2014 Summer Camps!!

The importance of summer tutoring!

The importance of summer tutoring!

1. It helps children retain information they already learned the previous year and it also helps prepare them for the new information they will be learning the following year.
2. Students are able to focus on their academic weakness, build content knowledge and confidence. 
3. Helps students continue the habit of learning and gives a set routine.
4. Your child can be prepared and get ahead for the next academic year. 

• Beginner Blocks tutoring is tailored to meet the academic and developmental needs of each student.

• Beginner Blocks takes a behavioral approach and looks at students development and education together! This unique teaching style allows students to have fun, progress and build confidence.

Orange County Head Start

It was a great experience to be a part of Orange County Head Starts 6th Annual Family Festival! 

Working as a team on the committee, I was able to see and understand all of the hard work that goes into such a big event. With over 4,000 children & families, I want to thank all of the donations Beginner Blocks received. The sponsors truly made a difference and Beginner Blocks could not have done it with out your support!

Thanks again for helping support Children & Families!

'Presented to Beginner Blocks

In Honor of Your Support of Children & Families

Orange County Head Start, Inc.

6th Annual Family Festival'

22 Best Mobile Apps for kids with Special Needs

Best Assistive Communication Apps (for nonspeaking kids):

• ProloQuo2Go ($198) - Full-featured augmentative and alternative communication solution for people who have difficulty speaking. Provides natural sounding text-to-speech voices. This is a popular one with speech therapists.
• TalkTablet ($89) For people unable to communicate clearly as a result of Autism, Aphasia, Down Syndrome, Stroke or Laryngectomy. With six US English ACAPELA voices (with children's voices)

Best Visual Schedules Apps

• ChoiceWorks ($14.99) Helps children complete daily routines, understand and control their feelings and cultivate a higher threshold for patience (e.g., taking turns and not interrupting). Helps foster a child's independence while also promoting positive behavior and emotional regulation.
• Routinely ($4.99) - Build visual schedules on iPhone or iPod Touch. Helps children with developmental delays anticipate and better prepare for transitions.

Best Social Cues Apps

• Social Skill Builder (Free) Interactive videos teach key social thinking, language and behavior that are critical to everyday living. Specifically helps teach problem solving and friendship/life skills, critical thinking, emotions, and consequences.
• Hidden Curriculum for Kids ($1.99) - Apps for Children with Special Needs (a4cwsn.com) describes it as, "Real life-based entries spur conversations about the countless 'unwritten social rules' that we encounter every day and that can cause confusion and anxiety." Great for kids on the autism spectrum.

Best Language Apps

• Speech with Milo : Verbs ($2.99) Created by a licensed speech-language pathologist. Milo is an animated mouse that performs over 100 actions such as 'bounce,' 'count,' and 'play'. Great for infants, toddlers and children with language delays.
• Splingo's Language Universe ($2.99) - Children practice their listening and language skills by interacting with the images and animation on the screen to follow Splingo the alien's spoken instructions.

Best Literacy Apps

• Write My Name ($3.99) - Helps children with fine motor delays and sensory processing issues practice emerging writing skills by writing their name and tracing upper- and lowercase letters. Includes over 100 familiar sight words.
• Bob Books Reading Magic ($1.99) - Teachers your child how to make the connection between letters and sounds; sound out simple words; and spell the words they've read.

Best Early Learning Apps

• Injini: Child Development Game Suite ($29.99) - Play-based learning exercises and games that are well suited for children with cognitive, language and fine motor delays. Originally designed for and tested by children with autism, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome as well as typically developing preschoolers.
• Bugs and Buttons ($2.99) Teaches counting, path finding, patterns, sorting and tracking as well as fine motor skills such as pinching.

Best Math Apps

• Math Evolve (des Rochas Rosa says this one is the most fun) - ($1.99) - Children can practice math facts, number sense and mental math skills. Rosa votes this one as "most fun."
• TeachMe ($0.99, includes spelling as well) - Teaches age-appropriate math skills. Rosa votes this one as "most functional"

Best Telling Time App

• Telling Time ($1.99) Features include a free-play talking clock, a digital clock alongside the analog one, three levels of difficulty for each activity, and the chance to win prizes.

Best Fine Motor App

• Dexteria ($4.99) Therapeutic hand exercises (not games) to improve fine motor skills. Activities take full advantage of the multi-touch interface to help build strength, control, and dexterity.

Best Memory Apps

• Fruit Memory Match Game ($0.99) An interactive cousin to the classic Memory card game, using fruit.
• Crazy Copy ($1.99) Similar to the popular handheld game Simon Says of the 1980s, this memory game is "easy to learn, hard to master."

Best Apps for Self-directed Play

• Toca Hair Salon - ($1.99) - Kids can be masters of their own domain - hair styling, that is. Toca Hair Salon features six different characters with lifelike hair that kids can cut, color, comb and style. The characters make fun faces and sounds while being groomed.
• My Underwear ($0.99) Based on a popular board book by Todd Parr, kids can be as silly as they want all while playing with underwear. Hundreds of options abound including finger-painting their own underwear designs and feeding underwear-hungry monsters as briefs and BVDs fall from the sky.

