Protecting Children from the Effects of Electronic Media Over the winter break, I noticed how many opportunities and how much time my kids spent playing video games at home and in the car, watching TV, watching or going to movies, playing computer games, and listening to the iPod or CD player. Even the simple toys I remember as a child are now electronic. As a parent I know that my wife and I should monitor what the kids do, but it’s a challenge. As an educator, I know that what children do in their down time—when they are not in school or in planned activities—can have a serious impact on their lives and health, both now and in the future. Here are some good tips to know about and lessen any negative impact from electronic media.

• Watch with them. When your children are watching a television show or movies at home, be sure to be tuned in yourself. Speak up when you see something that does not fit your family values—from the gluttony promoted by many restaurants to violence or inappropriate behavior. Use it as a springboard for conversation.
• Help them understand real from fantasy. Some children get lost in the images they see in video, TV shows, and computer games and want to act out what they are watching. Sometimes the results can be tragic. Monitor your child’s behavior and step in strongly if they seem to be identifying with the characters in the shows or games they are watching. Stress that the shows are not real and that acting out what they’re viewing can be dangerous.
• Set a good

  The small ensemble band entertains the students during lunch before winter break.

  example. Limit the amount of television that you and other adults in the house watch. Encourage activities that involve the whole family that don’t involve a television or game console.

Cold Weather Policy for School Patrols School patrol members will be pulled from their lines/ patrol corner when the wind chill is -15 degrees or colder. School patrols will not be available to walk students to school on those days. Please contact Judy Ronnei if you have any questions.

Survival Guide for Parents of Gifted Kids The next support group meeting for parents with gifted students will be Monday, January 14 at 6:00 p.m. Mariana Tennyson will present a comprehensive overview of the gifted program. We will begin a book study of The Survival Guide for Parents of Gifted Kids: How to Understand, Live With, and Stick Up for Your Gifted Child! by Dr. Sally Yahnke Walker. Copies are still available for purchase at the meeting. Please RSVP to 651-293-8965, ext 305 if you are interested.

Science Fusion is a program at the Science Museum of Minnesota that fuses science and cultural tradition.  This family event series celebrates the diversity, creativity, and science expertise within our Twin Cities community.

Science Fusion events combine science learning and cultural entertainment.  Participants can:

• Discover the rich history and traditions of cultures around the world.
• Meet scientists and educators representing different ethnic backgrounds.
• Enjoy live music, storytelling, dancing, and science demonstrations.
• Join in unique and memorable hands-on activities.

Learn more about the Science Fusion program and upcoming events by visiting http://www.smm.org/sciencefusion. Admission discounts are available that allow low-income households to experience the museum for as little as $1 by showing their EBT Card, Minnesota Health Care Programs card, or Section 8 document and picture ID at the box office.

African Americans In Science Saturday, February 16, 2008, 1-4 p.m. Get inspired by the best and brightest scientists, inventors and educators from the Twin Cities' African American community.

American Indians in Science Saturday, March 29, 2008, 1-4 p.m. American Indians in Science introduce visitors to individuals from the Twin Cities' American Indian community who have made significant contributions to science, engineering, and education.

Amantes de la Ciencia Saturday, April 26, 2008, 1-4 p.m. Meet science and education professionals from the Twin Cities' Latino communities, participate in make-and-take activities, and enjoy entertainment with a Latino flair.

Spring Vocal concert dates corrected! Grades 4, 5, 6 concert for parents/guests will be Wednesday March 5, 8:45 a.m. (Dress rehearsal for students March 4 at 1:40 p.m.).

Watch Out for the Swarm! The Minnesota Swarm, Minnesota's Professional Lacrosse team would like to invite you to attend a game...on them. The Swarm is owned by the same group that owns the Minnesota Wild. The game is Saturday, January 12 at 7:00 p.m. against the Toronto Rock. You can request up to 4 tickets per student. The ticket request is due by 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 9. Tickets will be sent home on Friday, January 11.

Upcoming Events