Five Ways to Help Kids Develop Stronger Study Habits

Call (716) 940-8963 (716) 940-8963 [email protected] Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Five Ways to Help Kids Develop Stronger Study Habits Numbered–School Days That Is! The end of the school year is around the corner which means two things to most students. First, it means SUMMER VACATION! Second (and more importantly) it means exams. While very few students get excited about exam season, there are several ways that parents and teachers can motivate students as they prep for finals. Like any learned behavior, strengthen your students study skills by starting when they are young. The more we reinforce studying in younger children, the easier it will be for them to apply these skills year after year as they progress through elementary, middle, and high school. Reinforce Study Habits For A Better Chance At Success Listen To The Teacher The first step in studying is listening. When a child sits through a lecture, they retain chunks of the provided material through hearing alone. That’s why at the end of the year when they go to review material from two, four, six months ago, they still remember the basics. Sure, they’ll need a refresher, but the foundation is already set, and many students will be relieved to discover just how much they remember! Take Good Notes Math. Science. History. English. Spanish. Your students will have testing on multiple subjects so condensed notes are essential for preventing a burnout. Whether your child has been a dutiful notetaker all year long or they’re relying on that end of the year review to highlight the most important material from each subject, advocate the importance of note-taking. It will make studying much easier and way less stressful! Ask Questions You would be surprised how many children don’t ask for help because they’re too afraid of looking “dumb” in front of their peers or because they don’t want to draw attention to themself in class, or because they fear “bothering” their teacher. In fact, BBC News reported that in a survey of 1,000 10- to 16-year-olds, it was found that two-thirds would rather struggle through the material in silence, by themself, than ask for help. The first step to changing this statistic is to encourage students to ask for help when they don’t understand something. As a teacher, creating a safe, supportive classroom environment is essential for positive learning experiences. As a parent, encourage your child to ask questions both at home and in school. Even if you don’t know the answer, their teacher will, or you can help your child locate the correct information in their notes or textbooks. Get A Good Night’s Sleep Sleep is essential for multiple reasons but in terms of learning, sleep boosts learning and increases your ability to focus. Lack of sleep can result in feeling “foggy” or “groggy”, mood swings, aggressive behavior, and an inability to stay on task. Kids ages 5-12 should get almost 10 hours of sleep per night. Remind your children not to stay up late on school nights, even if they try age-old excuses like “But Mom, I only have fifty pages left in my book!” or “But Mom, I’m about to beat this level!” Those books, video games, movies, and more will still be there the next day! Use A Mnemonic Device In “Rhyme At Study Time To Improve Memorization” I explained the power of mnemonic devices, or tricks used to aid and improve memorization. From acronyms to rhymes to chunking, these memory tricks will also develop literacy and language skills, and help with annunciation! Cris Johnson’s Amazing School Assemblies and Library Shows believes that fun and education can go hand-in-hand. So make your family time amazing and book Cris for your school’s next assembly for an experience like no other!