Best Art Apps

• Faces iMake ($0.99) Kids have a hoot creating faces from unexpected combinations of objects like light bulbs, spools of thread and strawberries.
• Zen Brush ($2.99) Simulates the feeling of an ink brush, enabling the user to make fluid strokes. Choose from 50 style templates, three shades of ink, eraser tool, brush size adjustment slider, and undo function (1 time).

Summer Learning!

I can't express how important the summer months are to stay on top of learning! Yes, your child can relax and enjoy the time off from school, but you don't want them to fall out of the habit of learning!!!

Simple ways to continue learning throughout the summer months!

1. Academic Summer Camp! 
There are so many great summer camps out there! Have a balance between fun and educational camps! 
Beginner Blocks offers Bridge the Gap Summer Camp from K to 1st! And Beginner Blocks Custom Camp! (Where you get to pick the subjects, times and dates!) These camps are great for reinforcing what students have learned and preparing them for their next grade level!
The Newport Navigator is also filled with many great camps, both fun and educational! 

2. Summer Tutoring
It is good for every child to receive one-on-one time! Private tutoring allows just for that. With Beginner Blocks Tutoring your child will receive personal, intensive one-on-one tutoring were they can focus on their strengths and weaknesses. Beginner Blocks Tutoring allows for students to enhance their educational foundation, resulting in better school performance and confidence. 
There is truly nothing better than a student who starts school confident and eager to learn!

3. Daily Lessons, Communication and Games!
Always incorporate learning into everyday activities; such as grocery shopping, setting the table, doing chores, sorting laundry. Constantly communicate with your child, asking questions, challenging them and introducing new vocabulary. Have educational games available that enhance learning. For example; chess, cards, clue, sight word board games, math mysteries, brain testers, etc. There are many games that can teach a variety of strategies to your little ones! (Lakeshore learning has great games!)

4. Technology 
There are many online/Ipad/App enrichment programs and games. While you are waiting at a doctors office or in the car, educational apps can serve as a great learning tool for your child! Often these games can track your child's progress and encourage them to beat their last level. 

5. Outside Creative Play and Play Dates
Make sure your little ones are using their imagination and social skills! Whether they are playing outside socially or making up a play or show, it is important for students to get creative and social over the summer. This will help them to continue to develop socially and learn about working together with others. 

Can't wait for summer :)! 

Reading Development

Beginner Blocks tutoring specializes in helping young children learn to read. 

Watch as your child builds confident and becomes an eager reader!

Beginner Blocks tutoring uses assessments to look at:

-Letters and sounds through Houghton Mifflin Alphafriends

-Upper and lower case recognition

-Letter formation

-CVC words

-Sight words

Once students have mastered these skills, they can progress to reading! Beginner Blocks sets the scene for developmental and academic success by using positive reinforcement, innovative techniques and behavioral approaches to teaching. 

Reading is the foundation for academic success! 

Be amazed as your pre-k and kindergarten students read YOU books! 

Videos from last years summer camp!

Last years summer camp! My gift to the world...

"My gift to the world is love, hugs, and kisses"- kinder

"My gift to the world is high-fives"- Kinder

Enroll now with the City of Newport Beach :)! 

Beginner Blocks Summer Camps!

Behind the Scenes

Behind the Scenes

Private School Admissions for Kindergarten! 

Ø  It is important to understand that if your child does not get into the school of your choice, it may have nothing to do with your child or family. Schools often have too many applications for a limited number of spaces.

Ø  If the school you want is in demand, apply early.

Ø  If there is a wait list put your child on the list, so you may have the option.

Here is what most schools require:

1.     Application (which may include essay questions for parents)

2.     Parent tours

3.     Parent interviews

4.     Test scores

5.     Pre-School teacher reports

6.     Letters of recommendation (not all schools require these)

7.     *other may be considered; families religion, siblings, & legacies

Finding the Right Fit

There is no “# 1” school. The best school is the one that is a good fit for your family!

Many parents apply to 5 schools or more!

Consider what you want from a school: coed, single-sex, religious component, school known for its music department, sports, etc, a school that goes all the way throw high school…

How do you determine if it’s a good fit for your child?

·      What kind of environment would my child thrive? Traditional & structured, progressive & creative, small or large?

·      Has your child shown any interest in the arts, dance, music, athletics? Does one school have a great program for his area of interest?

·      As a parent what school do you feel most comfortable in? Are you comfortable in an upscale, elitist environment? Down to earth? Multicultural? Social? You are most likely going to be volunteering, doing fund raisers, making friends, your child will be friends with this culture? Make sure you feel yourself and comfortable.

·      When you visit a school how “at home” do you feel? Listen to your gut.

The Application

·      If there are essay questions keep your answer short, half a page per question. Make sure you answer the question they ask. Your goal is to leave an emotional impression with the director, to convey the qualities that make your child special, and demonstrate how those attributes translate into a good match for the school. You want the director to feel that your family would be an asset to the school.

