Parenting Book: 17 18 19 Redshirting Education
Based on the forthcoming book "17 18 19: Redshirting Education" by John Chavez
Bio of John Chavez
https://www.facebook.com/171819Book/
Retired 20+ year High Educator, 27 years as a Football & Baseball Coach, Currently TV High School Football Commentator. Father of three adult sons, older two have graduated from college, youngest a sophomore in college.
Podcast voices created by NotebookLM
Parenting Book: 17 18 19 Redshirting Education
Building Strong Learning Foundations: Essential Study Skills for Young Minds
Have you ever found yourself kind of like wondering how to best help like a young person in your life with learning, you know, like maybe seen them struggling with homework or just felt a bit lost on how to give them the support they really need? Well, that's exactly what we're diving deep into today.
Speaker 2:Getting those study skills solid from the start.
Speaker 1:Exactly Building strong study skills right from the beginning. It's huge, and to get into all of this we've got a whole bunch of amazing resources. We're looking at ones that focus on how kids learn best.
Speaker 2:Right Like some really insightful stuff.
Speaker 1:We've got the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, NCTM, thinking about math, which is so important. Those early foundations, Exactly. And then we've got the American Educational Research Association, AERA. They offer a lot about those core learning skills kids need. We're also tapping into some parent and teacher guides, getting that practical advice, Plus some classic educational psychology research and even some foundational books like Mathematics for Young Children. Our goal to turn all of this into advice you can actually use to help those study habits really stick.
Speaker 2:Yeah, because it's not just about getting through the next test.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:It's about setting them up for success in school and in life, really fostering that love of learning.
Speaker 1:Okay, so let's get into it. The first thing that jumps out from all this research is how important the learning environment itself is.
Speaker 2:It's more important than you might think.
Speaker 1:Yeah, like the actual physical space where they study.
Speaker 2:Totally Think about it. When you're trying to focus and there's stuff happening all around you, it's tough, right, yeah? Same for kids. Creating a dedicated study space for them at home makes a huge difference. It should be quiet, organized, free from distractions as much as possible.
Speaker 1:So it's like a signal right.
Speaker 2:Yeah, Like. Okay, this is where we focus. It actually helps them mentally shift gears too. Makes sense and it's not just about the location, is it? It's also about having a consistent routine. Right when homework and study time happen at the same time, every day, it becomes part of their routine. They get used to it, like brushing their teeth Exactly. It's not a battle every time, it's just what we do.
Speaker 1:Okay, so we've got the environment set up. What about the actual learning? Something that feels really, really fundamental is reading. Oh for sure, like it unlocks so much for them.
Speaker 2:Totally, and the research backs that up. Encouraging daily reading from when they're little has huge benefits. That up encouraging daily reading from when they're little has huge benefits. Making time for it, whether it's bedtime stories, independent reading or even family reading, time where everyone joins in it all adds up.
Speaker 1:And I've noticed it's not just about what they read right. It's about giving them a variety of things to read.
Speaker 2:Absolutely Exposing them to different types of writing fiction, nonfiction, magazines, anything that's age appropriate and interesting it all helps expand their understanding. They learn to process different types of information.
Speaker 1:Now this is where it gets interesting. For me, Just reading the words isn't enough, right? They need to really think about what they're reading to get the most out of it.
Speaker 2:Oh, you hit the nail on the head there. That's what we call active reading.
Speaker 1:Oh, okay.
Speaker 2:Asking them questions about what they've read Like. Can you summarize the main points? What do you think might happen next, or even just what are your thoughts on this? It makes them think critically and helps them remember what they've read.
Speaker 1:It's like they're having a conversation with the book.
Speaker 2:Yeah, exactly.
Speaker 1:So we've talked about the environment and reading, but then there's all the school stuff, right Assignments, projects. That's where organizational skills come in, I guess 100%.
Speaker 2:Teaching kids how to be organized early on gives them skills they'll use forever. Really, Things like using a planner or a calendar.
Speaker 1:Oh yeah, to keep track of everything.
Speaker 2:Exactly To keep track of assignments, due dates, even upcoming events, and they can start thinking about their own steady goals too. It helps them learn to manage their time, which is a skill we could all use more of.
