Not on the Test Satirizes Current American Curriculum Trends

Tom Chapin, a Grammy Award-winning musician perhaps best known for children’s music, has released a new song titled Not on the Test. The song satirizes the American education system’s renewed focus on rote teaching, in which tests have become the sole reason to teach and learn. Music, art, drama and sports were what kept Chapin engaged in school. In addition, these subjects make the teacher’s (and the student’s) job easier and infinitely more rewarding. Unfortunately, they are also what have been cut from curriculums across the country as Chapin explains lightheartedly in song. Listen to the song at http://www.notonthetest.com

Creative visualization for children

I was looking for suggestions to help my granddaughter learn to calm herself, overcome fears and relax to fall asleep. 

 When searching the Internet, I came across several books by Maureen Garth.  She has written several books – originally to help her own daughter Eleanor with similar issues.  She was three when Maureen started the series, which ‘grew along with Eleanor. 

The earliest books: ‘Starbright’, ‘Moonbeam’, ‘Sunshine’ are written with young children in mind.  Since my granddaughter is a bit older, I chose her last book in this series:  ‘Earthlight’.

 I ordered it from Amazon.com and can’t wait to share the book with my daughter and grandchildren!

Maureen has also written other books specifically directed to teenagers and adults.

Hello world!

This is the first official post of the STAR NET Region IV blog.  I guess you could say that we are now “bloggers!”  We hope that you will enjoy our blog as a helpful addition to the STAR NET Region IV website.  This is the place where you are going to find interesting little early childhood tidbits and helpful information for those of us lucky enough to be in the Southern Illinois early childhood community.  We appreciate your comments and encourage you to leave comments, just remember to be respectful of others.  And don’t forget to check the comments, someone in our community may have some helpful information to share as well.