·      Hit the schools hot buttons. If it is known for something such as their music program, talk about your child’s interest in music. Mention that your child has played the piano since 3.

·      Back up your points with short personal stories that will bring your child to life on the page.

School Tours

·      Tours are a must! Ask yourself “Can I imagine my child learning and being happy in this environment?”

·      Be on your best behavior, even if a parent is giving a tour, she will report back to admissions director.

·      Turn off cell phones, don’t take notes

What to look for when you tour a school

·      How welcoming is the school

·      Do you like the atmosphere?

·      Are the buildings well maintained and clean? Bathroom? Is the school orderly and neat?

·      Does it have all of the facilities that are important to you? Gym, pool, playground, theatre, computer lab, art room, etc..

·      How big are the classes?

·      How do the students behave as they are moving through the hallways or playing outside

·      Are teachers warm and enthusiastic?

·      What does the work display like? Do they allow for creativity or does everyone have to do the same artwork same color?

·      Is there a cafeteria? How is the food?

·      Do they have good security?

Questions to ask while touring

·      What is the mission or educational philosophy of this school?

·      How do you evaluate children for admissions? How do I arrange for my child to take the test? Are there follow up interviews?

·      What are the administration’s highest priorities?

·      How long has the principal been at this school? How does she interact with the students?

·      How do you address different ability levels in reading and math? Are kids group by ability? If so, how often are they reassessed and moved to different ability levels?

·      What is a daily schedule like?

·      Do you offer PE., visual arts, language, music, computers? How often

·      How much homework is given, when does it begin? How much time are students suppose to spend on homework?

·      Do families here tend to have tutors?

·      How many children per class? Are there assistant teachers

·      How often do you have parent-teacher conferences?

·      Where do your graduates go to college?

·      Do children do community service?

·      Are there programs for learning disabilities or gifted children?

·      Is there an after school enrichment program?

·      Is there child care before and after school?

·      Is transportation available?

·      How involved are the parents in the school? What types of volunteer opportunities do you offer?

·      Are there any events coming up that we could attend that would help us get a feeling for the school and the community? (play, social, holiday event)  If yes, you should go to get a feel for the school.

Parents Interview

Just be yourself

ü  Both parents should attend, if possible.

ü  Be on time, turn off yourself phone.

ü  Try to meet with the director

ü  Don’t call director by her first name unless she introduces herself that way.

ü  Your job is to make the director like you. You want your interview to feel more like engaging conversation versus formal exchange.

ü  Be prepared. She will probably ask you “why are school?” “Tell me about your child?” Review the schools website

ü  Have a few questions ready…

o   Do you want parents to send you a first-choice letter? How important are these to you?

Child’s Interview /Test

·      The parent your child most easily separates from should take him.

·      Bring a book to read while you are waiting

·      Test will cover the “kindergarten expectations” that we have worked on

·      Assessor  will note how he performs in various areas:

o   Level of attention?

o   How clear is his speech?

o   Cooperation level

o   Fine motor skills

·      Dress your child the way children are dressed at that school. Uniform school, something more formal.

·      Don’t make a big deal out of the visit with your child. Keep it fun “Before school tomorrow we are going to visit one of the big boy schools I told you about. When we’re there you will meet some teachers who will want to play with you and get to know you. It will be fun and I will be waiting for you when you are done.”

·      If your child is shy or afraid to go reward him with ice cream if he goes and does his best

·      If your interview was bad and your child was crying and upset, tell your pre-school teacher she may be able to call and explain your child’s behavior as well as arrange for another visit in his current classroom.

Pre-School Report

·      Some schools require reports from pre-k teachers. The questionnaire may cover: Intrapersonal and interpersonal skills, gross and fine motor skills, cognitive and visual- spatial skills, language, knowledge, and mathematics.

Letters of Recommendation

·      Letters of recommendation should be provided only if the school asks for them. Provide only as many as the school asks for.

First Choice letters

·      About two weeks before decisions are due, you can send a letter to your favorite school. “You are our first choice, if you accept our child, we will take the spot.” Some schools consider these some do not. Don’t send a first choice letter to more than 1 school. Directors talk and will find out.

·      If you have a definite first-choice school, you can ask the head pre-school teacher to call the director and assess your child’s chances of getting in. If she finds out they are not even considering you, she will tell you not to bother to write the letter. If they show interest, send the letter.

Acceptance, Rejections, Wait Lists

·      If your child gets your first choice school CONGRATULATIONS! Call the other schools and let them know you won’t be attending there school.

·      If your child is wait listed at your first choice and gets accepted at another school. Choose your second option.

·      If your child gets wait listed everywhere: Call each school and let them know you will take a sport there if accepted. Check back with them periodically.

·      If your child doesn’t get in anywhere: Choose a good public school and reapply for private first grade the following year. When it gets closer to school and things have settled call and see if space has opened up.

Schedule a tutoring session today!!!!