Table of Contents

Introduction  (click to read)

1.    Keeping It Real: How Kids Really Learn
Keeping It Real with Baby
Early Learning Should Be Active and Authentic
Active Learning Builds Language and Comprehension
Active Learning Builds Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills
Early Learning Should Be Social and Stress-Free

2.    Ready or Not, Here Come Organized Sports
Why Readiness Matters
Building Confidence
Developmental Traits of the Typical Preschooler
When Will My Child Be Ready for Competitive Sports?
 

3.    Helping Your Child Master Movement
It's Okay to Be a Beginner
Fundamentals First
Gymnastic Skills
Manipulative Skills
Playful Practice
Providing Feedback

4.   The Real Standards for "Smart"
How Your Child Is Smart
"Cookie Cutter" Curriculums
What's Wrong with Standardized Curriculums?
The Truth about Testing
Problems with Testing

      The Myth of "One Right Answer"

5.    Is Your Child Playing Enough at School?
The Academics-Versus-Play Debate
Evaluating Your Child's Preschool
Questions to Ask
Evaluating Your Child's Elementary School
Do Computers Belong in the Classroom?

      The Vision Impact

6.   Finding the Right Organized Activity Program
What Should I Look for in a Program?
Does Your Child Want to Participate?
Which Activities -- and How Many?
Should You Enroll Your Child in a Health Club?
What to Look for in a Sports Program

7.    You've Gotta Have Heart: Why Compassion Matters More than Competition
The Entitlement Generation
Coddled Kids
What Is Success?
Is It Really a Dog-Eat-Dog World?
 

8.    Finding Creatures in the Clouds: The Value of Downtime
Time to Just Be
Take It Outside
Time to Do Nothing and Relax
 

9.    Getting Back on Track: Family First
Family First
Parent Power
Relax!
 

Resources

Acknowledgements

Index