Step Away From The Screen

Call (716) 940-8963 (716) 940-8963 [email protected] Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Step Away From The Screen Less Screen Time – More Sun Time! Screens are so commonplace in today’s society that we don’t give them much thought anymore, nor do we pay attention to how much they are being used. From watching television and working on laptops to playing games and scrolling through social media, we use our smart devices for hours on end. But is this a good thing? Is it good for our kids? It seems the days of playing in the backyard and riding bikes are long gone, but they don’t have to be, and they shouldn’t! Why You Should Limit Screen Time Studies have shown that kids spend more time looking at screens than any other activity during the day. (Up to 7 hours!) This screen time is attributed to multiple downsides such as weight gain, loss of focus, and lack of sleep. Screen time is clearly showing an effect on kids especially on their development and growth. For example, when it comes to verbal and communication development. It is crucial to have face-to-face interactions with your children as a vital part of them growing up. With a screen in the way, it blocks that communication. This works both ways as well! As a parent we owe it to our kids to put down our screens and make sure they are getting the interaction and attention they need and deserve. One of the most important factors to consider is how screen time can affect sleep. Research suggests you not use screens at least one hour before bed, as it has been linked to interfering with getting a good night’s sleep. With so much development and learning a child goes through it is important that we set them up to grow to their fullest potential. How Can You Limit Screen Time Even with the addition of apps to help limit screen time and monitor activity, limiting screen time can be a touchy situation. Kids don’t want to be told they can’t have their phone anymore. The best way to limit screen time is to set guidelines from the start. This will help kids better understand what the ground rules are and why they need to be followed. And as they get older, don’t be afraid to explain why you’re setting these boundaries. The easiest (and most fun) way to limit screen time is to find activities to do with your kids! With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to turn off the TV, put the phone away, and enjoy the beautiful sunny outdoors. Need ideas for summer activities? Here are some great happenings around the city that you and your kids can enjoy all season long! Buffalo Summer Activities Taste of Buffalo Nothing brings families together better than food so why not bring them to the biggest food festival of the year! This is a great opportunity to introduce your kids to cuisines they may not have tried before! Albright Knox Gallery The Albright Knox gallery contains work by Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, and many more! It is one of the oldest museums in the United States and offer classes, tours, and art activities! Niagara Falls Not only is this natural wonder an amazing sight to see, it is also right in our backyard! With the improvements to the surrounding parks and attractions Niagara Falls is a great opportunity to enjoy a nice walk, learn the history of the area, and experience the power of the falls. Sahlen Field The tradition of taking the kids to a ballgame is an American pastime. With games going on 3 times a week there are plenty of chances to take the little ones to the ballpark, get some peanuts and cracker jacks, and cheer for your Bisons at Sahlen Field! Also don’t forget to stay for

Put The “Story” Back In “History”

Call (716) 940-8963 (716) 940-8963 [email protected] Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Put The “Story” Back In “History” History Has Its Eyes On You History has always been exciting (at least for me!) but thanks to the success of Hamilton, our Founding Fathers are getting more attention than ever. I won’t get political but understanding America’s earliest beginnings, reading about battles waged for independence, the rise of democracy, the installation of a national bank, the fundamental rights granted to us as citizens, and the development of our Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and all the laws that have been passed since that initial signing, is more important today than ever before. Unlike science or math where a child may find it hard to connect with the subject matter, history has a way of hooking into us. That’s because history is a story–the American story! History, or Social Studies, takes students as far back as the earliest civilizations of the Aztecs, Mesopotamia, the Incas, and so on, but my main interest has always been American History, hence my love for “Uncle Sam’s Comedy Jam!” While I may not sing about wanting to be “in the room where it happens” or rap about how Alexander Hamilton is “ingenuitive and fluent in French,” I do focus on the incredible chain of events that led to the signing of the Constitution. “I am not throwing away my shot” at making history fun! In addition to watching my “Uncle Sam’s Comedy Jam” school assembly–which is perfect for Constitution Day in September (wink wink, nudge nudge)–one of the best ways to get your students or children excited about history is to immerse them in it. How can you do that? By visiting of these truly amazing historical sites in the Western New York Region. Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site | Downtown Buffalo, NY www.trsite.org Buffalo is known for many things but being known as the city where President McKinley was assassinated is definitely not one of its best. Following McKinley’s death in September 1901, Theodore Roosevelt was inaugurated as the 26th President of the United States. The Inaugural Site focuses on the assassination and inauguration: “At the TR Site, you are transported back to the excitement of Buffalo’s heyday and the Pan-American Exposition, as well as the drama of September 1901. You can follow Roosevelt as he arrives in Buffalo, contemplates the major issues he will face, takes the oath of office and begins his presidency. Following a guided tour, you have the opportunity to learn from the past on your own and see how history is relevant in your life by considering the challenges and opportunities presented by the same issues today.” – Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site Old Fort Niagara | Youngstown, NY www.oldfortniagara.org Take a walk on the wild side and explore Old Fort Niagara, a 300+ year old fort that was essential in maintaining control of access to the Great Lakes. While control shifted between the British and Americans several times throughout the course of history, it fell into America’s possession and has stayed that way since the War of 1812. Wander the grounds, watch reenactments, hear ghost stories, and discover just what life was like for those early pioneers! Millard Fillmore House | East Aurora, NY www.aurorahistoricalsociety.com Although not a giant attraction, the Millard Fillmore House still stands as one of two remaining homes of our 13th President, the second being the White House! Genesee Country Village & Museum | Genesee, NY www.gcv.org About halfway between Buffalo and Rochester rests the largest living history museum in all of New York State: the Genesee Country Village and Museum. This 19th century village gives you a glimpse into the lives of our ancestors: “Explore our 68 buildings: Knowledgeable, costumed interpreters keep the hearth fires burning, the heirloom gardens flourishing and the livestock tended. Watch live demonstrations at the pottery, cooper shop, tinsmith and blacksmith. Smell the

