News

”How To Get Kids Hooked On Books Poetry is a Surefire Way’”

NPR | topic(s): children’s books
”availability of locally relevant Kiswahili readers and English novels, written especially with the Tanzania youth in mind, will encourage Tanzanian students to improve their literacy and language skills. This, in turn, will contribute to their success on their secondary school examinations, their future studies and their full participation in the society.”

”Nurture the Love of Reading”

Daily News | topic(s): children’s books
”availability of locally relevant Kiswahili readers and English novels, written especially with the Tanzania youth in mind, will encourage Tanzanian students to improve their literacy and language skills. This, in turn, will contribute to their success on their secondary school examinations, their future studies and their full participation in the society.”

”Reading Books Helps Develop Empathy in Children, Research Reveals”

Daily Mail | topic(s): children’s books
”Half of British parents think that reading a book is the best way to develop their child’s empathy, research by Amnesty International has found. Some 53% of parents said reading a book would help their child put themselves in other people’s shoes, according to a YouGov poll commissioned by the charity. Only 12% of parents thought watching television would teach their children to be more empathetic, while 3% said playing a computer game was the best way to develop empathy. The poll’s results coincide with academic findings on reading and empathy. Research led by York University in Canada found that children exposed to more storybooks tend to be better at understanding other people’s thoughts and emotions.”

”Study: They’re Teaching Pre-K, for Janitor’s Pay”

Philly.com | topic(s): early childhood education
”Ladrina Powell ran into an attendance problem with teachers at her West Philadelphia prekindergarten center this winter. Powell, director of Community Preschool & Nursery, which serves 71 children, has nine staffers, none with teaching degrees. Most earn about $10 an hour; the least experienced get $7.25.”

”A Palestinian Teacher’s Methods Earn the Attention of More Than Her Class”

The New York Times | topic(s): early childhood education
”Since winning a $1 million global education prize on March 13, Palestinian officials have honored Ms. Hanan Hroub with festivals and honorary degrees. International reporters have raced to her house and classroom. Some Israelis have denounced her as part of a Palestinian education system they see as inciting violence, and noted with dismay that her husband assisted in the killing of six Jewish settlers in the West Bank city of Hebron in 1980. Amid all that hubbub, Ms. Hroub, 43, still faced the essential challenge of every elementary-school teacher: keeping children on task.”

”In France, Taking a Fresh Approach to Craft”

The New York Times | topic(s): craftsmanship
”This weekend as Les Journées Européennes des Métiers d’Art marks its 10th anniversary of organizing public encounters throughout France to promote craftsmanship, the event will be celebrating a promising future as well as an important past. Throughout the country, 8,500 events are scheduled, including visits to 5,000 ateliers usually closed to the public, with some programs planned to attract young artisans and artists-to-be. For the first time, 18 other European countries will be showcasing similar events.”

”5 Surprising Ways Hotels Are Catering to Families”

Parent Herald | topic(s): early childhood education
”With interactive apps and extensive kids programs, hotels going to great lengths to attract families. Hotels are catering to children in innovative ways to meet the demands of millennial families, one of the most lucrative segments of the global travel market. According to a 2015 Embassy Suites by Hilton survey, 40 percent of millennials travel more than three times a year with children. To help you customize a vacation that’s authentic to your selected vacation destination, we found family-focused programs that are as diverse as major hotel brands and offer creative and free programming geared toward kids. This includes cultural learning activities.”

”Belittling Your Children’s Early Learning Could Result To Future Underachievement”

Parent Herald | topic(s): early childhood education
”In a research paper produced by Save The Children, a non-government organization for children, they found out that parents have the potential to underestimate their toddlers’ early learning stage. This has its toll on the children as they will feel condemned by their guardians’ low expectations by suffering underachievement. In the age of two and a half, according to the survey among parents of children between 2 and 10 years old, the research found out that 47 percent deemed their child should know about 100 words or fewer. This is an evident result of guardians underestimating their children’s ability because a child’s terminology can, in fact, go up to 600 expressions in their early development.”

”Minecraft: The Video Game That Builds Kds’ Brain Cells”

CNET | topic(s): educational games, early childhood education
”Microsoft’s popular video game Minecraft helps kids learn everything from programming, science and math to art, languages and history.”

”Belgian Theater Director: We Should See Multiculturalism in a Positive Light”

Deutsche Welle | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Terror will continue until we close the gap between rich and poor, says Hamburg-based Belgian theater director Luk Perceval. He explains why multiculturalism is not a bad word — and what theater has to do with it.”

”We Stories Aims to Get White Families Talking About Race and Racism”

St. Louis Public Radio | topic(s): children’s books, multiculturalism
”A new local organization wants to get the conversation about race and racism started with a group you may not expect: young, white families in St. Louis. We Stories: Raising Big-Hearted Kids is using children’s literature to create conversation, change and hope in St. Louis with the aim of making St. Louis more inclusive.”

”Video: Experts Say We’re Doing Early Childhood Education Wrong”

WIVB4 | topic(s): early childhood education
”It’s the time of year where parents are starting to look at schools for their children for the upcoming fall. While parents are browsing and asking questions, experts say that the one area they can’t overlook is evaluating how work and play are balanced.”

”Early Education Makes for Good Politics”

U.S. News & World Report | topic(s): early childhood education
”In an ugly campaign season, investments in early childhood education are good policy with bipartisan appeal. Education is an issue that serves as a linchpin for many of the other issue concerns of voters, such as job security, economic opportunity, wage stagnation and economic mobility. Helping families and communities provide children with high-quality early education from birth to age five has emerged as a family issue which the vast majority of Democrats, Republicans and independents can agree upon and urge action. Results from a bipartisan national poll recently released by the First Five Years Fund found that, regardless of party, voters see early childhood education as a necessity for American families. 88 percent of voters agree that access to quality early learning is a need, not a luxury, for all the working families out there doing their best to pay the bills.”

”#1000BlackGirlBooks Addresses Underrepresented Readers”

Forbes | topic(s): children’s books
”Eleven-year old Marley Dias speaks fast, with purpose and precision. She shows no hints of slowing down and neither does #1000BlackGirlBooks. Just last week GrassROOTS Community Foundation released the #1000BlackGirlBooks Resource Guide with a database of titles to incorporate into classrooms and everyday reading. Many may not have heard of #1000BlackGirlBooks until this January when Marley started going on a national media tour, but the project itself has been around since November. It originated as part of Marley’s social action assignment for the Super Camp at GrassROOTS Community Foundation—an organization co-founded by Marley’s mother Janice to teach girls to be social change agents. While this particular project is new, GrassROOTS has been around for six years.”

”Wilson Blum Succeeds Through Old-school Craftsmanship”

Ithaca Journal | topic(s): craftsmanship
”Running a hands-on business in an increasingly high-tech world can be challenging. But since 1979, Wilson Blum Upholstered Furnishings in Lansing has been providing old-school workmanship to discerning customers who wish to restore their treasured pieces. What they do is the ultimate in recycling. They promote preserving quality over a throwaway culture.”

”New Research Shows Connection Between Race And Early Childhood School Suspensions”

Think Progress | topic(s): early childhood education
”Rosemarie Allen, lecturer of Early Childhood Education at the Metropolitan State University of Denver, knows a thing or two about school suspensions. While popular conceptions of suspension might be associated with older students, Allen cites a wide body of research showing that students in early childhood programs are the most affected out of any age group when it comes to suspension and expulsion policies. For example, a 2005 Yale University study found that preschoolers were expelled at three times the rate of students in kindergarten through 12th grade, combined. A disproportionate amount of these suspensions affect students of color. The same study found that African-American students in state-funded prekindergarten programs were twice as likely to be suspended than their Latino and Caucasian classmates. In 2012, U.S. Department of Education data revealed that African-American children in early childhood programs were 48 percent more likely to be suspended from school than white students. Trends show the number of suspensions has been increasing over time. Allen told ThinkProgress that “over the past 40 years, suspension rates for black students had quadrupled in some areas of the country.”

”Wilson Blum Succeeds Through Old-school Craftsmanship”

Ithaca Journal | topic(s): craftsmanship
”Running a hands-on business in an increasingly high-tech world can be challenging. But since 1979, Wilson Blum Upholstered Furnishings in Lansing has been providing old-school workmanship to discerning customers who wish to restore their treasured pieces. What they do is the ultimate in recycling. They promote preserving quality over a throwaway culture.”

”Buy Your Son a Doll Today”

NYMag | topic(s): dolls
”Michele Borba is a child psychologist and author of the upcoming book UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World. She backed up some of my unscientific feelings about the doll. They’re widely known to be useful among child psychologists, she says, as a tool for teaching emotional intelligence in children. They can facilitate a laundry list of skills, including attachment, love, respect, mimicking, how to take care of another human being, sharing, and communication, because toddlers learn best by doing. Why would you deprive a girl of that? Why would you deprive a boy? This might sound obvious, but it can be hard for adults, even consciously enlightened ones, to raise our own little people without bringing some semi-ridiculous assumptions about gender to the table. It can also be hard to admit you’re conflicted, but it’s okay! You can be unsure; you can take the time to think through how you explain things to kids.”

”10 Building Blocks of Early Childhood Education”

eSchool News | topic(s): early childhood education
”A new brief highlights 10 important elements of high-quality early childhood education programs, pulled from a body of research, which can help young students have an equitable start with a strong educational foundation. The brief was compiled in part to help states as they redesign early childhood education programs and strive to offer those children access to high-quality learning experiences. The Building Blocks of High-Quality Early Childhood Education Programs draws on a substantial body of research and comes from the Learning Policy Institute. It identifies 10 important elements, or building blocks, of high-quality early childhood education programs as indicated by research and professional standards.”

”Malcolm Turnbull: Multiculturalism and Tolerance will Combat Terrorism ”

The Guardian | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Contrasting with the tone of former prime minister Tony Abbott, Turnbull emphasizes inclusion and respect. He has nominated Australia’s cultural tolerance and multicultural society as reasons the country is well-placed to deal with terrorist threats.”

”Everyday Learners: Books are Helping Children Cope with Emotional Challenges”

Daily Herald | topic(s): children’s books
”After years of struggling with her adopted children’s behavioral challenges, Jenny Dew found out that her children’s extreme emotions were caused by brain damage due to trauma they had experienced. Seeing firsthand how hard it is to help children who have gone through trauma, Dew decided she wanted to help other families by writing books about dealing with emotions and changes in a child’s life. Drawing from her personal experience with families, Dew has published two books out of a series of children’s books.”

”Morocco’s Traditional Craftwork Combines with Business Acumen”

The Financial Times | topic(s): craftsmanship
”Morocco has a rich tradition of artisanship that dates back centuries. It has long been renowned for its workmanship in the Middle East and north Africa. More recently the country’s flourishing tourist industry has helped spread that reputation further afield. But the work of craftsmen is more than just a cultural tradition. More than 400,000 people worked as artisans in Morocco in 2014, according to government figures. The sector had a turnover of 21.8bn dirham ($2.2bn), up 7.5 per cent on the previous year, and there is a small but growing export market, which was worth 415m dirham in 2014. Craftwork is an important source of jobs in a country with high unemployment, which stands at 9.3 per cent overall, but 40 per cent for urban youth, according to the World Bank. Sustaining the industry’s future is an economic, as well as a cultural, necessity.”

”How I Finally Learned To Embrace My Beautiful, Dark Brown Skin”

MTV | topic(s): multiculturalism, dolls
”Last Christmas Eve, I was able to see the way how black women are portrayed affected little black girls. I decided to buy my little cousins dolls. They weren’t the ideal Barbie with blue eyes, skinny, and blonde hair. They were African-American dolls with natural hair.”

”Matryoshka Dolls Used to Raise Money and Awareness for Domestic Violence Victims”

Courier Mail | topic(s): dolls
”Artists have painted Russian nesting dolls to illustrate the silent plight of domestic violence victims. The project was launched by Russia-born, Tingalpa businesswoman Elena Gosse, to raise awareness and money for the Women’s Legal Service. The Australian Innovative Systems chief executive called on the Russian community to contribute its time and artistry.”

”5 Effects Video Games May Have On Your Brain”

The Alternative Daily | topic(s): educational games, educational apps
”Contemporary developments in gaming, particularly interactive stories, digital authoring tools, and collaborative worlds, suggest powerful new opportunities for educational media. This article outlines five effects that video games may have on your brain.”

”Through My Window: the Classic Multicultural Children’s Book, in Pictures”

The Guardian | topic(s): multiculturalism, early childhood education
”Tony Bradman and Eileen Browne tell us the story behind their classic picture book published 30 years ago, featuring the first interracial family – as well as one of the earliest stay at home dads!”

”Tinkergarten Raises $1.6 Million to Bring Early Childhood Learning to Local Parks”

EdSurge | topic(s): early childhood education
”Tinkergarten, a startup that helps families find educational activities for toddlers in local parks, has raised $1.6 million in a seed round led by Omidyar Network. Other investors include Blue Collective, City Light Capital, 500 Startups and Outbound Ventures. Launched in 2012, Tinkergarten has created a network of more than 100 local “leaders” who organize play-based classes and other childhood education programs in local parks across 14 states. The startup, founded by a married couple—a former principal and a former technologist at Knewton—offers an online platform where parents can search for classes, or volunteer to lead them. (Tinkergarten provides its own curriculum.) Instructors can make up to $1,700 per 10 sessions, according to The Wall Street Journal.”

”High-Quality Pre-K has Lifelong Health Impact”

Philly.com | topic(s): early childhood education
”Philadelphia Mayor Kenney’s proposal to tax sugary beverages and use much of the proceeds for prekindergarten has been making headlines lately. But this is a topic with implications well beyond education and politics. Early childhood education is a key contributor to lifelong health and a potent means to fight the health disparities that plague our city. In the first few years of a child’s life, in every second there are 700 new brain cell connections being formed. Early life experiences help ensure that each child’s brain is ready to learn, to make good decisions, to show empathy and feel love. A newborn’s brain weighs, on average, 333 grams, or a little less than 12 ounces. By age 2, it has tripled in size. Ninety percent of brain development occurs before age 5. For a child who lacks appropriate stimulation or suffers chronic traumatic stress in those early years that isn’t properly addressed, the consequences can be permanent.”

”Thinking About an Ethical Travel Destination Off the Beaten Path?”

Alternet | topic(s): travel, early childhood education
”There are still many wild places where industry hasn’t yet strangled nature, particularly across the developing world. In some of those places, people are stepping up to protect the rights of humans, wildlife and nature. Those places want you to visit. But ethical tourism isn’t just about travel destinations that operate ethically, it’s also about travelers who make ethical decisions. Increasingly, people are more interested in tourist destinations, products and services that protect the environment and respect local people and cultures.”

”Sharjah Festival to Inspire Kids to Read”

Khalif Times | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
”The 11-day Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival was conceived to be an interactive platform that encourages children to read. It brings together a significant number of top Arab and international children’s authors to discuss the best ways to help stimulate young people to interact with books. Publishers participating in the festival will showcase an array of new titles for the children’s market.”

”How Children’s Books Teach An Unsettling Lesson in Discrimination”

Attn | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
”Many people learn their first lessons from children’s stories such as Winnie the Pooh and The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Now, research suggests that these books aren’t so innocuous. New studies on children’s literature have identified disturbing trends in the messages popular books convey about gender and race.”

”One Doll at a Time”

Idaho Press-Tribune | topic(s): dolls
”Sharon Katz, who was a family grief counselor in Boise for 30 years, wanted to find a way to celebrate diversity in families. She knew that kids need to feel good about their families. She pictured a family of dolls sitting on a child’s nightstand that looked like his or her family — whether that family had a mom and a dad, two moms, two dads, African American moms or dads, Asian moms or dads or any other combination. Katz said she sees so few products on the market showcasing diversity that it felt like the right choice.”

”Mexican Dolls Give Woman a Second Chance”

Vida en la Valle | topic(s): dolls
”Ramona García suffered from an eating disorder as a junior at UC Berkeley. Through art therapy, she reconnected with and healed through a Mexican doll. Mexican papier-mâché dolls were popular during Mexican Revolution and are now a dying art.”

”Culture Shock and Isolation in Early Childhood Education”

The Canberra Times | topic(s): early childhood education
”Fear of the unknown causes many children to shed a tear on their first day of school. But after six-year-old Tega Levy migrated from Nigeria to Canberra, he cried every day. He would get home from school and cry because he thought no one liked him. He even said he wanted to go back to Africa.”

”Creative Expression: Arts and Crafts”

Idealist.org | topic(s): arts and crafts
”VIN has introduced the Teaching Art and Craft project to help bring the developmental possibilities of arts (including dance) to the children of marginalised communities. This is an opportunity for volunteers with creative skills and expertise to help underprivileged children find a channel for self-expression, a way to connect with the world and see it differently.”

”Spark Creativity in Your Student with Arts and Crafts”

Statesman Journal | topic(s): arts and crafts
”As parents, we are often looking for fun ways to spend quality time together with our children while teaching them valuable life skills. Spring is a great season to encourage your children to explore their creative skills, especially since March is National Craft Month. Crafting activities offer students a host of benefits, and are an easy way to bring the family together especially over spring break. The concept of arts and crafts was initially created back when people had to make everything by hand, such as their clothing or other household items. Today, more than 62 million people in the US participate in crafting every year, from woodworking and jewelry to painting and needlepoint, according to the Craft and Hobby Association.”

”Celebrating 75 Years of Paper Dolls”

Literary Hub | topic(s): dolls
”Dover Publications, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, takes paper dolls seriously, as should you. From ancient Japanese origami dolls to the more recent French paper puppets of the 18th century, paper dolls have been a source of entertainment, and, more recently, fine art, for a long time. In the 1920’s, major book publishers in the US began producing paper dolls and their huge following began. These early paper dolls―primarily focusing on celebrities and movie stars―were not only found in coloring books, but in advertisements, magazines, and newspapers across the nation.”

”What’s Wrong With Latin American Early Education”

New York Times | topic(s): early childhood education
”Back in the 1980s, a group of social workers in Jamaica visited low-income homes one hour a week for two years, bearing age-appropriate toys for the kids and advice on child rearing for the parents. Researchers tracked the outcomes, and a generation later, the results are in. The children whose homes were visited by social workers became adults who earn wages that are 25 percent higher than those earned by peers who had not been visited. Their I.Q.s are an average seven points higher, and they are less likely to resort to crime or suffer from depression. Other studies, including several recent ones in the United States, have shown similar results, contributing to a consensus on the importance of early childhood development that has led governments around the world to increase spending on the first five years of life. In Latin America and the Caribbean, a region of longstanding social and economic inequality, several countries have been especially ambitious. Brazil and Chile doubled the coverage of day care services over the past decade, while in Ecuador they grew sixfold.”

”Early Intervention Programs Can Save Brain Development Of Children Below The Poverty Level”

Medical Daily | topic(s): early childhood education
”Nearly half of young children in America live at or near the poverty level. Those millions of children are more likely to be raised in an environment of substance misuse, neglect, violence, and family turmoil, with limited access to food or clothing, ultimately causing long-term toxic stress. According to the Urban Child Institute, between birth and age three, the child’s brain grows to 80 percent of its adult volume. If neural connections made during this time are negative or not enough time is invested into helping the brain flourish, the child may suffer from lower cognitive function throughout his or her life. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) knows the damage poverty can do to a child’s mental, emotional, and physical well being and plans to increase its focus on early childhood interventions starting this year.”

”New Program Pays People to Train as Early Childhood Teachers”

St. Louis American | topic(s): early childhood education
”A new program will pay people with a high school degree to train as early childhood educators. The Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship – developed by LUME Institute at University City Children’s Center, in partnership with SLATE – is being introduced to the Clinton Peabody Public Housing complex’ residents. However, the program is open to anyone who is at least 18 years old, a high school graduate and who interested in working in early childhood education.”

”Early Childhood Education Enrollment on the Rise Across New Zealand”

Newshub | topic(s): early childhood education
”Wellington has become the third region in the country to achieve the Government’s target of 98 percent participation in early childhood education (ECE). The target was set for the end of this year — with Canterbury and Otago/Southland already having achieved it. Education Minister Hekia Parata says nationally, the proportion of children starting school who have previously participated in ECE has increased from 93.6 percent to 96.4 percent since 2008.”

”It’s Not the End result That Matters; It’s the Time You Spent Together”

Carroll County Times | topic(s): arts and crafts
”Feeling creative? Get your glue gun ready — it’s National Craft Month. Crafts come in all shapes and sizes. You can crochet a hat or knit a quilt. You can paint a canvas or build a log cabin out of Popsicle sticks. You can create one of a kind jewelry or piece together a wooden sailing ship. Crafts can be whatever you want them to be. They can be laid back and casual, intended only as a hobby, or they can be serious and focused and contribute to your income. But no matter what you like — or don’t like — there’s bound to be some sort of craft out there for you. Even if you think you lack any creative genes, you can still find some artistic outlet through which to express yourself. That’s the beauty of craftsmanship — it doesn’t define you; you define it.”

”How Tennis Star Andre Agassi is Revolutionizing Early Childhood Education”

City Telegraph | topic(s): early childhood education
”Agassi has already made his mark with a charter school in his hometown of Las Vegas. The Andre Agassi College Preparatory Academy provides tuition-free education for at-risk children. Agassi started the school by raising over $40 million. The school has been so successful that its inaugural class in 2009 all went to college. The impressive mission of the school was to single out students who would traditionally fail and drop out of school and give them the best possible opportunity to learn. Agassi has since become a stellar fundraiser, organizing over $1 billion in capital for the construction of charter schools across the United States. The Canyon-Agassi Fund is a for-profit entity that is planning to create up to 100 charter school campuses within the next five years, serving nearly 50,000 students of all ages.”

”Early Education Should Be a No-brainer for Presidential Candidates”

Huffington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
”Dear presidential candidates: My name is Milagros Amador. For 20 years I have worked as a teaching assistant in a pre-kindergarten classroom in St. Petersburg, Florida. I am also one of those Florida voters who you hope will go to the polls on March 15 to cast my vote for you. If you want my support, you must first make a commitment to the children of Florida by sharing your plan to make universal, high-quality early childhood education accessible to all.”

”9 Reasons Why You Should Buy Your Son a Doll”

Connect Statesboro | topic(s): dolls
”There’s been a huge uproar about the gendering of toys lately. For example, Target decided to stop segregating toys into boy and girl sections, and many people feel this is the first step towards doing away with all types of gender differentiation including separating bathrooms and clothing sections. However, maybe toys rest in a different category than clothing and restrooms. Their functions are different, so maybe they should be separated by function instead of by gender. According to the Let Toys Be Toys campaign: Toys are for fun, for learning, for stoking imagination and encouraging creativity. Children should feel free to play with the toys that most interest them. Isn’t it time that shops stopped limiting our children’s imagination by telling them what they ought to play with?”

”How this Mandwa MBA graduate Builds Safe Havens for Students in Rural Areas”

Your Story | topic(s): early childhood education
”To address this ever-increasing gap in education standards in rural and urban schools, Santosh founded ThinkSharp Foundation, an NPO, in 2011. He was joined by Sachin Pawar and Deepali Basur as trustees. Sachin and Deepali resonated with ThinkSharp, since they came from rural pockets as well and were well-versed with the problem. What comes to your mind when someone says the word mall? Probably a place where you get everything that will satiate your shopping needs. Drawing from the essence of the meaning, Santosh decided to apply the concept to education in rural pockets. In 2013, he, with the help of his team members Bhagwan Jadhav and Shraddha Bhange, launched ThinkSharp Foundation’s first ‘Study Mall’ in Surangali, Maharashtra. Santosh spoke to the headmasters of the two schools there and explained the concept. The second Study Mall was opened in Varangaon (a village near Jalgaon) in 2015. The third centre cropped up at Vangani (a village near Mumbai) in Jan 2016.”

”Embracing Multicultural Kids”

The Korea Times | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Despite a noticeable increase in Korea in the number of multicultural children in the last decade, they have not received sufficient attention from the government and the schools. As a result, a significant portion of multicultural youths are heavily struggling to cope with life in Korea. A recent study shows that one in five people from ages 15 to 24 from migrant families are neither going to school nor working. The percentage of NEET (not in education, employment or training) individuals is significantly higher compared to the same age group among native Koreans. Multicultural kids were also shown to be more prone to quitting school than native students. The number of children in migrant families has increased around eight-fold in the last decade. In particular, the jump in the number of elementary school students is alarming. The latest statistics show that multicultural kids account for 2.2 percent of all elementary school students in Korea, marking the first time for the percentage to exceed the 2 percent mark. The reality is that the presence of multicultural children will continue to grow in Korean schools. The latest Statistics Korea data shows that 8.3 percent of all marriages were interethnic. But Koreans are still reluctant to embrace these people as one of us.”

”Audio Clip: A Reflection for All: Authors Talk Diversity in Children’s Books”

WUWM Milwaukee Public Radio | topic(s): children’s books
”As the issues of race, gender, identity and culture percolate in a society that increasingly aims to be inclusive, so does the realm of children’s literature. It’s a discussion that the Wisconsin chapter of the Society of Childrens’ Book Writers and Illustrators has taken on in the form of a diversity initiative.”

”Turning Pages: How and Why There Could be More Diversity in Children’s Books”

The Sydney Morning Herald | topic(s): children’s books
”How many millions of kids around the world at this moment are reading book after book about white families, white kids, and thinking it’s not their mummy or it’s not me and my friends? It could be a serious impediment not only to a child’s literacy but to their whole sense of identity. And it’s astonishing that nobody has really tackled this very persistent problem until recent years. Belatedly, things are changing. We Need Diverse Books is a grassroots organization of book lovers that sprang up in the US a few years ago and is now pushing for changes in the publishing industry to reflect and honor the lives of all young people, not just a privileged few.”

”Philadelphia Universal Pre-K Gets a Funding Boost”

Next City | topic(s): early childhood education
”Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney’s dream of universal pre-K got a $15 million boost this week in the form of a one-time grant by the William Penn Foundation, reports Philly.com. While campaigning last year, Kenney, who took office in January, promised to make citywide pre-K a cornerstone of his administration. Only a third of the city’s 3- and 4-year-olds are enrolled in high-quality, publicly funded pre-kindergarten. A commission on the subject reported last month that such a program will cost about $60 million per year, and recommended that a mixture of public and private funding be used to foot the bill.”

”An Economist’s Case for Pre-K”

The Atlantic | topic(s): early childhood education
”Caridad Araujo of the Inter-American Development Bank explains why funding early-childhood education is a good investment.”

”The Global Search for Education: Learning to Live Together”

Huffington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
”It’s important for schools to begin by setting a tone that values and leverages diversity as an asset, across all aspects of teaching and learning. This cannot be an add on or a checklist, but rather an ongoing effort marked by continuous learning and reflection.”

”How San Antonio Is Navigating the Tricky Politics of Pre-K”

The Atlantic | topic(s): early childhood education
”In daring to rethink its children’s preschool experience, this Texas city has forged a fragile codependence with its natural adversaries—independently run school districts. In what may seem like a mutual Faustian pact, the city-funded Pre-K for San Antonio initiative convinced seven of the city’s 15 independent school districts—which operate separately from local government entities since they are funded by the state and their own fundraising efforts—to partner in an ambitious tax-funded plan to provide high-quality pre-k to thousands of its youngest citizens.”

”New Report: Early Development Delays Go on to Mar Educational Achievement”

The Sydney Morning Herald | topic(s): early childhood education
”Children who enter their first year of school behind in any of the five key areas of development are, without intervention, likely to remain behind throughout their education.”

”England is a More Tolerant Multicultural Society than 5 Years Ago, Study Shows”

Huffington Post | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Multiculturalism, as a comprehensive communal doctrine, came to be the right answer for the nation of Canada to create its unique, coherent and inclusive society which guarantees equality, freedom, fairness and reverence to all its citizens. The various cultures, religious doctrines, social values and ethnicities merit equal respect. For the most part, Canadian origins are from every corner of the world, reflecting a wide range of cultural environments that carry a collection of values and doctrines. Having the rights of aboriginals, the natives of Canada and all other citizens in mind, multiculturalism becomes the precise recipe of a healthy country.”

”Multiculturalism Is A Canadian Success Story”

Huffington Post | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Multiculturalism, as a comprehensive communal doctrine, came to be the right answer for the nation of Canada to create its unique, coherent and inclusive society which guarantees equality, freedom, fairness and reverence to all its citizens. The various cultures, religious doctrines, social values and ethnicities merit equal respect. For the most part, Canadian origins are from every corner of the world, reflecting a wide range of cultural environments that carry a collection of values and doctrines. Having the rights of aboriginals, the natives of Canada and all other citizens in mind, multiculturalism becomes the precise recipe of a healthy country.”

”Art of Age-old Crafts at Kyneton Lost Trades Fair”

Melbourne Leader | topic(s): craftsmanship
”Kyneton could reinvent itself as the traditional trades capital of Australia, following a resurgence of interest in craftsmanship. More than 15,000 people attended the Lost Trades Fair at Kyneton Racecourse last year, and organisers are hoping for the same response to the third annual event being held over the March 12-13 weekend.”

”From Kitsch to Craft to Economic Growth”

Huffington Post | topic(s): craftsmanship
”The artisan sector is estimated to be the second largest opportunity for rural employment after agriculture in many parts of the world, meaning it has significant potential for poverty reduction. I learned this heartening bit of news in 2015, during a visit with the Alliance for Artisan Enterprise, as I traveled the U.S. on an Eisenhower Fellowship.”

”Lack of Diversity Found in Children’s Literature Fails Young Readers”

China Post | topic(s): children’s literature
”As the film and music industries grapple with the fallout from the race rows that dogged the Oscars and the Brit Awards, English author Bali Rai warns publishing too has a serious diversity issue. The award-winning writer, who has Indian heritage but was born and grew up in Leicester, echoes critics of Hollywood and the Academy Awards when he suggests gatekeepers are only recognizing a narrow band of talent and ideas, which does not properly reflect society.”

”Black Girls Look for ‘Someone like Them in Children’s Literature”

Press of Atlantic City | topic(s): children’s literature
”Only a fraction of the children’s books published each year feature nonwhite characters, said Kimberly N. Foster, publisher and editor-in-chief of the website For Harriet, an online community for women of African ancestry. And those books that do include black girls as lead characters may have a hard time finding their way into schools and onto library shelves. Foster said decision makers need to overcome biases in selecting literature that students will find rigorous and relatable.”

”Good Day at School? There’s an App for That”

The Guardian | topic(s): early childhood education
”When a child is asked by parents what they got up to at school, they probably won’t confess that they were told off for talking in their English lesson, or that they didn’t do their maths homework. But now honesty may be the only option as behaviour-tracking apps are becoming increasingly popular as an educational tool. One of the most common apps, ClassDojo, is now used by at least one teacher in half of all UK schools, according to its developers. The app allows teachers to award points to students throughout the day for good behaviour or take away points for bad behaviour. The students, who also have the app, can see how well they are doing and parents can then see real-time updates. The points for the entire class can even be displayed on screen during the lesson.”

”4 Ways to Keep Kids Motivated the Last Months of School”

Tucson.com | topic(s): early childhood education
”School’s almost out. While these last months are hard for parents trying to figure out what the kids will do all summer, it’s even harder for the kids. You may remember how long and brutal the last part of the school year felt, when all you could think about was lazy days by the pool with your friends or a family vacation at the beach. So, how do you help the kids keep their focus? We asked for advice from teachers and parents who have been there.”

”Everyone Loves the Idea of Preschool, So Why Don’t All Our Kids Get to Go to One?”

Mother Jones | topic(s): early childhood education
”It’s hard to think of another education reform idea that has garnered as much support among advocates of various ideological stripes as early childhood education. California and New York liberals support it, and so do conservatives in Oklahoma and Florida. A 2015 national poll by First Five Years Fund showed that 76 percent of voters support the idea of spending federal money to expand public preschool, and the new federal Every Student Succeeds Act includes more funding for early childhood. Helping the idea along is decades of research (which continues to pour in) that suggests effective preschools can benefit all children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. But can we identify what a good preschool looks like and make that accessible to the kids most in need? That topic has been debated fiercely by parents, preschool advocates, and policymakers all over the country. This week, early childhood education experts and city chiefs of preschools came together in Sacramento, California, to talk about the latest research.”

”CBC Panel Reviews 2015 Children’s Book Sales”

Publishers Weekly | topic(s): children’s books
”Book trends, diversity, and what middle-grade and YA readers were really reaching for in 2015 were among the topics of discussion during a Children’s Book Council forum on March 1 at Penguin Random House.”

”10 Children’s Books With Black Girl Protagonists”

Bustle | topic(s): children’s books
”According to the Cooperative Children’s Book Center, the number of books by and about African Americans is increasing. When the CCBC first examined children’s book representation in 1985, it discovered that, “of the approximately 2,500 trade books that were published in 1985, only 18 were created by African Americans.” In 2015, that number has increased — to 100 out of 3,400 books — but still remains under 3 percent.”

”Play to Learn”

Boulder Weekly | topic(s): educational games
”The 11 weeks that mark summer break represent freedom: freedom to play, freedom to dream, freedom to forget everything learned during the previous school year. To counteract the latter, parents have the opportunity to send kids to educational camps or on field trips to continue the learning process all summer long. Educational camps allow students to build confidence and knowledge through games.”

