Top Brain foods to give your children a major boost

Top Brain foods to give your children a major boost

The new school year is approaching and the smell of new sneakers and school supplies are filling the air.  This year give your children the fuel to power through the day feeling energized, motivated and eager to learn!

Helpful Brain Foods:

1.    Start off the day right with a healthy breakfast.  Studies have shown that children who eat a health breakfast do better academically with fewer behavioral issues.  Try oatmeal, scrambled eggs and toast.

2.    Keep the energy up with a balanced lunch.  Your children are relying on lunch to get them through the remaining day, so settling for many of the school lunches which are high in fat and sugar will result in an afternoon crash.  Try making a turkey wrap, peanut butter and banana sandwhich or salmon salad just like a tuna salad.

3.    End the day with a flavorful dinner that has half the plate covered in fresh colorful vegetables, and the other half split between lean protein and whole grains.

4.    Everyone loves a snack so try apple slices dipped in honey or peanut butter, yogurt or trail mix.

What meal gets you through the day?  Tell us in the comments below.

Does Music Enhance Math Skills?

Having children participate in sports, band and extra curricular activities is a positive way of getting them involved in the community and developing necessary social skills.  

The influence of music may actually do more than just having your child meet new friends, or build upon a passion and learn new songs.  In fact, research has proven that teaching music increases math and literacy skills in children of all ages.

Uncovering the research behind the statement showed two groups of children where one group studied music while the other did not.  In the group that studied music, the children showed a greater improvement in literacy, math and IQ.  To read the full report visit http://www.ehow.com/about_7231124_music-affect-reading-math-scores_.html

The dreaded four letter word M-A-T-H is often feared among children and even adults.  We are quick to say, “I am not good at math.”  The idea that you are poor at math transfers over to a more difficult time learning it.  Instilling a positive image for your children throughout their life, including math, will reduce frustrations and help provide a stimulating learning environment that welcomes math instead of cringing at the thought.

Improve math skills while learning a new instrument and enjoying the sound of music.  What instrument does your child want to learn? Tell us in the comments below.