Ask Emma

We wanted to thank those of you who have been reading and/or participating in the Ask Emma blog at Mommy Perks. We will no longer be running this blog. However, we have a new blog coming that we believe will benefit our members and moms far more. What else, right? A GREEN Blog!

Check back - our new blog will post in the coming weeks and will feature various guest bloggers who have expertise in all things “green.”

We are looking forward to our new adventure and hope you will join in!

The Mommy Perks Main Office

Dear Emma: How does music affect a child’s language and speech development? Thanks, Tricia in Oklahoma

Dear Tricia:Music can have a lot of influence on a child’s language and speech development, actually. Just be sure to choose Cd’s and songs that sing the words clearly and articulately - what your child HEARS will greatly effect what they in turn SPEAK.

Emma

For today, I wanted to encourage our readers to consider supporting a family that lost their little daughter a few years ago. Her name was Emma. The family is hosting a walk this weekend in her name and I wanted to ask that our readers consider supporting this event. Please visit the following link to learn more:

http://www.emmasrun.org/

Emma Addison Simpkins

7 February - 25 March, 2006

Dear Emma: My son is doing his AIMS testing this week at school. I want him to do well. Any tips? Thanks, Jessica in Arizona

Dear Jessica:Well, there is a great deal of stock put into these tests, I know. Although I do think it’s very important that we assess kids to make sure they are learning (and to catch any possible delays on time), I don’t think we should put too much pressure on them. Tests can be helpful but they shouldn’t define who a child is. Just make sure your son gets to bed on time, eats a healthy breakfast and knows that no matter how he does on the test, you are proud of him. If kids know that it’s “just a test” they will typically demonstrate natural results.

If your child takes the test and shows any delays in learning, be thankful that our school system is set up to catch those things and take care of them!

Your tax dollars at work, right?

However…if the school does not do what they need to do, there are places you can turn for that as well. The beauty of the country we live in is that we have options. We are never “stuck.”

Thanks! Emma