Transitioning from one level of school to the next can provoke mixed feelings in children. They’re excited about graduating to the next stage, yet the accomplishment brings with it uncertainty and fear of the unknown. Mix in a little parental pride and anxiety, and...

At one time or another, you might have wondered if your child is gifted. Maybe your son can identify all the birds in your neighborhood. Or maybe your daughter is already reading at age 4. How can you know for sure if your child is an exceptional learner?   The...

Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” From polka to punk and mariachi to metal, you’ll find it here and in our surrounding communities.  But even with all that musical talent around, many kids wouldn’t experience music education if it weren’t for...

A child’s learning disability may not be obvious, especially in the early years when schoolwork is less demanding. The effects of a disability can be subtle, and may only show up during certain activities or scenarios. Being adaptable creatures, children often develop...

As every parent knows, very young children live in the present. They often mix together concepts of past and future, and may ask over and over when something is going to happen, no matter how many times you’ve explained. When does this start to change, and what is...

Last year, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) changed some important aspects of the information it shares with parents and kids about the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness or STAAR. The STAAR, of course, refers to the standardized tests Texas students...

As November kicks off, your child’s school year is really taking shape. A routine is forming, and teacher expectations are hopefully becoming clear. Yet, there is still plenty of time to make adjustments. With that in mind, here are some things you can do—and things...

Are you looking for a private school for your preschooler? Are you curious about what private schools may offer your older child that your local public school may not? Researching options online, calling campuses and talking to your friends are all pretty standard....

Most Central Texas schools are now in session, and students are just settling in for the new school year. If your child’s elementary school experience is anything like my child’s was, one of the first and most consistent things your child will be asked to do for...

Kids in high school have a lot to think about. There are challenging classes, competitive extra-curricular activities and complex social situations. If that weren’t enough, there are expectations that 9th-12th graders start thinking about and planning for what they...

As a parent, you’ve probably heard a lot of terms and concepts you’re told will help you understand how to support your child’s development: qualities like resilience and stick-to-itiveness and skills associated with mindfulness, self-management and executive control....

There was a time when financial literacy for children was pretty simple. Counting and saving pennies in a piggy bank, which could be raided for an occasional treat, went a long way toward teaching kids what they needed to know about managing money. Today, finances are...