The first 9 weeks of school have come and gone.  This means it's time for Parent-Teacher conferences for parents with school-age children. This is a great time for parents to connect with their child's teacher, ask questions, and learn how they are progressing. I know I spend the first month of school wondering how my son (2nd grade) and daughter (1st grade) are doing in class. You see the papers come home and you hear your kids complain about tasks or teachers but it is hard to gauge what all that means. Go in prepared. Read articles below and Parent-Teacher Conference Tips.

Remember, you are a voice for your child so use this time to listen and check-in. Talk to your child and find out what they may be concerned about.

Jennifer@sbfamilies.com

Submitted by LearningRX Shreveport Bossier

Many parents are surprised to learn that their child's IQ score can actually be increased. After all, we were raised to believe that IQ was stagnant - that is, you are born with the IQ you'll have throughout life. But in the 1990s, brain researchers discovered that the brain is actually capable of changing and regrowing the connections between brain cells. It's these connections, or synapses, not the cells themselves, that actually increase the brain's powers by increasing the number of viable paths for information.

More paths also means faster routes for information to travel. This is good news for everyone - but especially for children with learning disabilities like ADD, Asperger's, and dyslexia - because scientists have used special brain imaging technology to prove that better learners use more direct routes from point A to B when processing information. But how does a child learn to use the shorter, faster route? With "brain training."

Learn more about "brain training" and how it differs from tutoring.  read more>>>

Parent-Teacher Conferences Parent Tips

• Preparing for Parent-Teacher Conferences
• Parent -Teacher Conferences Tips
  
• Study Tips for Your Child

Academic Support Tips:  Check out these great additional resources:

• Evaluating Your Child's Progress:  Here are some ways you can assess your child's progress in school and give them skills to succeed for the rest of the school year.
  
  
• Making Smart Kids Smarter:  Brain training isn't just for kids with major learning disabilities. Learn more about new studies that show how cognitive skills training can help all students in all subjects.

View all 44 events on the Calendar>>>

Use the PARENT PLANNER to click on events and resources you are interested in and click PRINT MY PLANNER to print OR email your list.

SCHOOL CALENDARS   -  AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN @ Sci-Ports Tricks or Treats Night

Friday, October 30, 6-9pm.
Members: $6, Non-Members: $8
1 parent per child is free. Children under 3 are free.

• LIVE Creatures of the Night
• Launch treasure at enemy skeleton pirates
• Witness mystical fires and icy cryogenic wonders
• Spider fishing, potion making and pumpkin tossing
• Sci-Port's Costume Contest
• Spooky Cruise on the Red River (additional charge)
  
  Details>>>

Click here for Magnet Application Information

Reminder of important details and dates below for Caddo Parish Magnet Programs.

ELEMENTARY APPLICATION DATES - OCTOBER 12, 2009 - JANUARY 14, 2010

• Applications available at all elementary magnet schools and on-line.
• Applications may be brought to any elementary magnet schools

MIDDLE APPLICATION DATES - OCTOBER 12, 2009 - JANUARY 14, 2010

• Applications available at Caddo Middle Magnet, Herndon Middle Magnet, and on-line
• Applications may be brought to Caddo Middle Magnet or Herndon Middle Magnet between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
  
  ***PARENT TIP: The earlier you turn in your completed application, the more test times are available to choose from. Don't forget your proof of address -- phone bill, water bill, etc.