Introduction to Riviera PlaySchool

We are thrilled to announce that we will soon offer, Riviera PlaySchool “Light:” The Toddler Program.  The program is designed as a segue into the regular program at Riviera PlaySchool. Families and students will get a wonderful introduction to our teachers, philosophies that define our preschool. The details: Hours – Monday, Wednesday and Friday from [...]

Creating a Place of Belonging and Empowerment for Children

Wherever you go, it is the teachers who make the school what it is. And the teachers at PlaysSchool are all grounded in the same philosophy — that of non violent communication. Therefore, when any conflict occurs, it is a true learning moment, and teachers are on hand to hold space for the children to resolve their own conflicts. We are never in a rush to resolve the conflict. Sometimes children can take 20 minutes to sort a conflict out, if we let them. And we do. We pay particular attention to where we are during the conflict. We stay on the sidelines. We don’t jump into the fray energetically. If we notice our speech becoming more rapid, or our voice becoming louder, then that’s a signal to us to take a step back and let them have their own emotions about the conflict at hand. It’s pretty tricky, and it keeps us more awake as people.

PARENTING CLASSES: EMPATHY-LEAD PARADIGM FOR RAISING CHILDREN

PARENTING CLASSES April 14th – May 19th, 2011 ECHO PARENTING EMPATHY-LEAD PARADIGM FOR RAISING CHILDREN Contact Azucena Ortiz at 213.484.6676 ext 311 or aortiz@echoparenting.org for directions and information. *Some partial scholarships and payment plans are available. Have you ever been surprised at the level of frustration you’ve felt toward your child? Raising children is so [...]

Creating a Place of Belonging and Empowerment for Children

Wherever you go, it is the teachers who make the school what it is. And the teachers at PlaysSchool are all grounded in the same philosophy — that of non violent communication. Therefore, when any conflict occurs, it is a true learning moment, and teachers are on hand to hold space for the children to resolve their own conflicts. We are never in a rush to resolve the conflict. Sometimes children can take 20 minutes to sort a conflict out, if we let them. And we do. We pay particular attention to where we are during the conflict. We stay on the sidelines. We don’t jump into the fray energetically. If we notice our speech becoming more rapid, or our voice becoming louder, then that’s a signal to us to take a step back and let them have their own emotions about the conflict at hand. It’s pretty tricky, and it keeps us more awake as people.

:: Needs and Desires, Part 2 ::

There is no *practical* difference between a need

and a desire.

Needs and Desires, part 1

Parents commonly say things like, “You need to put your toys away and get ready for bed.” A shift in focus from needs to desires is the key that will unlock your creativity…

Everything Becomes Play

Most children, and some talented adults, can take practical life (getting dressed, for example) and turn it into a magical adventure. Everything is play, and everything becomes play. So why do we try to pounce it out of them? “Straighten up! Hurry Up! Come on, we’ll be late!” …

Are You Listening?

Do you really listen to the people in your life? While reading this I reflected upon how I listen to my husband, my child, and my friends…I wanted to share it with you. If “Not being heard” is the basis for all human conflict, then I am going to cultivate more peace in my relationships today by doing some more listening. Love, Linda

The “No Child Left Behind” Paradox

Today’s kids are not failing the academic standards – the academic standards are failing our kids! “No Child Left Behind” has inadvertently placed undue emphasis on elements that have nothing to do with academic success. The entire system has instead created a generation of button-pushers who lack critical thinking skills as well as the emotional and social intelligence to get their needs met independently. We have to take another critical look at this system before we churn out yet another generation of unmotivated, unskilled, and incapable graduates.

Television and Media, and FREE WEBINAR!!

Free Webinar August 24, 8:00 to 9:00 pm! Media and technology are evolving at a rapid pace, affecting young children in both positive and negative ways. Join us to learn about the impact of media on young children and most importantly, hear expert guidance about how to raise and educate children in today’s 24/7 media world.

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