We Teach History Because History Teaches Us

Call (716) 940-8963 (716) 940-8963 [email protected] Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact We Teach History Because History Teaches Us We Teach History Because History Teaches Us Think about the last book you read. What about that book kept you interested long enough to finish? Was it a specific character? Was it a plot point? Did the overall story captivate you or was it the underlying message it delivered that held your interest? Books have power because the stories they tell transcend age, race, ethnicity, social status, and other dividing factors to not only entertain but educate. In a similar respect, history does the same thing. There are characters we root for like George Washington who lead America into an epic battle for freedom. Characters we watch rise to new heights like Thomas Edison who gave us over a dozen inventions. And characters whose true colors are proven by their actions, like Benedict Arnold who became synonymous with the word “traitor”. With all that said, there is a reason we continue to teach history to students of all ages. In fact there are several! Reasons We Teach History History Tells An Amazing Story How can you not marvel at the earliest peoples who built entire civilizations that shaped humanity as we know it? From beginning to end, Earth’s story is one incredible feat after another, from the invention of the wheel to the invention of the cell phone. From past to present, east to west, north to south, history teaches us about the power of perseverance and working together. Books make a strong effort but nothing comes close to the stories history tells! History Teaches Life Lessons History, by definition, is the study of past events. Through research, primary and secondary sources, and the oral and written histories left behind, we learn to see events not just the way they were written but through the eyes of those who lived through it. History enriches our understanding of life by exploring questions related to character and morality, innovation and resourcefulness, spirituality and bureaucracy. It gives us insight we normally wouldn’t be privy to, and teaches us where our very beliefs, customs, and traditions originated. History Invokes Critical Analysis “History is written by the survivors.” The idea that the victor tells the story is not a new idea, but it does call into question whether what we know is true or not. It influences our interpretation of events. For example, the very first Thanksgiving and the coming of Christopher Columbus has two sides. The first, where he discovered a brave new world we now cherish. The second, being the destruction of the indigenous life who had already claimed this “new world.” Knowing what happened before, during, and after asks us to question the accuracy of facts presented and allows us to ask questions and debate how things may have been done differently, and whether the people we honor truly deserve our admiration. History Influences Our Understand of the Past, Present, and Future “History repeats itself.” We read the same stories of survival told over and over, with different characters, different struggles, and different outcomes, but these stories follow a trend that we can use to change the way we think and act today. Cris Johnson’s Amazing School Assemblies and Library Shows believes that fun and education can go hand-in-hand. So make your family time amazing and book Cris for your school’s next assembly for an experience like no other!