Speaker 1:And I imagine when they're faced with a big project, it can feel really overwhelming. What's the best way to approach that?
Speaker 2:Breaking it down. Oh, instead of looking at the whole thing at once, help them divide it into smaller, more manageable steps. That way it's not this big scary thing. It's a series of smaller tasks they can actually handle.
Speaker 1:Yeah, that makes it less intimidating.
Speaker 2:It really does. And the best part is, each time they finish a step, they feel a sense of accomplishment.
Speaker 1:A little win.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:And those little wins keep them motivated to keep going. And of course none of this matters if they can't find their stuff Pencils, paper, that sort of thing.
Speaker 1:Ah, the classic. Where's my situation, yep?
Speaker 2:Having organized school supplies makes a huge difference. It minimizes frustration and keeps their attention on the learning itself.
Speaker 1:Okay, so reading and being organized are super important, but how do we make the learning itself really stick?
Speaker 2:You're talking about active learning.
Speaker 1:Active learning okay.
Speaker 2:It's about making them an active participant in the learning process. For example, hands-on activities are fantastic, especially for subjects like science and math.
Speaker 1:Yeah, I remember doing those science projects as a kid, building a volcano, that sort of thing.
Speaker 2:Exactly when kids can actually touch, build and experiment, abstract concepts become real. They're not just words on a page anymore, they get it Exactly. And the NCTM, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics they really push for that kind of hands-on learning in the early years.
Speaker 1:It makes so much sense. What about when they're like in class or reading a textbook?
Speaker 2:Note-taking can be really helpful. For older kids it might be jotting down key points or summarizing what they're reading, but even younger kids can draw pictures to represent what they're learning. It helps them process the information.
Speaker 1:So it's not just passively absorbing information, it's doing something with it, Right, and you know, to keep them engaged. I think bringing in some fun can really help.
Speaker 2:Absolutely Educational games and puzzles are fantastic.
Speaker 1:Yeah, they don't even realize they're learning.
Speaker 2:Exactly they're having fun and reinforcing what they've learned at the same time.
Speaker 1:Now I've got to say I think kids also learn a lot from watching the adults around them.
Speaker 2:You're absolutely right. A lot from watching the adults around them. You're absolutely right.
Speaker 1:We are their role models, whether we realize it or not, like we can tell them how important learning is, but do we actually show them Exactly?
Speaker 2:Yeah, so model good study habits yourself. Show them that you're excited about learning new things. Share your own experiences with them.
Speaker 1:Oh, I like that. Like, hey, I'm learning this new thing too and it's tough, but I'm sticking with it.
Speaker 2:Right, or? I just learned this amazing fact and I want to share it with you. It all makes a difference. Even something simple like having a quiet time at home where everyone focuses on something reading a puzzle, whatever shows them that learning is important to the whole family.
Speaker 1:It's like a family value. Yeah, now time. Time is always a challenge, so how can we help kids manage their study time effectively?
Speaker 2:Well. For younger kids, a timer can be a great tool. It helps them focus for set periods of time and then take a break. It builds that understanding of work and rest cycles.
Speaker 1:Those little breaks are crucial. They are.
Speaker 2:It's like hitting the reset button and, along with the timer, help them set small, specific goals for each study session. Instead of finish all your homework, it could be read one chapter or do five math problems.
Speaker 1:Break it down.
Speaker 2:Exactly Smaller goals feel more achievable and give them a sense of accomplishment along the way.
Speaker 1:So what happens when they hit a wall? They're working on something and they just can't figure it out.
Speaker 2:That's when they need to ask for help, but that can be hard for some kids.
Speaker 1:Oh yeah.
Speaker 2:So create a positive environment around asking for help. Let them know it's okay not to know everything. In fact, asking questions is a sign of a good learner.
Speaker 1:It shows they're engaged.
Speaker 2:Exactly Now, when they do come to you for help, resist the urge to just give them the answer.
Speaker 1:I know that one. It's tempting.
Speaker 2:It is. But instead of giving them the answer, guide them, ask leading questions, offer suggestions, help them figure it out themselves.