”Inevitable Multiculturalism”

Times of Malta | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Life changes, countries change, people change, culture changes. Progress brings with it inevitable changes. Multiculturalism is a result of such changes, it is a fact of life, it cannot be denied and should not be resisted. It is part of the inevitable process of change. Furthermore, multiculturalism is a positive phenomenon, as it enriches the culture of a country and the way of life of its people. Which is why I find it incredible that in Malta we still have people who consider resisting multiculturalism as some form of patriotism. Nothing could be further from the truth.”

”Proficiency in Reading Down Among Poor, Black Students”

Washington Times | topic(s): early childhood education
”Poor and black D.C. third-graders recently tested worse in reading than they did five years earlier, according to a new study by D.C. Action for Children. In addition, reading proficiency for all D.C. third-graders remained stagnant over that period, the children’s advocacy group reported in its study Trends in Third Grade Reading Proficiency. The findings come despite the District’s high per-pupil spending and efforts to boost education and literacy throughout the nation’s capital.”

”Britain’s Brightspot: Young People Praise The UK’s Multiculturalism”

Benzinga | topic(s): multiculturalism
”The majority of young adults are proud of multiculturalism in the UK. 67 percent of adults aged between 18 and 24 believe migrants make a positive contribution to the UK economy. This is despite the fact that only 24 per cent of young adults think migrants in Britain have a positive image.”

”Microsoft Miles Ahead of Google and Apple in Education Sector”

MS Power User | topic(s): educational apps
”Despite Google’s increasingly efforts to make Chromebook devices cheaper and widely available, and Apple’s growing effort in the sector, it is Microsoft that is ruling the education sector, company’s corporate vice president of Windows and Devices group said on Monday. Windows continues to be the leading, global platform for K-12 education, according to the latest data provided by marketing and research firm Futuresource, which tracks sales of mobile computers such as notebook, Chromebook, netbook and tablets. In fact, the volume of Windows devices shipped in 2015 were twice as many as the closest competitor. The firm notes that there has been a 20 percent growth in the sales of Windows devices.”

”Technology and the Young Child”

Midland Daily News | topic(s): educational apps
”Look around you right now, how long does it take you to find a screen? We are all aware that the use of cell phones, tablets and computers have increased dramatically over the past 10 years. The multiple types of screens seem to make our lives easier. They keep us more connected and entertained and Google is always right at your fingertips. Your little piece of technology will do most of your thinking for you. Technology can be very beneficial, but where do we draw the line? Our society is affected every day by the changes in technology, but more importantly our children are affected. There are so many questions to be answered: At what age does it become acceptable for a child to start using technology? How long should children spend in front of a screen? What games and activities are considered appropriate? It is pretty obvious that there is no keeping children away from screens. Whether playing games on mom’s iPhone, or having their own tablet for educational resources, it is important to make sure children are safe and getting the most from these resources. As a parent or guardian of a child it is important to remember a few key facts about your child and the screen in front of them.”

”Majority of Australians Think Multiculturalism is Good for the Country”

Australia Forum | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Multiculturalism is good for Australia, according to 85% of people surveyed for a new study that looked at attitudes towards immigration. But underneath this headline figure is a much more complex picture that varies according to age, location and demographic group, the report from the Scanlon Foundation reveals. Researchers found a gap in attitudes between State capital cities and their regions. A comparison of them found that 48% of people in Melbourne and Canberra thought multiculturalism was good but this was 39% to 42% in Adelaide and Sydney and 35% to 37% in Brisbane and Perth. Similarly, attitudes differed across the generations, with young people consistently more accepting of immigration and cultural diversity than middle aged and older respondents.”

”Peter Rabbit Becomes First Children’s Book Character on British Coin”

Time | topic(s): children’s books
”One of literature’s most lovable thieves has found his way to the British currency: Peter Rabbit has become the first children’s book character to appear on a U.K. coin. The daring bunny appears on a 50p piece in his signature blue jacket—which he famously loses in Mr. McGregor’s garden—beginning Monday, with a non-colored version to appear later in the year. The Royal Mint called Peter the most recognizable of Beatrix Potter’s creations, and one of the most cherished from children’s literature.”

”Scholastic & We Need Diverse Books™ Announce Expanded Partnership”

Children’s Book Council | topic(s): children’s books
”Scholastic and the non-profit organization, We Need Diverse Books™, today announced the expansion of their collaboration to bring more books by diverse authors and featuring diverse characters into schools nationwide. For the 2016-17 school year, Scholastic Reading Club and We Need Diverse Books™ will collaborate on eight flyers to be distributed in classrooms with students ranging in age from toddler to teen. These offers will elevate stories by and about people from traditionally underrepresented communities.”

”Investing In Early Childhood Education Means Playing The Long Game”

90.5 WESA | topic(s): early childhood education
”Last May, Governor Tom Wolf held a news conference in front of the Camp Hill state prison in Cumberland County. He was joined by Corrections Secretary John Wetzel and a handful of district attorneys, all pushing for a $120 million funding increase — not for prisons — but for preschool. The press conference was timed not only to coincide with that year’s budget negotiations, but also with the release of a report from the nonprofit advocacy group Fight Crime Invest In Kids. The report presented data from across the country to make the case that putting more kids in pre-K now would mean fewer adults in prison later.”

”Auburn Kids Learn Math, Science, Literacy and Social Studies Through Play”

AuburnPub.com | topic(s): early childhood education, educational games
”Westley Maywalt turned 7 on Saturday, and one of the things he did to celebrate was play with his little brother, 5-year-old Aaron, at the Math and Movement Family Fun Day at Auburn Junior High School. With a birthday party later to look forward to, Westley got his face painted with a green snake, and played many of the 40 math, science, literacy and social studies games scattered throughout the gymnasium. The games took the shapes of brightly colored hopscotch-like mats with numbers and words, stations with toy animals, stations with Popsicle sticks and other activities.”

”Why Are There So Few Biracial Dolls?”

Bustle | topic(s): dolls
”A couple years ago, on a trip with my mother to Tyson’s Corner mall, just outside of Washington, D.C., I saw it: The American Girl Store. It had been a while since I anxiously waited for the next historical character to read about (or lusted after the $100+ merchandise in the catalogs). But when I went into the two-story American Girl utopia, I was 10 all over again (being 20 means you’re just 2 whole 10 year-olds, by the way). And while it was one of the most beautiful moments in my life, I couldn’t help but wonder why, after all of these years, there was still no biracial historical doll?”

”Musician, 11, Headed to Antarctica for Adventure of a Lifetime”

ABC 4 News (Charleston SC) | topic(s): travel
”A Lowcountry 5th grader and her dad will be taking the trip of a lifetime next month. The two are headed to Antarctica as part of the Charleston Antarctic Expedition along with six others from the area. The goal of the two-week trip is to explore Antarctica and better understand the impact of a changing climate. Isabel Gray will be the one of youngest to ever set foot on Antarctica. She was invited on this trip by Robert Swan, a polar explorer and environmental advocate, because of her desire to save the Earth and her determination to help pay for the trip through music.”

”Minister Appeals to Public to Patronize Art Crafts”

Ghana Web | topic(s): arts and crafts
”Ms Dzifa Gomashie, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has appealed to the public to support creative artist by patronizing their works to promote domestic tourism. She said the patronage of these art forms has been low throughout the generations; rather it is foreigners, who visit the country that normally buy them. Ms Gomashie was speaking on the sideline of a month-long arts exhibition held at the World Bank to showcase the drawings and paintings of Mr Louis Kodzo Ankrah. Mr Ankrah, is an Aflao based artist, skilled in variety of art works such as painting of different forms including realism, abstract and pallet knife. The Minister, who arranged the exhibition for the artist, said the Ministry believes in giving them the opportunity to showcase their talent.”

”Free Printable Educational Card Games, Flashcards, Dominoes, Memory Games”

Examiner | topic(s): educational games
”Card games and board games are excellent teaching tools. Games are interactive and hands-on and children learn many skills when they play card games. Educational card games teach kids to count, add, subtract, prioritize, plan, organize, sort, coordinate and evaluate. Card games can be created to teach content area and subject matter in lesson plans Card games help students memorize information. Here are free printable educational card games, playing cards, flashcards, dominoes and Memory games to use as lesson plans.”

”Program Offers Free E-Books to Low-Income Children”

The New York Times | topic(s): children’s books
”Open eBooks, a program making thousands of best-selling books available for free to low-income children, signed up roughly 50,000 users on its first day, according a report by the project’s partner organizations. Started on Feb. 24 with a video message from Michelle Obama, Open eBooks allows adults working in libraries, schools, shelters, hospitals and other settings to request access for the children they serve. The books, provided by more than 10 publishers, are selected by a “curation corps” and can be downloaded through an app on the children’s own mobile devices. According to a study released last year, 85 percent of families below the poverty line with children aged between 6 and 13 own a tablet or a smartphone.”

”True Multiculturalism Isn’t Ignoring Our Differences”

Huffington Post | topic(s): multiculturalism
”If there were ever a statement on the fine line football has to tread between true multiculturalism and the mainstream, it’s the undertone of unease with which two friendlies against Greece was met. In case you missed it, the Socceroos will play two friendlies with Greece in June. One in Sydney, one in Melbourne.”

”Multiculturalism Good for Australia, Say 85% of Australians”

Publisher’s Weekly | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Australians are overwhelmingly in favour of — so says a new discussion paper exploring attitudes towards diversity. The Scanlon Foundation has been looking at these perceptions over the past decade, and most recent research shows 85 per cent of Australians agree that multiculturalism has been good for the country. The discussion paper has been tracking people’s views across more than a decade of surveys. Data shows Australians are generally very accepting of cultural diversity and immigration, but the level of support varies across generations, geographical locations and demographic groups. Research Professor at Monash University Andrew Markus says this report looks in detail at research that’s been going on over the past 30 years.”

”Children’s Illustrators Brighten Up NYC Commutes”

Publisher’s Weekly | topic(s): children’s books
”New York City-based fans of children’s literature are being treated to an unspoken delight on their daily commutes these days. One of the many projects the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s Arts and Design team oversees is a poster campaign in which illustrators – many of which are children’s book creators – are commissioned to create pieces that respond to the place of New York. The MTA – which runs the New York subway system, as well as the Long Island Rail Road and MetroNorth commuter rail – has enlivened the customer’s commute for 30 years with its Arts and Design program.”

”How Fantasy Stopped Me From Going Insane!”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books
”Fantasy is the ultimate escape. It is a way of living a life you could never even have imagined, a way to be so much more than this world can allow. How else can you be a faerie queen one day and a witch the next? How else can you fly, shoot flames from your hands and turn people into toads? How else can you be a superhero or a demigod or have a dragon?”

”Proposal to Increase Tobacco Tax Would Fund Early Childhood Health and Education”

Richmond News | topic(s): early childhood education
”A proposal to increase Missouri’s cigarette tax to fund early childhood health and education was among the highlights of the annual Legislative Forum in Jefferson City.”

”Is Adaptive Learning the Way to Get Schools into Learning Games?”

Games and Learning | topic(s): educational games, educational apps
”Adaptive learning might be the hottest catch phrase in ed tech at the start of 2016, and some of the biggest education heavyweights are gearing up to pitch their own versions of the learning technology to schools. Pearson announced last month they intend to steer their products toward more adaptive, personalized next generation courseware, especially in STEM subjects where enrollments are growing and which lend themselves to this approach. The British company released a series of case-studies touting the benefits of their MyLab series and its real-time adaptive learning feedback which they say leads to higher exam scores. These announcements arrived in the aftermath of a 10 percent cut in the company’s workforce.”

”Kids Speak Out: ‘If I Could Have Any Adventure, I Would…”

Cumberlink.com | topic(s): children’s books, children’s literature
”Enjoy various posts by children who have completed the above sentence.”

”Simon & Schuster Launches Imprint For Muslim Children’s Books”

NPR | topic(s): children’s books, children’s literature
”Publishing giant Simon & Schuster is launching a new imprint, Salaam Reads, which will focus on children’s and young adult books featuring Muslim kids and families. The company said in a statement that it believes Salaam Reads, launched Wednesday, is the first imprint at a major publisher focused on Muslim characters and stories. (The five big publishing houses are home to several Christian imprints, while numerous small, independent publishers focus on a variety of religions.)”

”Free Printable Connect the Dots Educational Games, Dot to Dot Puzzles”

The Examiner | topic(s): educational games
”Connect the dots puzzles, also called dot to dot puzzles are a favorite with many children. They love to watch the big picture emerge as they connect the dots. Dot to dot puzzles teach counting, letters and math depending on the tasks required to connect the dots. Connect the dots educational games make excellent activities for preschool, kindergarten and special education. Doing dot to dot puzzles helps perceptually challenged special needs students Many special needs children practice in fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination, as well as counting and reading.”

”Media Sharing App for Early Education Catches on Nationwide”

MIT News | topic(s): early childhood education
”Teachers can record a child’s learning experiences and securely share them with parents. Tapping MIT’s entrepreneurial resources, MIT Sloan Fellow Kin Lo created Kaymbu. It’s an app and iPad system for preschools and elementary classrooms (K-5) that records and securely shares video and images of a child’s learning experiences with parents. Today, more than 3,000 teachers, who teach around 25,000 students in 350 schools across 43 states, use Kaymbu, sending out roughly a million messages monthly.”

”A Broader, Bolder Approach to Even the Education Playing Field”

Washington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
”For a number of years, a national campaign called the Broader Bolder Approach to Education has been working to better the conditions that limit many children’s readiness to learn. A project of the nonprofit Economic Policy Institute, Broader Bolder has long recognized that the impact of social and economic disadvantage on many schools and students is profound and can’t be alleviated with academic accountability systems. Now, with a new K-12 federal education law taking effect, the campaign is relaunching with new leaders and an expanded mission. Here is a post about what 21st Century school reform should look like to really even the education playing field, as reflected in the Broader Bolder Approach’s new mission. It was written by Elaine Weiss, the program’s national coordinator.”

”Should We Really Be Pushing Adult Ideologies on Children Through Their Toys?”

Daily Life | topic(s): educational games, early childhood education
”Chances are that when you were a child, you — like me — didn’t care much for the official stories sold by the makers of your favourite toys. This Barbie’s packaging says she’s a vet? Too bad, she’s about to become a fighter pilot. Barbie’s husband is Ken? Uh, mine is marrying Voltron. Transformers are for boys? Not on my watch! Pity the children of today, then, because well-meaning adults are apparently so terrified that their kids won’t grow up wanting to be President (etc) that they’re creating toys that tell kids exactly what to think and how to dream. These message toys make the boring educational toys of the childhood nightmares of people over 25 look like the latest whiz-bang Mattel spectacular.”

”PBS Is Creating a Channel Exclusively for Children”

New York Times | topic(s): early childhood education
”PBS is starting a new 24-hour channel dedicated solely to children’s programming. The channel, which will be called PBS Kids and will be announced on Tuesday, will be free. It is expected to debut later this year — most likely in the fall. PBS Kids will also be available online with a live stream. More children’s programming is available than ever, much of it being watched through streaming services and on-demand.”

”10 Spring Activities for You and the Kids This Year”

News Entertainment Lifestyle | topic(s): early childhood education
”Winter can seem long and dreary, but with spring rapidly approaching (hooray!) it’s time to think of all the wonderful, uplifting things you can do with the kids, as the days get longer and the weather improves. Youngsters love keeping busy and if you can do activities as a family, you’re sure to get some quality bonding time in too – so here are ten ideas for you to try out.”

”Male Teacher Numbers Dwindling, Work in Education Called an Isolating Experience for Men”

ABC | topic(s): early childhood education
”Male teachers are a rare sight in primary schools across Australia and, as the number of men enrolling in education dwindles, some fear they could become a thing of the past. At the University of South Australia only 4 per cent of students studying early childhood education are male, with less than 10 graduating each year. The number is slightly higher for primary teaching, with 17 per cent of students male, however, the majority intend to work in upper primary or as physical education teachers. For the past four years, early childhood education lecturer Martyn Mills-Bayne has been trying to increase the number of males in the degree through a support program.”

”America’s Darkest Future: Film Highlights Need to Invest in Early Education”

Augusta Free Press | topic(s): early childhood education
”Lifeview Marketing has partnered with the not-for-profit and non-partisan organization, Virginia Organizing, to produce the documentary film, America’s Darkest Future: The Wage of an Inaccessible Early Childhood Education. There was a time when the United States of America was ranked at the top of worldwide rankings in education and early childhood development but today we have plummeted by comparison.”

”Creators Builds Million Dollar Hamilton Early Childhood Education Centre”

Stuff.nz | topic(s): early childhood education
”An energy-efficient early childhood centre, that is expected to cost more than $1 million, is under contraction in Hamilton. The concrete foundation for Creators centre in Hamilton’s Rutherford St was laid last week. Doors are expected to open mid-year, bringing the number of Creator’s centres in the Waikato to four. Creators Educational Trust managing director Rick Fourie said the building is expected to cost about $1.3m and will be licensed to accommodate 80 children. It will have about 14 teaching staff, including a professional artist who will teach art to three- and four-year-olds.”

”Why Parents are the Prime Promoters of Literacy”

Gulf News | topic(s): children’s books, children’s literature, early childhood education
”The fondest childhood memories are cuddling up to mother while she reads a book every night. It remains the best way to instill a love of reading in children.”

”Let Children Select What They Want to Read”

Toys and Games Magazine | topic(s): educational games
”During last week’s NYC Toy Fair, a team of play experts from the U.S. Toy Industry Association presented a review of 2016′s most important trends. The TIA’s Adrienne Appell, who led the presentation, told an audience of Toy Fair visitors they could expect to see robotics, drones, creative playthings and family-inclusive toys and games at the top of consumers’ wish lists throughout the year and into the Q4 buying season.”

”Celebrating Korea’s Traditional Hanji Paper Dolls”

Huffington Post | topic(s): dolls
”If you take Seoul’s J Line to the very end, you will arrive at Yongmun Station, where an increasing number of internationals are heading out on weekends. There is a white Jeep that will ferry you from the bustling subway station to Daol Art Center, a small museum nestled in a deep mountain valley surrounded by Korean pines. But the greatest treasure to be found at Daol Art Center is the workshop run by Seonmi Kim, a Korean-certified master craftswoman. Expats from across Korea make trips into the mountains to learn directly from Mrs. Kim how to make her legendary hanji paper dolls.”

”What Black Paper Dolls Tell Us About American History”

KCUR | topic(s): dolls
”Paper dolls have been popular toys for children for centuries, but the black versions of these toys often depict racial stereotypes that reflect how society viewed African Americans.”

”Building an Educational App? Read This First”

EdSurge | topic(s): educational apps
” Over the next four years, nearly a billion students will enter middle and high school, and if recent projections are accurate, most of them will have a smartphone in their pocket. These students will decide what apps they use and when they use them, and could potentially take large parts of their education into their own hands. Despite this potential, there are few break-out apps that cater directly to students. The education app charts are led by games and classroom tools, and the largest student-focused apps—Duolingo, Quizlet, and recently PhotoMath—only serve a thin slice of student needs, leaving huge potential for new entrants. We’ve spent the last two years at Socratic studying how students learn with the Internet. In hopes of inspiring the development of more student-focused apps, we’d like to share some of our insights about how students use their phones while studying today.”

”Richmond Early Childhood Program Sees Tremendous Growth”

The Voice | topic(s): educational apps
”During the 2013-2014 school year, the Early Childhood program included 32 preschoolers. In 2014, an early childhood learning center wing was opened at the elementary school, which prompted tremendous growth. Currently, they have 83 students in the preschool program.”

”How App Makers Are Pioneering Gender-Fluid Design For Kids”

Fast Company | topic(s): educational apps
”These game developers are designing across gender boundaries—and leading the way for the rest of their industry.”

”Smart Toys Help Kids Prepare for High Tech Future”

CBS News | topic(s): educational games, educational apps
”The days of toys and games that set the rules and told kids what to do are long gone. Now there is a new wave of smart, high-tech toys, games and apps that children can program themselves and be the controllers. The aim is to help kids get a head start at learning and liking STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.”

”The World According to Edu-Larps: The Analog Learning Games”

Games and Learning | topic(s): educational games, educational apps
”Players of digital games, with the exception of party games like Rock Band, rarely play together and side-by-side whereas players of analog games expect a more slower-paced and chatty group experience. Considering verbal and non-verbal cues as well as the immediacy of social peers sitting right next to each other, Joshua Archer, director of Iocari Games, feels that there is a visceral difference between playing an analog game versus playing a digital game. There’s a level of communication that we have not been able to codify and that doesn’t come through in a video game.”

”NASA on Interstellar Travel: There Is No Known Reason Why We Cannot Do This”

Outer Places | topic(s): travel
”Achieving near-relativistic speeds is the “holy grail” of space travel, as it would allow humanity to visit potentially habitable exoplanets, explore faraway galaxies, and possibly become interplanetary. Now, NASA scientists are claiming that cutting-edge technologies are inching closer and closer to making this pipe dream a reality.”

”Google’s App Store for Education is Being Shut Down ”

The Verge | topic(s): educational apps, early childhood education
”A little over two years ago, Google launched a version of the Play Store tailored for education in an attempt to push Android tablets into schools. There’s been basically no news about it since — until now, with Google essentially announcing plans to shut down the store. Google tells TechCrunch that in about a month it’ll no longer sell Google Play for Education licenses, so schools won’t be able to buy and distribute apps in bulk to their students. Google says it’ll continue to support the tablets already out there using Play for Education apps; educational apps will also remain available inside the standard version of the Play Store that’s accessible to everyone.”

”How Libraries Brought Out My Inner Book Geek”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books, children’s literature
”A teenage girl explains how libraries helped her manage the transition from primary to secondary school, and the librarians encouraged her to become the reading fanatic she is today.”

”Mum of Autistic Boys Creates Dolls That Seek to Encourage Acceptance of Disabilities”

Yahoo News | topic(s): dolls
”A mother of two autistic boys has created empowering dolls to encourage acceptance of children with disabilities. Maria Kentley, from Melbourne, Australia, started the Hope Toys line last year in response to the perfect figures manufactured by the major toy companies. Her dolls represent a number of disabilities – some are amputees with prosthetic legs, while others have wheelchairs or walking aids.”

”Teaching the Teachers”

Slate | topic(s): educational apps, early childhood education
”It seems a waste. Millions of educational apps, millions of lesson plans available online, millions of laptops in the hands of students.Yet only a small segment of teachers nationwide find ways to infuse technology into their lessons. Private groups are stepping in to show instructors how to use technology in the classroom.”

”The Anxiety of Influence: Children’s Books and Their Grown-Up Counterparts”

The Millions | topic(s): children’s books, children’s literature
”If you’re a parent to a young child, you probably find yourself reading a lot of picture and chapter books, and then, before your own bedtime, reading different books, ones that feature more adults, more drinking, more ennui. You might believe these books, theirs and yours, to be quite different — but that’s not always the case. Over the years I’ve made connections between my favorite authors and my son’s. Once you see the similarities, you can’t un-see them. So read on, brave adult, if you want the veil pulled from your eyes.”

”The Smart Parent’s Guide To Choosing Children’s Books”

The Federalist | topic(s): children’s books, children’s literature
”A well-written children’s book is a beautiful thing. Yet beauty is an elusive quality, and many books fall short of that standard. Parents are sometimes encouraged to believe that children’s books are like exercise, in that anything is better than nothing. However, just as not everything that fits in a baby’s mouth ought to be there, not everything with an ISBN number ought to find its way into your kiddo’s hands.”

”10 Things You Didn’t Know About Your Favorite Board Games”

Discovery News | topic(s): educational games
”Winter is upon us, alas, but board games are a time-honored way of powering through these cold February nights. If you’ve ever wondered about the origins of those games that live up on the top shelf of the closet, it turns out that many popular games have genuinely intriguing histories.”

”Bernadette Russell’s Top 10 Philosophical Questions Children Should Ask”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books, children’s literature, early childhood education
”Here are the 10 questions children should ask themselves, along with inspiration from some of the most important thinkers of our time: Winnie The Pooh, Dr Seuss, and Roald Dahl.”

”Library Installs Early Literacy Computer”

The Daily Reporter | topic(s): children’s books, children’s literature, early childhood education
”New to the suite of computers in the children’s section of the Spencer Public Library is a unit geared toward helping young children develop literacy skills through educational games. It’s a computer specifically designed for little kids. The keyboard is color coded, the mouse is smaller to accommodate smaller hands, and it’s full of educational games. In addition, storybooks are loaded onto the computer, giving the kids the options of reading to themselves, reading along or being read to.”

”Library Installs Early Literacy Computer”

The Daily Reporter | topic(s): children’s books, children’s literature, early childhood education
”The toy world’s biggest convention starts this weekend in New York, where more than 900 members of the Toy Industry Association — brands, manufacturers, licensors and retailers who account for about 90 percent of the annual $22 billion U.S. domestic toy market — will gather to talk about the future of the business. Unfortunately, they’ll start off with something that seems more like it should be a throwback to the past. At the prestigious Toy of the Year Awards Friday evening, honors in two categories — the Boy Toy of the Year and the Girl Toy of the Year — will rely upon and reinforce the outdated gender stereotyping of toys.”

”Someone Tell the Toy Makers That Boys Play with Dolls and Girls Play with Spaceships”

Washington Post | topic(s): dolls
”The toy world’s biggest convention starts this weekend in New York, where more than 900 members of the Toy Industry Association — brands, manufacturers, licensors and retailers who account for about 90 percent of the annual $22 billion U.S. domestic toy market — will gather to talk about the future of the business. Unfortunately, they’ll start off with something that seems more like it should be a throwback to the past. At the prestigious Toy of the Year Awards Friday evening, honors in two categories — the Boy Toy of the Year and the Girl Toy of the Year — will rely upon and reinforce the outdated gender stereotyping of toys.”

”Majority of Parents Worried About Children’s Digital Reading, Survey Finds”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
”The kids showing up to Kindergarten classes are much more tech-savvy than their predecessors five years ago. These digital natives are only a little older than the iPhone and they are used to a world where they are surrounded by technology, and where technology has evolved as they’ve grown. Northwestern University reports that among children 8 years of age and younger, 21 percent use smartphones regularly for activities that range from texting to using educational apps. Common Sense Media found that 72 percent of children age 8 and younger have used a media device for watching a show, playing a game or engaging with educational apps, and that 38 percent of children under 2 have used a mobile device for media. Children are no longer satisfied with seeing their favorite characters on a TV screen; they want to interact through mobile applications, YouTube videos and more. It presents new challenges for the early teachers these kids encounter who must find ways to keep students’ attention while focusing on the important early lessons of their academic careers.”

”How Teachers Can Use Education Technology to Boost Engagement”

Education Week | topic(s): educational apps, educational games, early childhood education
”The kids showing up to Kindergarten classes are much more tech-savvy than their predecessors five years ago. These digital natives are only a little older than the iPhone and they are used to a world where they are surrounded by technology, and where technology has evolved as they’ve grown. Northwestern University reports that among children 8 years of age and younger, 21 percent use smartphones regularly for activities that range from texting to using educational apps. Common Sense Media found that 72 percent of children age 8 and younger have used a media device for watching a show, playing a game or engaging with educational apps, and that 38 percent of children under 2 have used a mobile device for media. Children are no longer satisfied with seeing their favorite characters on a TV screen; they want to interact through mobile applications, YouTube videos and more. It presents new challenges for the early teachers these kids encounter who must find ways to keep students’ attention while focusing on the important early lessons of their academic careers.”

”Reinforce Multicultural Identity”

Straits Times | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Singapore’s multiracial and multicultural quality is such a distinctive feature that Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam wants it to be further reinforced as part of the nation’s identity. He encouraged Singaporeans to take a keen interest in one another’s cultures and participate in them wherever possible.”

”Apples & Honey Preschool Embrace Multiculturalism for Diverse Student Body”

News Local | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Staff at Apples & Honey Preschool are learning to say good morning in more than 10 languages to keep up with their pupils’ multicultural backgrounds. The Chatswood long-­daycare centre incorporates different cultures in aspects of its day, including singing, games, cooking and craft. Centre director Ali Greene said she could not remember off the top of her head how many cultures were represented but knew it was more than 10. They have Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Australian, Jewish, French, Russian, Arab, Spanish.”

”The Power of Thinking Like a Preschooler”

Albuquerque Journal | topic(s): early childhood education
”It is important for our legislators and the public to understand that funding for early care and education is not about preparation for elementary school or third grade reading scores. Instead, the intended consequence of a fully funded early care and education system is that all children, including those who are vulnerable due to poverty and other adverse childhood experiences, have improved education, employment, social and health outcomes as adults. ”

”The Power of Thinking Like a Preschooler”

The Atlantic | topic(s): early childhood education
”What is it like to be a 4-year-old human? Trying to remember this experience with any accuracy is difficult. Memories are hazy flashes of sensory experience and emotion that fail to coalesce into something coherent: the red piped icing on a birthday cake, the sticky static of plastic wrap on mom’s dry cleaning, overwhelming waves of sadness from a Disney-movie soundtrack. It’s no wonder that at an individual level, trying to talk and relate to a small child can feel like grappling with a foreign species. It’s also, perhaps, no wonder that a society of adults has trouble figuring out how best to design a preschool environment.”

”Is There a Digital Solution to Unstructured, Creativity-enhancing Play?”

Quartz | topic(s): educational apps, educational games, early childhood education
”Björn Jeffery, co-founder of Toca Boca children’s apps, is evangelical about the benefits of unstructured play. The point of his apps is for kids to create things, from music to stories to hairstyles. The lack of a specific educational goal — increased literacy, improved math skills, and the like — is what makes the apps unique and, oddly, not intentionally educational. There is learning, but it is not educational. The distinction is that education is a subset of learning. This is an unusual approach in a hyper-academic age in which many children’s apps make bold and dubious educational claims.”

”Why We Love Enchantment in Children’s Books”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books
”Children’s authors Laura Dockrill and Candy Gourlay love to blend surreal with real in their enchanted, twisted fairytales. Here they explain why – and recommend a whole load of great books for those who like their stories weird and wonderful.”

”The Difference Between Cultural Appropriation and Multicultural Interaction”

The Varsity | topic(s): multiculturalism
”When white teenagers play lacrosse, a game invented by First Nations peoples well before the European colonial era, are they appropriating an entire sport? When a restaurant offers Mexican tacos with Korean-style meat, should we stop and try to calculate which nationality has experienced more oppression and who is appropriating from whom? Of course not. These are not instances of racism, but rather, multiculturalism at work. When human beings live together, they influence, impress, and seek to imitate one another. A truly diverse community is not one where distinct cultures from foreign lands live in physical or imagined enclaves, shielding every aspect of their traditions from those who are different from them. On the contrary, it is one where customs are shared and the foreign becomes familiar, not just for education but for fun.”

”The Economics of Multiculturalism in a Diverse Community”

Perth Now | topic(s): multiculturalism
”One of the joys of being a Member of Parliament is getting invited to numerous cultural or diplomatic events with ethnic communities. I’ve recently attended the traditional Japanese breaking of the sake barrel, a Chinese feast featuring a lion dance and watched the New Year drummed in at the Vietnamese festival of Tet. During these events you get an insight into the deep and fondly held traditions of different cultures. Like western Christmas traditions, these lunar New Year events bind family and community in a rich display of pageantry and ceremony. These celebrations are an important part of Australia’s multicultural way of life.”

”Ready for Kindergarten? Some Oregon Children Are Ultra Primed, Others Not at All”

Oregon Live | topic(s): early childhood education
”Oregon’s kindergartners arrived at school last fall slightly better prepared than the previous two classes, the state reported Monday. The typical child had mastered a bit more basic math and knew the sounds made by about seven letters instead of six, according to results from short individual assessments done by teachers during the first days of the school year. More striking than the progress, however, were the enormous gulfs between the readiness of children in different neighborhoods and communities. At Findley Elementary north of Beaverton, where 65 percent of the children are Asian and nearly all parents are college-educated, the average child could name 44 upper- and lower-case letters in 60 seconds, knew 25 letter sounds and got 12 of 16 simple math problems right. But in kindergartens across Woodburn, the average 5-year-old arrived able to name just six letters, answer five of 16 math problems and say the sounds made by three letters in either English or Spanish. Eighty percent of Woodburn’s kindergartners are Latino and at least three-fourths are low-income.”

”Critical Problem Affecting America’s Childcare System (But Ignored by Policy Makers)”

Washington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
”Congress recently passed the bipartisan federal K-12 Every Child Succeeds Act to succeed No Child Left Behind. While ESSA proposes to allocate $250 million for quality preschool programs, it does not propose allocation of any funding to address the devastating consequences of what I call the mirroring of disadvantage in America’s childcare system. Americans do not know that up to a million childcare teachers today are at-risk for functional illiteracy. Below is an explanation of how the mirroring of disadvantage helps explain this risk and others and why it matters.”

”Actress Jennifer Garner Pushes Early Childhood Education in Kentucky”

New Haven Register | topic(s): early childhood education
”Hollywood actress Jennifer Garner is asking Kentucky lawmakers to spend $1 million on an early-childhood education program. The star of the TV show Alias and movies including Juno and Dallas Buyers Club testified before the House budget committee on Tuesday on behalf of Save The Children. Garner said the program works well in Kentucky, offering literacy and other development programs for children. Lawmakers said they support the program but noted the state does not have much money to spend because of shortfalls in public pension programs.”

”How School Suspensions Push Black Students Behind”

The Atlantic | topic(s): early childhood education
”A new study shows how much racial discrepancies in classroom discipline contribute to the achievement gap.”