Teach Diversity, Not Division

Call (716) 940-8963 (716) 940-8963 [email protected] Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Teach Diversity, Not Division Promote Diversity To Encourage Anti-Bullying Behavior Every parent and teacher understands that children mimic. They want to be like us, talk like us, act like us. They don’t understand sarcasm, and they often don’t understand that when they hear adults–in stores, at parks, on television–say certain things about someone’s physical appearance, gender, or ethnicity, that these statements are matters of opinion and should not be repeated. This exposure to “casual bullying” is something you can’t control. After all, you can’t control the way other adults behave. You can control how your children or students behave though. In “Bullying And Back-To-School” I discussed the importance of building a positive learning environment inside the classroom, a “safe space” so to speak, where students can feel safe, cared for, and respected. I also dove into the bare basics of bullying, covering the three types (verbal, social, physical), and the six ways students became involved in bullying. Bullying–defined as unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance–is based a lot on reputation. A bully has a reputation of being tough, usually someone who is outspoken and has friends to back them up. Someone other students look up to or admire. A victim often has a reputation of being weak, someone who is quiet or introverted, who may not have many friends or prefers books, toys, and games that their classmates perceive as “childish.” In many cases, victims are perceived as “different.” The best way to promote anti-bullying behavior is to celebrate their differences! Create A Classroom Culture That Celebrates Diversity Diversity improves critical thinking, builds empathy, and explores all the things that make us different: race, ethnicity, gender, religious beliefs, ability, status. Promoting diversity at a young age can help to build an accepting society that doesn’t champion inequality, a struggle we continue to face. Supporting diversity means supporting different perspectives, challenging students to develop their own conclusions and break stereotypes. Three Simple Ways To Cultivate Classroom Diversity Elementary school is the perfect time to promote diversity because this is the time when students are discovering who they are and what they want in life. Here are three simple ways any educator can cultivate classroom diversity: Rethink Your Reading Materials Reading in elementary school is crucial for improving both literacy and verbal skills. One of my tips for motivating students to participate in in-class reading is to create a “reading corner” with minimal distractions. In this space you can use shelving or containers to display books that feature characters of all backgrounds such as: “The Name Jar” by Yangsook Choi, about a Korean immigrant who feels she has to change her name to fit in with her new American classmates. “Same, Same But Different” by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw, about two pen pals, one from America, the other from India, who celebrate both their similarities and differences “Marisol McDonald Doesn’t Match” by Monica Brown, Illustrated by Sara Palacios, about a Peruvian-Scottish-American who learns to embrace her “her whole, multi-faceted self.” “Noah Chases The Wind” by Michelle Worthington, Illustrated by Joseph Cowman, about an autistic boy (although the author never explicitly uses this term) to find his own answers about where the wind goes. “We’ll Paint The Octopus Red” by Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen and Pam Devito, about a girl whose new baby brother has Down syndrome. “Susan Laughs” by Jean Willis, about a girl named Susan and all the things she can do. On the last page, you see her wheelchair. “Hanni and Beth: Safe and Sound” by Beth Finke, told in the point of view of a seeing eye dog about her blind guardian, Beth. Make reading time inclusive for all your students by educating and entertaining them at the same time. Be Open About Discrimination As an adult, we know the difference between right and wrong