Speaker 1:That way, they're actually learning how to solve problems.
Speaker 2:Exactly. It's about giving them the tools they need to be independent learners.
Speaker 1:I think it also helps when we can connect what they're learning in school to real life.
Speaker 2:Oh, absolutely Look for opportunities to do that.
Speaker 1:Like how.
Speaker 2:Well, if they're learning about fractions, bake something together and have them measure out the ingredients Practical math Exactly. Or if they're studying nature, go for a walk and talk about what you see.
Speaker 1:That makes it so much more engaging.
Speaker 2:It does. When they can see how learning applies to their own lives, it becomes more meaningful.
Speaker 1:It's not just something they have to do for school Right. What about homework? Should we be involved in that or let them handle it on their own?
Speaker 2:Reviewing it together can be really helpful.
Speaker 1:Oh, okay.
Speaker 2:It's not about doing it for them, but about discussing what they learned, asking questions and helping them catch any mistakes. It reinforces what they learned in class and shows them that you care about their education.
Speaker 1:Like a team effort.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Now, learning isn't always easy. There are going to be challenges and bumps along the way.
Speaker 2:And that's okay. Everyone makes mistakes. Yeah, it's part of the learning process.
Speaker 1:But sometimes those mistakes can feel like setbacks.
Speaker 2:True. That's why it's so important to foster a growth mindset.
Speaker 1:A growth mindset.
Speaker 2:It's the belief that we can always learn and improve. So, instead of focusing on the grade, praise their effort, their persistence, their progress. Let them know that mistakes are opportunities to learn and grow. This is something that's consistently highlighted in educational psychology research. A growth mindset is crucial for academic success.
Speaker 1:So it's about seeing challenges as chances to learn, not as failures.
Speaker 2:Exactly, and building on that idea of preparing them for challenges, we can also start introducing them to basic test-taking skills early on.
Speaker 1:Oh, like how to approach tests without getting overwhelmed.
Speaker 2:Right, and we can do it in fun ways without making it feel like a big deal. Playing memory games, for instance, is great for building memory skills. You could also do practice quizzes. Keep it light and playful and teach them relaxation techniques like deep breathing to help manage any test anxiety.
Speaker 1:So, to wrap up, we've covered a lot today Creating a good study environment, the power of reading, organizational skills, active learning being a good role model, managing time, asking for help, connecting learning to real life, reviewing homework, fostering a growth mindset and even early test-taking skills.
Speaker 2:Wow, that's quite a list.
Speaker 1:It is, and the message that comes through loud and clear is that developing these skills early on sets kids up for success in all areas of their lives. It's not just about school. It's about becoming a lifelong learner.
Speaker 2:And all of this advice is not just pulled out of thin air. It comes from years of research and the expertise of people who have dedicated their lives to understanding how kids learn best.
Speaker 1:So, as you're listening to this, think about which of these strategies you can start implementing today. Even one small change can make a huge difference over time. What's one thing you can do to support the learning journey of a young person in your life? It might be easier than you think to get started.
Speaker 2:And so rewarding.
Speaker 1:Absolutely All right. So today we're going to like tackle something pretty fundamental, right thing uh pretty fundamental. It's about research and how we can like equip our kids with, uh, the power to actually do good research.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:Right, like it seems basic, but you think about, like, how much information is like constantly coming at all of us these days? Right, it's not enough to just like find stuff online. You have to be able to really understand it and evaluate it.
Speaker 2:Use it critically.
Speaker 1:Use it critically yeah.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:And it's not even just about school, it's like a life skill, I feel like.
Speaker 2:It really is. Yeah, this is about setting them up to be like lifelong learners and to be able to navigate the world with confidence.
Speaker 1:Yeah, exactly, Confident independent thinkers.
Speaker 2:Yeah so.
Speaker 1:Like confident independent thinkers, yeah, so that's what we're going to dive into today and we have like a bunch of awesome resources we do so. We're looking at John Chavez's article Red Shirting Education, which makes a really strong case for research as like a foundation for success.