”Anatomy of a Blockbuster Toy: Play-Doh”

Toy News | topic(s): arts and crafts
”Since its launch as a toy in 1956, after being used as a cleaning agent in the 1930s, Play-Doh has rocketed to global fame, shifting over two billion tubs of the compound to become the number one arts and crafts product in the UK. As the brand turns 60, Robert Hutchins explores the versatility of this blockbuster toy.”

”This Old Hobby is the Latest Craze for Children”

Express | topic(s): arts and crafts
”Britain’s biggest supermarket has revealed a surprising sales spike of nearly 500 PERCENT in knitting and sewing kits for kids. In an age when phone neck is becoming a health problem and comedians joke about the joys of iPad parenting, the centuries-old craft is experiencing a revival. Tesco revealed in the last year demand for sewing and knitting pattern kits aimed at children have rocketed by nearly 500 percent. And a kids’ mini sewing machine is so popular that it has become one of the supermarket’s top selling children’s items. The boom has been sparked by the huge popularity of BBC’s The Great British Sewing Bee series, which has done for needlecraft what The Great British Bake off did for baking, as well as a growing trend for arts and crafts aimed at children.”

”Shoemaker with Cult Following Says Craftsmanship Key to Success”

South China Morning Post | topic(s): craftsmanship
”Paul Andrew, who learned his trade working with Alexander McQueen and Narciso Rodriguez, has built a brand with a distinctive DNA based on Italian craft and materials sourced from specialists with a long pedigree in shoemaking.”

”Obama Looking at Gaming for New Computer Science Education Initiative”

GameSpot | topic(s): educational games
”One element of President Obama’s recently announced $4 billion plan to help children learn computer science may involve gaming, according to White House officials. The three-year plan, which Obama is calling Computer Science for All, will give states money to train teachers and update classrooms.”

”Is the Educational Games Industry Falling Into the Same Trap It Did 20 Years Ago?”

Victoria Advocate | topic(s): educational games
”Carmen Sandiego has reappeared. Last November, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt released Carmen Sandiego Returns, the first iPad and iPhone version of the classic game in which players use their geography knowledge to track Carmen and her goons across the world. Teachers increasingly blog and write about using game-based learning in their classrooms. And the market for educational games may be worth $2.3 billion by next year. Carmen may be in plain sight now, but things aren’t the same as when she last appeared. Once an icon of the educational gaming software in the mid-90’s—also known as the edutainment era—Carmen hasn’t been hiding as much as trying to claw her way back from obscurity. Her disappearance was less intentional and more reflective of the collapse of the edutainment industry. Aftershocks of the collapse of the edutainment industry still trouble today’s teeming edtech market. Many of the key players from back then see history repeating itself: a crowded market doomed the majority of edutainment companies . What can today’s educational game developers learn from that boom-and-bust period?”

”Youngsters Take Small Steps Toward Big Futures”

Victoria Advocate | topic(s): educational games
”Pre-K in the Victoria Independent School District offers early childhood education in 10 skill domains: social emotional development, language and communication, emergent literacy reading, emergent literacy writing, mathematics, science, social studies, fine arts, physical development and technology. Studies show that students who participate in strong early education programs are more likely to graduate in four years, take more advanced and higher level courses, and are less likely to drop out of school than students who did not attend an early education program. Research also indicates that students who attend a high quality early education program were better equipped to face the rigors of school, as well as life.”

”Obama Looking at Gaming for New Computer Science Education Initiative”

GameSpot | topic(s): educational games
”One element of President Obama’s recently announced $4 billion plan to help children learn computer science may involve gaming, according to White House officials. The three-year plan, which Obama is calling Computer Science for All, will give states money to train teachers and update classrooms.”

”VTech Aims to Buy Fellow Edu-game Maker LeapFrog in $72M Deal”

Gamasutra | topic(s): educational games
”Two companies that make educational games and gadgets for kids are expected to merge next month in a deal that will see Chinese firm VTech spend roughly $72 million to acquire California-based LeapFrog Enterprises. This is chiefly notable because it represents a consolidation in the market for educational games and technology.”

”Bahamian Artisans Get International Exposure As Handicrafts Exported To Germany”

Tribune 242 | topic(s): arts and crafts, craftsmanship
”More than $70,000 worth of Bahamian handicrafts were exported to Germany providing international exposure for talented Bahamian artisans, it was revealed this week. Deputy Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis officially opened Bahamas Agriculture and Industrial Corporation’s (BAIC) Grand Bahama Arts and Craft Centre in Freeport, which provides a venue for local artisans to showcase and sell authentically Bahamian-made products and souvenirs, on Thursday. The building was constructed a few years ago at a cost of over $500,000 on two acres of land donated by the Grand Bahama Port Authority.”

”Investing in Babies is Good for Business”

Wausau Daily Herald | topic(s): early childhood education
”How we support babies and children now will ripple for years. Rob Grunewald, an economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, speaks regularly about the economic benefits of investing in programs such as quality childcare, teacher training and home visits for at-risk families with babies. Communities rally around these investments because they’re backed by the neuroscience of brain development and economic studies. Investing in kids early can help them develop language, social and problem solving skills and be ready for kindergarten when the time comes. That’s important, because kids who start behind in kindergarten tend to stay behind their classmates. But if a child is on track in kindergarten, they’re more likely to read at grade level in third grade, graduate high school and continue on for more education. A key ingredient of regional economic growth is the quality of your workforce. Business will choose to grow in communities with a quality workforce.”

”Our Favorite Classic Children’s Books Are Super Problematic”

Huffington Post | topic(s): children’s books
”The longer a book is read and treasured past its publication date, the more likely it is to outlast its cultural context and outstay its welcome.”

”Crisis in Vanishing Traditional Japanese Crafts Prompts New Push in Europe”

The Asahi Shimbum | topic(s): craftsmanship
”Fourth-generation tatami shop master Yoshiaki Kagami shares Japanese craftsmen’s sense of crisis as fewer people are engaged in traditional industries. Kagami is taking part in a project among Japanese craftsmen and others working to open a base in France to restore traditional crafts and promote Japanese culture in Europe. Under the plan, the new facility will promote Japanese craftsmen’s techniques and craftworks. Kondo recently established the administrative body of Takumi Village with the help of traditional craftsmen. Kondo and his colleagues plan to fully start operations of Takumi Village by the end of this year.”

”Inside Chanel Video Details 130-hour Haute Couture Process”

Luxury Daily | topic(s): craftsmanship
”French fashion house Chanel is taking consumers inside the house for the thirteenth time to cultivate exclusivity and mystery. The latest chapter of the ongoing Inside Chanel series focuses on the creation of the brand’s haute couture clothing. While the reveal will satisfy the modern consumer’s craving for transparency.”

”Mobility in Education – Making Kids Smarter from Kindergarten”

WhaTech | topic(s): educational apps, educational games
”To put an end to the tiring job of going to school, heavy school bags, loads of homework and boring lessons, enterprise mobility has started to craft solutions right for the kids in kindergarten.”

”Barbie Dolls Maker Mattel Reportedly in Merger Talks with Rival Hasbro”

International Business | topic(s): dolls
”Hasbro, the official toymaker for Star Wars, has approached Mattel, the company famous for its Barbie dolls, to discuss a potential merger, reports say. Sources claim that Hasbro intends to create a single large company with a portfolio of global brands such as Barbie, Hot Wheels and My Little Pony, through the deal.”

”Toys Like Me: Why Diversity in Barbie Dolls and Legos Matters”

Live Science | topic(s): dolls, multiculturalism
”Playtime could broaden kids’ perspectives and ideas of what is good when it comes to body image, as new, diverse toys come onto the market, sociologists say. Last week, Mattel announced a new line for its iconic Barbie that includes dolls with tall, curvy and petite body types. These dolls have seven skin tones, 22 eye colors and 24 hairstyles, Mattel said in a news announcement. Meanwhile, Lego plans to sell a mini figure in a wheelchair in its Fun in the Park building set this June, Lego spokesman Michael McNally said. The changes have set the toy (and sociology) world abuzz.”

”Why You Must Embrace the Danger of Adventure to Lead Effectively”

Entrepreneur | topic(s): adventure
”Richard Gonnering, a leader and entrepreneur, tried to expand operations, serve a wider range of customers and thereby increase employment opportunities. He put massive amounts of time, energy, and money into sustaining this company, but his plan failed. In the business leader’s adventure, livelihoods, families, and the economies of entire towns are at stake. The hero and victim both know their vulnerability. The difference is that the hero chooses that vulnerability while the victim laments it.”

”Reading and Telling Stories About the Black Experience”

The Notebook | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
”For a class project, Kathleen Melville, a teacher at the Workshop School, asked her 9th-grade students to study the importance of culturally relevant children’s literature by reading an essay by Walter Dean Myers and reflecting on their experiences with books. On a trip to the Free Library, each student selected a culturally relevant children’s book to review and share with a small group of 2nd graders at the Powel School in West Philadelphia. They are now working on writing and illustrating children’s books that are culturally relevant to their 2nd-grade partners.”

”A Reader is a Reader, No Matter How Small”

TES | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
”It’s high time youngsters were given a voice about the literature they enjoy – that’s why TES is giving pupils a platform to review children’s books. We know that for children (and for adults) reading is important, that words have power to unlock the mysteries of life and take you on a journey of discovery. Perhaps Dr. Seuss knew this best. The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”

”The Value of Independent Reading for Kids”

Children’s Book Council | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
”With so many apps and devices competing for children’s attention, it can be difficult to promote reading as a fun activity. President of Scholastic Reading Clubs Judy Newman shares advice for encouraging kids to read for pleasure, both in the classroom and at home.”

”We Must All Speak up for Libraries”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
”Libraries are slipping away from us and unless we speak up for them and stand up for them, they will be gone, warns author Cathy Cassidy on the eve of National Libraries Day.”

”McDonald’s to Give Away Children’s Books with Happy Meals”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
”The fast-food chain plans to distribute more than 50m books to kids by year’s end – enough to provide a book to every child in America under the age of 12.”

”You’re Never Too Young to Start Writing”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
”KM Peyton, author of Flambards, had her first book published at the age of 15 and has had a book published every year since. She’s now 86. Here’s her advice on how to follow in her footsteps.”

”Where Are the Diverse Children’s Books?”

MPR News | topic(s): multiculturalism, children’s books, early childhood education
”A new survey commissioned by the publisher Lee & Low Books provides the first-ever comprehensive look inside the industry. The survey, conducted last year, analyzed the staff demographics of eight review journals and 34 publishers of varying size, from small presses all the way up to big players like Penguin Random House and Scholastic. The survey shows that editorial department staffers — the people making decisions every day about what content should be published — are 82 percent white, 84 percent women, 86 percent heterosexual and 92 percent non-disabled. The publishing industry as a whole, including sales, publicity, and executive departments, is not much more diverse: 79 percent white, 78 percent women, 88 percent heterosexual, 92 percent non-disabled. These demographics likely play a role in the lack of diversity in published books: People are editing and promoting work that reflects their own identities. The question now becomes: How can the industry change?”

”Expert Urges New Approach to Improve Early Education”

Newbury Port News | topic(s): early childhood education
”Massachusetts lawmakers assembled with Senate President Stanley Rosenberg to conduct an interdisciplinary study of policy areas affecting children and receive a presentation from Dr. Jack Shonkoff, the director of the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. Shonkoff contrasted the fight to cure cancer against the world of education — where, he said, income-based and race-based achievement gaps still exist despite the expansion of early childhood education. Medical researchers are in a relentless pursuit to completely cure cancer and keep working towards that goal after making progress with new developments, Shonkoff said. He argues that we have to bring that same mentality into early childhood and investments in education.”

”An Expanding Universe of Space Apps”

New York Times | topic(s): educational apps, educational games, adventure, early childhood education
”From the reusable rockets by SpaceX to the stunning photos of dim and distant Pluto, space is all over the news. While becoming an astronaut is out of reach for most of us, there are plenty of apps that can take your mind on a journey to the final frontier. Start with the official NASA app, which is easy to navigate and is free on iOS and Android, and for Amazon Fire devices. The app features photos and videos, news about current missions, NASA tweets and more.”

”Kids And The Internet: Top 5 Educational Websites For Children”

Parent Herald | topic(s): educational apps, educational games, early childhood education
”The internet has many benefits for people of all ages, even children. It can even help children learn and have fun at the same time. Parenting.com has gathered a list of the best educational websites for children. These websites will surely help your kids develop some important skills while having a great time.”

”Bringing Nature Back!”

Examiner | topic(s): early childhood education
”Early childhood education is a growing topic among policy makers, household dinner conversations, and university studies. Emerging research indicates that the growing separation between children and nature is resulting in harmful long term effects while strengthening those ties can have immediate benefits. A child’s physical, intellectual and social-emotional development is all dependent upon healthy experiences with nature. Nature based learning environments are considered “best practice” in the industry and are supported by NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) with the focus being child centered, not academic or assessment driven.”

”Social Omnivores and Book Placement Majorly Influence Children’s Book Buyership”

Forbes | topic(s): children’s books
”On January 21st, Nielsen released statistics segmenting children’s book buyership into several groups thanks to responses from 3,000 participants. Kristen McLean, director of new business development at Nielsen, said that this study is more behavioral than demographic in terms of the information available to publishers.”

”Leave Perfection to Those With Little Imagination”

Huffington Post | topic(s): craftsmanship
”The kettle whistles; a vibrant green powder dissolves into the steaming water, swirling until uniform. The cup in my hand is warm, its texture smooth, its form curvy. Like a mug who was tired of standing up straight, it slumps into my hand in the most comfortable way. There is a felt sense of the hands that made this mug I am holding. I am sitting in the living room of fine art quilter and yoga therapist Heidi Parkes. She made the mug and is sitting next to me hand-quilting. Her needle is weaving over and under, making perfectly imperfect stitches across her latest creation. Heidi is doing a technique called improvisational quilting. There are no drawings or meticulous plans for how she will quilt this piece, just a feeling and a flow she follows. What comes across is a piece that is more than a handmade craft (which is plenty in its own right); it is an object full of story and meaning, something that one, like a painting, can stare at and contemplate over and over.”

”What Luk Thep Dolls Teach Us”

Nation Multimedia | topic(s): dolls
”We frown upon the owners of Luk Thep (Angelic Children), the life-like dolls which have been taken care of like real kids. (It’s a trend, obviously, and in a few months many of us will have forgotten having talked about it.) But before you go too far, hold your tongue and just look around. Chances are something superstitious is situated near you.”

”Princesses and Dolls Teach Girls to Play Small, Even When We Grow Up”

CentralMaine.com | topic(s): dolls
”For some women, newly announced changes in the Barbie doll body type come way late. Ditto for the recent finding that the male characters have three times the lines as the female stars in a spate of animated Disney princess movies. In fact, by the time a girl is 4, there’s a good chance she has already internalized messages about how big she’s supposed to get, how expansively she’s supposed to reach — literally, in the case of Minnie Mouse figurines — and how little space physically and psychically she’s encouraged to take up in the world.”

”Here’s What Realistic Ken Dolls Would Look Like”

Cosmopolitan | topic(s): dolls
”The world was delighted by last week’s (long overdue, super historical) news that Barbies would soon be available in several new shapes and sizes. Some (men) argued though that if Barbie got a realistic body image revamp, it was only fair Ken did too, so fashion curating brand Lyst did exactly that. Well, kind of. In a press release, Lyst provided images of Beach DadBod Ken, Bearded Hipster Ken, and Balding Ken, alongside black, Asian and petite Kens.”

”The Oregon Trail Could Have Used a Native American Viewpoint”

PBS | topic(s): multiculturalism, educational games, educational apps
”One of the three co-creators of The Oregon Trail took to Reddit on Monday to field questions on the video game, which introduced scores of school children to the trials and tribulations of pioneer life in America, including bouts with dysentery. Don Rawitsch said he wanted a game to help me teach about the Westward Movement in the mid-1800s, but added in the Reddit thread that the game was missing a Native American viewpoint. Oregon Trail is populated with helpful Native American characters, but their back stories are never explored, nor does the educational game shift from the perspective of its white, male protagonist, who leads a group of settlers from Independence, Missouri to the Willamette Valley in Oregon.”

”Two Jordanian Writers Emphasize Importance of Children’s Literature”

Kuwait News Agency | topic(s): children’s literature
”The authors pointed out that children’s literature helps to develop life experiences and humanitarian values among children, especially during this era of conflicts in various parts of the Arab World.”

”Barnes & Noble to Launch Personalized Children’s Books Program”

The Wall Street Journal | topic(s): children’s books
”In deal with Sourcebooks Inc., parents will be able to insert the names of their children into popular titles.”

”Michaels Buys Ohio-based Chain of 34 Pat Catan’s Arts and Crafts Stores”

The Dallas Morning News | topic(s): arts and crafts
”Irving-based arts and crafts retailer Michaels has purchased a regional competitor with 34 stores in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan and West Virginia. Michaels said Tuesday it paid $150 million in cash for Ohio-based Lamrite West Inc., which in addition to its Pat Catan’s craft stores has a wholesale supply business. That operation can help Michaels develop more of its private brands, said Michaels CEO Chuck Rubin.”

”ABC’s of Early Education”

Kitsap Sun | topic(s): early childhood education
”Kayla McKinney, 6, used a magnifying glass Monday to spot the letter Z in a picture during Jenny Brisbon’s kindergarten class at Burley Glenwood Elementary School. Classmate Avery Shinn, 6, was making letters out of plastic straws, and Jacob Pate, 6, was learning his alphabet playing with rubber stamps. It used to be that kindergarten was mostly for play. Today, with the focus on higher academic standards in all grades, it’s for learning through play, said Brisbon, whose district Monday opened registration for next year’s incoming kindergartners. The foundation set in kindergarten is a launchpad for the rest of a child’s K-12 education. There’s much at stake, it seems, and so many choices. Kindergarten is a transitional year when some children still are working on basic skills like tying shoes and managing personal hygiene. Parents of children born near the Aug. 31 eligibility date — and those who lag physically or socially — might wrestle with whether to wait a year.”

”Mattel Releases New Line Of ‘Relatable’ Barbie Dolls Reflecting Different Body Types”

Design & Trend | topic(s): dolls
”Barbie just got a major face lift. Actually, the exact opposite of a face lift. Mattel decided that the 57-year-old Barbie needed a more realistic makeover, reports TIME. Not too realistic — no cellulite, stretch marks nor nether regions. Clearly, she’s still going to be made of plastic. Otherwise, changing the lyrics to Barbie Girl would be a pain. The changes will mainly come down to body type, style, skin tone and ethnicity. Many people are crying out that it’s about darn time!”

”Lucky or Chucky? Thai Spirit Dolls Delight and Disturb”

Yahoo News | topic(s): dolls
”Known in Thai as luuk thep (child angels), the pricey dolls, which can cost up to $600, were first popularised a little over a year ago by celebrities who claimed dressing up and feeding the dolls had brought them professional success. Believers say the dolls — many of which are blessed and have sacred scripts drawn on them by a monk — contain the spirit of a real child and must be treated as a living being. The theory runs that those who look after their dolls like members of the family will see good fortune returned to them. As a result, plastic dolls are now taking their seats at restaurant tables, cinemas and even on airplanes.”

”Shelve Paperbacks in Favor of eBooks in Schools?”

BBC | topic(s): early childhood education, children’s ebooks
”eBooks are increasingly being used in classrooms by children as young as three – and they are making a big difference to the reading habits of boys. But there are concerns the expansion of electronic devices in schools may undermine the position of traditional paper books.”

”Educational Apps for Kids”

Choice | topic(s): educational apps
”Sitting down to play with a smartphone or tablet has become an inevitable part of life for many kids, and with this has come an avalanche of apps aimed specifically at children. While some apps leave no doubt they’re purely for entertainment, many – including more than a whopping 80,000 in the Apple Store alone – claim to have some educational value as well. As it turns out, despite their educational claims, many are just digital candy. So if you’re a parent who looks for a bit of educational value for your child’s screen time, how do you sort the good apps from the bad? We spoke to the experts to find out the key ingredients that make an app educational, so you can keep your little ones learning.”

“Kids Learn About Environment, Recycling at WONDER in the Garden”

Naples Daily News | topic(s): arts and crafts
”While kids did arts and crafts, they learned about recycling and conservation during W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden, a program that teaches children about the environment. Every month has a different theme. January’s theme was recycling.”

“The Biggest Public Policy Mistake We’re Continuing to Make, Year After Year”

Washington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
”It is widely agreed that while we do not seek equal outcomes in America, we do aspire to equal opportunity, at least in theory. We have, however, never come close to that ideal, particularly as regards minorities and those with few resources. A great way to correct that is to invest more national resources in early childhood education. By not doing so, we’re leaving vulnerable kids behind and lots of future benefits on the table.”

“Favorite Childhood Pastime of Coloring Books is Rediscovered in Recent Trend”

The Post Athens | topic(s): educational games, children’s books
”As it turns out, sometimes students still like to keep it between the lines with a favorite childhood pastime. The adult coloring trend popped up this past fall and has increased in popularity around Christmas time, as coloring books became a popular gift for the season.”

“Study to Examine Rural Early-Learning Policies”

Education Week | topic(s): early childhood education
”The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is launching a $6.5 million project to study early-childhood education policies nationwide with an emphasis on how policies differ in rural and urban areas, according to the Lincoln Journal Star. The study will use researchers across the country to track children from early-childhood classrooms through early elementary to identify policies that best prepare at-risk students for school. Researchers are especially interested in examining the experiences of rural children and have identified 10 rural school districts to participate in the multi-year study.”

“Free Educational Activities Online for Toddlers, Preschool”

Examiner | topic(s): educational games, early childhood education
”Need to occupy toddlers or preschool kids? This article offers 16 safe, school approved free educational websites for young children. These sites are child-friendly, family-oriented and have lots of educational games and free printable activities for young learners.”

“Cambodian-Born Lawmaker Works for Multiculturalism in Taiwan”

Voice of America | topic(s): multiculturalism
”The newly elected politician has been an activist on migrant issues in Taiwan for many years, working closely with women from China, Vietnam and Cambodia.”

“The Major Problem with Children’s Literature”

Babble | topic(s): children’s literature, children’s books
”According to The Washington Post, almost all of the main characters in children’s picture books are male. No more than 33 percent of children’s books in any given year featured an adult woman or female animal, but adult men and male animals appeared in 100 percent of the books.”

“11 Year Old Launches #1000BlackGirlBooks Campaign”

Teen Vogue | topic(s): children’s books, multiculturalism
”It doesn’t take that much awareness to recognize the racial inequality present within mainstream media. In everything from children’s books to award shows, the faces we see and imagine are, predominantly, white. While the fight for a more equal playing field may be an uphill battle, many people are still standing up to do what they can to push the movement forward. One such hero is Marley Dias, an 11-year-old New Jersey resident and avid reader has begun a project called #1000BlackGirlBooks, which is an effort to compile 1,000 books featuring black female protagonists by February 1.”

“Syrian Women Find Art in Beirut’s Trash”

Ghana Web | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
”A small crowd of people gathered in Beirut recently to browse an unusual array of products, from a chandelier composed of empty wine bottles, to seats made of old clothes and fabric, sewn together and stretched across empty barrels. Beirut’s ongoing garbage crisis has become an opportunity for a group of Syrian women, who have converted discarded corkscrews, aluminium containers and egg cartons into a variety of items, from tables to photo frames. Their recycled products were offered for sale last month at the Glass Hall, a cultural centre connected to the Ministry of Tourism in Beirut’s bustling Hamra district.”

“Making Time to Read”

Children’s Book Council | topic(s): early childhood education, children’s books
”In spite of our resolutions to read more in 2016, it can be difficult to find the time. Bookish has put together a list of suggestions for setting aside reading time on the busiest of days.”

“Is There Hope for a Return to Common Sense in Early Childhood Education?”

Alternet | topic(s): early childhood education
”I have been involved in education long enough to know that, much like the children riding the painted ponies on the carousel of time in Joni Mitchell’s song The Circle Game, educational trends often go round and round. So after years of (erroneously) pressuring early childhood programs to prepare children for college and career, perhaps we are finally seeing the light at the end of what I view as a very long and dark tunnel of developmentally inappropriate expectations and instruction for our youngest learners.”

“Supernatural Dolls Welcome Aboard Thai Planes With Child Ticket”

Bloomberg | topic(s): dolls, travel
”A Thai airline will allow passengers to purchase seats for life-like dolls that their owners treat as real children due to their belief that they possess supernatural powers. Thai Smile Airways, which is a part of national carrier Thai Airways International Pcl, said in an internal memo that dolls with tickets will be served snacks and drinks, though they will be barred from sitting in exit rows. Owners who take dolls on the plane without tickets will have them treated as carry-on luggage. The dolls known as Luk Thep, or Child Angels, have become increasingly popular in Thailand after several celebrities extolled their benefits. The dolls, which can sell for hundreds of dollars, are thought to possess the spirits of child angels and their owners pamper them with brand-name clothes and accessories due to the belief that a well-cared-for doll will bring good fortune.”

“School Kids Explore Details of Every Nation at Carnival”

The Times of India | topic(s): multiculturalism, early childhood education
”Around 7,000 students of St Mary’s ICSE School, Koparkhairane, organized a carnival on January 23 on the school ground. The kids created educational games encompassing every detail of all the nations such as food, culture, religion, language, livelihood etc. They described nations through charts, pictorials and games. The parents supported the kids endeavour by buying tickets for the games.”

“The Dark Legacy of Edutainment”

Games and Learning | topic(s): educational games
”Ten years ago indie game developer and author Sande Chen studied the state of the games for impact movement in the book she co-authored called Serious Games: Games That Educate, Train and Inform. We’ve asked her to revisit that work to see what has or has not changed in the field of learning games.”

“A.C. Moore Supports Art Education Via Fresh Artists Partnership”

PR Newswire | topic(s): arts and crafts, early childhood education
”Leading arts & craft retailer, A.C. Moore, today announced a storewide campaign to support art philanthropy organization, Fresh Artists. Since the establishment of Crafting a Better World initiative, A.C. Moore has been committed to inspiring creativity, while tacking critical issues in society. Following the campaign, A.C. Moore will match each donation, dollar for dollar, with all funds going directly to Fresh Artists for art supplies and programming in underprivileged public schools.”

“Head Start Reading Program Inspires Parents to Become First Teachers”

New Haven Register | topic(s): early childhood education
”Early childhood education advocates stress the importance of family story time for literacy development.”

“Head Start Reading Program Inspires Parents to Become First Teachers”

New Haven Register | topic(s): early childhood education
”Early childhood education advocates stress the importance of family story time for literacy development.”

“Adventure Holidays: Push Your Boundaries, Experience New Cultures”

Independent | topic(s): adventure
”Don’t sit still, there’s a world out there to explore and trips now cover all levels of excitement. Traveling the world in search of an adventure is more popular now than ever – and for good reason. Gone are the days when adventure travel was purely the domain of backpackers or adrenaline junkies looking to tick off activities like bungee jumping and cage diving with sharks. Over recent years, the term ‘adventure’ has broadened considerably and can now be considered as anything ‘experiential.’ Today, these kinds of trips are more about active exploration, educational experiences and trying something new, whether that’s trekking to Everest Base Camp or taking a salsa class in Cuba.”

“Research on Game-based Learning Points Towards Difficult Incongruities”

University of Skövde | topic(s): educational games
”The interest for using computer games in classroom education has grown rapidly in recent years. But, how well do computer games actually work as educational tools? This January, Björn Berg Marklund, a researcher on game-based learning at the University of Skövde, is presenting new findings that aims to answer that question.”

“Video: Educators Have a Superficial Understanding of Multiculturalism”

Global News | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Anna Kirova, a University of Alberta professor who understands how hard it can be to acclimatize to a new life in Canada, is hoping to bridge the cultural divide by drawing on her own experience.”

“The Greatest Inspirational Quotes From Children’s Books”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books
”Hidden beneath the bright covers of children’s books are philosophical quotes from which we can all learn. Take a look at some of our favourites, from Winnie the Pooh to Where the Wild Things Are.”

“Roadmap for Early Childhood and K–12 Data Linkages”

Quality Implementation Roadmaps | topic(s): early childhood education
”Research shows that quality early childhood care and education experiences provide a strong foundation for success in school. States rely on data from both the early childhood and K–12 sectors to inform policy discussions and decisions; chart the progress of children, programs, and the state; strengthen and support the early childhood workforce; pinpoint best practices and areas of need; allocate scarce resources; and make other important education decisions every day. States need to securely link limited, but critical, early childhood and K–12 data to help them know whether policies and programs help children successfully transition from early childhood to the classroom and get them ready for school. Having high quality data linkages between early childhood and K–12 data systems allows states to answer the critical questions facing early childhood education today.”

“If Your Child Is Obsessed With Minecraft, You’ll Want to Hear This”

Pop Sugar| topic(s): educational games
”Arguably one of the most educational video games out there, Minecraft aids in fostering creativity, math and social skills, goal setting, and more — so much so that Mojang has created an Education Edition of the game to bring its pixelated worlds into the classroom. If you have a child, chances are their nose is constantly buried in this game, with its odd terms and funny characters, but it’s not the type of video game you need to worry about them playing too much. It’s a game that engages them in a more academic way no matter how they play and usually without them realizing that they’re learning.”

“The Dolls Speak”

The Hindu | topic(s): dolls, early childhood education
”Everyone loves dolls. And when they are dolls that represent scenes from the country made by someone from outside India, they are extra special. A collection of dolls made by artiste Francoise Bosteels was exhibited at Jain University recently. A former healthcare worker hailing from Belgium, Francoise makes dolls that depict various aspects of village life in India to spread social awareness. She has also published two books with pictures of the dolls accompanied by poems.”

“New Study Shows Precisely How Video Games Can Boost Learning”

Forbes | topic(s): educational apps, educational games, early childhood education
”Video games have a mixed record in education. Many studies fail to find many benefits in rewarded learning with points and prizes while others do show positive results in the classroom. Now, a new neuroscience study examines exactly how games can work to improve learning. A team of educational psychologists from the University of Bristol found that progressive scoring systems — where points get higher over time — can quiet down the parts of the brain associated with unfocused mind-wandering. Specifically, the researchers were looking for a brain region, known as the Default Mode Network, that’s associated inattentiveness.”

“Video: Mother Buys Diverse Dolls to Teach Daughters About Equality”

Woman’s Day | topic(s): multiculturalism, dolls
”In response to a video recently making the rounds on Facebook, in which two Caucasian girls cry after receiving African-American dolls for Christmas, Katie Nachman shared her own video—one with a very different and powerful message. In the short clip, neither of the girls mentions anything about the dolls not looking like them.”

“President Obama Takes One More Crack at Education Agenda”

Forbes | topic(s): early childhood education
”The bipartisan reform of No Child Left Behind was an important start, and together, we’ve increased early childhood education, lifted high school graduation rates to new highs and boosted graduates in fields like engineering. We should build on that progress, by providing pre-K for all, offering every student the hands-on computer science and math classes that make them job-ready on day one, and we should recruit and support more great teachers for our kids.”

“Early Childhood Education and Social Mobility”

VOX EU | topic(s): early childhood education
”Early childhood programs should be evaluated using a full range of skills that enable children to become more productive adults. Many analysts equate program effectiveness with performance on short-term measures of cognition that poorly predict life success. Socio-emotional skills — such as attentiveness, impulse control, sociability, and conscientiousness — are primary drivers of achievement, health, and increased social and economic productivity. Unfortunately, these skills often go unmeasured.”

“Why Literature is a Vital Tool for Teaching Students About Equality”

TES | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Since the government instructed schools to promote British values, schools have struggled to understand what exactly those values are and quite how they should be taught. Andrew Moffat, a teacher at Parkfield Primary School in Birmingham, thinks he has an answer. He has published a book called No Outsiders In Our School: teaching the Equality Act in primary schools, which explains that children’s literature is a vital tool for moral and character education, and also for the promotion of diversity.”

“Playing With Dolls Isn’t Just Fun and Games”

Racked | topic(s): dolls
”The study found that turning learning into a game helps stop the mind from wandering, allowing students to study better. Professor Paul Howard-Jones, who conducted the research, said computer games have been trivialized in recent years, but that used properly, they can help to accelerate pupils’ learning.”

“Don’t Demonize Technology: Computer Games Can Help Students Concentrate”

Irish Examiner | topic(s): educational games
”The study found that turning learning into a game helps stop the mind from wandering, allowing students to study better. Professor Paul Howard-Jones, who conducted the research, said computer games have been trivialized in recent years, but that used properly, they can help to accelerate pupils’ learning.”

“What Does It Mean to Prepare a Child for 21st Century? (Beyond ABCs, 123s)”

Zee News | topic(s): early childhood education, multiculturalism
”It is important for children to develop skills which help them become cross-culturally competent adults who can handle the challenges that globalization presents. With the world moving away from an industrial age to the age of information and knowledge, our education system and our schools must transform in ways that will facilitate kids to acquire the creative thinking, flexible problem solving, collaboration and innovative skills that they will need to be successful in work and life.”

“Turning a Page on Diversity”

The Press-Enterprise | topic(s): children’s books, multiculturalism
”When a child is able to see herself reflected in literature, it is a huge boost to self-confidence and self-worth. She knows that she’s part of a global village, not just an island.”

“Why Are There So Few Girls in Children’s Books?”

