures of the world that were devastated (families, economies, infrastructures) , education equally upended—quickly becoming a massive game of Jenga, with the futures of America’s children at stake. Now, two years later, there are so many gaps in our precarious education structure that it’s in danger of falling...
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