Speaker 2:It really does. And then we're also pulling in some stuff from ALA, common Sense Media, oh yeah, easty and Eddie A. These are great organizations, yeah, so lots of good stuff there. And we'll touch on some points from educational psychology journals, too Great, but yeah. So, like, the big mission for this deep dive is to give you guys some really solid strategies you can actually use with your kids.
Speaker 1:Absolutely. So you can kind of see why these skills matter so much and how to like nurture them without feeling like you need to go get a PhD or something Exactly, and it doesn't have to be overwhelming. No, not at all, we can break it down into manageable steps.
Speaker 2:Yeah, for sure, okay. So where do we even begin? Where is the starting point for, like, unlocking this potential?
Speaker 1:Right, I think the very first step and maybe the most important is nurturing that natural curiosity that all kids have. Oh yeah Right, they're constantly asking why.
Speaker 2:Oh yeah.
Speaker 1:And it can be exhausting sometimes.
Speaker 2:Why Tell me about it?
Speaker 1:But that's the engine Right that drives all research. It's that inquisitiveness, yeah.
Speaker 2:So if we can keep that spark alive, we've got a strong foundation.
Speaker 1:That totally makes sense but, like I said, sometimes it's so much like what are some actual ways that we can like nurture it instead of just like putting out fires all the time, exactly.
Speaker 2:Well, one surprisingly simple but powerful technique is asking open-ended questions.
Speaker 1:Oh, okay.
Speaker 2:So, instead of like always giving them the answer immediately.
Speaker 1:Right right.
Speaker 2:You know, turn it back around and say like, well, that's a great question. What makes you think that?
Speaker 1:Oh, I see.
Speaker 2:Or what are some other possibilities.
Speaker 1:Oh, that's good.
Speaker 2:And research shows that when kids are actually involved in like seeking the answers, it strengthens their problem solving skills, makes sense and it also increases their intrinsic motivation to learn.
Speaker 1:Oh wow, so it like makes them want to learn more.
Speaker 2:Yeah, that feeling of discovery is super powerful, that's huge.
Speaker 1:Yeah. Instead of like forcing it on them, it's like they come to it on their own. Exactly, I love that. So it's like a joint exploration instead of Me just like.
Speaker 2:A one-way information dump, yeah exactly.
Speaker 1:The article also talks about the importance of supporting their interests.
Speaker 2:Yeah, so how does that play into building research skills? Well, when a child has a passion for something, yeah. You know, whether it's bugs or space or whatever. That's your golden opportunity. Okay, Chavez suggests you give them resources that feed that interest directly.
Speaker 1:So, like if they're obsessed with bug, I get them a book about bugs.
Speaker 2:Exactly Age-appropriate books, documentaries, websites, that kind of thing.
Speaker 1:Got it.
Speaker 2:And that makes it feel less like homework and more like an adventure.
Speaker 1:Oh yeah.
Speaker 2:So research becomes this joyful exploration.
Speaker 1:I love that.
Speaker 2:Of something they already care about.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it's not a chore, it's like.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Oh, this is awesome.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Okay, so we've got the curiosity going.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:How do we give them, like, the actual skills to find what they're looking for?
Speaker 2:Okay, so now we're building their information gathering toolkit. Okay, one of the first things is books and libraries. You know, going to the library can be so enriching.
Speaker 1:It's so fun.
Speaker 2:Show them how the books are organized. You know making a treasure hunt to find the book on a specific topic.
Speaker 1:I love that.
Speaker 2:And don't forget about teaching them how to use the index or the table of contents. Those are really valuable, even in the digital age.
Speaker 1:Totally, I still use those.
Speaker 2:Me too All right.
Speaker 1:So then there's the whole online world.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:Which is kind of unavoidable these days, right.
Speaker 2:What's about teaching them to be responsible digital citizens?
Speaker 1:from the beginning.
Speaker 2:Yeah, so Chavez mentions things like Kittle.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Which is a kid-friendly search engine.
Speaker 1:Oh cool.
Speaker 2:It filters out inappropriate content. That's great. And then there are educational websites like NAFLA, geographic Kids.
Speaker 1:Okay, cool.
Speaker 2:Those are good starting points.
Speaker 1:Yeah, those are good.