The Washington Post | topic(s): children’s books
”A 2011 Florida State University study found that just 7.5 percent of nearly 6,000 picture books published between 1900 and 2000 depict female animal protagonists. No more than 33 percent of children’s books in any given year featured an adult woman or female animal, but adult men and male animals appeared in 100 percent of the books.”

“These Kids’ Creative Solution To The Missing Rey Dolls”

Huffington Post | topic(s): dolls
”A group of kids took matters into their own hands when Rey, the leading female character in the blockbuster movie “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” was not represented on toy shelves.”

“The Merging of Entertainment Games and GBL”

Games and Learning | topic(s): early childhood education, educational games
”Ten years ago indie game developer and author Sande Chen studied the state of the games for impact movement in the book she co-authored called ‘Serious Games: Games That Educate, Train and Inform.’ We’ve asked her to revisit that work to see what has or has not changed in the field of learning games.”

“Education Industry Trends 2015 and the Outlook for 2016”

India Info Online | topic(s): early childhood education
”India has witnessed a 55% growth in self-paced e-learning. Many educational and vocational institutes have introduced a plethora of e-learning computer hardware and networking courses to further increase the reach of e-learning amongst the socially and economically weak sections of the society.”

“A Call to Adventure”

Huffington Post | topic(s): adventure
”The human spirit is born to explore and to grow, to create and to have community. Change is happening to us all the time, but when we choose to participate and be intentional about it, it becomes an adventure… an adventure we are all being called to.”

“Why Do So Many Children’s Books Treat Diversity as a Black and White Issue?”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books
”Sometimes it’s easy to forget that the word we proudly place beside society is ‘multicultural’, not ‘multicoloured’ — writing more religious and ethnic minority characters in itself is not enough. We need books embracing all aspects of these different cultures and lifestyles.”

“Dealing With Pet Loss Through Arts and Crafts”

Sys-con Media | topic(s): early childhood education
”Over the holidays, my family went through a series of pet tragedies. I thought that it might help my daughter to have something to do with her hands. You can buy a basic kit clay at Babies”R”Us for less than $10. I told her that whenever she was sad about a lost pet, all she had to do was pick up the clay.”

“Study Finds Most Detroit Children Lack Access to Early Childhood Care”

Sys-con Media | topic(s): early childhood education
”The Kresge Foundation and Midwest nonprofit IFF today released a comprehensive needs assessment of early childhood care and education in the city of Detroit. The new study — The System We Need: A Neighborhood Snapshot of Early Childhood Education in Detroit — estimates that in 2015 nearly 28,000 of the city’s children ages birth to 5 needed but did not have access to quality early childhood care. The study analyzes the number of slots available through early childhood care programs at licensed and registered facilities, and compares this total with the number of children eligible for and in need of early childhood care. It also breaks down this estimate of the supply and demand for early childhood care by individual neighborhoods and program types, such as Head Start and Great Start Readiness Program.”

“App Sends Detailed Report of a Child’s Day While They’re at Daycare”

Chicago Inno | topic(s): educational apps
”Hugo Augusto just wanted to know how his child was doing in daycare. But the paper forms that his childcare provider handed out with feedback on his 2-year-old son’s day inevitably kept getting lost in the chaos of a long workday and raising a toddler. So he decided to create an app. The resulting platform, MyChild, is now used by hundreds of early childcare centers across 25 states to digitally deliver feedback, updates, photos, and important information to parents of children ages 0-5.”

“The Art of Developmentally Appropriate Early Childhood Education”

Chicago Now | topic(s): early childhood education
”There is no better place to lift my spirits on a dreary winter day than Cherry Preschool (in the Chicago area). I stopped by the school where I served for 15 years as founding director to make copies for a meeting about kindergarten that I will be co-hosting next week. As I looked at the children’s art displays, it hit me. Programs like Cherry Preschool are what early childhood education should look like.”

“In Literature, Female Protagonists Still Don’t Draw Interest”

Daily Northwestern | topic(s): children’s literature
”I started to wonder, how many Pulitzer novels would I have to read before I found one written from a woman’s perspective? I worked back through the list of winning novels from 2015, and I found that a novel written purely from a woman’s perspective hasn’t won since 1999. In the last 15 years, there have been three novels by women narrated from multiple perspectives, but none told from a purely female point of view. The first case of a novel written by a woman about a woman doesn’t surface until 1995.”

“Library Tips on Raising a Reader”

Homer Tribune | topic(s): children’s books
”Each month, this column features information to help you include everyday literacy in your family’s daily routine, supporting your young readers. Here are a few tips for raising a reader by reading, talking, playing, singing and writing with your child.”

“14 Ingenious Mom Hacks for Arts and Crafts”

Pop Sugar | topic(s): arts and crafts
”With a small child, even if arts and crafts time keeps them busy for a measly three minutes, a mess is basically guaranteed. Between small beads and sticky glue residue, glitter bombs and paint puddles, you’ll likely end up with a cleanup that takes longer than the amount of time your little crafted for. It’s important to let kids express themselves and make a little mess from time to time, but with these arts and crafts hacks, you can keep the crafting going without sacrificing any of the fun! Read our 14 ingenious mom hacks to implement during your tot’s next craft session.”

“Video: Re-imagining Early Childhood Education”

NBC News | topic(s): children’s literature
”Gene Luen Yang, a Chinese-American graphic novelist whose works often explore issues of identity, will be inaugurated Thursday as the 5th National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, a role that will take him across the country over the next two years to show children that reading is an indispensable part of their lives.”

“Live Life, Build Culture”

NBC News | topic(s): children’s literature
”Gene Luen Yang, a Chinese-American graphic novelist whose works often explore issues of identity, will be inaugurated Thursday as the 5th National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, a role that will take him across the country over the next two years to show children that reading is an indispensable part of their lives.”

“Audio: Author Meshack Asare on Identity and Inspiration In Children’s Literature”

KGOU Radio | topic(s): children’s literature
”Listen to Suzette Grillot’s conversation with Meshack Asare.”

“Kid-Friendly Travel Destinations This 2016”

Travelers Today | topic(s): travel
”Traveling with children can be both difficult and rewarding. To avoid stress, the key is proper planning and choosing the right destination. As reported by Yahoo Travel, here’s a list of kid-friendly destinations that are must-visits this 2016.”

“12 Tips to Help Your Child Love Learning”

Scoop Education | topic(s): early childhood education
”If you’re having trouble entertaining a household full of bored children, the summer holidays can seem like they stretch forever. More damagingly, studies have shown that children can drop a learning level if left to their own (electronic) devices over the long summer break, with not enough mental or physical stimulation. This article features a dozen ideas for involving your children in informal learning opportunities and creating some memorable brain-stimulating family fun together.”

“Why Stories Matter For Children’s Learning”

The Conversation | topic(s): early childhood education
”Scholars have found that stories have a strong influence on children’s understanding of cultural and gender roles. Stories do not just develop children’s literacy; they convey values, beliefs, attitudes, and social norms which, in turn, shape children’s perceptions of reality.”

“A Billion Toddlers: China And Early Childhood Education Investment”

World Crunch | topic(s): early childhood education
”A recent study found that 40 million rural Chinese children’s cognitive ability was significantly lower than the national average. A program called ‘Nurturing the Future’ focuses on toddlers too often left at home by parents who go to work in cities. If it works, the program could fuel China’s even bigger ambitions.”

“Tablet Games Underestimate Children’s Motor Skills”

Psychiatry Advisor | topic(s): educational apps
”Most interactive tablet games aimed at pre-kindergarten children do not make full use of their motor skills, according to research published in the International Journal of Human-Computer Studies.”

“How the Books We Read Shape Our Lives”

The Independent | topic(s): children’s books
”On the other hand, the sociological questions that lie behind what might be called the origins of the literary sensibility are a great deal less easy to answer. How do people learn to read? How do they fashion their own individual tastes? How do they establish why they prefer one type of book to another type? Where do they acquire the information that enables them to make these selections, and, having acquired it, what do they do with it? After all, there are no hard-and-fast rules about aesthetic choice and how it operates: it was Anthony Powell who, presented by an admirer of his novel sequence A Dance to the Music of Time with an ornamental clock on which the names of Poussin and Proust had been engraved, truly remarked that books have odd effects on different people.”

“Technology Rates Books to Establish Reading Levels”

Taipei Times | topic(s): early childhood education
”National Taiwan Normal University researchers have developed a text readability assessment system that rates the reading difficulty of a book and locates books that suit students’ reading levels and interests, and some schools in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Indonesia have already adopted the system.”

“Find Better Games For Your Education”

InForum | topic(s): early childhood education
”Have you ever considered that educational activities may actually be interesting? For those of you who prefer to play video games, some of these activities you probably have never even considered trying. By engaging in educational activities, rather than video games, school may become fun for you. Did you know that video games have components such as blue light? These components can permanently damage your brain. So for those of you who don’t want to lose your mind but like video games, maybe educational activities are the thing for you.”

“Children’s Books: Inspiring Awe”

Wall Street Journal | topic(s): children’s books
”To open the oversized pages of “Timeline: A Visual History of Our World” (Gecko, 80 pages, $29.99) is to invite mild feelings of stress: As much as you want to pore over each busy historical tableau, identifying mordant little characters and reading brief lines of text, you may want to rush forward to see what comes next. The profusion of places and people and events encompassed here—this is a history of the world, after all—seems to create an urgency of its own.”

“Two Young White Girls Cry at Getting Black Dolls for Christmas”

Salon | topic(s): dolls, multiculturalism
”In the 1940s, sociologists Kenneth and Mamie Clark asked black children questions about two dolls, one white and one black. The majority, 63 percent, said they’d rather play with the white doll, most said the white doll was nicer and prettier than the black doll and 44 percent of the black children said the white doll looked most like them. More than 60 years later “Good Morning America” replicated the experiment with 19 black children and the results were different — only 47 percent believed the white doll was prettier. But what happens when white children receive black dolls as gifts? On Dec 30, a video was posted on YouTube showing two young white girls opening presents on Christmas. Their aunt and uncle gifted the girls black dolls and their reaction is quite poignant. Though obviously not an official social experiment, their reaction is a comment on just how early in life racial bias forms.”

“Edutech Will Continue Strong Growth In 2016”

Cloud Tweaks | topic(s): educational apps, early childhood education
”Technology is equipping both educators and learners with a variety of new tools and learning methods, revolutionizing how and what people learn. In 2016, some emerging trends could provide even greater progress in this sector as the cloud, mobile learning, augmented reality, and game-based learning possibilities are explored.”

“American University Plans to Insert ‘Race and Multiculturalism’ into General Education Curriculum”

The College Fix | topic(s): multiculturalism
”American University students of color are demanding more ‘inclusion’ and an environment that makes them feel ‘welcome and safe,” according to The Eagle.”

“Malaysia’s Much Forgotten Multiculturalism”

The Guardian | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Not so long ago, Malaysia was touted by many foreign observers and local policy makers alike as an exemplar country for multiculturalism. It was a society which celebrates its vast diversities and proudly practices a common sense of inclusiveness, known well for a harmonious tolerance in order to achieve social stability that generates successful milestones enjoyed by all walks of life. That was among the various self-made and freshly inspiring public formulas which caught the attention of the world towards a nation that was relatively quite unknown before. It offered solution-based approaches for the many problems across the globe and thus marking Malaysia as an important player at the world stage with its attractive social model, innovative economic strategies and well-respected international diplomacy. At one time, Malaysia became a regional powerhouse or the booming market as a result of its many visionary elements, charismatic leaders, progressive constructs and effective ventures particularly during the 70s & 80s. Today however, things have changed. Unfortunately for us, not for the better.”

“A Testing Year for Australia’s Social Cohesion as Multiculturalism Debate Grows Louder”

The Guardian | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Consensus on the limits of tolerance and cultural diversity was stretched in 2015. Four people in positions of influence discuss the challenges the country faces in the new year.”

“Despite Parents’ Concerns, Google’s Data Collection Extends to Schools”

The Week | topic(s): early childhood education
”Google’s generosity as a provider of education technology comes at a price, one advocacy group argues. Though Google signed an agreement earlier this year pledging to limit its data collection on students as its Chrome books and educational apps soared to dominance, the group Electronic Frontier Foundation alleges that Google still tracks way too much information.”

“Pre-K Teachers Are on Food Stamps After 10 Years Without Raise”

DNA Info | topic(s): early childhood education
”After nearly three decades on the job, Debra Johnson, an assistant Pre-K teacher at a city-funded early learning center, earns an annual income of $27,000 — or $13.94 an hour — about $3,000 less than assistant teachers with the same degree would earn in a public school in their first year.”

“Black Dolls Matter”

Jamaica Gleaner | topic(s): dolls
”The week before Christmas, I stopped by a popular pharmacy in upper St Andrew. My friend, media personality Terri-Karelle Reid, was with me at the time, and I saw her diligently searching for something on the shelf displaying dolls. I asked her what she was doing, and the reply was: “I am looking for black dolls”. I joined her and we both searched, but our quest left us empty-handed. Two days later I visited a popular toy store on an adjoining property. The shelves were fully stocked in anticipation of Christmas shopping. This shop had three shelves full of dolls. Each shelf was at least 10 feet long and contained up to three rows of the toy. There were over one hundred dolls in the store. As with the previous shop, I searched for black dolls, but my efforts were futile. There was not a single black doll on the shelves. Not one.”

“2016 May Test the Government’s Commitment to Learning Games”

Games and Learning | topic(s): educational games, educational apps, early childhood education
”As 2015 comes to a close there are a series of developments that offered both powerful optimism that the U.S. Department of Education was getting serious about using games in the classroom and some worries that things may be in limbo this coming year. Even as technology plans and new legislation come into effect, the departure of edtech leaders at the Department and the approaching election could spell real uncertainty about the federal government’s plans.”

“UNICEF Grants $146 Million to Enhance Child Welfare”

The Jakarta Post | topic(s): early childhood education
”The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has pledged a grant of US$146 million to the Indonesian government through the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) to be put toward the enhancement of child welfare. It aims to strengthen, among other things, child survival and development, education for early childhood and adolescent development, child protection, social policy, emergency preparedness and disaster risk reduction and communication and public agency.”

“Maine Voices: Business Should Shoulder Fair share of the Cost of Quality Child Care”

Press Herald | topic(s): early childhood education
”Year after year, it seems, businesses generate a lot of PR calling on others to increase spending on care and education programs in our state. However, the real question to Maine businesses should be: What direct dollar investment are you making in quality programs in Maine right now?”

“Education Reforms Target Flexibility”

SC Times | topic(s): early childhood education
”In this bill, we tried to strike a balance between giving our states more flexibility and making sure that they take appropriate action to improve struggling schools. If we want a stronger nation tomorrow, we need to give our kids a world-class education today.”

“Education in 2015 — Visualized”

The Atlantic | topic(s): early childhood education
”Education issues can be difficult to grasp; they can feel overwhelming, intangible, or even irrelevant. Sometimes, the best and most effective means of conveying education stories are through charts, graphics, images, and videos. Here are some of the visuals from around the Internet this past year that helped visualize what mattered—student debt, early-childhood education, regional inequality in schools, campus protests, and so on—in a way that was engaging and provocative.”

“Play is Changing: By Two Years, Most Toddlers Can Work A Touchscreen”

Medical Research | topic(s): educational apps, early childhood education
”Everyday in clinic, and in waiting rooms and in restaurants we see parents are handing over their smart phones and iPads to occupy young children. The nature of childhood play is changing rapidly. Of the 82 parents surveyed, 82% of parents owned a touchscreen device, and of these 87% gave their device to their toddler to play with. Thus 71% of toddlers had access to a touchscreen device. This rate was similar across the age range studied (12-36 months). By parental report, 24 months was the median age of ability to swipe (IQR: 19.5–30.5), unlock (IQR: 20.5–31.5) and active looking for touch-screen features (IQR: 22–30.5), while 25 months (IQR: 21–31.25) was the median age of ability to identify and use specific touch-screen features. Overall, 32.8% of toddlers could perform all four skills. Touchscreen usage was common at a very young age and from 2 years of age toddlers have the ability to interact purposefully with touch-screen technology.”

“Helping Students Succeed Through Art”

Hattiesburg American | topic(s): arts and crafts, early childhood education
”Students who attend smART Space get to let their hair down, so to speak, and learn to let their inner creativity out. Keever said learning art and music also helps children develop problem-solving and other skills.”

“Research Proves Wide-ranging Benefits of Early Education”

The Post and Courier | topic(s): early childhood education
”James J. Heckman, a Nobel Memorial Prize winner, an economics professor at the University of Chicago and a leading early childhood expert, responds to early childhood critics in a report released in November 2015. His report makes three essential points: 1. Early childhood education works, especially for disadvantaged students; 2. Quality matters; 3. Benefits transcend the classroom.”

“Library Launches Adult Coloring Book Program”

Wausau Daily Herald | topic(s): children’s books
”Coloring books are no longer the exclusive domain of young children and restaurants that want to help parents entertain children while they wait for their food. Now adults who yearn to get their creative juices flowing and relive their childhood at the same time are claiming a stake in the coloring book game, too. On Dec. 29, the Marathon County Public Library in Wausau will launch the first of its Inside the Lines: Adult Coloring Party series, a new monthly program that allows adults to re-discover their love of coloring in a chill setting surrounded by their peers.”

“First Vietnamese Preschool eBook Series Launched”

Vietnam News | topic(s): early childhood education
”The first electronic education book series for children from birth to 6 years old in Viet Nam was launched yesterday by the VSK early childhood education research institute. The book series entitled “Doi thay the gioi tu mot goc nhin” (Change the world from a perspective) was launched yesterday on giaoducsom.vn, as part of an online early education project by VSK. The series comprise three books that instruct parents on how to educate their children during pregnancy, the first year after birth, and from the age of one to five.”

“Secretary of Education Admits Failures on Eve of Retirement”

Washington Examiner | topic(s): early childhood education
”As he packs up his office and readies for retirement, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan is reflecting on his seven-year tenure. In an exit interview with the Washington Post, Duncan pointed to three areas in which he wishes he had done more. One area was preschool.”

“Stories in Thread”

Daily Pioneer | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
”You will find stories everywhere — in books, parchments of paper, history and mythology. Before the written word people told stories by carving stone and by weaving. Carpets tell beautiful stories — stories of their origin, mythology, religious beliefs and many more.”

“How Do You Find a Great Educational App?”

EdCentral | topic(s): educational apps, early childhood education
”After digging into the data for months, we realized there are key factors which help a parent make informed decisions. And prepared with the right kind of knowledge, developers can help parents find their apps too. This article some highlights of what we found that we think might be of interest.”

“Exquisite Hand-sewn Dolls Keep a Dying Art Alive in Alaska”

Stuff | topic(s): educational apps, educational games, early childhood education
”Clara Dirk’s family is originally from Point Hope, a traditional whaling community of 700 on Alaska’s North Slope. Like her ancestors before her, sewing for Clara is both a pastime and a necessity. Over the years, she learned how to make clothes, fancy fur parkas, hunting parkas and mukluks to clothe her family. Clara began sewing as a young girl, but took her sewing to a different level when she started making dolls. These 1-foot-tall dolls are exquisite, with clothing that looks exactly like full-size garments, down to the trim on parkas and mukluks.”

“Experts: Tablet Games Can Aid Childhood Development”

Stuff | topic(s): educational apps, educational games, early childhood education
”It’s the modern parent’s dilemma: to give in to the allure of the iPad, or endure the screams of a bored child. New research suggests it no longer has to be a guilty choice because tablet games can be advantageous in aiding the educational development of children. Research conducted by Swinburne University of Technology has found children who learn a specific skill either on a tablet or online are able to transfer that skill into the real world, something experts say is important for development. The study – based on a sample of 50 children – included asking participants to piece together a puzzle after practising on 2D and 3D forms. In the final test, the children who practiced on the 3D model performed at the same level as the children who had practiced on the 2D model, suggesting skills honed on the tablet were transferred to the physical puzzle.”

“Multicultural Society: An Indian Perspective”

The Globalist | topic(s): multiculturalism
”The notion of a multicultural society developed rather steadily and imperceptibly in the 20th century. It was bolstered by continuous waves of immigration to the United States in the early part of the century and particularly in Europe, by the rather uncomfortable post-WWII social legacy of toxic ethno-nationalism. During the economic boom years of the 1950s and 1960s, European governments opened their doors wide for cheap labor from neighboring regions of northern Africa and Turkey, so did the Commonwealth countries of Canada, UK and Australia from their lesser colonial cousins. Wracked with guilt after the two world wars, many European nations adopted a rather laissez-faire model of society. They frequently bent over backwards to accommodate – but not integrate – these newcomers. If anything, religious and ethnic identities were allowed a free play because of the fear that to ask immigrants to accept values of their host society might be considered an act of cultural aggression. This of course was to be strictly avoided in post-war Europe.”

“Star Darling: an Inside Look at How Dolls are Made”

Babble | topic(s): dolls
”Babble was given an exclusive peek at the step-by-step, start-to-finish development of the series from Zappa and Tracy Thurman and an inside look at the dolls from Director of Hardlines Product Development with Disney Consumer Products.”

“Japan’s Woeful School Funding”

Japan Times | topic(s): early childhood education
”Japan spends less on education as a percentage of gross domestic product than all the other member states of the OECD, it was reported in Education at a Glance 2015, a regular survey by the organization that provides data on education systems around the world. Japan’s public spending amounts to just 3.5 percent of GDP, the same as Slovakia, at the bottom of the list. This consistently and shockingly poor level of spending seems to be ignored by the central government and the education ministry. Japan’s shamefully low spending, far below the OECD average of 4.7 percent of GDP, is an unsustainable and impossible strategy in the long run. Without sufficient support for public education, the current situation amounts to discrimination against the poor, making higher education almost unaffordable to their children.”

“Quality Early Learning Must Be Affordable”

Huffington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
”Today’s 20-somethings are having fewer babies than any generation in U.S. history. One big reason is that raising children is expensive. In the Granite State, the average annual cost for an infant in a full-time child care facility is almost $12,000. For young parents struggling to make ends meet, that’s a staggering expense. Many millennials want to start a family, but they’re concerned that costs might be out of reach.”

“Afghanistan’s Artisans Are Experiencing a New Age of Recognition and Prosperity”

Smithsonian | topic(s): arts and crafts, craftsmanship
”Named for a lost city, Turquoise Mountain, an organization that is reviving an ancient craft industry, is bringing artists to the Smithsonian.”

“Arts Activities Help Children’s Social and Emotional Development, Review of Research Shows”

MinnPost | topic(s): arts and crafts, early childhood education
”The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) published the findings of 18 peer-reviewed arts studies in early childhood education. These investigated the effects of the arts on children from birth to 8 years. Two findings were clear: 1) the arts strengthen “pro-social behaviors” like helping, sharing, caring, and empathizing; 2) the arts help children learn how to better regulate their emotions. One study reported that children aged 3 to 5 years old with autism had stronger “positive outcomes” (e.g., making and maintaining eye contact) when they participated in a 12-week arts program than when they took part in a more generic “play” program of the same length.”

“The Booming Handmade Arts and Crafts Business is Reaching a Wider Market Online”

Seattle Times | topic(s): arts and crafts
”Ten years ago, Etsy brought the local craft fair into the e-commerce age when it created an online platform for artists and craftspeople to sell goods on the Internet, charging them 20 cents for each item listed and 3.5 percent of each sale. The company racks up $2 billion in annual sales. Amazon.com jumped into the market in October, launching Handmade at Amazon, a site within its site. At launch, it listed handmade goods from 5,000 sellers in 60 countries. It charges nothing for listings but collects 12 percent of each sale. Other sites, including Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram, provide new opportunities for artists and craftspeople to display their creations, connect with customers and steer them to their websites and online shops.”

“Multiculturalism Can Help Keep a Lid on Radicalism”

Sputnik News | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Professor Raymond Hickey of the University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany, believes a policy of multiculturalism that includes the soft assimilation of immigrants is an effective tool for fighting terrorism.”

“Is Preschool Necessary? The Great Debate”

Yahoo! | topic(s): early childhood education
”There’s no shortage of research on the benefits of preschool. It not only gives kids an introduction to the school environment they will be a part of for the better part of two decades, but also provides opportunities to develop social skills, among many other benefits. From learning how to wait your turn to knowing the days of the week, preschool programs can provide plenty of useful education. Well-designed programs have been known to provide long-term success in school, including better test scores, lower chances of grade repetition, and higher educational achievement overall. But a growing body of data suggests that preschool benefits children from disadvantaged families perhaps even more than it benefits others (in particular, families that are below the poverty line, whose mothers are uneducated, or those who are racial minorities). This could be because preschool acts as a kind of equalizer, ensuring that for at least a few hours a day, these kids get the same high-quality interaction with adults as more advantaged children do, which helps to even the developmental playing field.”

“Encouraging Kids to Write”

Children’s Book Council | topic(s): children’s books
”For kids who dread picking up the pencil, here are a few tips to get their creative juices flowing.”

“My Son Wants a New Doll – Does It Have to Be Such a Big Deal?”

Good Men Project | topic(s): dolls
”Torsten Klaus is happy to buy his son a doll, but is less happy that he has to deal with people’s disbelief.”

“Moving From Nationalism to Multiculturalism”

Daily News (Sri Lanka) | topic(s): multiculturalism
”If the majority of us can agree on a path to achieve national unity, it will eventually lead our country into a solid multi-cultural society. In such a society the different cultures are made inclusive, tolerated and accommodated, and these trends are institutionalized in legislation. Canada, Australia and other western countries, where multiculturalism is the national policy, respect religions, ethnicity and cultures of different communities and their cultural rights, while a secular law common to all protect their human rights. They are not allowed to have a legal system (e.g. Sharia law) or practices (e.g. animal sacrifices) that are contrary to the laws of the country.”

“Report says Uganda Lagging Behind in Early Childhood Development Education”

NTV | topic(s): early childhood education
”A report on early childhood development puts the number of pupils who got some form of education on early childhood development at 1 in 3.”

“Celebrating Multiculturalism”

Otago Daily Times | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Moyad Barnawi hopes to send a message to Dunedin. The 23-year-old, originally from Saudi Arabia, was one of three University of Otago students asked to lead the graduation parade while wearing traditional Middle Eastern clothing on Saturday. Mr Barnawi said he hoped the statement sent a positive message about tolerance to the people of Dunedin, following recent debate about the arrival of Syrian refugees next year.”

“People Continue to Travel in Wake of Terrorism”

Republican Herald | topic(s): travel
”Consumers are continuing with their travel plans, agents report, in the wake of recent domestic and international terrorism. Customers have not changed their minds with trips that have already been arranged through AAA, according to Cathie Mazzuca, AAA Travel Agency manager. Other services AAA offers, such as taking a passport photo and guiding people on what they need to do to obtain a passport, have also been running smoothly.”

“Children’s Book Encouraging Young Black Girls To Love Their Hair Sells Out Day After Launch”

Blacknet | topic(s): children’s books
”A children’s book encouraging young black girls (5-8 year olds) to love and embrace their natural hair, has sold out a day after it was launched at The Children’s Library in Deptford (London) last week. Love Thy Fro is about a young girl named Kemi who absolutely loves her beautiful, big, curly afro hair.”

“The Top 50 Educational Apps Are Mostly All Stuck In The Stone Age”

Forbes | topic(s): educational apps
”There’s almost a sense that the tablet’s integration into children’s learning experiences is inevitable. But what is it about this technology that makes us so certain of its educational potential? Sure, some writers have pointed to a sense of intimacy between student and tablet, seeing it as something akin to reader and book. But I don’t buy that story. I suspect the very notion that tablets can help us learn has more to do with habit than we’d like to admit. Moderns, in any era, tend to be far less innovative and far more tethered to the past than they’d like to believe.”

“Audio: Education Secretary Arne Duncan Gives an Exit Interview”

Marketplace | topic(s): early childhood education
”An interview with outgoing Education Secretary Arne Duncan.”

“Audio: Should We Encourage Boys To Play With Dolls?”

WBUR (Radio Boston) | topic(s): dolls
”If you’re holiday shopping for a child this season, the gendered world of toys is quickly obvious, with walls of blue or pink. But, marketing dolls to girls and action figures to boys has provoked a debate about whether all toys should be for all children.”

“Children’s Reading Improves Faster With Ebooks”

Independent | topic(s): children’s ebooks
”A study for the National Literacy Trust shows a remarkable improvement in reading ability amongst boys who do their reading online through ebooks. The researchers studied the boys’ reading performance for an average of 4.2 months – and found that their reading age improved by 8.4 months during that period. Girls also improved at a better rate than the norm – showing a 7.2 month improvement. The study went on to show the percentage of boys who found reading difficult halved from 28 per cent to 15.9 percent.”

“Chanel Accused of Copying Knitwear Designer Mati Ventrillon”

Fashionista | topic(s): craftsmanship
”Chanel’s latest Métiers d’Art collection, which debuted in Rome last week, is getting attention for more than just its over-the-top set. Scottish designer Mati Ventrillon is claiming that the collection’s Fair Isle knitwear pieces are replicas of her own designs. Ventrillon clarified that she is more concerned about the value of traditional craftsmanship than collecting money from the luxury French fashion house. Her company creates bespoke knitwear garments that are made from organic Shetland wool and made-to-order. Her small business model supports an historic trade — Fair Isle knitwear — that she feels is in danger of being undervalued. Update: Chanel confirmed that it did in fact use Ventrillon’s design. The house will add ‘Mati Ventrillon Design’ to communication tools to recognize her as the source of inspiration for the knitwear models in question.”

“Mother Chimp Latches on to Retro Troll Dolls for Comfort”

Komo News | topic(s): dolls
”She’s a mom four times over, but sadly all her babies, including a set of twins, were taken away from Foxie the chimpanzee shortly after birth. Foxie herself was born in August of 1976 and was a laboratory research subject for hepatitis vaccines. As a result, her children were also taken away to be used in medical research. So when Foxie first arrived at Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest, she was aloof and cautious of her surroundings. Then she was introduced to a troll doll. Now, seven years later, she has gone onto adopt many more! Foxie is still so intensely enamored with these strange little dolls that she carries one everywhere.”

“Bring the Family: Multigenerational Travel Destinations”

The Tennessean | topic(s): travel
”The family that plays together stays together. Increasingly, play time means travel and includes three generations or more. A recent AARP Travel survey of people 45 and older found that 98 percent of travelers who took a multigenerational trip were highly satisfied, and 85 percent were planning to take another trip in the next 12 months. Multigenerational family travel is becoming a new trend in family vacations, according to Stephanie Miles, vice president of member value for AARP. Change is fueled by factors like Grandpa and Grandma being healthier and up for spending precious time with their kids and grandchildren, especially as families are now more geographically diverse.”

“Schools Putting Too Much Pressure on Children”

Charlotte Observer | topic(s): early childhood education
”Early childhood education has shifted from a place of play to a place of work. At Success Academy, simply blurting out the right answer can be cause for suspension. As long as the education reformers continue to influence public policy, time for play will be all too rare.”

“iPads Leave Young Pupils Too Weak to Grip Pencils: Leading Teachers say Lack of Activity Means Four and Five-year-olds Are Not Strong Enough”

Daily Mail | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Children today have been weakened by playing with iPads all day and some cannot even hold a pencil, according to a leading head teacher. Bob Drew said four-year-olds are arriving at his primary school with poor upper body strength because of a lack of physical activity. He said the problem has become noticeable in the last two years and too many parents are giving their children electronic devices to play with instead of letting them run around.”

“Opportunity of Multiculturalism”

The Reporter | topic(s): multiculturalism
”There is a school in Logan where the business of teaching students goes far beyond curriculum. With an average of 730 students made up of between 30 to 40 nationalities at any given time, Woodridge Primary is the most multicultural school in Australia. For 70% of the students English is their second language and 30% of the students are refugees. Alisa Cleary, of the Global Learning Centre, who has partnered with the school to support teachers and staff in strengthening the cohesion programs already embedded in their dealings with the children said the school was profoundly inspiring in the work it does and results it achieves. Steering the ship is Gary Molloy. For 17 years he has been the school’s principal. What others call the challenge of multiculturalism, Mr Molloy sees opportunity. Dealing with such a broad myriad of different cultures, religions and traditions, means there is no one size-fits-all approach to the students or their families. Mr Molloy is committed to educating the students about Australia, its values and way of life, in order to empower and prepare them for their new life. At the same time, understanding where they have come from, and helping them understand that too, is, he said, just as high a priority.”

“Report: The Benefits and Costs of Investing in Early Childhood Education”

Washington Center for Equitable Growth | topic(s): early childhood education
”This study describes and analyzes the costs and benefits of one specific educational initiative: public investment in a voluntary, high-quality universal prekindergarten education program made available to all 3- and 4-year-old children across the United States. Such an investment would boost educational achievement, improve economic growth rates, and raise standards of living across the income spectrum. It also would strengthen the economy’s competitiveness long into the future while simultaneously easing a host of fiscal, social, and health problems.”

“Why Reading is More Than Fundamental”

CBC Books | topic(s): children’s books
”Inspired by the season of giving, ‘New York Times’ columnist Frank Bruni reflects on the essential value of reading and the literacy nonprofits that put books in the hands of children in need. Reading not only sparks a child’s imagination, but paves the way for lifelong learning.”

