When we think of Sylvan we normally think of homework help and tutoring, but Sylvan Learning Centers will soon be synonymous with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).

Sylvan is launching a Robotics for Kids enrichment program for grades 2 -6.  Robotics for Kids will use hands-on projects to make new friends and develop STEM skills. In small classes (6:1 student teacher ratio) kids will learn how they can build and program robots using LEGO® bricks and award winning WeDo™ software in a fun-filled learning environment.

These small classes allow teachers to adjust to your child’s ability so there’s no need for prior experience; they can jump in at any age or level.

To help combat childhood obesity MARTIN’S is arming parents and kids with the tools they need to live a healthier life in their new initiative Passport to Nutrition, a Kids Healthy Ideas Program.
Valerie Waters, RDN will be teaching a four-week summer program for children ages 6-10 years old and their parents to arm them with the tools they need to live a healthy lifestyle.

Each of the four 75-minute classes are designed to give kids and their parents the information and motivation to achieve a healthier weight by improving one’s lifestyle and eating habits. Among the topics to be covered include the food pyramid, understanding food labels, how to integrate enough fruits and vegetables into one’s diet and ideas for healthy snacks. Kids will also learn about nutrition through a store scavenger hunt and other games.

The four classes are scheduled to begin the week of July 12.
There is a $20 registration fee and space is limited.
John Rolfe MARTIN’S at 2250 John Rolfe Parkway, Richmond

Call 804-364-3644 to schedule an individual appointment or register for a class

A new class for preschool aged kids allows children to experience story books in a whole new way!
Make yourself comfortable and enjoy some hot coffee in the lobby while  your preschooler takes a multisensory journey through a favorite work of children’s literature using age appropriate process-based creative drama.  This 8 week program is one hour long and specifically designed by the experts at The Children’s Theatre at Willow Lawn, for children ages 3 ½ – 5 years old for a perfect introduction to the magical world of theatre.

Best part: you can scope out this new class for FREE Monday, January 27^th at 10 o’clock in the upstairs lobby of the Children’s Theatre of Virginia at Willow Lawn.  The lesson will run about 45 minutes to an hour long and parents are invited to stay and see what it’s all about.

No need to register for the free class– Just show up!

Story Drama for Preschoolers
The Children’s Theatre of Virginia at Willow Lawn
Mondays at 10:00 a.m., February 3 – March 24, 2014
$95 for 8 week session.
Enroll online or call (804) 282-2620
Sibling discount available.

Eric and Lisa Harrison, Harrison Music

Advice from Lisa Harrison, at Harrison Music

When should I allow my child to learn a musical instrument?

It depends on the instrument. For instance, even a child as young as three could start learning the violin, because violins are available in a wide range of sizes. If it’s a wind instrument, on the other hand, these are better physically suited to eleven years and older.

Click here to view the embedded video.

What if my child decides that they just don’t like that particular instrument?

If after several months your kid decides that they have chosen the wrong instrument, most band directors will let them switch during the first year. And if it’s a rental, you can exchange it for a different one.

What if I don’t have any background in music?

Don’t worry! It won’t be up to you to correct their technique; that’s the music instructor’s job. What you can do is give him or her lots of encouragement, and make sure they practice.

Also, if you can afford it, individual lessons in addition to group classes can really help accelerate your child’s progress.

Click here to view the embedded video.

How much should they be practicing?

For children under ten, ten to twelve minutes a day, at least five times a week is fine. For a middle school student, you should expect twenty to thirty minutes per day; a high school student, thirty to sixty minutes per day.

Some kids find it motivating to have their parents remind them. Other kids might feel they are being nagged. You have to find a good balance.

What if my kid is losing motivation?

Music should be fun! Dialogue with your child’s music instructor, and see if you can change up the material. Learning popular songs from Disney or Taylor Swift for instance, might be all it takes to get your child motivated again!

Also, some kids need to be involved in a musical group outside of school band, such as a jazz band, to help keep them interested.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Music, sports, clubs… We don’t have time for them all. How do we choose?

Sometimes you should let them pursue their passions, not just what they are best at. And if they really love playing music, let them! They will continue to grow.

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