Speaker 2:You also want to have conversations about online safety.
Speaker 1:Oh right.
Speaker 2:And what kind of information they might find.
Speaker 1:Yeah, that's a good point.
Speaker 2:It's important.
Speaker 1:Okay. So then, once they're finding all this information, how do we teach them to keep track of it?
Speaker 2:Well, you can introduce note-taking and outlining early on.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:And for little kids this might just look like drawing pictures or using sticky notes.
Speaker 1:Oh, cute, like visual stuff.
Speaker 2:Exactly, and then, as they get older, you can introduce more formal outlining. Okay, the goal is to help them organize their thoughts.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:And see the structure of information that makes sense, which helps them understand and remember it better.
Speaker 1:Cool, okay. So we've talked about them doing research, but I feel like kids learn so much from watching us.
Speaker 2:They do.
Speaker 1:So how can we use that to our advantage?
Speaker 2:This is where modeling comes in.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:So researching aloud or thinking aloud, okay. So, researching aloud or thinking aloud. Okay, so let's say you're planning a family vacation. Get your kid involved.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Look up the weather together.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Fun activities.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:A little bit about the history.
Speaker 1:Oh, I love that.
Speaker 2:And, as you're doing it, talk about what you're doing, so you might say, okay, I need to find out what time the museum opens.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Let me try searching for opening hours of, and then the museum name.
Speaker 1:I see.
Speaker 2:That shows them the steps from question to keywords to evaluating the results.
Speaker 1:It's like you're showing them how your brain works.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:I love that. Okay, so we focused on finding information.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:But what about the types of information they're getting? Yes, how can we broaden their horizons a little?
Speaker 2:Reading across different genres is super important, especially nonfiction, okay, so books and articles about science, history, nature, current events all of that Okay. That helps them build up a foundation of knowledge, but it's also good to encourage them to explore information in different formats.
Speaker 1:Oh right, Not just books.
Speaker 2:Not just books, documentaries, podcasts, interviews with experts.
Speaker 1:Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Speaker 2:You know, maybe even someone in your family.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:That personal connection can be really impactful.
Speaker 1:Totally Okay, but then there's so much information out there, right?
Speaker 2:Totally.
Speaker 1:Okay, but then there's so much information out there, right? How do we teach them to be careful about what they're reading and watching?
Speaker 2:Right, that's where evaluation comes in.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:A key skill is distinguishing fact from opinion.
Speaker 1:Oh yeah.
Speaker 2:You can ask questions like can we prove this or does this sound like someone's belief?
Speaker 1:Oh, that's good. It helps them think critically Okay, and how do we help them identify good sources, especially online?
Speaker 2:Well for younger kids. Start with trusted places like PBS Kids or Smithsonian Kids. They have great reputations.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:As kids get older, you can introduce the idea of source credibility.
Speaker 1:Oh cool.
Speaker 2:So, looking at who created the information, what their purpose might be, are they trying to inform or persuade?
Speaker 1:and is the information backed up by evidence. Okay that their purpose might be. Are they trying to inform or persuade Mm-hmm? And is the information backed up by?
Speaker 2:evidence. Okay, that makes sense. Common Sense Media has some really helpful resources for teaching this.
Speaker 1:Okay, awesome.
Speaker 2:And the ALA has frameworks for information ethics and online behavior too.
Speaker 1:Oh cool. So they're not just like blindly believing everything they see online.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Okay, good, so research doesn't always have to be books and screens, right?
Speaker 2:No, definitely not.
Speaker 1:How can we make it more hands-on?
Speaker 2:There's so many ways. Okay, simple science, experiments at home are great. Okay, so they can make a prediction. Do the experiment, observe what happens and then draw conclusions.
Speaker 1:Oh, I love that.
Speaker 2:It's research in action. Yeah like they're actually little scientists.
Speaker 1:Exactly, I love it.
Speaker 2:And you can also involve them in family projects that require research.
Speaker 1:Oh, okay.
Speaker 2:So maybe finding a new recipe to try.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Or researching a historical event before you visit a site, oh yeah. Or figuring out the best plants to grow in your garden.