“Inspired By a Lack of Ethnic-Looking Dolls, This Dad Creates a Now-Thriving Ethnic Doll Line”

Euroweb | topic(s): dolls
”Trent Daniels, a businessman from Houston, Texas noticed the stores had hundreds of different white dolls; but when it came to ethnic dolls, there was only a scattering and the quality was poor. This dad found that so unacceptable he decided to do something about it. In 2011 he created “The One World Doll Project” line – an assemblage of high quality dolls of diverse ethnic persuasions such as African American, African native, Asian (and south Asian), and Hispanic. And to further demonstrate the differences within the races, he made sure his dolls reflected real-life variations.”

“Don’t Buy the Stereotype: White Working-class in England Are Not All Against Multiculturalism”

The Conversation | topic(s): multiculturalism
”The general narrative that white working-class communities are against immigration, multiculturalism and change – and that they whine about a loss of a country and identity that never was — will not be the reality of modern Britain. My research, published in a new book, shows the gap between rhetoric and reality. Based on more than 200 interviews with white working-class urban communities across four areas in three different cities – Aston in Birmingham, Somers Town and Waltham Forest in London and Canley in Coventry – it shows that these groups are not unreconstructed supporters of the extreme right who are opposed to multiculturalism.”

“One of Google’s Startup Investments Has Sold a Million Children’s Books”

Business Insider | topic(s): children’s literature
“A London publishing startup that’s received money from Google Ventures announced today that it has sold over a million of its personalized children’s books. Lost My Name — founded in 2012 by Asi Sharabi and Tal Oron — creates customized books based around a child’s name. The books are created and ordered online, then sent out to printing partners around the world.”

“Children’s Publications in China Experience Golden Age”

Yibada | topic(s): children’s literature
“New demand for new content is the primary reason behind the advent of the children’s literature renaissance. According to Randy Wang of Reed Exhibitions, although the global publishing industry has declined, children’s books have managed to get past curveballs over the past decade. Wang, who also organized the China Shanghai Children’s Book Fair, added that children’s literature is the only sector to flourish despite the boom of new media.”

“Founder of Tinybop Believes Weird is the Way to Go in Kids’ Apps”

Education World | topic(s): educational apps
“Gutierrez tells Wired that the success of his company and the apps it develops is due to the fact that it takes advantage of a medium that no one else in the education space was taking advantage of. In fact, Gutierrez said that kids are sophisticated in the way that they look at the world and that a lot of the time we may underestimate how much knowledge a child can take in, according to the report.”

“New Jersey Preschools Struggle To Reach the Kids They’re Meant to Teach”

NJ Spotlight | topic(s): early childhood education
”Will cuts to school funding dismantle what is arguably the best pre-K program in the United States? Acelero Learning, a provider in New Jersey’s network of free preschools, could serve as a showcase for early childhood education at its best. It’s a private but publicly funded preschool in the state’s poorest city, with college-educated teachers and certified assistant teachers, in a well-appointed building that was extensively renovated just four years ago.”

“State of the Art: British Craftsmanship”

Express | topic(s): craftsmanship
”Some say it started with the recession, which sparked an interest in traditional crafts, while others maintain that, despite almost everything we buy being made in China these days, the feeling for craftsmanship in Britain has never gone away. Provenance is not a holiday hotspot in southern France but the current buzz word in home furnishing and decor, linked to the artisan food movement and the idea of buying local.”

“Tablets Reshaping the Way Preschoolers Develop, Play and Learn”

The Sydney Morning Herald | topic(s): dolls
”Toddlers are making online purchases by themselves, as the widespread use of tablets by preschoolers means they are developing digital skills before traditional milestones like cutting or tying their shoelaces. With British research showing a third of kids under five now own their own tablet – which they use for 1 hour and 20 minutes each day – a similar level of preschool tablet use exists here, according to local digital experts. The Technology and Play study conducted by the Universities of Edinburgh and Sheffield, in conjunction with the BBC and some children’s media companies, identified a high level of tech competency among young children. The survey of 2000 parents of zero to five year olds found half of the children were able to swipe the screen, open apps, draw things, tap the screen to operate commands, enter and exit apps, use the volume control, and turn the device on and off by themselves. Thirteen per cent of zero to two-year-olds could buy apps unassisted.”

“Video: Houston Man Turns Wife’s Unhappiness into Million Dollar Toy Idea”

KHOU | topic(s): dolls
”A Houston couple couldn’t find dolls that looked like their daughters, so they decided to do something about it. This fall, their doll line started moving into 3,000 Walmart stores nationwide.”

“Indian Tribe Marries Off Dead Children to Dolls”

The Express Tribune | topic(s): dolls
”India’s Netbadi community holds traditional Hindu weddings of their dead children to mark the 18th anniversary of their death in an attempt to bring closure. In place of the bride and groom, grieving parents make use of male and female dolls. In one such ceremony, Rameshwar and Veena Devi, a couple in Uttarakhand, north India, held a wedding for their daughter, Pooja, when she would have been 20.”

“Academic Study of Harry Potter Earns at Least 59 Top Degrees”

Deadline News | topic(s): children’s literature
”At least 22 academics across the globe have earned their PhDs after spending years studying Harry Potter. And a further 37 master’s degrees have been awarded following scholarly research into JK Rowling’s celebrated series of wizarding novels. The learned papers included an examination of magical food in the series, the theological implications of Harry Potter books for children’s identities, and an investigation into translating the works into Arabic. The burgeoning industry in the academic study of Harry Potter is said to be the result of avid childhood bookworms growing up and entering some of the world’s most elite universities. The figures were revealed through a search of the academic database ProQuest, which contains over 3.8m dissertations from universities across the globe.”

“Study: Common Sense Media Use”

Common Sense Media | topic(s): educational games, educational apps, early childhood education
”This is a large-scale study that explores young people’s use of the full range of media and technology. It offers a comprehensive picture of the use of media by kids, age 8 to 18 in the U.S., including the level of enjoyment, frequency of use, and amount of time devoted to a wide array of media activities and devices. Watch our video below and see our infographic or blog post for highlights.”

“Can Games Really Be a Key Part of Education?”

Alphr | topic(s): educational games, educational apps, early childhood education
”Dr Jo Twist, CEO of UKIE, explains why games can make a significant contribution to education. The feedback from Digital Schoolhouse workshops shows how engaged children are by the play-based learning model of using games in the classroom. Children instinctively learn through play, and by harnessing the enthusiasm that children have for fun and engaging activities for educational purposes, we’ve had real success in teaching the new computing curriculum. We know that 99% of children across the UK play games; we know they learn best when engaging with activities they enjoy. Bringing these two together creates the perfect learning model. Nesta has reported that 53% of 8- to 18-year-olds make their own games already and 33% would like to be creating games. Digital Schoolhouse gives children the opportunity to create through learning. Games are naturally creative in themselves, and their very mechanics are all about learning, understanding. Making a game uses a unique fusion of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and maths) subjects in a way that few others do. Using this model to teach the computing curriculum will prepare children for the jobs of tomorrow, today.”

“New Findings Show Low U.S. Preschool Enrollment Compared to Other Nations”

iSchool Guide | topic(s): early childhood education
”A new study shows that enrollment of students to pre-school is low in the U.S. Graduate Schools as well as the education system in the U.S. face a tough competition from developed nations.”

“Study Finds Early Childhood Education Not Reliant on Classroom Technology”

Saint Vincent College | topic(s): early childhood education, educational apps
”The Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at Saint Vincent College contributed to a new report ‘Technology in the Lives of Educators and Early Childhood Programs: Trends in Access, Use and Professional Development from 2012 to 2014.’ Educators reported having significantly greater access to tablets in the classroom in 2014 (55%) compared to 2012 (29%), and interactive white boards (26% versus 22%) across all program types and student income levels. Access decreased for televisions and DVDs (71% from 80%) and digital cameras (88% from 92%), which is likely a sign that tablets are replacing those technologies.”

“Introduce Children to Reading and Writing at an Early Age”

Gulf Times | topic(s): early childhood education, educational apps
”The first three years of a child’s life is a crucial period of rapid growth and cognitive development. In order to increase a child’s ability to grasp new concepts and give them a significant head start in development, it’s imperative for parents to initiate learning from as early as possible. Reading is the cornerstone of early childhood development. Introducing a child to reading and writing, at an early age is essential to optimize learning and establishing healthy reading habits”

“What Role Are Mobile Learning Apps Playing in the EdTech Revolution?”

Financial Express | topic(s): educational apps
”EdTech is commonplace now. A new trend we notice is edutainment, where companies have started blending education with entertainment to ensure that the process of learning doesn’t become boring after a point of time.”

“Debate Continues as to How Much Screen Time Kids Should Have with Devices”

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette | topic(s): educational apps
”Lolly Grove is 3, but knows her way around a mobile device. Typical for a child of the American modern age, she has been sharing screen time with her parents and relatives for half her young life. What makes Lolly different, however, is her parents’ studied approach to what she can and cannot access. On a recent evening at the Mt. Lebanon Public Library, Lolly happily bounced around the play room, stacking blocks and playing with puppets. There was nary an iPhone in sight.”

“8 Books That Will Introduce Your Kid To Foreign Languages And Cultures”

Fatherly | topic(s): early childhood education, children’s books
”our kid will spend their whole life in a globally connected world. In the future, that means having immediate and constant access to people, cultures, goods, and ideas from all corners of the Earth. In the much nearer term, that means meeting another kid in the sandbox who looks and sounds nothing like them. Your kid’s face in that moment will be memorable.”

“Pint-Sized Travel Bloggers Reveal The Destinations Kids Want To Travel To This Summer On Kid’s App BoundRound”

Huffington Post | topic(s): travel
”If you let a 10-year-old plan your family holiday, surely it would be all water slide parks and lolly shops, right? Not so, says child travel blogger Arjan Jayawardena, who has been creating travel videos since he was eight for Australian-made app Bound Round. He told The Huffington Post Australia his favourite destination to document was the Daintree rainforest.”

“Early Education Can Help Unlock Future Success”

Huffington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
”I’ve written before about how so much learning takes place outside of the classroom, which is why we have to put learning at the very center of our kids’ lives. Maybe you’ve read about the seemingly constant fights over budgeting for early education, pre-kindergarten programs and the like. What you likely haven’t read is that we as communities can play a huge role in our children’s early education as well. In the end, we are the ones responsible for ensuring our children are successful in school. Early education is one of the best returns on investment. According to the First Five Years Fund, an investment in education programs can yield a 7-10% return per annum based on improved social and economic outcomes.”

“Four Thoughts For Planning For A Cohesive Multicultural Future”

New Matilda | topic(s): multiculturalism
”On almost any criterion, Australia rates highly as a cohesive, low-conflict society. That enviable status is no accident. The policy of multiculturalism, officially adopted in 1973, has played an undeniable role in helping migrants and refugees make new lives for themselves in this country.”

“How to Tell if Your Child’s Educational App is Actually Educational”

Quartz | topic(s): educational apps
”Parents should look for three things when considering whether an app is educational: 1) Did experts who know something about literacy or child development help develop it? 2) Is there an intentionally-sequenced curriculum with real learning goals? 3) Has it been tested to do what it says it does.”

“Multiculturalism Brings Different Flavor to the Table”

CNJ Online | topic(s): multiculturalism
”Hispanic writers are often constricted, perhaps falling victim to the controversial label of ‘multiculturalism.’ There is negativity with that term because of efforts to use that label to undermine Christian principles established by our nation’s founding fathers. Yes, everyone has their own version of history. But some things that have survived for more than 2,000 years have passed the test of time. Then there is the other side of multiculturalism. Putting political correctness aside, multiculturalism is the voice of us Americans who bring a different flavor and shade to the melting pot. We are not a garnishment to be placed for presentation, but rather, to be blended in.”

“PBS Launches Online Documentary on Early-Childhood Education”

Education Week | topic(s): early childhood education
”The Raising of America is a documentary TV special about early care and education in this country, launched online on Monday. It has been showing on public TV stations across the country since Oct. 9, and both TV broadcasts and live screenings will continue into 2016. The documentary, produced by filmmakers Larry Adelman and Christine Herbes-Sommers, explores why America ranks 26th among the 29 richest nations in childhood well-being. One in four American children are born into poverty, and 70 percent of children live in families with two working parents, according to the opening scenes of the documentary trailer.”

“Family Guide: How to Raise a Reader and Connect to Culture”

San Antonio Magazine | topic(s): children’s books
”If you take a look at my family’s bookshelf you will find some treasures. You won’t find first editions or signed rare books, mind you, but you will spot dozens of titles of Latino children’s literature that I’ve collected over my son’s six years. I have invested long hours in bookstores, libraries, book fairs and online shops searching for new and different titles. I research books like it’s my job because, in a way, it is.”

“In Defense Of Dolls”

The Federalist | topic(s): dolls
”For the kid who wants to grow up, who feels limited by childish things and stereotypical advertising, dolls can be a vehicle for new adventures and experiences. As I became a bookworm, dolls were the perfect vehicle to act out stories, imagine new worlds, live in the fairy tales I had read about or imagined. My dolls were orphaned factory workers or pickpockets in London, runaway slaves on the underground railroad, royals in disguise, adventurers in Narnia, Native American warrior princesses, gypsies, investigative journalists, hobos during the Great Depression. Dolls are the ultimate symbol of childhood; they are toy children. But for me, dolls were just miniature humans with the potential to tell a story, fraught with dangers and adventures.”

“Why It’s Time for the Red Fox to Have Some Good P.R.”

The Guardian | topic(s): early childhood education
”Foxes have been the baddies of children’s stories since at least Ancient Greek times. But how much of the myth is based on fact? Inbali Iserles writes in defence of the fox in literature and beyond.”

“U.S. Takes Cue from Shakira on Early Education”

Financial Times | topic(s): early childhood education
”The U.S. rarely takes cues on domestic policy from developing countries, but if Shakira is involved it can make an exception. The Colombian pop singer is a champion of early childhood education — an area where the world’s richest country faces some of the same problems as the poorest economies — and the Obama administration is singing to her tune.”

“Yes, Even Doctor Barbie Sends Girls the Wrong Message”

The Atlantic | topic(s): dolls
”The last few years have been tough ones for Barbie. Sales have declined significantly, dropping 16 percent in 2014 alone. In an effort to jumpstart the sagging brand, Mattel has launched a new marketing campaign called, ‘Imagine the Possibilities.’ The signature ad for the campaign features little girls in professional roles in otherwise normal settings: a girl professor in front of a lecture hall, a girl veterinarian attending to a sick cat, a girl coach barking orders at a men’s soccer team. A 2014 study of 4-to-7-year-old girls found that playing with Barbie actually limited girls’ perceptions about what they could be in the future. Compared to girls who played with Mrs. Potato Head, girls who played with fashion Barbie identified a greater number of careers as ones they could not do when they grew up. The same pattern emerged even when girls played with Doctor Barbie.”

“New Curriculum Brings More Science and Math to Pre-K”

Vanderbilt | topic(s): early childhood education
”Most preschool instructional time is devoted to literacy at the expense of mathematics and science, according to the creators of Connect4Learning (C4L), an interdisciplinary early childhood curriculum that addresses this need. Developed by a team of nationally recognized early childhood education experts and funded by the National Science Foundation, the curriculum synthesizes research-based approaches in literacy, mathematics, science and social-emotional development.”

“By Age 5, Children Have a Sense of Self-esteem That Rivals Adults, Study Says”

Washington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
”Children develop self-esteem by age 5, much earlier than previously thought, according to new research that suggests children gain either a positive or negative view of themselves before they begin formal schooling. The researchers found that self-esteem at age 5 is as strong as those measured in adults.”

“Do Black Children’s Lives Matter If Nobody Writes About Them?”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books, children’s literature
”Literature’s job is not to protect young people from the ugly world; it is to arm them with a language to describe difficult truths they already know. Besides teaching us who we are, books are where we learn whose lives matter enough to read about: a recent Florida State University study called children’s literature ‘a dominant blueprint of shared cultural values, meanings and expectations.’ Exclusion from this world, the study says, constitutes a kind of ‘symbolic annihilation.’ As suicide rates among black youth skyrocket, and police officers justify killing unarmed children, the annihilation becomes much more than symbolic.”

“Sesame Street’s New Brand of Autism Education”

Eurasia Review | topic(s): early childhood education
”Nine videos were released online last week as part of the latest Sesame Street initiative—Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children. The web-based project includes an interactive storybook that introduces the program’s first autistic Muppet, Julia, as part of an effort to teach kids about their friends with the condition. In addition, the website provides digital cue cards for parents to teach their autistic children basic skills, like brushing teeth and washing hands. At this time, the materials are only available on the Internet, not TV.”

“Azerbaijan to Open Multiculturalism Center in Indonesia”

Eurasia Review | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Azerbaijan, a Muslim-majority country in the South Caucasus, is set to open a multiculturalism center in Indonesia, home to the world’s largest Muslim population. Both Azerbaijan and Indonesia are Muslim-majority pluralistic societies, in which members of a range of ethnic groups and religions have lived in harmony for centuries.”

“Author Speaks on Diversity in Children’s Literature”

Astate Herald | topic(s): educational apps
“The Multicultural Center was buzzing with discussion Monday night as author Zetta Elliott spoke with Arkansas State University students and faculty about the Black Lives Matter Movement, representation in children’s literature, and her own struggle to find footing in an industry that undervalues the black youth market.”

“How to Make an iPad Child Safe”

Wall Street Journal | topic(s): educational apps
“Children love iPads. They’ve got access to the coolest games and videos, they’re easy to use with tiny fingers—and they’re the most popular tablet in American homes. But iPads can cause headaches for parents. There’s no way to limit a child’s overall screen-time with Apple’s iOS software. And while many are shared by the whole family, they don’t have a special children’s mode, or even the ability to switch user accounts like on Android tablets. If you’re in the market to buy a tablet for a child 12 or under, you should consider one of new (and much improved) models made for kids. They’re cheaper, ruggedized with bouncy tantrum-proof cases, and come setup to do some things an iPad can’t.”

“Craft in the Contemporary”

Huffington Post | topic(s): craftsmanship
“At an economic, social and cultural level we would be impoverished if we were to devalue our crafts, which are the wellspring of our creativity, and provide livelihood to millions of men and women. The handloom industry in India for instance, employs 80% women, and many of our home and apparel textiles are handloom, that support and empower rural women with weaving workshops in their homes.”

“Gamifying Education: Here’s Why the Future of Education Lies in Playing Games”

DNA India | topic(s): early childhood education, educational apps, educational games
“Our increasing dependence on technology is anticipated to change the way we look at things in the future. The introduction of gaming in education may sound fascinating; however, experts predict that it may take eight to ten years for it to be completely implemented in the education stream.”

“How Do I Decide If My Child Is Ready For A Smartphone?”

Madam Noire | topic(s): early childhood education, educational apps
“Should I give my child a smartphone? If so, what is the appropriate age? These are two questions many parents ponder over, especially as they maintain a growing concern for their child’s safety using smartphones and other technology. There are several ways to child-proof your electronics, but whether or not to give your child a smartphone or tablet of their own brings about other questions to consider: what is the purpose of giving them a smartphone? How will my child be using the phone? Do I feel my child needs access to more advanced capabilities, such as GPS tracking or access to all apps in the app store? While there isn’t a universal age at which parents agree is the “right” age to give their kid a smartphone, there are a few things to consider that can help you decide what’s best for you and your family.”

“Study: Toddlers Going Mobile at Much Younger Age Than Previously Thought”

ABC 7 News | topic(s): early childhood education, educational apps
“A new study out today shows more and more toddlers are tech savvy, despite repeated warnings from doctors to limit screen time for children. No longer are kids just borrowing technology from their parents. The study published in the journal Pediatrics finds three quarters of children have their own mobile device by age four. Still in diapers but masters of mobile devices, it’s a reality for more and more American children. Today we have a new snapshot of what it means to grow up tech savvy. A new pediatrics study found 97 percent of children have access to a smartphone or tablet. Researchers also found about 44 percent of babies under one use a mobile device daily. That number jumps up to 77 percent for two year olds.”

“Despite Manufacturing Prowess, China Faces Long Road Toward Success in Innovation”

Shanghai Daily | topic(s): craftsmanship
“It commands such importance that a national movement of innovation is steadily gathering momentum. In many official statements and policy papers, innovation is deemed central to China’s bid to move up the value chain and build a knowledge-based economy. To many, this means a shift away from the country’s old role as a world factory doing low-end assembly jobs for multinationals. But this planned metamorphosis will not be easy to achieve. According to the predictions of some business leaders and economists, the US will likely re-emerge as a leading manufacturing center in one decade or two, further eroding China’s already decreased advantage in manufacturing.”

“Oxford Man Creates Paper Dolls in Artistic Spirit'”

Oxford Eagle | topic(s): dolls
“Camp Best explains his art by using his fingers as scissors, cutting through air as if it is clothing — clothing for the paper dolls he made as a kid in the 1950s.”

“When It Comes to Early Childhood Education, Who Are You Listening To?'”

The River City News | topic(s): early childhood education
“Early childhood education isn’t a Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, or Tea Party issue. It is a critical component to our community’s long term success, and should be treated that way, regardless of your political persuasion. If you are under the belief that early childhood education, (pre-natal care, quality childcare, all day pre-school and kindergarten) is a waste of time and money, and efforts to improve early childhood learning are lost by the age of nine, I want to ask you this question — who have you been listening to?”

“Indonesian Man Brings Free Books to Children Via Horse Library'”

News OK | topic(s): children’s books
“With an assortment of children’s books, a 42-year-old man and a horse make their way through rural Indonesia weekly, giving children a chance to read the books for free. According to Reuters, Ridwan Sururi and the horse, Luna, do this three times a week. He said the purpose is to encourage reading, and he uses the horse because he thinks it attracts kids.”

“Helen Kapalos Opens Multicultural Debate”

Neo Kosmos | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) commissioner argues for new definition of ‘reductionist’ ‘m’-word.”

“Latino Children Who Attend Preschool Fare Better”

National Journal | topic(s): early childhood education
“The bad news: Latino chil­dren are not only less likely to be en­rolled in preschool, they’re also less likely to be pre­pared for kinder­garten. The good news: New re­search con­duc­ted in Miami shows that early-child­hood edu­ca­tion can close that skills gap for low-in­come Latino stu­dents, both at the kindergarten level and through the end of third grade. Na­tion­ally, Latino chil­dren rep­res­ent a quarter of all kinder­garten­ers, ac­cord­ing to the Census Bur­eau. That ra­tio is only ex­pec­ted to grow in the com­ing years. Un­less they ar­rive ready to learn, the po­ten­tial skills gap could have far-reach­ing im­plic­a­tions, the authors of a re­port from the Na­tion­al Re­search Cen­ter on His­pan­ic Chil­dren and Fam­il­ies warn.”

“Video Games Can Actually Be Pretty Educational. Here’s How.”

APlus | topic(s): educational games
“The easiest thing to say about what video games teach kids (and adults) is the hand-eye coordination argument and although it’s a bit of cliché, it’s really true — if your eyes are going to be glued to a screen, at least have your hands controlling what’s going up there. Games keep people’s brains and (some) muscles engaged, instead of luring them into a vegetative state like movies or TV. There’s a lot more at play when you have to think critically about a puzzle on screen and how you want to approach it using the controller at your disposal. Compared to staring glassy-eyed at a reality show, it’s rocket science. And that’s just the start. Consider the data that can be gleaned from how people game and you start opening up all sorts of educational opportunities.”

“Society Isn’t All White, So Why is Our Kids’ Literature?”

State Press | topic(s): children’s literature
“To avoid any fan-girl embarrassment, I’m going to start off by thanking Young Adult authors for writing books so magnificent that I had to lie down on my bathroom floor for several hours after I finished. ‘Looking For Alaska’ by John Green, ‘Where Things Come Back’ by John Corey Waley and ‘Every Day’ by David Levithan ripped a hole in my heart in their own special way. OK. Now that I’ve gotten that out of the way, I can say what I’ve been itching to know ever since I first became a lover of books — why are there no minority characters in children’s or YA novels? Or, rather, why are there no people of color who play major and significant roles in these aforementioned novels? “

“Preschool Helps Kids. Sometimes. Briefly.”

Bloomberg View (Australia) | topic(s): children’s literature
“A not-for-profit organisation called the Sydney Story Factory is challenging the way creative writing is taught to children, with early academic findings indicating some positive results. We are seeing confidence with their writing and confidence in communication with volunteers and peers. We are seeing an understanding of the complexity of creative writing and what it involves. What we’re doing is giving them permission to use their imaginations and to write what they want to write about. Rather than being dictated to or writing to a particular formula in a high-pressure exam.”

“Creative Writing Helps Improve Kids’ Imagination, Confidence And Writing Skills”

Huffington Post (Australia) | topic(s): children’s literature
“A not-for-profit organisation called the Sydney Story Factory is challenging the way creative writing is taught to children, with early academic findings indicating some positive results. We are seeing confidence with their writing and confidence in communication with volunteers and peers. We are seeing an understanding of the complexity of creative writing and what it involves. What we’re doing is giving them permission to use their imaginations and to write what they want to write about. Rather than being dictated to or writing to a particular formula in a high-pressure exam.”

“It’s Multiculturalism or Bust for our Planet”

Echo | topic(s): multiculturalism
“It feels strange to be arguing about the benefits of multiculturalism as a cornerstone of any modern society in the 21st century. But this century has seen the rise of what one can only call monocultures, cultures that are opposed to the plurality of vision that multiculturalism embodies. These monocultures threaten the fabric of civilisation as we know it, so it’s a good time to have this conversation.”

“The Power of Games”

Brookings Institute | topic(s): educational games
“Next week, I will be presenting to school librarians in Rome about The Power of Games to Create New Learning Opportunities as a way to kick off International Games Day – an initiative that began eight years ago as a way to bring together the global library community and raise awareness about the role of libraries in the 21st century. To prepare for my talk, I began researching the value of games not only for libraries, but also the broader educational context.”

“Windows of Opportunity: Their Seductive Appeal”

Brookings Institute | topic(s): early childhood education
“A major theme in early childhood education is that brain research has established the importance of early windows of opportunity that can be exploited to assure optimal brain development and life-long well-being. Explanations involving brain science have a seductive appeal, especially among the general public and policy-makers. Thus, neuroscientific evidence requires special scrutiny in the policy realm. Consideration of the neuroscience behind claims about windows of opportunity reveals a contrast between what is claimed in the policy as opposed to the scholarly literature. The advocacy literature tends to tell only half of the story about the effects of experience on synapse formation. The full story raises doubts as to how much specific guidance neuroscience can provide policy makers about what should go into those windows of opportunity.”

“The Need for Proper Early Childhood Development Infrastructure is Urgent”

The Atlantic | topic(s): early childhood education
“South Africa has set itself the ambitious target of achieving universal and equitable early childhood development (ECD) by 2030, with plans to provide every child up to five years of age with a minimum of two years of preprimary school exposure before they enter basic schooling. As the foundation phase in the education value chain, ECD has been found to deliver lasting benefit to pupils, particularly the poor and disadvantaged. Research shows that pupils with sufficient exposure to ECD have better attainment levels and cognitive abilities, and that the return on investment in ECD ­programmes can far exceed that of economic development projects.”

“The Bipartisan Appeal of Pre-K”

The Atlantic | topic(s): early childhood education
“A poll suggests that Americans think the federal government has its education priorities reversed. One of the more staggering education statistics to transpire in recent years is that, in most states, daycare actually costs more than tuition and fees at a public four-year college. The finding, which is based on a 2013 report by Child Care Aware America, specifically refers to the care of an infant—but the high costs of caring for and educating children continue until they enter kindergarten. That’s largely because, compared to the K-12 and higher-ed sectors, there are relatively few public prekindergarten options in the United States to choose from.”

“Can a Video Game Teach Just as Well as a Professor?”

Bloomberg | topic(s): educational games
“The chance to learn about leadership and management from top corporate strategists is part of the business school guarantee. But what if your B-School professor could be replaced by technology, without sacrificing any educational payoff?
An experiment conducted by John Beck, Ph.D., at Hult International Business School found that a business strategy video game proved just as effective in teaching students as a professor.”

“Are Video Games the Future of Education?”

Education Week | topic(s): educational games
“Game developers all over the country are working to align some educational games to Common Core State Standards, while educators and video game makers are seeing benefits in using games in a classroom context, despite concerns from administrators. This could be the golden age of educational video games.”

“Ten Reasons Why Early Childhood Education Pays Off”

Bloomberg| topic(s): early childhood education
“Brain science and economics show that intervening to help children when they’re very young is more cost-effective than waiting until they’re in school. That’s the conclusion of a new report from the Bridgespan Group and the Pritzker Children’s Initiative. The report’s lead author, J.B. Pritzker, is an entrepreneur and philanthropist; his sister, Penny, is the U.S. secretary of commerce. Here are 10 claims sprinkled through the 67-page report for the benefits of investing in early intervention.”

“At Meet the Makers, Getting Up Close and Personal With Indonesian Craftspeople”

Jakarta Globe | topic(s): arts and crafts, craftsmanship
“Meet the Makers, a biannual event to promote and nurture Indonesia’s craft traditions, will return for its 10th edition this Thursday at the Payon restaurant in Kemang, South Jakarta. Organized by a community of artists, craftspeople, and designers from various parts of Indonesia, the three-day event aims to reinforce the notion of craft as an artform by introducing artisans of various stripes to the general public.”

“Business Executives Discuss Economics of Early Childhood”

Richmond Times Dispatch | topic(s): early childhood education
“Smarter investments in early childhood education will be necessary to develop a skilled workforce for the Virginia and national economies, a business leader and an economist said at a conference in Richmond on Monday. The government, businesses, faith organizations, nonprofits, and families all need to play a role in that.”

“Developer Offers Teachers New Tool to Connect Games to the Classroom”

Games and Learning | topic(s): educational apps, educational games
“For game developers, it might sound like a pipe dream – a tool that would let teachers quickly and easily import their own content into a game, custom-built for their own classroom and assessment needs. It’s what teachers have been asking for and what many tech companies hope could be the elusive key to integrating game-based learning into the educational mainstream.”

“New Teaching Strategy at Primary, Preschools”

Royal Gazette | topic(s): early childhood education
“The Ministry of Education is set to launch a new educational framework for teaching for preschool and primary school. The inquiry framework, which is designed to mimic the way young children learn and construct knowledge, will be formally launched during an after school event today at Northlands Primary School. Assistant director of early childhood education Sharon Speir said the new framework will have the teachers working alongside their students, wondering and researching with them. In this model of teaching and learning, it is OK for teachers to say I don’t know, let’s find out together.”

“Keeping the Spirit of Japanese Craftsmanship Alive”

Khaleej Times | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Japan’s craftsmanship has long been appreciated for its high-level techniques paired with distinct style to create unique tokens. Breathing life into inanimate objects, the Japanese Traditional Crafts Association seeks a presence in the Middle East to give buyers a taste of the country’s heritage.”

“The Urgent Need for Diverse Children’s Books”

Newsworks | topic(s): children’s books
“There continues to be lack of literature that reflects our country’s diversity. I don’t just mean racial and ethnic diversity. I’m also talking about a diversity of languages, family structures, religious perspectives, sexual orientation, identifications, social class, and disabilities. Our son should have an opportunity to see himself and his peers in books he reads. Books are a wonderful opportunity for young people to identify with who characters are and what challenges or humorous experiences they face. It’s an opportunity to think about people and experiences different from our own. Finding books with a person of color as the main character are hard to come by. Even more challenging is finding books where characters have a disability, or families are happily living in a single-parent home. Lives like this aren’t rare, and yet books don’t always touch on those realities.”

“Technology is Important Part of Kindergarten Curriculum”

Ionia Sentinel-Standard | topic(s): educational games
“Today’s kindergarteners are expected to learn so much more than their parents did in kindergarten classes of the 20th century. But while the curriculum has gotten to be very rigorous, that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. We learn letters, sounds, how to put words together, rhyming, sentence building, number sense, patterns, shapes, parts of objects, labeling, and the list goes on. We paint, we use crayons, markers, pencils, etc. and strengthen those fine motor skills. But technology is also an important component of our classroom. We sometimes forget that the children come in knowing how to use and manipulate technology, so for most of them it is a natural part of their lives. For that reason I make the effort to include it in my classroom, as much as I can.”

“Preserving the Old Crafts”

Bangkok Post | topic(s): arts and crafts, craftsmanship
“Following a long tradition of crafting metal into shapes that appeal to connoisseurs, he is determined to follow in his ancestors’ footsteps and pass the skills on to the next generation. The 56-year-old has turned his residence in the historic area of Rattanakosin island — well known for its centuries-old skill of hand-making monk’s alms bowls — into a learning centre for enthusiasts. The course is free, regardless of nationality.”

“Kids Spend the Day Learning to Leave No Trace”

The Roanoke Times | topic(s): early childhood education, educational games
“Research conducted about 30 years ago showed that the critical factor in a child’s ability to learn was his or her early language environment. They found that by the time they reached their fourth birthday, children born into poverty heard 30 million fewer words than their more affluent peers.”

“Kids spend the day learning to Leave No Trace”

The Roanoke Times | topic(s): early childhood education, educational games
“Students from Falling Branch and Christiansburg Elementary schools took a field trip Sept. 28 to Falls Ridge Nature Preserve in Montgomery County and learned some tips for being good stewards of nature. The students took a hike to a waterfall and a cave during the visit, and were treated to educational games and discovery lessons by presenters from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the Leave No Trace traveling trainers, sponsored by Subaru.”

