Two powerful words: YES and NO.

I'm a big fan of Media Wise and Dr David Walsh. I posted on them recently, twice.

They are making a big push for their Say Yes to No book and parenting program. Excellent stuff. Right on the money. "Yes" is a powerful word. Parents need to affirm their kids. God's "Yes" to us in the forgiveness we have through Jesus is a great example for parents affirming their kids. But just as important is the word "NO". And many parents have a very hard time with that one.

From Media Wise - "Research proves it: self-discipline is twice as strong a predictor of school success as intelligence. We need to help parents foster this vital trait."

Self-discipline - translate that: "saying 'no' to yourself". It is learned by experiencing what "no" means. A real "no". Not 'turn up the volume' or 'ask the other parent' or throw a tantrum'... "NO" ... the end.

Interesting connection to another couple links about the Marshmallow Story. First video is David Walsh explaining it. Second video is the actual experiment.

Check out Saying Yes to No.

Digital Natives

I've posted on this before but re-read some of Marc Prensky's work and think it is worth parents and educators checking (or re-checking) out. I'd suggest reading both parts of his Digital Native/Digital Immigrants piece as a good place to start.

Is there really such a big difference in the kids of today? Prensky, Jukes and others say a resounding "YES"! The brain wires itself based on what it experiences. The current generation knows only the digital age. Prensky gives some interesting a persuasive arguments for a fundamental difference in the digital natives brains. And he argues that education has to change to keep up with the differences. I like how he doesn't argue that we give up critical thinking or teaching logic but I think he makes a powerful case for a fundamental change in how we do things - especially for those of us who are digital immigrants and "speak with an accent".

His article about "backup education" is challenging. And Ian Jukes gives some specific, helpful advice on closing the digital divide.

Parents need to be thinking about this and in dialogue with their children and their children's school faculty.