Speaker 1:I love that.
Speaker 2:The NEA really promotes this kind of project-based learning.
Speaker 1:Okay, cool.
Speaker 2:It makes research fun and purposeful yeah, totally okay.
Speaker 1:So they've done all this research. Yes, now how do we help them, like, make sense of it all?
Speaker 2:summarizing is key.
Speaker 1:Okay, chavez says to practice paraphrasing so like explaining it in their own words exactly, okay that helps them process the information on a deeper level. Yeah, because if they can explain it to someone else, then they really get it.
Speaker 2:Exactly.
Speaker 1:Cool.
Speaker 2:You can also use visual aids like graphic organizers.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Things like Venn diagrams, flow charts, mind maps.
Speaker 1:Those are good.
Speaker 2:Yeah, those can help them see the relationships between different pieces of information and organize their thoughts.
Speaker 1:That makes sense, okay, but we can't forget about technology. Right so how do we help them use it in a good way for research?
Speaker 2:Introduce digital tools gradually and at the right age.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:So for older kids, maybe using Google Docs for notes or exploring educational apps. Okay, there are also online databases made for kids, like Kids Infobits, britannica Kids Scholastic oh cool, those provide good, reliable information.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:And the ALA has some great resources for digital literacy too.
Speaker 1:Okay, so it's all about using technology to help them, not distract them Exactly Got it. Okay, so what are some ways we can kind of like solidify what they have learned?
Speaker 2:Well, documentation and sharing are important. Okay, chavez suggests a research journal.
Speaker 1:Like a notebook.
Speaker 2:Yeah or Okay. Chavez suggests a research journal Like a notebook.
Speaker 1:Yeah, or even a digital document Okay. Where they can keep track of their findings, thoughts, questions. It's like their own little database, exactly, that's awesome.
Speaker 2:And then giving them opportunities to share their research is great too, okay. So maybe they present it to the family or make a short video oh fun. Or just talk about it with a friend. Yeah, that about it with a friend. Yeah, that makes the whole process more meaningful, totally. Okay so last question what's the most important thing for us as parents to do? Be patient and praise their effort Right, not just the outcome. Yeah, celebrate their curiosity.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Acknowledge their attempts, even when they struggle.
Speaker 1:It's the process, not the product.
Speaker 2:Exactly, and encourage a growth mindset. Oh, the idea that research is ongoing. Right, it's the process, not the product. Exactly, and encourage a growth mindset. Oh, the idea that research is ongoing.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:It's okay to not find the right answer right away. The research actually shows that these early skills are linked to better critical thinking and problem solving.
Speaker 1:Wow.
Speaker 2:And the ISC standards have good strategies for digital literacy too.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 2:Awesome, so there's a lot of support out there.
Speaker 1:That's great to know. Okay, so to wrap up for everyone listening, remember, yes, nurture that curiosity.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:Teach them how to find information both in the real world and online.
Speaker 2:Absolutely.
Speaker 1:Be a good example by doing your own research out loud.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:Encourage them to read all kinds of stuff and learn to evaluate what they find. Give them hands-on research projects.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:Help them summarize and make sense of information. Important Use technology in a good way, yes, encourage them to document and share what they learn. Definitely and most importantly, be patient and praise their hard work.
Speaker 2:Couldn't agree more.
Speaker 1:Oh, and don't forget to check out those resources from Common Sense Media and the NEA. So helpful, yeah. So our final thought for today.
Speaker 2:Yes.
Speaker 1:Think about the big picture. How will being a good researcher help your child in life? Like how will it affect their ability to learn, solve problems and understand the world?
Speaker 2:Such an important question.
Speaker 1:What's one little thing you can do today to help your kid become a better researcher?
Speaker 2:That's a great challenge.
Speaker 1:Maybe ask an open-ended question or plan a trip to the library.
Speaker 2:I love it.
Speaker 1:Thanks so much for joining us today on this deep dive.
Speaker 2:It's been a pleasure.
Speaker 1:We'll see you next time.
Speaker 2:See you then.