“Preschool is Good for Children, But it’s Expensive. So Utah is Offering it Online.”

Washington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
“Can 4-year-olds learn what they need to know for kindergarten by sitting in front of a computer for 15 minutes a day? Utah is betting they can. This year, more than 6,600 children across the state are learning by logging on to laptops at home in a taxpayer-funded online preschool program that is unlike any other. This is preschool without circle time on the carpet, free play with friends and real, live teachers. In online preschool, children navigate through a series of lessons, games and songs with the help of a computer mouse and two animated raccoons named Rusty and Rosy. The Obama administration last year awarded an $11.5 million grant to expand the online program into rural communities to study how well it prepares children for kindergarten. Schools in South Carolina are testing it, and Idaho lawmakers are considering a pilot program.”

“Lost My Name is a Customizable Children’s Book for the Internet Age”

The Next Web | topic(s): children’s books
“With the trend in personalization continuing to grow in apps and gadgets, it’s refreshing to see one company apply the same tech principles to something even more impactful: children’s books. Lost My Name is a publishing startup that specializes in personalized books. And it’s not just slapping your recipient’s name on the cover and calling it a day: some of the book’s content changes depending on your name and location.”

“When TV Looks and Sounds Like America”

Baltimore Sun | topic(s): multiculturalism
“What’s happening in prime time television looks like a microcosm of what’s taking place in the larger society as the nation works its way through the tension, conflicts, joy, and possibilities of a changing America undergoing massive demographic and cultural shifts.”

“Early Childhood Development Added to the Global Development Agenda”

Education World | topic(s): early childhood education
“The United Nations has now included early childhood development (ECD) into its global development agenda, promising to recognize early, equitable and smart investment to promote both the education and health of the world’s youngest learners. For the 50 million children growing up in conflict — never mind the many more being raised in poverty — global support for supporting early development is most important. Although ECD comes under the new education goal, it provides a natural link to other goals – helping reduce poverty, improve health and nutrition, promote women and girls’ equality, and reduce violence. We need to build on this momentum.”

“Amazon Upsets Etsy’s Knitting with a New Arts and Crafts Platform”

Silicon Republic | topic(s): arts and crafts
“E-commerce giant Amazon is setting out to take on Etsy with a new e-commerce store for artisans — Handmade. Just like with Etsy, Handmade customers can discover artisans from around the world. The platform also allows shoppers to buy locally within their community. Every Handmade product page contains a location icon identifying where the artisan is based, along with a link to the artisan’s profile. All products sold on Handmade will be factory-free and must be made by hand, Amazon said. Handmade at Amazon features a variety of product categories, including jewellery, home décor, artwork, stationery and party supplies, kitchen and dining, and furniture.”

“A Revolution in Early Childhood Development”

Unicef | topic(s): early childhood education
“I used to think that early childhood development was all about education. If we taught a child her colours and shapes, her letters and numbers, it would stimulate her mind and encourage healthy brain growth. We now know that it takes more than education for a child’s brain to develop — a lot more. What we are learning should ignite a revolution in how we think about and act on early childhood development. We already knew how critical the first years of a child’s life are to the healthy development of her brain. During those early years, almost 1000 brain cells connect every second – a pace never matched again. These connections are the building blocks of a child’s life. They help determine her cognitive, emotional and social development. They help define her capacity to learn, her future success … even her future happiness. Now we know that those connections are deeply affected not only by genetics but also by the conditions of a child’s young life. The two are inextricably intertwined. So when we stimulate a child’s mind by playing with her, talking to her, and reading to her, we feed her developing brain. A child lacking in the attention she gets from a caring family is not only less happy now. Her ability to live and learn fully later is affected. When we nourish a child’s body with the proper nutrition, we are also feeding her brain and facilitating those neural connections. And when we care for her and protect her from violence and abuse, we are also buffering her brain from the toxic stress that can break those critical connections and hamper healthy brain development.”

“Call for More Investment in Childcare Quality”

Stuff (New Zealand) | topic(s): early childhood education
“The focus for early childhood education should be quality, not high participation. A ChildForum survey of more than 600 teachers found that a quarter of early childhood teachers would not enroll their own children at their centres due to concerns about quality, with some saying their centres were like factory farming for children or mostly crowd management.”

“E-commerce Takes Kolu Dolls to Buyers’ Doorstep”

The Hindu | topic(s): dolls
“It is that time of the year when people flock to the Mylapore tank area to buy colourful kolu dolls. While some buyers continue to stick to this tradition, there are others who turn to e-commerce to find their Kolu dolls. Technology has changed the way Kolu dolls are selected and bought. The demand for these dolls is high in the United States, Malaysia and Australia, but it is picking up in countries like Canada, France and the United Kingdom.”

“Nurseries Could Play a ‘Vital Role’ in Advising Parents on Suitable Apps for Children”

Nursery World | topic(s): educational apps
“A new report recommends early years settings provide parents with guidance on the type of apps that support children’s learning. The research, ‘Exploring Play and Creativity in Pre-Schoolers’, was carried out by the universities of Sheffield and Edinburgh in partnership with CBeebies, production company Foundling Bird, technology developer Dubit and Monteney Primary School in Sheffield.”

“Third of Preschool Children Have Their Own iPad, Says Study”

The Guardian | topic(s): educational apps
“Researchers found that 37% of British children aged between three and five have their own tablet. They use it for an average of one hour and 19 minutes every weekday, often on their own without a parent or guardian. They are most likely to use them from 4-6pm during the week, but use is more evenly spread at the weekend when children play on their tablets for an extra four minutes each day on average. Many children are allowed to play independently, with more than a third (35%) of pre-schoolers using their tablet on their own. They’re most likely to be left on their own at the beginning and end of the day, but 57% of pre-schoolers play on the tablet with a parent or guardian.”

“School Set to Offer Taste of Adventure”

The Sentinel | topic(s): adventure
“A primary school which sits in the heart of a Staffordshire beauty spot is to transform part of its 11-acre site into an outdoor education centre. Manifold CE Academy, in Warslow, wants to provide a base for children from urban areas like Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle to experience adventure learning.”

“How To Know The Difference Between Multiculturalism And Assimilation”

The Federalist| topic(s): multiculturalism
“The debate between assimilation and multiculturalism could be not just the sleeper issue of the 2016 campaign, but the current great question of the West.”

“Creative Minds: Artists Preserve, Teach Native American Arts and Crafts”

Herald Democrat | topic(s): arts and crafts
“For members of the Choctaw Nation, art is about their history and culture. We wouldn’t know our history without our artists and for our future generations to know our history, it’s going to take our artists. With artists sharing and fellowshipping with the community, it will encourage the next generation to follow through on sharing the traditions.”

“It’s Time to Take a Hard Look at How We Teach Reading”

The Telegraph | topic(s): children’s literature
“According to UNESCO, one in three children in developing countries are still unable to read after five years in school. But it’s not only the developing world that has a reading problem.
The latest PISA scores indicate that a quarter of US students are failing to achieve even minimal levels of literacy. In England, reading scores rank among the lowest in the Western world – 22nd out of 24 countries. It’s time to take a hard look at how we’re teaching reading. Methods matter. So do the findings of literacy research. We have almost a quarter century of studies that document how literacy blooms wherever students have access to books they want to read, permission to choose their own, and time to get lost in them.”

“Reading Aloud to Children a Meaningful Gift”

Herald Mail Media | topic(s): children’s literature
“I don’t remember how I learned to read. I recall workbooks and reading groups, but it seems to me that there’s more than a little bit of magic involved. Reading is an accrued skill. The more you do it, the better you get. Human beings are pleasure-oriented, he said. If reading isn’t pleasurable, kids aren’t going to read. Read aloud to your child for 15 minutes a day. This uncomplicated tool is one of the greatest intellectual and emotional gifts you can give a child. I cherish my memories of reading aloud to my kids. It also was a great gift to me.”

“Celebrity Authors Taking Children’s Literature by Storm”

CTV News | topic(s): children’s literature
“In October, Pharrell Williams — the indisputable king of pop — released “Happy,” a children’s book published by Putnam Books for Young Readers. The musician is only the latest star to join the ranks of celebrity-authors for kids that includes Madonna, Paul McCartney, Ricky Martin, Spike Lee, and Jim Carrey.”

“Boys Shed Gender Stereotype; Make Dolls, Baskets”

Tribune India | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Though craft is generally a domain that’s dominated by women in India, boys participating in the heritage events (which have been added to the Panjab University Youth and Heritage Festival from this year) were seen making crafts items such as dolls and baskets.”

“Who’s Running Our Schools, Anyway?”

Green Bay Press Gazette | topic(s): early childhood education
“No Child Left Behind, Race to the Top, and Common Core were composed and implemented by Bill Gates and other member of the 1 percent without input from parents, teachers of early childhood students and early education experts. The educational expectations, of especially very young children, are causing children great stress, enough to make them throw up, cry and get sick. The standardized testing by Pearson (a British multinational corporation) is a hoax. It has no background in education or teaching children. Its record of mistakes in the test questions, correcting tests, and delivering them on time is dismal.”

“Education, Infrastructure Key Public Investments for Job Growth”

The Rock River Times | topic(s): early childhood education
“Investments in education and infrastructure, along with a balanced budget, are chief among the public policies that boost a state’s employment, according to a new paper co-written by Robert Bruno, a professor of labor and employment relations on the Urbana campus at the University of Illinois.”

“Talking Point: Mental Health Starts in Childhood”

The Mercury | topic(s): early childhood education
“For many people in the community, mental health is not readily associated with young children. But good mental health in early childhood lays the foundation for positive mental health and well-being now and into the future. Being mentally healthy is vital for learning and for leading a happy, rewarding life. Keeping children healthy and happy involves looking after their mental health as well as their physical health. The ancient Romans said “Mens sana in corpore sano”, which means a healthy mind in a healthy body. And that is critical for children — influencing how children feel about themselves, what they do, what they think, and how they relate to others.”

“Equipping Young People With Skills for Tomorrow”

IOL | topic(s): educational games
“Microsoft is providing IT training and opportunities to diverse populations of young people to prepare them with the computational thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for success in an increasingly digital world, through partnerships with government, non-profit organisations and local business partnerships. Globally, Microsoft has committed to investing $75 million (R1 billion) over the next three years in community programmes to increase access to computer science education for all youth, especially for those from under-represented backgrounds, and build greater diversity into the tech talent pipeline.”

“Learn, and Have Fun: How Mobile Technology Will Impact Education”

The Quint (India) | topic(s): educational games
“There are over 7 billion mobile connections across the globe today, and this figure is expected to grow to approximately 8.7 billion by the end of 2018. Keeping that statistic in mind, it won’t be difficult to predict that mobile technology will play a significant role in education in the future. Technology can accelerate learning outcomes of children.”

“Confusion and Disarray in the Education Aisle of the App Stores”

Slate | topic(s): educational apps
“In 2012, in a report published by the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, we named this bazaar the ‘digital wild west.’ Two years later, our research teams went back to the app stores to conduct a deeper analysis. We explain the results in Tap, Click, Read: Growing Readers in a World of Screens, a new book and website for parents and educators, and in a report forthcoming this fall. Findings show that the marketplace is teeming with early literacy products that are disorganized, mismatched, and missing labels that could help consumers make better choices.”

“Quality Early Child Education Has Positive Effects On Latino Children”

Forbes | topic(s): early childhood education
“Hispanic children currently make up roughly one in four of all children in the United States, and by 2050 are projected to make up one in three – similar to the number of non-Hispanic, white children. How this growing segment of the population fares as the rise through the educational system is an important indicator of our future workforce. The report, which studied children in the publicly funded preschool programs in Miami and was produced by the National Research Center on Hispanic Children and Families, found that the children from the program entered kindergarten with scores above national averages in the areas of pre-academic and social-behavioral skills. These skills were also higher than peers who had been in center-based care.”

“Quality Early Child Education Has Positive Effects On Latino Children”

Forbes | topic(s): early childhood education
“Hispanic children currently make up roughly one in four of all children in the United States, and by 2050 are projected to make up one in three – similar to the number of non-Hispanic, white children. How this growing segment of the population fares as the rise through the educational system is an important indicator of our future workforce. The report, which studied children in the publicly funded preschool programs in Miami and was produced by the National Research Center on Hispanic Children and Families, found that the children from the program entered kindergarten with scores above national averages in the areas of pre-academic and social-behavioral skills. These skills were also higher than peers who had been in center-based care.”

“Supporting Super Students: Read With Your Children”

Sahuarita Sun | topic(s): children’s books
“Parents are bombarded with ‘Read to your children! Read to your children!’ I am suggesting you read WITH your children. An author will use his imagination to write a story book, and you must use your imagination to make it come alive for your children. You must not just read words, but think, question, and imagine with your children so that they can see what you are reading. No wonder they want you to read a favorite book over and over if you make it a wonder-filled experience. Use emotion, different voices, even choosing your own words instead of the author’s to act a part.”

“Is Multiculturalism Bad for America?”

Rasmussen Reports | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Just 26% of American Adults agree with Jeb Bush that multiculturalism is bad for the country. A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 44% believe it is good for America instead. Fifteen percent (15%) say multiculturalism has no impact, but another 15% are not sure.”

“Jeremy Corbyn Says Multiculturalism Brings “Energy” To Britain”

BuzzFeed | topic(s): multiculturalism
“We live in a multicultural, multi-faith society in Britain. It’s not a problem, it’s a strength. It’s not a difficulty, it’s an energy.”

“Can children’s Books Help Build a Better World?”

Th Guardian | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
“Jella Lepman, a German-Jewish writer who fled Germany in the 1930s and returned after the second world war as the US Army’s advisor on youth issues, believed that children needed books: great children’s books to help them make sense of their experiences, connect them to the rest of the world, and show them they were not alone. She was convinced that books for young people could create bridges of understanding across the barriers of the world.”

“What’s Wrong With The Brookings Paper On Universal Preschool?”

Think Progress | topic(s): early childhood education
“Earlier this month, the Brookings Institution, a centrist think tank, published a provocatively titled paper that asked if we already had universal preschool. Revitalizing the fierce debate over early childhood education, the paper concluded that 70 percent of children already have an option for pre-K, infuriating many who have been making pushes for public funding of universal pre-K.”

“Raising an Internet Safety-Savvy Kid in the Digital Age”

Noodle | topic(s): early childhood education
“The Internet holds treasure troves of knowledge, but also complicated, and even unsafe, realities. As even toddlers turn to tablets and technology, many parents wonder what role they should let these tools play in their child’s life.”

“President Obama Hits Hard in U.N. Speech”

CNN | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Obama slammed the building of walls to keep out immigrants and demonizing of those of different religions, an oblique reference to some of the incidents that have cropped up on the 2016 presidential campaign trail.”

“How to Talk About Other Religious Traditions to Your Kids”

Time | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Kids need to understand something about other religions to understand the world around them. We all need to be religiously literate, just like we’re literate in math and reading. Kids have a lot to gain by learning about other traditions: a connection to other cultures and traditions, an enriched world view, and the chance to think about their own traditions in deeper ways.”

“Africa: Unicef and Goodwill Ambassador Shakira Urge Leaders to Join Early Childhood Revolution”

All Africa | topic(s): early childhood education
“The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and its Goodwill Ambassador and international pop star Shakira urged global leaders today to invest heavily in early childhood development in the wake of new science that is creating a revolutionary shift in understanding the lasting effects of deprivation and stress on the developing brains of young children. According to UNICEF, brain development is most intense during early childhood, with nearly 1,000 neural connections happening every second. These early synaptic connections form the basis of a child’s health and wellbeing, including the lifelong capacity to learn, adapt to change, and handle adversity.”

“Local Teachers Participate in Yearlong Arts Integration Program”

Chippewa | topic(s): early childhood education
“Fifteen local teachers have been selected to participate in a year-long inaugural arts integration program created by Arts Integration Menomonie (A.I.M.). To meet the group’s goals, the C.I.T.A. (Co-teaching In and Through the Arts) program pairs early childhood education teachers with appointed teaching artists to develop collaborative and sustainable arts teaching-learning partnerships. Focusing primarily on early career teachers, the C.I.T.A. program provides a support system which will help retain such teachers, providing them with arts skills and practices to better engage students in meaningful learning.”

“To Play or Not to Play – Video Games for Learning”

Times of Malyta | topic(s): educational games
“A pertinent question I constantly ask myself as a teacher is: did I really teach if my students do not understand what I have delivered? An important prerogative in teaching is not that facts are transmitted and received, but that these facts can be weaved into meaningful forms of knowledge to be easily understood and employed in students’ reasoning. It is common knowledge that play is a pleasurable way to learn, and while it has been widely used in educational contexts, playing video games for learning still raises eyebrows. A game can be recognised as a framework for organised play that promotes enjoyment through activities and goals that expose the player/s to stimuli that include constraints, payoffs, consequences and ultimately a sense of competition that asks for strategies directed towards success.”

“Craft Revival Reshaping Design Landscape”

Sowetan Live | topic(s): arts and crafts, craftsmanship
“We are currently experiencing one of the greatest craft revivals ever seen – locally and internationally. It is one of the largest design trends by far, and stretches across such a vast spectrum of products that it is hard not to take notice. You don’t have to venture too far to be bombarded with an array of craft beer, artisanal coffee, or chocolate. The reasons for this artisanal direction are vast, with the major contributor being a backlash to the mass production of products across the world over recent years. The craft influence we are currently seeing is more refined than its predecessors, and in many cases may just be an element in the overall design, such as the hand-stitched upholstery on a chair, or a rough timber base or frame on an otherwise high-tech lamp.”

“Sukka Projects: Turning a Hobby for Arts and Crafts into a Business”

The Malay Mail Online | topic(s): arts and crafts, craftsmanship
“What started as a hobby (hand-painting shoes, spectacle frames, and making plush toys) has developed into a passionate enterprise known as Sukka Projects for Fya Zainal and Ichie Imran. They had first met when they were studying multimedia and graphic design in their hometown in Sabah. Both girls are artistic people who bonded over the love of making things from scratch.”

“Shakira Partners with Fisher-Price, Promotes Early Childhood Development”

KRQE | topic(s): early childhood education
“Shakira has made early childhood development a top priority for her organization, Barefoot Foundation, launched in 1997. A UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, she also promoted early childhood development at the United Nations on Tuesday. She developed an app called “Grow” that will feature 2,000 tips and will be available later this fall. Her First Steps collection of toys and baby gear with the Mattel Inc.-owned company includes a bouncer that plays music, alphabet blocks and a musical soccer ball. All of the proceeds benefit her foundation.”

“This 10-year-old Can Teach You a Thing or Two About Multiculturalism”

Gloucestershire Echo | topic(s): multiculturalism
“This youngster really hits the nail on the head. She understands that having different cultures in the same place is enriching rather than a threat. In our current political climate where ‘migrant’ is a bad word and casual racism is just accepted I was even more delighted to come across this enlightened girl. If only we could all be as clear-thinking as this ten-year-old.”

“Rahul Jain Says Artisanship Barely Exists in Modern India”

Live Mint | topic(s): arts and crafts, craftsmanship
“As a nation still grappling with substantial poverty, we have the luxury to preserve and promote handlooms and handicrafts whose makers are often seriously underprivileged with little say in the matter themselves. Yes, we still have pockets of what would be considered ‘artisanal’ today in Indian hand-making, but large urban segments are now better described as a modern, semi-mechanized industry, where human hands are merely put through the motions of making.”

“Making Dolls for Livelihood”

The Hindu | topic(s): dolls
“Fifty female artisans in Srirangam will soon be completing their six-month training programme in the art of making papier mache dolls organised by the Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation (Poompuhar). The course, which started in April, gives participants a complete overview of doll-making as a cottage industry. It is aimed at increasing the number of women in the handicrafts industry.”

“Why Men Need More Adventure in Their Lives”

Good Men Project | topic(s): adventure
“Adventures help you remember who you are, why you’re here, and who you were meant to become.”

“Clinton Jabs GOP Candidates as Out of Touch with Multicultural America”

MSNBC | topic(s): multiculturalism
“The Democratic presidential front-runner has released a new video rounding up the many ways contenders for the GOP 2016 nomination have either alienated or outright offended broad swaths of the American electorate. Set to the backdrop of America, the Beautiful, the 60-second spot bashes the Republican vision for America, featuring a reel of candidates using fiery rhetoric targeting everyone from Muslims to Spanish-speakers to people of different cultures.”

“Jeb Bush on Multiculturalism: It’s the Wrong Approach”

Latin Post | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Republican presidential hopeful Jeb Bush weighed in on the idea of multiculturalism at an Iowa diner on Tuesday. He offered that we should not have a multicultural society, that we ought to have America. It’s the set of values that we share that defines our national identity, not race or ethnicity or where you’re from.”

“Ntomb’entle Dolls Challenge Stereotypes”

Moneyweb | topic(s): dolls
“A lack of black dolls on the retail market fueled Tumisang Ndlovu’s desire to create Ntomb’entle’ – Molemo Kgomo.”

“Hillary Clinton Slams Republicans on Multiculturalism”

Mashable | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Just one day after Republican presidential candidate Jeb Bush said that multiculturalism was bad for the United States, Democrat Hillary Clinton’s campaign released a video highlighting rhetoric by Bush and other Republican candidates on immigration, the Spanish language and Muslims.”

“Social Entrepreneurs Offer New Thinking on Old Challenges in Early Childhood”

Huffington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
“Rather than declaring victory, some in the early childhood community have responded to this growing consensus with an increased focus on using innovation to drive more effective policies and programs. A fledgling movement of early childhood scholars, policymakers, and practitioners is heeding this call, experimenting with novel, innovative approaches for funding early childhood services, building caregivers’ skills, and identifying children at risk for adversity.”

“Early Education: The Earlier, the Better”

Star Tribune | topic(s): early childhood education
“There may be good reasons to establish universal pre-K, but closing the achievement gap isn’t one of them. If the achievement gap is the priority that many at the Capitol say it is, then the facts are clear: age 4 is too late for intervention, since brain development with lifelong implications occurs even before birth. We have to start earlier than age 4 for the 20,000 children born into poverty across Minnesota.”

“3 Key Takeaways from the Nielsen Children’s Book Summit”

Publishing Perspectives | topic(s): children’s books
“Despite modest growth or even decline in adult book sales in many countries, children’s books are selling well around the world. Why is this?”

“Oh, the Places They’re Going: Book Apps See Changing Market”

Kid Screen | topic(s): educational apps
“Like iPads at family restaurants, Dr. Seuss fans are everywhere. So it came as little surprise to Greg Uhler and his colleagues at Oceanhouse Media that Apple’s support crew took a keen interest in his company’s most recent venture—a newly revamped lineup of educational book apps based on popular Seuss titles.”

“How Can a Grandparent Help Their Grandchild Love Reading?”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
“Grandparents and great-grandparents can have a massive impact on how much younger children enjoy reading for pleasure. The Book Doctor has tips on how older members of the family can help children develop as passionate readers — even if they don’t live nearby.”

“The iPad and Your Kid—Digital Daycare, Empowering Educator, or Something Bad?”

Ars Technica | topic(s): educational apps
“Young children are captivated by contingency. They are fascinated by the iPad in the same way they enjoy throwing toys on the floor (after you’ve picked it up the hundredth time!). They see something happen as a result of their behavior. Unlike the action and reaction of a traditional computer, using an iPad is much more intuitive. Anyone with a finger can do it — literally even a baby.”

“8 Ways to Justify Letting Your Kids Play Video Games”

Pixelkin | topic(s): educational games
“If you play games yourself, you may already know how great video games can be for learning, for socializing, and for having fun. But people who don’t play video games don’t understand any of this. When you run into misinformation, it may be up to you as a well-informed parent to tell them where they went wrong. This article offers eight ideas to get started.”

“Helping Young Students Make Big Connections: Schools Redesign Kindergarten, First Grade Curriculum”

Capital Gazette | topic(s): early childhood education
“At the end of Sheila Norris’ kindergarten class at Hillsmere Elementary School, her students figured out that rules keep people safe. They explored the topic “rules” throughout the day as part of a new interdisciplinary, theme-focused kindergarten and first-grade curriculum that brings together math, science, literacy and social studies.”

“The New Kindergarten: Preschool Becoming Expected for Public Schools”

Reno Gazette-Journal | topic(s): early childhood education
“Nationwide, more than a quarter of 4-year-olds
are now in state-funded preschool programs,
according to a report released this spring by
the U.S. Department of Education, tracking states’ 
voluntary shift. From 2003 to 2013, states increased
their investment in preschool by more than 200
percent. The increase continued last year as 28 states
put $1 billion more into early education. The federal government also has a program for poor families,
Head Start, which extends the reach of publicly
funded preschools to 42 percent of the country’s
4-year-olds, according to the National Institute for 
Early Education Research at Rutgers University.”

“Multiple Strategies for Kindergarten Readiness”

The Courier Journal | topic(s): early childhood education
“Metro United Way has been instrumental in solving community problems for almost 100 years. Because of our reputation of trust and our ability to convene and assemble resources, Mayor Greg Fischer asked us in 2012 to take the lead as part of the Cradle to Career framework and improve kindergarten readiness in our community.”

“All Children Should Have Access to Pre-K”

Alabama.com | topic(s): early childhood education
“Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to join a member of the Alabama Legislature at a First Class Pre-K classroom in Montgomery. While this member was supportive of our efforts, he didn’t quite understand the urgency to offer high-quality, voluntary pre-kindergarten to more children. According to noted economists and scholars, high-quality early education programs have the highest rate of return of any social investment, and their research shows that the benefits far outweigh program costs.”

“Early Education is the Key to Student Success”

Renton Reporter | topic(s): early childhood education
“Half of Washington’s children are set up to fail. On the first day of kindergarten, they’re behind on math and language and don’t have the social and emotional skills to succeed. These kids are starting a lifelong race 20 yards behind. Most never catch up. If you’re a mom or dad, a business owner or a taxpayer, you should care. Because when children fail, we all pay the price.”

“EduGaming: Faculty Explore Game-Based Learning as a Tool for Writing Instruction”

ToolWire | topic(s): educational games
“Used in tandem with classroom instruction, Toolwire’s Writing Games incorporate live-action video to create an authentic experience that is relevant and engaging for students. Each game takes about 20 minutes to complete and targets one to three specific learning objectives, such as developing a thesis statement.”

“Most Useful Guidelines to Integrate iPads in Classroom”

BDaily | topic(s): educational apps
“If your school principal or district has just announced to use iPads in classrooms, that’s a great step toward improving education standard. The use of latest technology in schools, colleges and universities has proven to be extraordinarily effective in improving overall learning of the students. If you are one of those teachers who doesn’t know much about how to match tech with lesson plans, you might be a little bit worried about it. Using iPads in classroom might be a problem for you especially if you are not sure how you will be able to stop your students spending unnecessary time in playing games or gossiping with friends. Well, you just need to be relaxed and read this article to find solutions for all relevant problems.”

“Celebrate multiculturalism, Don’t Allow Racial Extremism to Prevail”

New Straits Times Online | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Speaking at the Eco World Foundation appreciation dinner held at Sunway Resort Hotel, Transport minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said racial and religious extremists must not be allowed to ruin Malaysian culture and society.”

“Re-imagining the Future of Early Childhood Education”

Cape Craft and Design Institute | topic(s): early childhood education
“The future requires children to be nimble, creative and collaborative. We’re gathering together designers and education innovators to help us build spaces, tools, and equipment that will re-imagine early childhood education.”

“Adventures in Early Childhood: Fall is Great Time to Get Out in Nature”

Lake County News Chronicle | topic(s): adventure, early childhood education
“Make sure to take time away from the pressures of the new school year and step outside for some unstructured exploration. One of the most exciting things to observe during the fall is the bird migrations, and the migratory statistics are hitting highs right now. Keep your eyes in the skies for large flocks of nighthawks, woodpeckers, and other non-raptor species. The other thing I love to see during this time of year is found looking down, and that is the banded wooly bear caterpillar. I have found several of these fuzzy little creatures in the last couple weeks, and the children always love observing them.”

“Cheng-tsung Feng Reinterprets Traditional Bamboo Craftsmanship”

Design Boom | topic(s): craftsmanship
“A Taiwanese young designer, reveals how traditional bamboo craftsmanship can be transformed into modern design. Presented at maison et objet 2015, ‘Circle’ is a hand-made and self-standing mirror that uses moso bamboo for its whole structure.”

“Apple Could Learn Something From Amazon’s New Tablet For Tots”

Huffington Post | topic(s): educational apps
“If Amazon has its way, lots of kids will be playing with a new Fire tablet this Christmas. After Apple chased business customers with its new, bigger iPad Pro, Amazon on Thursday introduced a line of inexpensive new tablets, including a new version of its Fire Kids Edition backed by a two-year warranty and a raft of parental controls. The combination of low price, subscription to a huge library of content, durability and configurability will give parents a compelling alternative to many lower-cost tablets, as well as the much pricier iPad line, as the holiday season grows near.”

“Future Perfect: Investing in a Child’s Wellbeing Brings a Big Payoff”

The Guardian | topic(s): early childhood education
“Research shows that in many developing countries, public spending on pre-primary education amounts to less than 0.1% of gross domestic product, leaving families to absorb the cost either through private providers or informally within households and the community.”

“U.S. Education Department Announces Push For High-Quality Early Childhood Program Access For Students With Disabilities During Back-To-School Bus Tour Stop”

iSchool Guide | topic(s): early childhood education
“The crafted guidance by the Department recommends the implementation of policies that support inclusion, improve infrastructure and offer professional development to improve the number of high-quality early childhood programs nationwide. The Department said that while it is true that there was a huge progress toward equality for children with disabilities, a lot of them including their families continuously struggling to have access in inclusive high-quality early childhood programs. In addition, there are too many preschool children with disabilities who are only offered the option of receiving special education services in settings separate from their peers without disabilities.”

“Help Feed Children In Need With Cuddle+Kind’s Adorable Hand-Knit Dolls!”

Radar Online | topic(s): dolls
“Just one doll helps feed a child in need and give your loved one a new friend! Jennifer and Derek Woodgate are on a mission to help put an end to childhood hunger with their Indiegogo campaign, cuddle+kind. For every handcrafted, knit doll purchase, cuddle+kind will provide 10 meals to children in North America and around the world through their giving partners, the World Food Program USA and Children’s Hunger Fund.”

“Schools Begin the Shift to eBooks”

The Hindu | topic(s): children’s ebooks
“Soon, school children may not know the joys of playing book cricket, or doodling along the margins of a textbook for hours together, with schools slowly phasing out paper books, in classrooms and libraries, for e-alternatives. Many schools with smart boards for the younger classes are trying to reduce the students’ backpack loads. Students in higher classes are still forced to carry books to school despite many textbooks coming with CDs.”

“Tablets Emerging as Worldwide Tool for Teaching”

Games and Learning | topic(s): educational games
“Excitement about the promise and potential of information and communication technology (ICT) devices for use in teaching and learning has been around for a few decades, but only recently has this been translated into large scale purchases of such devices for use in schools outside of industrialized, ‘highly developed’ countries. What’s happening where, you ask? This article features representative international reports from recent years about this undeniable trend.”

“3 Reasons Students Don’t Play More Games in the Classroom”

Education Week | topic(s): educational games
“Research suggests that once these young learners enter a classroom, however, learning through tech “games” disappears. Families may still choose to buy the apps and use them at home, but schools are slow to bring gamification of education into their classrooms. A report by the market research group Ambient Insight found that edtech in the forms of learning games is not making its way into classrooms. Instead of educators making learning game purchases, marketers target parents because they are the ones who buy them. The North American edtech market is expected to grow over 15 percent in the next half-decade but company leaders have candidly said that they will focus marketing efforts on parents, not schools. To paraphrase, targeting schools is simply a waste of time.”

“Multiculturalism: Time to Codify Program Impact and Engagement”

The Mandarin (Australia) | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Currently, the federal government has a specific policy entitled The people of Australia – Australia’s Multicultural Policy. In this policy, the federal government recognises that Australia’s multicultural makeup gives the nation a competitive edge in today’s globalised world. The policy also supports the rights of Australians from multicultural backgrounds to maintain, practice and celebrate their cultural traditions while promoting social inclusion and an universal commitment to Australia, it democratic institutions and the rule of law. While I welcome this policy, it does not have the legislative and legal parameters to encourage federal government departments and jurisdictions to comply. In my humble opinion, only a specific legislation can achieve this.”

“The Correlation Between Arts And Crafts And A Nobel Prize”

Malaysian Digest | topic(s): arts and crafts
“The average scientist is not statistically more likely than a member of the general public to have an artistic or crafty hobby. But members of the National Academy of Sciences and the Royal Society — elite societies of scientists, membership in which is based on professional accomplishments and discoveries — are 1.7 and 1.9 times more likely to have an artistic or crafty hobby than the average scientist is. Nobel prize winning scientists are 2.85 times more likely than the average scientist to have an artistic or crafty hobby.”

“Everybody Likes Pre-K, Defining It Is Another Matter”

Flagler Live | topic(s): early childhood education
“States spent $6.3 billion on pre-K last fiscal year, according to the Education Commission of the States (ECS), an organization that tracks state policy trends. State investment grew 8.3 percent last year and 6.9 percent the year before, according to ECS. Forty-four states and the District of Columbia now fund pre-K programs for 4-year-olds. Many states also fund programs for 3-year-olds. How they structure their programs varies widely.”