There’s No “I” In Team

Call (716) 940-8963 (716) 940-8963 [email protected] Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact There’s No “I” In Team Inspire Students To Build Lasting Friendships Every student needs a friend. For those who are shy, finding the courage to speak up and engage a classmate may be next to impossible. As a result, these students, unsure on how to bridge that social divide, may pull away from their peers. When a student sticks to his or her self, it makes them a prime target for bullying because they have no one standing in their corner. We can’t expect teachers to catch every instance of bullying but there are several warning signs every teacher should know that may help them identify bullying in their classroom. Knowing the warning signs makes it easier to intervene and put an end to the abuse. Remember: boys and girls bully each other in different ways. Male bullies are often more physical and may provoke fights. Girls tend to bully on a mental/emotional level, resorting to gossip, ostracizing, and verbal fights. StopBullying.gov, a truly excellent resource for parents, teachers, and students, offers several signs that a child may be a bully: Get into physical or verbal fights Become increasingly aggressive Have unexplained extra money or new belongings Are competitive and stressed about their reputation/popularity They also identify signs a child is being bullied: Unexplained injuries Declining grades/decreasing class participation Self-destructive behaviors (like skipping class or talking about quitting school) Faking illness/frequent headaches or stomach aches Lost or destroyed property such as books, clothing, or electronics Knowing the warning signs is great but wouldn’t it be better if we put a stop to bullying altogether? How can teachers create an atmosphere where bullying isn’t a problem? One solution: team building! Team Building Activities Erie County is home to over 130,000 students between Kindergarten and 12th Grade. With such a broad community in the City of Buffalo and its surrounding suburbs, it makes sense to promote diversity and celebrate culture within the classroom. You can’t promote diversity though if students don’t cooperate and look beyond outward appearances. Unicef Kid Power has compiled a list of “22 Fun Team Building Games & Activities for Kids” which they broke down into indoor vs outdoor activities, and activities by grade levels. Talk to your principal about setting a date for a school-wide team building day or inquire about grade specific field trips to a local community center where your students can get out of the classroom and have fun while learning! Community Centers In Your Neighborhood This is just a very small list of community centers I was able to find online with gymnasiums and facilities that schools can look into using for their Team Building Days! Buffalo, NY Community Centers Harlem Road Community CenterAddress: 4255 Harlem Rd, Amherst, NY 14226Phone: (716) 631-7200 North Buffalo Community CenterAddress: 203 Sanders Rd, Buffalo, NY 14216Phone: (716) 874-6133 Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo (Benderson Family Building)Address: 2640 N Forest Rd, Getzville, NY 14068Phone: (716) 688-4033 Gloria J. Parks Community CenterAddress: 3242 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14214Phone: (716) 832-1010 Rochester, NY Community Centers Humboldt Recreation CenterAddress: 1045 Atlantic Ave, Rochester, NY 14609Phone: (585) 428-7294 Flint Street Recreation CenterAddress:271 Flint St, Rochester, NY 14608Phone: (585) 428-7001 Edgerton Recreation CenterAddress: 41 Backus St, Rochester, NY 14608Phone: (585) 428-6769 Thomas P Ryan Recreation CenterAddress:530 Webster Ave, Rochester, NY 14609Phone:(585) 428-7828 No Bully Zone No parent wants to believe their child is a bully, nor does any teacher want a student to feel unsafe in the classroom. With a little reinforcement from my “No Bully Zone” bullying prevention assembly, we can help spread the message of “see something, say something” and teach students when they see something they know is wrong, to get involved. Learn more about this important school assembly here!