Speaker 1:All right. So you guys sent us a ton of stuff on how to like up those test scores for your kiddos. Right, we've got John Chavez dropping knowledge and redshirting education, all about making sure kids are ready for college and careers. And then, like a whole bunch of other voices chiming in the college board ACT Inc, the American Psychological Association, edutopia, understoodorg Dash, you get a picture. A lot to unpack.
Speaker 2:Yeah, a lot of heavy hitters in the education world for sure.
Speaker 1:Right. So what we really want to do is go through all this stuff and give you the best, most practical tips to help your kids not just ace those tests but actually feel good about school, without making them feel stressed out.
Speaker 2:Yeah, no one wants a stressed out kid.
Speaker 1:Exactly. So where should we, where should we even start with all this?
Speaker 2:I think it makes sense to begin with like the core stuff, right, the foundation. A lot of these experts are really stressing how crucial those basic academic skills are.
Speaker 1:Yeah, totally. I mean Chavez and like everyone else basically says reading, math, writing, those are non-negotiable right. It's not just about passing a test, it's about setting them up for success in everything they learn later on.
Speaker 2:Absolutely, and they actually give some pretty cool ideas for strengthening these skills, like with reading. Instead of just reading to your child, you can stop every now and then and ask okay, what's happened so far, just to get them thinking and remembering the story, or like what do you think might happen next? You know, based on what they already know.
Speaker 1:I love that it makes reading so much more interactive, right, it's not just passively taking in words, it's really engaging with them. And I love the suggestion about playing math games. It just sounds so much more fun than endless worksheets, right, even writing letters, which seems kind of basic, but it's building those writing chops.
Speaker 2:For sure, and you know reading regularly I can't emphasize this enough. Chavez really points out how important that is for building vocabulary and comprehension and critical thinking skills. It's like a full brain workout.
Speaker 1:Totally. And when it comes to math, you know, getting those basic facts down early on flashcards, fun games, even counting change when you're out shopping it makes those numbers real, you know, helps kids understand them on a deeper level.
Speaker 2:Definitely. And once they've got those fundamentals down, a lot of the experts say the next step is helping kids get used to the whole idea of testing itself.
Speaker 1:Okay, so we're moving from building the foundation to like getting them in the game. Right, how do we do that at home without making it feel like a constant pop quiz?
Speaker 2:The key is to practice, but keep it low. Key right Chavez suggests using little quizzes based on what they're already learning in school. It kind of normalizes the format and the whole test taking experience.
Speaker 1:That makes a lot of sense. So it's not like this big scary thing when they actually have a test, you know if they're already used to doing these little quizzes along the way. And I also like the idea of setting time limits for certain tasks, like even homework. It's not about rushing them, but just helping them develop an awareness of time, you know.
Speaker 2:Exactly, and the American Psychological Association. They actually they really highlight how important time management is during tests. So if kids get used to working within a certain timeframe, it can actually help them feel less anxious when they're taking the real test.
Speaker 1:Yeah, that makes sense. And introducing different types of questions like multiple choice, true or false, short answer, and giving them strategies for each type, it gives them some tools in their belt. Right, like with multiple choice, you can talk about eliminating the answers that they know are wrong. First, Right, it's not just about knowing the material. It's about knowing how to play the game Right. The test taking game.
Speaker 2:Yeah, and that actually leads right into developing those broader test taking skills, like. One thing that's super important is reading the instructions carefully.
Speaker 1:Oh, for sure.
Speaker 2:Chavez makes this great comparison to like following instructions for a craft project or a recipe right. It's all about paying attention to detail from the very beginning.
Speaker 1:That is such a good analogy. It's like if you skip a step in the recipe, your cookies aren't going to turn out right. Same thing with the test and the advice to skip difficult questions. At first that might seem counterintuitive, but it's actually pretty smart.
Speaker 2:It helps them manage their time and not get stuck on one problem. Yeah, for sure. And then they can come back to those harder questions later with a fresh perspective and whatever time they have left. Oh, and getting in the habit of checking their work for like silly mistakes before turning it in, that can save them some points too.
Speaker 1:Totally those careless mistakes. They're the worst, right? Okay? So let's talk about test anxiety for a sec, Because even if a kid is super prepared, those nerves can really mess things up. What did the experts say about that?