“The Ups and Downs of Children’s Literature in China”

Yibada | topic(s): children’s literature
“Over the course of three decades, publishing companies with specialization in children’s literature have grown from a meager two to an impressive number of 546 — a 10.2-percent increase, according to research institute Openbook. The market is composed of approximately 370 million potential readers, making it one of the biggest markets in the world. Despite its impressive growth, China’s children’s book sector remains smaller and passive compared to world-class publishers like Macmillan and Random House. The primary reason is that domestic publishers, instead of coming up with bright new ideas, merely follow trends in the children’s book sector.”

“Gamifying the Educational Experience”

Inside Higher Ed | topic(s): educational games
“Games encourage a sense of flow (that is, a feeling a complete immersion in an activity) by presenting players with challenges to be met, puzzles to be cracked, and tasks to be mastered. In videogames, one does not rely on an instructor or guide book. Instead, the games encourage players to be resourceful problem solvers and risk-takers who learn to navigate a complex system by themselves and through that process acquire a sense of competence and self-confidence. Unlike most other sports, game players aren’t typically pitted against another player in a competition; rather, they are striving to prove their skills and to rise to a higher level. Videogames also allow players to assume various persona and learn how best to interact with those who have adopted very different roles or identities.”

“Sioux Falls Startup Lands Rand McNally Partnership”

Argus Leader | topic(s): educational apps
“Intro to Geography – World Edition will help children learn the shapes, names, flags and locations of every country in the world through interactive puzzles, challenges and drawing exercises. The app is based on the 100-year-old Montessori approach to geography, and the idea that an early foundation can help provide a lasting appreciation for the global community.”

“America’s Teaching Force, by the Numbers”

The Atlantic | topic(s): early childhood education
“Over the summer, major news outlets reported that the nation is facing dire teacher shortages. Pundits speculated that middling salaries and low prestige of teachers, among other factors, were pushing smart young people to other professions. The number of education majors dropped from 179,000 in 2011-12 to 164,000 the following year. While the country’s teaching force is certainly dealing with a staffing problem, a closer look at the numbers shows that shortages are centered in particular subject areas and geographic areas. In fact, there may be too many certified teachers in some fields, such as early-childhood education.”

“Durable Luxury With a Tinge of Indian Craftsmanship”

Asian Age | topic(s): craftsmanship
“The Textile Brigade is reviving and recreating Indian textile heritage as a global fad. Two things strike you at one go. One is technique and the other of course, art. Whether it’s a machine-made mill-manufactured cloth or hand-woven fabric, the result is a congregation of well-skilled technology and craftsmanship of highest order. Now when these wearable materials get a new-age spin in the contemporary fashion-market, then magic is created.”

“Whimsy Has No Age Limit”

Capital City Weekly | topic(s): children’s literature
“You see I never understood why we had to stop appreciating children’s books just because we were no longer children. Have we stopped appreciating ice cream? Or riding our bikes? Or jumping through a sprinkler on a hot summer’s day? Sure, being able to eat all the ice cream we can afford might have some health worries and we might not want to jump through that sprinkler if we’re wearing our work clothes. Adult life adds new complications, but it doesn’t diminish the achievements of children’s literature.”

“From Cygnet to South Africa: Tasmanian Children Give Handmade Dolls to Help with Grief and Loss”

ABC (Australia) | topic(s): dolls
“A group of Tasmanian children have been busy making hand-made dolls for South African children to help them cope with the emotional bereavement of the HIV and AIDS epidemic.”

“AUDIO: Is School Choice Reducing Cultural Diversity?”

Radio National (Australia) | topic(s): multiculturalism, early childhood education
“School choice has sharpened the dividing line between students from different socio-economic backgrounds but it also has other, unintended consequences. Researcher Christina Ho found that Sydney schools are dividing along ethnic lines. The children of migrant parents dominate the public system and private schools have less cultural diversity. She argues that this is a backward step for multiculturalism and we need to rethink the role of parental choice in shaping the school system.”

“Why Black Dolls in Africa Matter”

Ventures Africa | topic(s): dolls
“To correct the perception of only little representation of the African child in the toy industry, Maite Makgoba, a South African entrepreneur created a line of dolls —Momppy Mpoppy which showcase the variations of Africans’ skin colour. Makgoba hopes that her coily kinked black dolls will encourage tolerance and acceptance for young girls of colour around the world.”

“Australian Government Launched New Learning App for Parents That’s Topping iTunes Charts”

Business Insider (Australia) | topic(s): educational apps
“A new innovative government app, designed to encourage greater parental involvement with children’s learning, is now topping the educational charts in iTunes and Google Play. Learning Potential was launched just two weeks ago by the Minister of Education and Training, Christopher Pyne, and has had more than 63,000 downloads. The app offers inspiring ways for parents, grandparents and carers to become more involved in their children’s learning, from the high chair to high school.”

“Why Boosting Poor Children’s Vocabulary Is Important for Public Health”

The Atlantic | topic(s): early childhood education
“One key difference between low-income and affluent babies: the number of words to which they’re exposed. Re­search sug­gests that poor chil­dren hear about 600 words per hour, while af­flu­ent chil­dren hear 2,000. By age 4, a poor child has a listen­ing vocab­u­lary of about 3,000 words, while a wealth­i­er child wields a 20,000-word listen­ing vocab­u­lary. So it’s no sur­prise that poor chil­dren tend to enter kinder­garten already be­hind their wealth­i­er peers. ‘Talk With Me Baby’ is a multi­-faceted program that attempts to fill the massive 30 mil­lion-word gap between chil­dren from lower- and up­per-income fam­il­ies by mak­ing sure that ba­bies from all backgrounds hear lots of words.”

“Girls Urged to Ditch Dolls for Lego”

The Sydney Morning Herald | topic(s): dolls, educational games
“Barbie should be put back in her box to make way for more “creative” toys such as Lego and Meccano, which are traditionally given to boys, one of Britain’s top women scientists says. Dame Athene Donald, Professor of Experimental Physics at Cambridge University, believes the wrong toys are holding back girls who might otherwise go on to develop an interest in science and engineering.”

“U.S. Department of Education Grants $25 Million To Develop Science and Literacy-Themed Programs”

iSchoolGuide | topic(s): educational apps
“In a press release from the Department of Education, the Twin Cities Public Television and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting received the grants through the Ready-to-Learn Television program to support the creation of several television shows, games, websites, and apps for preschool and young elementary school children and their families.”

“How to Make Your iPad Kid-Friendly”

Gizmodo | topic(s): educational apps
“If you spend any time around young children you’ll know what a soothing and calming influence a tablet can be, but it’s potentially a pretty dangerous one too—there’s plenty of unwholesome content out there on the internet and app store for your little friend to accidentally stumble across. This articles highlights the best ways to make an iPad kid-proof before you hand it over.”

“Thai People Are Adopting Dolls With Souls”

Gapyear (Thailand) | topic(s): dolls
“Dolls containing children’s spirits are believed to provide good luck. The closer a doll comes to looking human, the more it makes our skin crawl and our suspicions of being murdered in our sleep rise. What should be a truth universally acknowledged, reinforced time and again by horror movies, is apparently being ignored in Thailand. People there are adopting Look Thep (Child God) dolls, which they believe to be inhabited by children’s spirits.”

“Educational Apps New Way to Help Kids Learn”

WFLA News Channel 8 | topic(s): multiculturalism, children’s literature
“There are thousands of educational apps to help children succeed in school. For kids, apps have to be fun. Many are designed like games. Parents can help keep kids focused on education by letting them use educational apps that don’t need to be connected to the internet. Turning WiFi off on a tablet or smartphone can keep kids from venturing online and getting distracted.”

“Jewish American Literature: A Story of Impossible Assimilation”

Huffington Post | topic(s): multiculturalism, children’s literature
“Multiculturalism is a means of teaching children about themselves by exploring different cultures, whether these cultures are foreign to them, or their own. While I am not of the mind we have nothing to learn from the model of essentialism, where we learn about the nature of the world from the perspective of the classics (mostly dead white men), there is a richness to culture and human experience that cannot be tackled exclusively by Plato and William Shakespeare. This is precisely why multiculturalism has become so essential as of late. Literature is a means of understanding what it is to be human. It teaches us to sympathize with each other above our differences.”

“High Holy Days and a Tibetan Monk Sand Mandala: Multiculturalism in Practice at Pico Union Project”

Benzinga | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Tibetan Buddhist Monks will spend seven days creating an exquisite sand mandala at the Pico Union in the middle of our 10 holiest Jewish days — Sept. 21 to Sept. 27 at the Pico Union Project in downtown Los Angeles, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The public is invited to come, at no charge, and view the mandala sand painting in progress and attend special ceremonies. On the 7th day of creation, they will dissolve their art, distribute the sand and instruct those who have gathered to disperse the sand into a fresh body of water.”

“Pint Sized Guardian Angels of Kyoto”

AFR Weekend | topic(s): dolls
“Japan’s traditional dolls are imbued with the nostalgia and craftsmanship of a vanished age. I didn’t expect to find this traditional Japanese art form enticing, but I’m converted in an instant. Now I want to know what that embroidered horse-dragon animal is (a kirin), why this doll is dressed in black (it’s the Edo style favoured by Tokyo-ites) and what the heads are made of (plaster, but formerly from porcelain whitened with powdered clamshell).”

“Silent Dolls to Meet Palestinian, Syrian Kids”

Mehr News Agency | topic(s): dolls
“The ceremony for delivering the dolls made by the Silent Doll Campaign to the war-stricken children of Palestine and Syria will be held in Damascus at the end of this week in collaboration with the International Union of Unified Ummah. The Silent Dolls Campaign was launched in collaboration with the local group of Rock-Paper-Scissors during which hundreds of cloth dolls were sent to the headquarters of this group in Tehran from around the country to express solidarity with war-stricken children.”

“Derbent Celebrates 2,000 Years of History and Multiculturalism”

Euro News | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Derbent, the oldest and southernmost city on Russia’s territory, is officially marking its 2,000th anniversary — an opportunity for the residents of Dagestan to celebrate the rich cultural and historical heritage of a republic often associated with social problems and armed extremism. Derbent intrigues many archaeologists. They believe various tribes have settled here over the past five thousand years. Artifacts unearthed across the city show it was conquered many times throughout its history.”

“Movie Focuses on Early Childhood Development”

Ledger-Enquirer | topic(s): early childhood education
“The United States ranks 26th in the world when it comes to the well-being of children.
It’s a country where 40 percent of 5 -year-olds aren’t ready for kindergarten. Such is the scenario presented in the film, The Raising of America.”

“5 Back to School Apps for Mobile Learners”

CBR Online | topic(s): educational apps
“Going back to school in September is no child’s favorite moment of the year. No piece of software is likely to fundamentally change that, but some of the five following educational apps might soften the blow of returning to the schoolroom.”

“Enhanced School Internet Connectivity Enhances Learning”

Daily Independent | topic(s): educational apps
“The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) announced Friday that all 173 of the state’s public school districts have met the national goal of 100 kb of Internet bandwidth for each K-12 student. The enhanced 100 kb per student speed is, on average, nearly 10 times faster, more robust and reliable than what Kentucky school districts had for their students just two year ago and nearly doubles a 56 kb connection that had to be shared across an entire district 20 years ago.”

“AVG Technologies Survey: Majority of Children in the U.S. Have Their Own Connected Device Before Fifth Grade”

Market Watch (Amsterdam) | topic(s): children’s ebooks
“The survey examined dhow closely parents are managing their children’s internet activity and connected device usage. AVG found that 72 percent of U.S. parents with children aged 3-17 say their child received their first own connected device (such as smartphone, tablet, e-reader, or laptop), before seventh grade. One in two “connected” children, or 51 percent, received their first device before fifth grade.”

“VIDEO: Why Do We Crave Adventure?”

Seeker Network | topic(s): adventure
“Alastair Humphreys is a world explorer, or purely an adventurer as he puts it. His explorations attracted attention for the first time during a four-year bicycle journey around the world. This is his insightful take on earth’s beauty and why he finds peace and joy exploring, away from human influence.”

“Takashi Homma’s Window on Today’s Crafts”

Women of China | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“Broadly speaking, compared to Britain, Germany and the United States, France and Japan have shared an alternative approach to design since the industrial revolution, focusing more on the appreciation of handmade and luxury goods. This economic necessity reverberates today as a mutual affection of these nation’s workmanship and craft traditions. As analog film slowly dies off, replaced by the convenience of digital imaging, the window display by Takashi Homma at the Maison Hermes in Tokyo’s Ginza district is an interesting reflection on the state of photography and its current place in visual culture.”

“Revitalizing Craft Traditions in Inner Mongolia”

Women of China | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Our latest innovative undertaking includes a building designated for local women. Occupying about 2,500 square meters, the base serves as a fine place for training, manufacturing and exhibition. Soon, the women’s federation plans to establish a local association for women entrepreneurs, to further attract artisans and folk craftswomen. As a way to address issues surrounding employment, the base also provides women with technical training and entrepreneur-centered guidance.”

“Inspiring Young Minds”

Deccan Herald (New Delhi) | topic(s): children’s literature
“It is not uncommon to see elderly people getting awards for children’s literature. What is rare is to see children achieving this feat. Such an unusual occasion happened recently, when a book edited and compiled by children was awarded by the Shivamogga Karnataka Sangha.”

“WonderBox: A Game Changer in Educational Apps for Kids”

Cool Mom Tech | topic(s): educational apps
“Have a kid who really wants to be creative, but usually needs a good push before he’ll dive into a project? We’ve found an app that delivers on that beautifully. The brand new WonderBox app hails from Duck Duck Moose, one of the first educational app developers we really fell in love with. No surprise, but this one is another winner! Whether you’re a homeschooling parent or just looking to get your kids excited about learning through technology, you’ll love this. Oh, and it’s free. Whoo!”

“Kid Lit Style: Décor Inspired by Children’s Books”

Santa Fe New Mexican | topic(s): children’s literature, dolls
“Using children’s books as inspiration for bedrooms and playrooms is one way to introduce a child to literature. It also can be just a fun, imaginative way to decorate. Many designers and retailers, from bookstores to home-decorating stores, have picked up on the theme of children’s literature as décor inspiration. Pottery Barn Kids stocks Peter Rabbit-themed bedding, for example.”

“African Tribe Raise Effigies of Dead Children as If They Are Alive — Feeding, Bathing and Even Sending Them to School”

Daily Mail | topic(s): dolls
“Raising twins is never easy but in Benin, an poor nation on the west coast of Africa, hardship means many die during childhood. Now a stunning new set of photos shows how the families deal with their grief — by creating doll effigies of the lost infants and raising them as if they were still alive.”

“Adventure is a State of Mind”

Rapid City Journal | topic(s): travel, adventure
“Whether on a trail or in an airplane, adventure is sometimes uncomfortable — even awkward — especially when kids are involved. Nevertheless, we’ve never regretted our efforts to make our (and their) world larger. Of course, it’s easy to find all the reasons that something won’t work or the ways it will be too hard. It’s far better, and more productive, however, to seek out reasons to embrace adventure.”

“Early Social Skills May Predict Success”

The Roanoke Times | topic(s): early childhood education
“The study is based on data collected beginning in 1991 at schools in Nashville, Seattle, rural Pennsylvania and Durham, North Carolina. Teachers of 753 kindergartners were asked to rate each student’s skill level in eight areas: 1. Resolves peer problems on his/her own, 2. Is very good at understanding other people’s feelings, 3. Shares materials with others, 4. Cooperates with peers without prompting, 5. Is helpful to others, 6. Listens to others’ point of view, 7. Can give suggestions and opinions without being bossy, 8. Acts friendly toward others. Each teacher was asked to assess how well each statement described the child on a 5-point scale: Not at all (0), A little (1), Moderately well (2), Well (3) and Very well (4). Children who scored Well on social competence were four times as likely to get a college degree by age 25 as those who scored A Little. Children who scored higher were also more likely to have a full-time job by the time they were 25. Similarly, children who scored on the lower end of the scale were more likely to have negative interactions with the police and spend time in juvenile detention. They also had a higher chance of being arrested, of recent binge drinking and of being on a waiting list for public housing.”

“Appalachian Arts and Crafts Fair Lets Some Folks Live Their Dreams”

The Register Herald | topic(s): arts and crafts
“The Appalachian Arts and Crafts Fair is a reminder of a simpler time, one official said. It was a time when people worked with their hands to create works of art, not to sell, but to use.”

“See How Pinterest is Boosting Sales for Craft Retailer Michaels”

Biz Journals | topic(s): arts and crafts
“In an interview with the Dallas Business Journal, CEO Chuck Rubin outlined a few reasons why Michaels’ sales are on the rise, including the company’s partnership with Pinterest. Michaels is one of the first retailers to offer buyable pins, which allows users to click on links and buy supplies directly from the Pinterest website or app.
Michaels also is partnering with Pinterest for a little data mining. The social media site will provide information on the type of Michaels products that are viewed and bought via the Pinterest app and website.”

“Apps in Schools Do More Than Expected”

National Journal | topic(s): educational apps
“A growing range of apps, cloud-based tools, and other innovations allow teachers, students, and institutions to enhance learning.”

“New Updates to Google Classroom Allow More Student-Teacher Collaboration”

K Pop Starz | topic(s): educational apps
“Things will be easier for teachers next school year as Google recently introduced several updates to its Classroom educational app. Aside from integrating Google Docs, Sheets and Slides, the latest updates lets Classroom automatically create a Google Calendar for each of the teacher’s classes, allowing them to schedule field trips, guest speakers and other events, reported Tech Crunch. Students will also significantly benefit from these changes with Google’s addition of the Q&A and discussion features.”

“Can These Dolls Help Solve STEM Problem for Girls?”

Watertown Daily Times | topic(s): dolls
“Most dolls are promoting princesses and ponies. If we can get girls at a young age — between 6 and 10 — excited about STEM, then they will feel more comfortable later on taking engineering and science and math courses. My hope is that the next CEO of Apple or Google or another big tech company is a female. Not a man.”

“VIDEO: U.S. Ambassador Addresses the Al Qasemi Academy’s Conference on Multiculturalism”

MSN | topic(s): multiculturalism

“Arts and Crafts Retailer Michaels Improves Profit, Sales Increase”

The Dallas Morning News | topic(s): arts and crafts
“The Michaels Companies swung to a second-quarter profit as the largest U.S. arts and crafts chain improved its margins and lowered interest payments. Investors seem to like the results. Shares are trading about 8 percent higher on the pre-market news. Total sales increased 3.8 percent to $984.3 million in the quarter ended Aug. 1 and same-store sales increased 2.9 percent. Michaels is one of those companies benefiting from the creative maker movements in paper, jewelry and home decor crafts. The retailer has been stocking new paints, metal and wood products and expanding its own private label products. Irving-based Michaels reported a profit of $35.7 million, or 17 cents a share, vs. a loss of $46.8 million, or 26 cents a share, a year ago.”

“We Should Create a Reading Culture in Kenya”

Campus Vibe (Kenya) | topic(s): children’s literature
“The reading culture in Kenya is quickly taking a nose dive. The dwindling trend can be attributed to the slaggish nature of some people in catching up with the emerging trends and news. It is worrying that most people cannot read a few pages whenever they are free. Similarly, the writing culture has lost its fans. This has realy affected the indigenous literature leaving a vaccum for foreign literature.”

“Rand McNally Editors Pinpoint the Best Travel Destinations in New Series”

Virtual Press Office | topic(s): travel
“Reminisce about your travels, and dream about your next adventure with Rand McNally’s new “Best of” series featuring rich photos illustrating the unique travel appeal of special places across the country and around the globe.”

“Commissioned Artist Creates Dolls Inspired by Other Cultures”

Vashon Beach Comber | topic(s): dolls
“Island artist Kathy Johnson became fascinated with dolls at an early age. Not the typical baby doll with a cherubic face or a Barbie doll sporting infamous body proportions. Rather Johnson’s focus landed on dolls from around the world, dolls she understood to be cultural icons. Johnson calls her work three-dimensional mixed media with beads and embroidery. Her figures are described by some as dolls. Others say they are sculptures. They range in size from 2 and 1/2 inches to her largest to date, a 9 and 1/2 inch figure.”

“Early Education is a Bipartisan Issue”

Business Standard | topic(s): early childhood education
“There are very few issues that both Democrats and Republicans are in agreement on and ready to prioritize—but early education seems to be one of those issues. As the race for the 2016 presidential nomination gears up, supporting and funding early education has proven to be a concern that both parties are eager to address for the potential benefit of the country as a whole.”

“Early Childhood Education Offers Unique Chance For Bipartisan Consensus”

Business Standard | topic(s): early childhood education
“More and more evidence tells us that investing in the education of America’s young people needs to begin earlier in their lives—stimulating socialization and a desire to learn, and dramatically improving their long-term life prospects. The return per dollar spent on early childhood education is among the most productive human-capital investments possible, yet as a society we’re not making enough of those investments. The presidential candidates of both parties would do well to make this a defining issue of the election—encouraging governments and the private sector to cooperate in boosting Pre-K learning programs. Ramping up investments in early childhood education has recently emerged as a rare cause backed on both sides of the political aisle.”

“Digital Technology Can Boost Education in Rural India”

Business Standard | topic(s): educational games
“The ‘Play n’ Learn’ study harnessed Galli Galli Sim Sim games and study tools to explore the benefits and limitations of 3G enabled devices as a new educational content delivery system.”

“An Adventure in Learning”

Inquirer | topic(s): travel, adventure, early childhood education
“I took part in a recent Project Synergy in Cebu. How did I find the experience? It was different. We did not just sit and listen to lectures all day long. But there was a lot of learning in and outside the center. It was invigorating. We were amid nature’s lush beauty and splendor. It was challenging. The rope course challenge was well thought-out and insightful.
It reduced us to tears, but in a good way. It was more than a feel-good experience. We discovered our internal beauty and passion. It was life-transforming.”

“Five Myths About Adventure Travel”

USA Today | topic(s): travel, adventure
“What is adventure travel? Depending upon whom you ask, the answer might be surfing off the coast of Peru, biking in the South of France or taking a hike with the kids in Acadia National Park. What’s clear is that it means something different for every traveler. This article provides a rundown of five myths about adventure.”

“How Children’s Books Facilitate Reading Development”

Study.com | topic(s): children’s books
“When learning to read, it’s important for children to, well, read. Sounds simple, right? Not so fast. The right book can make all the difference between a positive and frustrating experience. The lesson enclosed here outlines how books help children learn to read and offers a guide to finding that perfect text.”

“Top Ten Reasons We Need to See More Diversity in Children’s Books”

Female First | topic(s): children’s books
“Publishing is a mostly white business. Employees are mostly white and the books that are published are mostly by white authors and about white characters. This is not from lack of trying — an increasing number of initiatives are being launched to address racial bias within the industry — but it is not an easy fix. Below are my top ten reasons why it’s so important we see more diversity in publishing, particularly in children’s books.”

“How to Raise Productive Preschoolers, by Experts”

The Nation (Nigeria) | topic(s): early childhood education
“Nigeria must pay closer attention to strict enforcement of policies on early childhood education to save the younger generation fromsocio-economic decadence. This was the consensus at a one-day early childhood education stakeholders’ conference organised by Green Meadows Education last week in Lagos. Participants in the event included public school teachers, representatives of Lagos State UniversalEducation Board (SUBEB), crèche owners and operators, as well as private school owners with their teachers. Corporate organisations such as the United Bank for Africa (UBA), Zenith Bank Plc and Coca Cola Plc were also represented the conference.”

“Rethinking the Computer Game as a Teaching Tool”

Daily Democrat | topic(s): educational games
“Some computer games are a good use of time. Educators increasingly see digital games as a language that many students seem to intuitively understand, so they’re trying to use that language to make playing facilitate learning. This mindset has propelled popular mainstream games like “World of Warcraft” and “Minecraft” into classrooms in recent years as teachers craft curricula that have children engaged and playing. It has also pushed the development of other games designed to teach subjects such as math, vocabulary and AP history without relying solely on textbooks and pencils.”

“Miyagi’s Hot Spring Valley of the Dolls”

Japan Times | topic(s): dolls
“Lately, though, there is another type of visitor — mostly young women, often traveling in pairs or small groups — who are here for one purpose: to check out some of Naruko’s most well-known resident: the humble kokeshi. They are are simple hand-crafted dolls that are traditionally made in the Tohoku region’s hot-spring villages. Carved out of local wood varieties — maple, cherry and dogwood — they are characterized by their limbless cylindrical shape, delicate hand-painted features and decorative shades of yellow, red, green and purple.”

“What is the Future of Multiculturalism in Europe?”

Pakistan Today | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Exploring Europe’s evolving views on multiculturalism amid 9/11-heightened sense of identities among natives and Muslim immigrants sounds nothing less than attempting an intellectual tour de force. An unprecedented new documentary, produced by American and Pakistani researchers, delves into some of the political, economic and cultural dimensions of multiculturalism in Europe, as the island — housing some of the most prosperous nations — braces for unfolding implications of multiple challenges.”

“5 Ways to Get Kids Excited to Learn”

Lake City Reporter | topic(s): educational games
“Many kids love the prospect of learning, while others may need a bit of motivation. But parents can get kids on board with a little encouragement and creativity to make learning fun. Here are some ideas to get kids excited to learn.”

“Our Differences Make Us Prosperous”

Winnipeg Free Press | topic(s): multiculturalism
“For two weeks, Winnipeggers celebrated multiculturalism. Visiting several pavilions made me realize how blessed we are to live in Canada. Living together with people from many different backgrounds is something that Canadians do naturally. We work and live with people of all races, religions and cultures. This is our everyday normal.”

“Crafts Retailer Michaels and Online D.I.Y. Marketplace Darby Smart to Make Crafting Simpler and More Accessible to Everyone”

EPR Retail News | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Michaels (Nasdaq:MIK), the world’s largest arts and crafts retailer and top online crafting resource, has partnered with trend-driven online DIY marketplace Darby Smart to make crafting simpler and more accessible to everyone. The partnership will launch in September to bring the best of Michaels – including its huge variety of innovative products and craft industry leadership – to Darby Smart, and the best of Darby Smart’s on-trend projects and online community to Michaels.”

“Kids Compete with Arts, Crafts at NW Montana Fair”

NBC Montana | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Parents and guardians took full advantage of the free admission for kids Thursday at the Northwest Montana Fair. Crafts organizers put together competitions for kids as a way to celebrate the day.”

“Molding the Future for Pagoda Craftsmanship”

Khmer Times (Cambodia) | topic(s): arts and crafts, craftsmanship
“Men Sovann has dedicated his life to the development of the temples and monument skyline of the Kingdom. As an artist, constructor, sculptor and teacher, Mr. Men has worked on building over a hundred of the most intricate and detailed religious works. Now he is busy preparing for the next generation to learn the craft through modern technology of 3D printing.”

“Audel Davis Continues the Arts and Crafts Tradition Through Coppersmithing”

Berkeleyside | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Audel Davis and his wife, Lynne, live in a home tucked down a shady street off University Avenue. Apart from a few pesky crows that terrorize their koi fish by day, they have created a lush and quiet sanctuary, greatly influenced by the philosophy and aesthetics of the Arts and Crafts movement — a concept that took flight and reached its peak in the 1890s as a reaction to the age of mass production. It emphasized traditional craftsmanship as a way to put integrity and skill back into the design and manufacturing process.”

“We’re Spending $10 Billion on Kids’ Classroom Technology — But Does it Help Them Learn?”

Fast Company | topic(s): educational apps
“And so it’s with a skeptical ear and eye that I return to Booktrack, which sells digital books that pair text with music and ambient sounds. Since its founding in 2010, Booktrack has grown its library of titles to 15,000 and raised $10 million from investors, including Silicon Valley kingmaker Peter Thiel. The success of audio book provider Audible, which sold to Amazon for $300 million, beckons.”

“The Gamification of Education”

PCR | topic(s): educational games
“The term ‘gamification’ has been with us for a while now, having been coined at the beginning of the Noughties by computer programmer Nick Pelling, of BBC Micro fame. It’s one of those modern terms used to describe and give legitimacy to something that’s always been there; in this case the use of gameplay mechanisms usually associated with fun stuff to make non-fun stuff more accessible and understandable. As one wag put it, gamification is exciting because it promises to make the hard stuff in life fun.”

“Mom Helps Kids Embrace Being Different With Dolls You Won’t Find In A Store”

Huffington Post | topic(s): dolls
“These aren’t your typical dolls — and that’s a good thing. A mom in Australia is trying to help kids embrace their differences, one doll at a time. Maria Kentley from Melbourne started Hope Toys as an “awareness mission” to help kids learn about the differences of others through dolls she creates that have various disabilities, disorders, illnesses and chronic conditions. Kentley’s two youngest sons, 3 1/2-year-old Christian and 22-month-old Ethan, were recently diagnosed with autism and have played a huge role in her project.”

“The Radical, Life-Changing Power Of Arts And Crafts”

Huffington Post | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Kumar — who says he was diagnosed by the medical profession to be 75 percent handicapped at a young age, a diagnosis that rendered him ineligible for certain state benefits — puts the average tale of the starving artist into perspective. For artists like Kumar, being an artist is not a dream, it’s a necessity. Carving and coloring are all as vital needs as eating and sleeping. There’s no masters degree, no blowout retrospectives, no time spent learning from the reigning art giants. Just making art, as if it’s as essential as breathing. And for artists like Kumar, this act of expression alone is everything.”

“The Only Thing Missing From This Early Learning Class is Nap Time”

LA Times | topic(s): early childhood education
“Whereas transitional kindergarten is technically part of the kindergarten program, expanded transitional kindergarten is actually more like preschool, with the goal of preparing children to take on the kindergarten Common Core standards.”

“Ten Powerful Project-Based Learning Engagement Strategies”

Education Week | topic(s): early childhood education
“Student engagement is key to motivation, persistence, and deeper learning. That’s why leading school networks are project-based. Here are ten strategies widely used to promote powerful project-based learning experiences.”

“Robots Helping Small Businesses Scale Craftsmanship”

ZD Net | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Small business owners and entrepreneurs are starting to employ autonomous machines in collaborative and even artistic ways, and that may point to a new chapter of artisanal and small-batch manufacturing in the U.S.”

“Angola – Parents Urged to Offer More Books to Children”

All Africa | topic(s): children’s books
“Angolan writer Zulinni Bumba advised Luandan parents and guardians to provide more book. Speaking to Angop on the state of children’s literature in Angola, the writer expressed concern with the new trend by some guardians who are more receptive to buy a phone or iPad instead of a good book.”

“Multiculturalism is Leading This Name to Now be the Top Choice for Baby Boys in Britain”

Independent Journal | topic(s): multiculturalism
“It seems as though England is shifting away from traditionally British names such as Oliver and James. Studies have confirmed that the most popular name for boys in London is Muhammad, if you include other variations of this name such as Mohammed, Muhamad and Muhammet. Reports from the Office for National Statistics state there were 3,588 Muhammads, 2,536 Mohammeds and 1,116 Mohammads, adding up to a total of 7,240 babies with the name in 2014. In fact, Muhammad was the most common baby boy name in England and Wales in 2009, 2011 and 2012 and the second most popular in 2007 and 2010 when tallying up its fourteen spelling variations.”

“Teaching in Early Childhood”

Tallahassee Democrat | topic(s): early childhood education
“As an administrator and teacher in an early childhood education program, I find that I have learned as much as, or perhaps more, than the children I have taught. Each day is an adventure in learning, growing, and developing the many skills a child will need throughout their lifetime. I have often heard it said that a young child is like a sponge, they absorb more knowledge the first five years of their life than any other time – and I believe it to be very true.”

“Spain, Other Mediterranean Countries May Lose Their Allure as Holiday Destinations”

Techie News | topic(s): travel
“In the study Time is of the Essence: Adaptation of Tourism Demand to Climate Change in Europe, researchers have suggested that climate conditions may influence tourism decisions of people and under current economic conditions, the 2100 climate could lower tourism revenues by up to 0.45 per cent of GDP per year in Mediterranean EU regions, while other EU regions in northern Europe could gain up to 0.32 per cent of GDP.”

“Madera Promotes Venetian Craftsmanship”

WTVB | topic(s): early childhood education
“Married architects Francesca Meratti and Massimo Barbierato collaborate with Venetian artisans and others from their region. Italy has a great wealth in craftsmanship, but it’s suffering, and in some cases disappearing.”

“Pay an Issue for Early Childhood Education Workers”

WTVB | topic(s): early childhood education
“Early childhood educators face many issues in their line of work. Valora Washington, the CEO of the Council for Professional Recognition, says one of the issues is pay. She says a lot of people are not aware that childcare is one of the lowest paying professions in the United States, adding that there’s been very little progress over the past 25 years. According to Washington, the average childcare worker makes ten dollars an hour, while the average preschool teacher is making $15 per hour. Washington thinks many people have a misunderstanding about how important the early years are, saying 90 percent of a child’s brain is developed by age five. “

“Savvy Travelers Crave Intrigue, Authenticity, History”

Lansing State Journal | topic(s): travel
“The time honored cliche of being invited to dinner and being forced to sit through a sleep-inducing slide show of your friends’ recent vacation has been replaced by instant photo posts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and the other social media sites.”

“Anya Hindmarch Shows Craftsmanship Behind Designs”

Haute Living | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Luxury London accessories label Anya Hindmarch is taking to social media to highlight the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into creating its iconic pieces. Taking the infamous Crisp Packet clutch as its first port of call, the brand is using videos to give consumers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the way the accessory was created as well as all the time and effort that go into the whole design process.”