Wickedly Good Reads For All Ages

Call (716) 940-8963 (716) 940-8963 [email protected] Home School Assembly Programs Elementary School Assemblies Curriculum Support Anti-Bullying School Assembly Character Education Assembly Math Assembly Read Across America Assembly Science & STEM Programs In-School Dinosaur Field Trip Wacky Science School Assemblies Crime Scene Science STEM Assembly Virtual Science Assembly Holidays / For Fun Field Day Programs Winter Magic Halloween Magic Show Christmas Magic Show School Fundraiser Show Middle School Assemblies Middle School Anti-Bullying Assembly Middle School Character Education Assembly Middle School Math Assembly Middle School Read Across America Assembly Improve Your Schoolwork Mind Control: Fact Or Fiction? 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Library Programs Kids & Families Summer Reading Program Balloon Twisting Workshop Halloween Magic Show Winter Magic Christmas Magic Show Cris Johnson’s Magic Workshop Adults & Teens Horror In The Library FEAR: Scary Magic for YAs/Teens Psychics & Mediums – Adult Program New York Spirits – Adult Program Poe Spirit Experience Library Show Other Stuff Fair & Festival Entertainment Blue & Gold Banquets Children’s Birthday Parties Dinosaur Show Birthday Party Birthday Party Magic Show Birthday Party Bubble Show Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Magic Show Blog FAQ Testimonials About Performing Schedule Contact Wickedly Good Reads For All Ages I Put A Spell On You Whether it’s Harry Potter saving the wizarding world or Ramona Quimby surviving elementary school, books are magic. They take you away, plunging you into worlds and stories and adventures you would never get to experience otherwise. So whether you’re a Wimpy Kid or a Babysitter, following the Pevensies into Narnia or Jess and Leslie into Terabithia, let the spell-binding magic of reading put a spell on you! Speaking Of Spell-Binding October is National Book Month! 31 days celebrating reading, writing, and literature! You know about my love of reading (I have three assemblies dedicated to the subject!) but what about you? What about your children or students? Reading is critical for strong language and literacy skills but convincing kids to sit quietly and listen to you read aloud, or sit quietly and read alone, is easier said than done. One of my missions as an entertainer and school assembly performer is to inspire my audience and engage them in a way that makes the lessons I teach stick. To backup my assemblies, I’ve also written several articles (like the one you’re reading now) to provide teachers, librarians, and educators with ways to promote reading in class and at home: https://elementaryschoolassemblies.com//assembly-programs/reading-aloud-younger-children/ https://elementaryschoolassemblies.com//assembly-programs/middle-school-readers/ https://elementaryschoolassemblies.com//assembly-programs/inspire-love-reading/ Halloween Books For All Ages A fun way to promote reading is to provide access to holiday-themed stories like these frightful delights: Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade “Halloween Good Night” by Doug Cushman, about creatures around the world saying good night to their parents, from mummies to werewolves to witches. “Clifford’s Halloween” by Norman Bridwell, about everyone’s favorite big red dog as he tries to decide what to be for Halloween. “Ten Flying Brooms” by Ilanit Oliver, about ten broomsticks on their journey to find their witches before the clock strikes midnight. “Jampires” by Sarah McIntyre and David O’Connell about Sam’s adventures with friendly little creatures who love jams and sweet things: jampires! “Littlest Mummy” by Brandi Dougherty and illustrated by Kirsten Richards, about the cutest mummy ever. “The Three Bears’ Halloween” by Kathy Duval, illustrated by Paul Meisel, about Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Baby Bear, and their spooky trick-or-treating experience. “Hot Rod Hamster and the Haunted Halloween Party” by Cynthia Lord, illustrated by Derek Anderson, about Hot Rod Hamster’s quest for the perfect costume. “There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Bat!” by Lucille Colandro, illustrated by Jared Lee, about an old lady who swallowed the ghost to scare the catch the cat, she swallowed the cat to chase the owl, she swallowed the owl to shush the bat, I don’t know why she swallowed a bat; imagine that. 2nd Grade and 3rd Grade “Scarecrow Magic” by Ed Masessa, illustrated by Matthew Myers, about the Scarecrow, his friends, and their night under the moon. “The Little Old Lady Who Not Afraid of Anything” by Linda K. Williams, illustrated by Megan Lloyd, about a cheerful old ladt who runs into some eerie surprises on her walk at dusk. “Mrs. Patty is Batty” by Dan Gutman, illustrated by Jim Paillot, about Mrs. Patty and her haunted her…is she really a witch? Is her husband a ghost? Will A.J. risk his life for candy? “The Magic School Bus Chapter Books: The Search for the Missing Bones” by Eva Moore, illustrated by Ted Enik, about Ms. Frizzle and her students who go to find the missing bones from their new costumes. “Black Lagoon Adventures: The Halloween Party from the Black Lagoon” by Mike Thaler, illustrated by Jared Lee, about Hubie’s monstrously good costume for the Halloween costume contest. 4th Grade and 5th Grade “Halloween Night” by Charles Ghigna, illustrated by Adam McCauley, a book of 21 spooktacular poems. “A to Z Mysteries Super Edition: Sleepy Hollow Sleepover” by Ron Roy, illustrated by John Steven Gurney about Dink, Josh, and Ruth