Speaker 2:Well, it's all about building a positive mindset. Right Framing the test is a chance to show off what they've learned, not just like a judgment or an evaluation taking the pressure off.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it's like changing the story around tests right. So it's not about being afraid to fail, it's about showing what you know. And those relaxation techniques, the breathing exercises and visualization that Edutopia and Understoodorg talked about those are super helpful too.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah, for sure. And we can't forget about the basics right Getting enough sleep, eating healthy food, having time to play and be active. It all makes a difference in how clearly they can think during a test.
Speaker 1:It's easy to forget that stuff when you're focused on academics, but it's so important. Okay, so we've talked about mindset and things they can do during the test itself, but what about the bigger picture, like the studying and getting organized part?
Speaker 2:Right. Well, that's where good study habits and organization come in. Chavez really emphasizes creating a study schedule. It encourages kids to review the material regularly, which is way better than cramming the night before Right A little bit.
Speaker 1:Each day is so much less stressful.
Speaker 2:Totally and using things like study guides and flashcards, breaking the information down into smaller chunks and actively recalling it. That's super effective too. Makes the material seem less overwhelming.
Speaker 1:It's about making it bite-sized right.
Speaker 2:Exactly and setting up a dedicated study space, you know, somewhere quiet and free of distractions. It signals to the kid and everyone else in the house that it's focus time.
Speaker 1:It creates that boundary right.
Speaker 2:Mentally and physically.
Speaker 1:So now I want to touch on this whole growth mindset thing. How does that tie into better test taking?
Speaker 2:So a growth mindset is basically believing that you know you can always learn and improve. Your abilities aren't set in stone. So when you celebrate a kid's effort and the fact that they're learning, not just the grade on the test, it helps them bounce back from setbacks right. If they don't do well, it's not a sign that they're not smart. It's just an opportunity to learn and grow.
Speaker 1:That's such a powerful shift in perspective. It's about focusing on the journey, not just the destination, and talking about what went well and what could be improved after a test. It turns every test into a learning experience, regardless of the score.
Speaker 2:Right and connecting what they're learning to real-life stuff, that can make a huge difference too. Puzzles, logic games, strategy games all those problem solving activities are great for building critical thinking skills, which are important for tests and just life in general.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it's like sneaking in learning through fun right and even using math in everyday situations, Like if you're cooking and you need to double a recipe, or if you're planning a family trip and figuring out the budget. It makes math feel more real and less abstract.
Speaker 2:Definitely they can see how it's actually useful. And you know, one of the biggest things is how parents approach learning and challenges themselves. Kids are always watching right. So if they see you tackling a problem with a positive, organized attitude, even if it's just a Sudoku puzzle, it can really rub off on them.
Speaker 1:Kids are like little sponges, and if you're genuinely excited about learning, that enthusiasm is contagious, right.
Speaker 2:Totally and if we look back at all the experts you mentioned, there's a lot of agreement on these points. The College Board and ACT Inc. They both talk about how important it is for students to be familiar with the format of the tests. The American Psychological Association they emphasize time management skills. Edutopia and understoodorg have great strategies for dealing with test anxiety and Parenting Science. And the National Association of School Psychologists they both highlight the importance of parental support and giving kids chances to practice. It's all connected.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it's a pretty consistent message coming from all of these different experts. So, to recap, it sounds like the key takeaways are building that solid foundation in reading, math and writing, giving kids low-pressure ways to practice test-taking skills, teaching them strategies for different question types and helping them deal with test anxiety and, of course, good study habits, organization and a growth mindset. And all of this is supported by, you know, parents being encouraging and setting a good example.
Speaker 2:Exactly. It's not about turning your kid into a test-taking machine. It's about giving them the skills and the confidence to succeed in school and in life.
Speaker 1:So for all of you listening out there, think about which of these strategies really resonates with you and your child. You know every kid is different. Maybe start by trying out one or two things and see how it goes. What if you focused more on the process of learning and problem solving instead of just the test scores themselves? How might that change the way you support your child's education? Something to think about, right? Thanks for joining us for this deep dive.
