My kids tell me all the time when I embarrass them. I’ve got news for them – while I love them with everything I’ve got, they’ve also found ways to embarrass me, too! With reflection, it’s not my fault, and I don’t blame my kids either. The times we live in now are much different than when the parents of today were kids themselves. Digital technology has taken over nearly every facet of our lives, for us and our kids. Lost in the shuffle is the development of social skills and manners. Yet, these capabilities are still just as important as ever (ask any college recruiter, employer or someone new to your neighborhood)! Maybe that’s what drove me to write The SMART Playbook. It took years of researching and drafting, but I did it. I’m not an expert, I’m just a Mom – that is a Mom with … [Read more...]
The SMART Back to Basics Summer Project. Bring it ON!
I’ve spoken to hundreds of moms and everyone seems to have the same complaint. How do we get our kids off electronics and back to basics? How do we teach them to connect with people on a deeper level? How do we teach them to search for a solution using their minds and not just with a push of a button? Sometimes I just want to shout, “Stop looking down and take the time to look up, connect and enjoy the moment.” I am determined to teach them the amazing benefits of life unplugged! And voila, that inspired me to set up my summer of getting back to basics plan begins! It’s time to look up, connect and experience real feelings, real emotions, real people, real nature – everything REAL and NOTHING electronic. I’m calling it 'My SMART Back to Basics Summer Project'. The goal is to … [Read more...]
10 Back to School Social Skills Lessons
Is your child ready to make a great first impression at school this year? Don’t let technology take over your child’s social skills and manners. These vital life skills are the foundation of kindness and respect and making others feel comfortable. We all want our child to be THAT child – noticed for all the right reasons! Here are ten important lessons to prep your kids to get an "A" in social skills this year! Inspire social skills learning through play and doing. Don’t just tell your kids how to behave, challenge them and encourage them to practice! These simple lessons will lead you and your child in a collaborative effort to bring back a little civility to a new generation. Lesson #1: Make a Great First Impression – Handle yourself with good manners and you will leave a … [Read more...]
Tried-and-True Thank You Notes
A little note can make such a difference! There are many reasons why thank you notes are so great. The note doesn’t have to be complicated. I know, I know….We are busy. We don’t always have cards on hand. There’s always an excuse. The truth is it only takes about five minutes to write a note. (I actually timed writing one the other day!) Plus, today we can also find modern ways to express gratitude. The most important part of the thank you is to let a person know how much his or her generosity or kindness is appreciated. Let’s make an effort and teach our children why thank you notes are important. Why write a thank you note? Do you still hang on to thoughtful thank you notes? In our hectic lives, when someone takes the time to send you a little gratitude it means so much! And … [Read more...]
The 8-Day Table Manners Boot Camp!
Have you ever seen pigs eat at the farm? The farmer pours the food down and the pigs all swarm the food in a feeding frenzy. They will grab, push, snort and gulp down as much food as possible. Do you ever feel that your kids resemble the pigs? How do we tame our kids table manners before the holidays? To prep your kid and remind them to mind their table manners, we have put together an 8-day boot camp! Eight essential skills to work on each day and then a final day to put it all together. Ready to get started? Day 1. WAIT UNTIL EVERYONE IS SEATED TO START This is sometimes really hard for kids, especially when they are … [Read more...]
DIY Table Manners Napkins
How are your kids table manners? I am a mama who’s a sticker for table manners. I am always coming up with new ways to remind my children to mind their table manners! One of my favorite new tools that I use is the table manners napkin. This is a simple fun project that you could do with your kids and a great reminder of the basic rules.With only a few tools and steps, you too can help shape up your children’s manners! The Table Manners Reminders Put the napkin in your lap. Say please and thank you. Try it you might actually like it. Elbows off the table, please. Chew with your mouth closed. Don’t reach across the table. No texting at the table. Is that table talk? Take your dishes to the sink. Table Manners Napkin Instructions The … [Read more...]