“Report Reveals Where, Why Americans Traveled Overseas in 2014”

Travel Pulse | topic(s): travel
“New data revealed in a report from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Travel and Tourism Office, titled “Profile of U.S. Resident Travelers Visiting Overseas Destinations: 2014 Outbound,” shows where the nearly 70 million Americans who ventured across the border in 2014 wound up.”

“A Child’s Curiosity is a Terrible Thing to Waste”

Develop Online | topic(s): educational apps
“All children are inherently curious. Perhaps at no other point in our lives do we soak up so much information so quickly as when we are so young. As kids begin their lives, they’re eager to learn about the world around them. The use of proper educational technology, coupled with parent involvement, can help them do just that.”

“Frowny Faces Dolls are Finalist in Martha Stewart American Made Audience Choice Awards”

Richmond Times-Dispatch | topic(s): dolls
“Rebecca Floyd began making a collection of what she calls “empathetic” dolls out of socks and selling them earlier this year. Now her Frowny Faces company has received some national attention. Floyd decided to make the frowning dolls because she wanted her son to know it was OK to feel sad. The problem was, she said, sad dolls didn’t exist.”

“Worldwide Mobile Learning Market Hits $14.5 Billion by 2019”

Sys-Con Media | topic(s): educational apps
“Worldwide revenues for Mobile Learning products and services reached $8.4 billion in 2014, according to a new report by Ambient Insight called “The 2014-2019 Worldwide Mobile Learning Market.” The global five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is 11.3% and revenues will reach $14.5 billion by 2019. By the end of the forecast period, revenues for Mobile Learning will more than double in 66 countries of the 119 countries analyzed in this report. Revenues will more than triple in 32 countries by 2019.”

“A Sensory Education: How the World’s Tech Titans are Making Learning More Stimulating”

The Drum | topic(s): educational apps
“If you recall having a strict upbringing or education, the following will make you either jealous or curious. Children starting school today will have the most sensory education of any generation before. They will learn maths with music, geography with video games and psychology with robots. In short, the way humans learn is under investigation.”

“Anita Dongre to Launch Craft-Based Sustainable Brand Grassroot”

Business Standard | topic(s): craft traditions, arts and crafts, craftsmanship
“Fashion designer Anita Dongre’s newest baby is Grassroot, a craft-based sustainable line, which will be officially launched on Wednesday. She says it’s an eco-conscious, leather-free and vegan line offering handcrafted traditions from India with an aim to revive and sustain craft and artisans.”

“Early Childhood Development, Continued: The First 1,000 Days Go Digital”

Daily Maverick (South Africa) | topic(s): early childhood education
“By 2014, media as far afield as the BBC recognised that education in South Africa – and the rest of the continent, for that matter – was getting an “e-learning digital makeover”, in which “old-fashioned, dusty textbooks (were) gradually being replaced by tablets, computers and mobile phones”. The reasoning was that where there was restricted access to books, and where budgetary restraints meant that there were chronic difficulties in education continent-wide, the increasing access to internet would gradually mean that mobile education applications (apps) and e-books would be able to fill crucial gaps.”

“Education: What Price For Results?”

Otago Daily Times (New Zealand) | topic(s): early childhood education
“A new report about failings in the country’s early childhood sector raises serious questions on several fronts. The report, titled ‘Infants and Toddlers: Competent and Confident Communicators and Explorers’, was undertaken by the Education Review Office in response to others which had highlighted issues with some providers, and warnings from a sector advisory group that poor-quality education could undermine children’s learning and development. The review of 235 early childhood service providers found almost half were not doing enough in fundamental areas of the early childhood curriculum, particularly communication and exploration.”

“Encourage Smart Screen Time For Your Child”

Wood TV | topic(s): educational games
“Kids today will never know a time without computers, cell phones, and Internet. So many families and schools eagerly embrace technology, but also approach it with caution. The Goddard School says there are benefits to introducing technology to children as early as preschool. Teachers at The Goddard School use iPads at circle time to show pictures or video for great discussions and as a learning tool. Students also play educational games in computer centers. They also incorporate fun elements like showing a live feed from the zoo so children can watch and discuss the animals they are studying.”

“Let Kids Be Kids”

Straits Times (Singapore) | topic(s): educational games
“Instead of stopping kids from playing video games, lay ground rules and guide their choices. The educational benefits includes improved reaction time, hand-eye coordination, cognitive development, and even social and negotiating skills.”

“The Creative and Colorful Desks of Children’s Book Illustrators”

Slate | topic(s): children’s book
“Who are the emerging stars of today’s literature, he wondered, and what does their work look like? With the help of editor and art director James Cartwright, Green started finding answers. The result is their book, The Bookmaker’s Studio, which they are currently raising money on Kickstarter to publish.”

“A Novel Approach to Reading Keeps Kids Entertained”

The Northern Star (Australia) | topic(s): children’s literature
“The interesting thing is just how interactive the children’s authors have to be, just watching the children see a story they might have read 100 times come alive by the author is just awesome. Kids will sit for an hour and a half. It makes you realise this is gold. Kids just don’t hang in spaces doing things that aren’t stimulating them so an event that can engage kids from three to 13 for a few hours — obviously there is something really rich in this program.”

“Why Don’t Children’s Books Talk About Home Schooling?”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s literature
“Children’s books offer a false picture about what home schooling is like. YA fiction needs to start taking notice.”

“Early Childhood Education Report a Concern, Manawatu Experts Say”

Stuff (New Zealand) | topic(s): early childhood education
“A report by the Education Review Office found that nearly half the early childhood services reviewed gave priority to establishing warm and nurturing relationships with infants and toddlers and had less emphasis on communication and exploration. The report, released last week, looked at how well 235 early childhood services, reviewed during terms 1 and 2 in 2014, supported infants and toddlers to become competent and confident communicators and explorers. Massey childcare centre curriculum leader for under 2s Raewyne Barysaid the report was disappointing and upsetting.”

“Datebook: Révélations Fine Craft and Creation Fair Sep 10-13 at the Grand Palais”

Blouin Art Info | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“Celebrating fine craftsmanship and technical virtuosity, the five-day biennial Révélations Fine Craft and Creation Fair brings together designers and fine craft workers from around the world. This year, the spotlight will shine on South Korea as guest of honor, in a space designed by the Seoul-based studio, Void Planning, with more than 22 artists exhibiting there including renowned ceramicists Jucheol Yun, Kanghyo Lee, and Chunbok Lee, wood artist Woorim Kang, and furniture designer Bomi Park.”

“To Have an iPad is to Put a Layer Between You and the World” – Are Tablets Appropriate in Primary Schools?”

Newstalk 106-108 FM | topic(s): educational apps
“As children return to school this year, many of them will find their bag considerably lighter, as schools across the country turn towards tablet computers as the future of learning. There are clear advantages to using such technology in the classroom. Educational apps give a greater variety in learning than books can afford, and provide a more interactive approach which can incorporate images, video and games as well as text. In addition, familiarising children with technology they will likely be using for most of their employed life seems like a no-brainer. But by rushing headlong into this ‘new era,’ are we ignoring many of the fundamental principles which underlie a strong education?”

Traditional Crafts Skills for New Generation of Omani Artists”

Times of Oman | topic(s): arts and crafts
“More than 200 children are taking art classes at Bait Al Baranda, where they are learning traditional Omani clay skills and other arts and crafts. The workshop, now in its ninth year, is aimed at giving the children a chance to explore their creativity. The workshops are being taught both by professional artists, including sculptor Essa Al Mafargi, and students from the Fine Arts Education program at SQU and the Scientific College of Design.”

Kids Need to Explore”

The Times Herald | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Kids need a lot of exploring to discover and understand – the world around them, who they are and who others are, and how all of it fits in their picture of life. Much of this happens when we allow children to play, especially with other children and especially outdoors, in a loosely unsupervised way. If adults are always on top of kids, directing, correcting, and interfering, the child will be far less likely to learn how to handle life situations alone.”

Traditional Craft Meets Artistic Vision at ‘In The Spirit’ at the Washington State History Museum”

The News Tribune | topic(s): craftsmanship
“For 10 years, the Washington State History Museum has invited Native American and First People artists to merge traditional art and contemporary vision in its annual “In The Spirit” exhibit. This year’s show — though a little smaller, perhaps — has plenty of thought-provoking ideas woven with skilled craftsmanship.”

Harrods Celebrates Fine Craftsmanship”

South China Morning Post | topic(s): craftsmanship
“London’s Harrods is teaming up with fashion brands to create exclusive designs for a series of events in its “Made with Love” campaign, aiming to promote and celebrate the tradition of fine, handcrafted goods.”

“Here are 25 fun (and Educational) Ways to Beat the Summer Blues”

Rapper | topic(s): educational games
“Are you running out of ideas to keep your children busy during the summer holidays? Here are 25 suggestions to keep children entertained and learning.”

“5 things I Want My Kids to Experience”

Rapper | topic(s): educational apps
“When you were younger, were you curious about the things around you? Did you collect shells and hold starfishes on beach trips? Have you climbed a tree and managed to make your way down by yourself? How about your kids? These days, almost everything is at our fingertips, and it also holds true for today’s kids. They play interactive games, and educational apps allow them to learn and have fun while keeping them at the safety of your home. And while they enjoy these gadgets, at the back of your mind, you know that the memories that defined childhood were spent a great deal outdoors, and this is something that you would like your child to experience and enjoy as well.”

“The 13 Key Benefits of Early Childhood Education: A Teacher’s Perspective”

Huffington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
“When children are young, they are learning sponges. Every new experience, every word they learn, every behavior they adopt, is an investment in a more fruitful future. You can never have a greater impression on a person than when they are in their early childhood years. Early childhood education is about honing and molding the holistic child, which will eventually form the basis of their lifelong journey. From one preschool teacher’s professional experience of more than 35 years, there are 13 essential benefits of early childhood education.”

“5 Tips to Curb Your Child’s Summer Learning Loss”

Huffington Post | topic(s): educational games
“The National Summer Learning Association (NSLA) states: To succeed in school and life children and young adults need ongoing opportunities to learn and practice essential skills. This is especially true during the summer months. All young people experience learning loss when they do not engage in educational activities during the summer.”

“Early Childhood Education: A National Framework Should Be Developed”

The Express Tribune (Pakistan) | topic(s): early childhood education
“There is confusion regarding early childhood education (ECE) and standards are being compromised. The report recommends that the state clearly must devise a policy on early childhood development and provide incentives to students of poor families.”

“Making Education Fun Through the Web”

WPRI (The Rhode Show) | topic(s): educational games
“Computer time for kids should be limited, but when they are allowed to surf, make it an educational experience and the benefits will be numerous! There are plenty of educational websites for kids that on one hand some can be really good, and then some that don’t really have much educational benefit. When choosing one of these websites, the educational content should be high, but something that kids will enjoy. When looking for a good website, look for variety such as reading practice, things to listen to, printable coloring pages, videos to watch and of course, games. The best educational websites for kids are free and this works really good for parents who are homeschooling.”

“Reading, Writing and Empathy?: One Developer Seeks to Improve Social Skills in Schools”

Games and Learning | topic(s): educational apps
“The skills that kids need to succeed are moving away from knowledge-based and more into this 21st century social and emotional learning domain. Part of the reason these skills are becoming so important is they are being used to buttress academic achievement.”

“Four Reasons Why Tablets Are a Good Fit for the Classroom”

Business Day Live | topic(s): educational apps
“When you see how comfortable four-year-olds are with touchscreen devices, it’s easy to appreciate how quickly mobile phones and tablet computers are changing the world. Over the past few years, we have seen tablet computers evolve from toys for geeks and execs into affordable everyday computers. Now, they’re increasingly forming part of the educational landscape. They’re cost-effective (especially entry-level Android-based models), offer decent battery life, and are functional and flexible enough to help learners get their work done.”

“The Changing Face of Russia’s Emblematic Matryoshka Dolls”

Bangkok Post | topic(s): arts and crafts, dolls
“From cheery peasant girls in Tsarist times to Soviet-era cosmonauts to today’s Pussy Riots, the changing face of Russia’s matryoshka nesting dolls reflects the country’s tumultuous history. The dolls are a big part of a Russian childhood — teaching kids about culture and tradition.”

“Digital Technology is a Game Changer for Education Worldwide”

SAP News | topic(s): educational games
“When you listen to experts in the field, it is easy to conclude that digital technology is transforming education as much as Johannes Gutenberg’s printing press did nearly 600 years ago. The talk is not all hyperbole. The impact of these technologies goes far beyond smart boards in classrooms and learning games in computer labs. Many advocates believe digital technology has the potential to dramatically expand access to education to underserved children worldwide.”

“Three Research-Based Guidelines for Implementing Games Into Instruction”

Association for Talent Development | topic(s): educational games
“A number of meta-analyses (statistical methods for contrasting and combining results from different studies) have been conducted in the field of game-based learning attempting to create widely usable findings that can help instructional designers select and create meaningful educational and instructional game experiences. This articles features the three guidelines culled from research on the subject.”

“Join Queensland’s Largest Celebration of Multiculturalism”

My Sunshine Coast | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Queenslanders are being encouraged to take part in the state’s largest celebration of its rich cultural diversity, Queensland Multicultural Week from 22 to 30 August. Multicultural Week is about celebrating who we are. Multiculturalism is part of everyone’s story and we all contribute to the economic, social and cultural life of our great state.”

“Crisis Strikes Russia’s Traditional Craft Industries”

The Moscow Times | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Russia is in danger of losing its traditional folk crafts as enterprises across the country struggle with low profitability, high taxes and a shortage of skilled workers. Their decline in fortunes, which began with the collapse of the Soviet Union, now threatens the very existence of Russian traditional folk crafts, many of which have become symbols of the country. About 50 enterprises have closed since the 1990s, said Gennady Drozhzhin, president of the Russian Folk Arts and Crafts Association. According to the Industry and Trade Ministry, around 250 remain. But with Russia now mired in economic recession, Drozhzhin said that if action is not taken immediately, all Russian crafts could disappear within five years.”

“Learning Unleashed”

The Economist | topic(s): educational games
“Where governments are failing to provide youngsters with a decent education, the private sector is stepping in.”

“Picture Books Can Be a Starting Point for Diversity”

New York Times | topic(s): children’s literature, multiculturalism
“While reports from the Cooperative Children’s Book Center show some progress, there is still considerable under-representation of diverse authors and subject matter in children’s literature. It is commendable that J.K. Rowling announced that Hogwarts was a safe space for L.B.G.T.Q. students, but it would be nice to see a more diverse cast of characters stroll the corridors of children’s literature in practice as well as theory. This process starts with picture books.”

“Video: Arts & Crafts Program Helps Inmates Prepare for Life Outside”

KITC4 Honolulu | topic(s): arts and crafts

“Enter the Exciting World of Art and Craft”

The Hans India | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Discovery Kids will present a brand new season of kids’ favourite series – Mister Maker that is all about being creative and having fun. Kids can put their unlimited creativity to good use with Mister Maker’s lessons on arts and crafts. Let your child’s creative juices flow with Mister Maker and his abilities to make the best out of waste in his art room. Kids will learn how to paint with the edge of a cardboard box, make a dog out of an egg-box, use rubbish to make a 3D painting and a multitude of other techniques. ‘The Shapes’ come on to do their dance and present their puzzle. How many triangles are hidden in the picture of the pyramid? What picture are the animated circles going to make? Mister Maker also has some great friends who never fail to entertain with their funny characteristics.”

“Florence’s Hat Craftsmanship Survives Fashion Trends”

Italy 24 | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“In the Nineteenth century, the straw hats manufactured in Florence took center stage in fashion in Renoir’s and Manet’s paintings, as well as on ocean liner decks and in big city promenades. They were called “Leghorns,” because they were shipped from Livorno to faraway countries. With such a long history, Mr. Grevi, who today runs two single brand stores, one in Paris and one in Florence, and whose products are also featured in a dedicated space at La Rinascente department store in Milan, is optimistic about the future. He watches the young interns in the company and is persuaded that Italian craftsmanship will be increasingly appreciated by the younger generations, and that its future will be bright.”

“Parents Can Supplement Kids’ Learning At Home”

Times-Record (Oklahoma, USA) | topic(s): educational games
“There’s no reason that learning should stop once the bell rings. When concepts are reinforced at home, not only do children learn faster, they are better prepared to excel in school. Whether your children are in preschool or are already in grade school, there are many bright ideas out there that can give kids an extra academic edge.”

“Restyled Dolls Make a Difference”

Gulf News | topic(s): dolls
“Call it a blessing in disguise, but losing her job as a science communicator last year has changed Tasmania-based Sonia Singh’s mission in life completely. It gave her some time, while applying for other jobs, to work on a creative project she had dreamed up. Now she is successfully running a venture called Tree Change Dolls and has also embarked on a social mission. Sonia noticed a lot of discarded fashion dolls in second-hand shops, and decided to see if she could give them a new lease of life by restyling them to look more like real children — something similar to dolls she would have loved to play with as a child.”

“Paper Dolls Brought Hours of Fun”

Portales News-Tribune | topic(s): dolls
“As a child, I remember walking with my sister, Becky, to the old North Main Grocery, a mom and pop store in north Portales, to buy candy. But what I really longed for was a book of cute paper doll cutouts.”

“My Dolls, My Playmates”

Star Journal Now | topic(s): dolls
“Playing house and school is considered a normal outlet for little children. My dolls each had a distinct personality, and mixed with imagination, this made for a delightful childhood – actually a very important preparation time for growing up. I’m so glad I was able to enjoy my childhood without being forced to grow up too quickly.”

“Explore the Night Sky with These Two Open Source Apps”

Open Source | topic(s): educational apps
“If you’re a classroom teacher trying to provide a planetarium experience for your students, then you’ll be glad to know about two open source software projects and applications called Stellarium and Celestia.”

“US Has Much to Learn from Others About Multiculturalism”

Asia One | topic(s): multiculturalism
“According to a study published in the journal Crime & Delinquency, nearly half (49 per cent) of African-American men have been arrested by the age of 23. According to a report on the state of human rights in the US, published by China, racial discrimination has been a chronic problem in the US human rights record. The recent instances of deaths of African Americans in the US at the hands of the police have drawn attention to this large-scale racism written into American society.The state of police abuse of African Americans in the US has reached disproportionate levels.”

“Artist Offers Free Tattoos — as Long as They’re Pro-multiculturalism”

Breitbart | topic(s): multiculturalism
“A tattoo artist is offering his services for free, as long as the recipient is willing to have his or her body permanently tagged with images associated with multiculturalism or social justice.”

“Over 10,000 Finns Rally in Support of Multiculturalism”

Yahoo News | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Over ten thousand people rallied in Helsinki Tuesday to support multiculturalism and protest recent controversial statements by a populist legislator. Prime Minister Juha Sipila also issued a statement congratulating people campaigning for a multicultural Finland, and adding that people of foreign origin have significantly enriched our culture and business life.”

“Learning Through Art and Craft at Children’s Village”

Khaleej Times | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Creative workshops for children, which have become immensely popular at the Liwa Date Festival, will conclude on Thursday. The children’s village has offered children a wide range of activities and competitions, which included creating a model farm using recycled materials, sculpting one of Liwa’s forts using clay, and painting Liwa landscapes on walls and fabrics.”

“Here’s a Challenge to Parents Looking for Children’s Books”

New York Times | topic(s): early childhood education
“Still, the parents I know buy Dr. Seuss books not because he is revolutionary, but because he is familiar and famous. They’re just lucky that his stories are so good. But they’re also unlucky, because the humans in his books solidly represent only the dominant culture, when our world is so wide. These same Suess-buying parents bemoan the lack of quality and diversity in contemporary children’s books. They ask me, where are the single-parent and alternative families? Where are the protagonists of color, the varied religions? They ask these questions, but they shop at places that stock only the most mainstream titles.”

“The White House Introduces a New Tool to Support Black Academic Achievement”

Madame Noire | topic(s): early childhood education
“The White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans (WHIEEAA), the Obama administration’s targeted effort to support educational success in the Black community, recently released a new tool for parents to use to help their children thrive in school: a checklist that will help parents, guardians and educators to work together to provide students with a quality education. The checklist features questions like, ‘How will you as an educator of my child, or the teacher/leader of a young person that I care about or mentor, keep me informed about their progress on a regular basis?’ and ‘How are you working together to ensure that the school is safe, supportive and inclusive, in every way, for all students?’ It also includes tips for academic achievement and resources that provide additional information.”

“Despite U.S. Job Growth, Lowest-Income Families Are Left Behind”

Huffington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
“Job growth in the United States in 2014 was higher than in any other year since 1999, yet 1.7 million more children now live in working families with low incomes than during the Great Recession. Nearly a third of children are living in families where no one is working full time. Despite the fact that unemployment is down and consumer spending is up, the recovery has left many of our lowest income families behind, disproportionately affecting workers of color and their children.”

“It Used to Be Impossible to Find Black Dolls in Stores, So People Made Them at Home”

Slate | topic(s): dolls
“Before the 20th century, manufactured black dolls were virtually nonexistent. In the 1930s, they were still tough to find in major cities. For decades, if black American parents wanted their children to have black dolls, the only way was to make them. Today, these dolls are treasured examples of American folk art.”

“Stanford Students Create Apps to Tackle Learning Challenges”

Stanford News | topic(s): educational apps
“Students in Stanford’s Learning, Design, and Technology program have applied modern technology to answer three questions faced by many parents and teachers: how to improve childhood eating habits, group project productivity and autistic social-emotional skills.”

“In Dr Seuss’ Children’s Books, a Commitment to Social Justice that Remains Relevant Today”

The Conversation | topic(s): children’s books
“Geisel described his 1954 children’s book Horton Hears a Who!, in part, as an apology to the Japanese people his propaganda had demeaned during the war. In subsequent children’s books, he began addressing the major issues of the 20th century: civil rights in The Sneetches (1961), environmental protection in The Lorax (1971) and the nuclear arms race in The Butter Battle Book (1984).”

“Is Wall Street Starting to Recruit in Pre-K?”

My Digital FC | topic(s): educational games
“At college career fairs around the country, eager business and finance majors don their best professional look and tote crisp copies of their resumes for a chance to be recruited by a Wall Street firm. But is Goldman Sachs leading an effort to start recruiting future analysts and stockbrokers in preschool? Over the last several years, the investment-banking giant has thrown its weight—and millions of dollars—behind the expansion of preschool. Now, as the federal education law makes its way toward a reauthorization that for years seemed unlikely, advocates of universal preschool are hoping to convince lawmakers on both sides of the aisle that expansion of early childhood education is possible — even if it means joining forces with Wall Street. The idea is called social-impact financing, and with the Obama administration’s push for universal preschool going nowhere fast, advocates of early childhood education see the concept as an opportunity, even if it means Wall Street has a hand in little Johnny’s first formal education experience.”

“The Play is the Thing”

My Digital FC | topic(s): educational games
“Ample studies show that digital games anchored in principles of creative self-learning are effective in teaching complex concepts in ways that are interesting and fun. They keep children meaningfully occupied when teachers simultaneously handle multiple classes, while providing personalised learning opportunities. As errors here are not failures, but iterative steps towards learning goalposts, they promote a desire to learn and to re-engage in the material, and, in the long run, create independent and self-determined learners. Not only do games provide experiential learning suitable at a young age, many skills required to play them such as thinking, planning, analysing, deciding and technical skills are useful lifelong qualities that are in high demand by employers.”

“How Educators Are Starting To Embrace The Concept Of ‘Good Screen Time'”

Huffington Science | topic(s): educational games
“Video games have a bad reputation among many parents and teachers, who worry that too much screen time is bad for children. There’s no doubt that some kids go overboard — and those who do can face troubling health risks. But a body of research suggests that playing digital games can have psychological and even physical benefits — from increasing players’ “brain flexibility” to possibly improving eyesight. And new offerings from game makers like Leapfrog, National Geographic, Amplify Games and Galxyz may further assuage parents and teachers’ fears.”

“Confused By the Mysterious World of Children’s Digital Books?”

Huffington Post UK | topic(s): educational apps, children’s ebooks
“The research evidence for digital books is mixed- results in favour of print or digital books vary, depending on the platform the book appears on, the purpose and context of a specific reading activity as well as the specific features studied by the researchers. A body of research concerned with e-books on laptops and PCs shows that high quality e-books can support children’s vocabulary, story comprehension and word reading. However, e-books and digital books on tablets with many hotspots and multimedia features which do not correspond to the narrative can diminish children’s story comprehension and vocabulary.”

“Program Helps Parents Use ‘Screen Time’ Educationally”

Education World | topic(s): educational apps
“In Boston’s Haynes Early Education Center, young learners between preschool and first-grade from low-income families are being exposed to digital learning through computer and device use alongside their parents. Whereas many early learners might be exposed to technology early, the program is aimed to teach parents how to turn the devices they let their young ones use into educational tools as opposed to just a pacifier or a babysitter.”

“Craft: a Revolt Against a Digital World”

Stuff (New Zealand) | topic(s): arts and crafts
“To devote one’s life to craft is a political act in itself. Craft is not an easy option despite all the current rhetoric about the satisfactions of handwork in a world dominated by flat screens. Craft is made up of objects that reminds us of the processes of making in a fragile planet.”

“Real-life version of ‘Hunger Games'”

Inquirer (Philippines) | topic(s): educational games
“There is something terribly wrong with the Philippine public school system. Data from the Department of Education will readily show that in the elementary level alone, public school students outnumber private school students 13 to one, with only nine public school students completing elementary education. Out of these nine graduates, only five will pursue a secondary education, with only three hurdling all levels and eventually graduating from a public high school. The disparity in the quality of education between public and private elementary and secondary schools is glaring and undeniable. And it is rightfully the first to be blamed for the poor performance of public school students in college, because it sticks out like a sore thumb.”

“Reading Scores Highlight Barriers to Learning”

Argus Leader | topic(s): early childhood education
“Almost two out of five Sioux Falls third-graders are reading at a level below where the district wants them to be. The problem has gotten slightly worse since the district started a program two years ago to close the gap. School board members want an explanation. The board asked for a follow-up report sometime this winter on possible causes and solutions to the slippage. Some wonder whether to blame program cuts made in 2011, after the state slashed K-12 funding, but they also see complex problems that extend beyond the classroom.”

“Society Pays Price for Lack of Early Childhood Education”

My San Antonio | topic(s): early childhood education
“As the Bexar County sheriff and a retired U.S. Air Force major general, I’m a strong supporter of high-quality preschool programs. 7 out of every 10 inmates in state prisons around the nation do not have a high school diploma. Seventy-three percent of young adults in Texas between the ages of 17 and 24 cannot qualify for the military because they are overweight, have a criminal record or are unable to pass the entrance exam, which assesses literacy and mathematical skills, as well as the ability to think critically and solve problems. Decades of research show quality preschool can help address both of these challenges by providing a strong foundation for long-term academic achievement.”

“It’s No Child’s Play”

The Hindu | topic(s): early childhood education
“Untrained teachers desperately trying to ‘engage’ with tiny tots by giving them building blocks or other colourful toys in day-care centres and crèches may be a thing of the past if the Department of Women and Child Development has its way. The department last month has issued a government order mandating all teachers are qualified and have a degree or diploma in early childhood care or home science.”

“The Science on Whether Video Games Rot Your Brain”

ATTN | topic(s): educational games
“Good news if you’re a gamer. Contrary to what your parents might have told you, video games will not rot your brain. Quite the opposite, in fact, as researchers at Radboud University in the Netherlands determined. Their study, published by the American Psychological Association last year, found that playing video games—yes, even the violent ones—can help young gamers develop learning, health, and social skills. In terms of cognitive benefits, research has shown that playing video games can improve attention, memory, and spacial skills. A 2013 meta-analysis noted that people who played first-person shooters learned to think about objects in three dimensions at the same capacity as students who took academic courses designed to help them hone that skill. This has critical implications for education and career development, as previous research has established the power of spatial skills for achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.”

“Mom Creates Dolls With Special Needs So All Kids Feel Included”

Yahoo | topic(s): dolls
“A mom from Wyndham Vale, Australia, is taking matters into her own hands when it comes to getting more diverse toys on the market.”

“Mom Creates Dolls With Special Needs So All Kids Feel Included”

Yahoo | topic(s): dolls
“A mom from Wyndham Vale, Australia, is taking matters into her own hands when it comes to getting more diverse toys on the market.”

“Access To Learning Content Is Not The Same As Equity In Education”

Forbes | topic(s): educational games
“One of the big problems with education has to do with content. It is not a problem with the quality of content, the delivery of information, nor access to knowledge. It is a problem with the way we understand what we mean when we think about learning. To solve this problem, we first need to be clear that there’s no such thing as educational content. Content is always neutral. It doesn’t become educational until there is an interaction. And there is a particular way of interacting with content that constitutes an educational engagement.”

“Association To Train Youths In Indigenous Arts, Crafts Making”

Leadership Nigeria | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“Mr Kanayo Chukwuemezie, the President, Africa Arts and Cultural Heritage Association, Abuja (AACHA), said the association would train students in indigenous arts and crafts making during the long vocation. Chukwuemezie told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja that the interest being shown in arts and crafts by youths was very encouraging.”

“Culture, Capacity And Craftsmanship: How To Hire For A Startup”

Tech Crunch | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Craftsmanship counts for me — and I’m sure it does for you, too — because it’s just frustrating to keep seeing the same standard, boorish and unimaginative buttons, modal dialogs and File menus. Technology now affords us creative, inspiring interfaces that understand and adapt to us; and, as a value, craftsmanship is no longer something that requires compromise.”

“We Need Innovative Ways to Fund Early Childhood Education”

Huffington Post | topic(s): early childhood education
“Many presidential candidates are talking about early childhood education as they stump through small towns across the country. It’s an issue that is hard to argue with.”

“Center Using Games to Promote Learning”

Business Wire | topic(s): educational games
“The analysts forecast global game-based learning market to grow at a CAGR of 6.47% over the period 2014-2019. The report, Global Game-based Learning Market 2015-2019, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers North America, APAC, Europe, and ROW; it also covers the global game-based learning market landscape and its growth prospects in the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.”

“Center Using Games to Promote Learning”

Bend Bulletin | topic(s): educational games
“Traveling through time, talking to animals, and saving the day —they’re all video game staples. Wisconsin-Madison’s Wisconsin Institute for Discovery is a key player in a growing field that brings together scientists, educators and game designers to augment traditional science education with games that engage students with dynamic, immersive lessons. The innovative center uses games to promote learning about biological systems, civic activism, empathy and literacy. Far from replacing educators, game designers hope the games promote smarter classrooms where teachers use games to extend their lessons in new ways.”

“Diversity Enriches All of Us”

Airdrie Echo | topic(s): multiculturalism
“We believe Airdrie is richer because of its diversity. We think different groups offer an opportunity for education and growth. After all, the majority (Caucasian Canadians of European Descent) were once immigrants who came to make a better life for themselves. We need to give the same opportunity to today’s newcomers.”

“Crafting a Continuum is a Glorious Shopper’s Hell”

Houston press | topic(s): arts and crafts
“So if you’re a shopper, steel yourself — prepare for hell — as you enter the exhibition ‘Crafting a Continuum: Rethinking Contemporary Craft,’ now on view at the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, because there’ll be things you’d like to buy. Because the exhibition isn’t just a lot of pretty stuff (no reference intended here to any stage of love), but is instead carefully thought out by curators who are the exact opposite of craft-world ignorant, I was able to learn a little by the time I left.”

“Florida Parents Try to Ban Children’s Books Set in Iraq and Afghanistan”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books
“Critics say Nasreen’s Secret School and The Librarian of Basra are inappropriate. Educational groups have said the books are acceptable for young children.”

“LearningWorks for Kids — a Database of Educational Apps”

Pixel kin | topic(s): education apps
“LearningWorks For Kids’ mission statement is: “popular video games and other digital media, when used mindfully and responsibly, can be powerful tools for sharpening and improving children’s academic performance and cognitive thinking skills. It’s not just about playing the story — it’s about discussing it and thinking about it.”

“The New Face of Multicultural Victoria”

Neo Kosmos | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Journalist Helen Kapalos has been appointed Victoria’s new multicultural commissioner. Premier Daniel Andrews announced her appointment for a four-year term on Tuesday. The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) was established in 1983 to provide independent advice to the Victorian Government to inform the development of legislative and policy frameworks, as well as influence the delivery of services to the state’s culturally, linguistically and religiously diverse communities. While multiculturalism is firmly established in the Australian psyche and embedded into governmental policies, recent years has seen the ‘m’ word questioned by some right-wing commentators and impacted by increased community tensions, particularly in relation to Islamic extremism.”

“Early Childhood Caucus Marks First Meeting”

Jersualem Post | topic(s): early childhood education
“According to a report conducted at the request of Trajtenberg by the Knesset Research and Information Center, there are four different government ministries that are involved in the lives of children in Israel, in addition to the local authorities, health funds, women’s organizations, and other NGOs, and there is presently no coordination between them on the issue. At the meeting, Trajtenberg and Alalouf presented a legislation that calls for the establishment of an early childhood council that would coordinate between the ministries and agencies that deal with the topic.”

“Daintiness of Korean Art”

Korea Times | topic(s): arts and crafts, craftmanship
“The aesthetic value of Korean traditional craft is generally found in the simplicity of its design and the practical purposes it is made for, but Koreans also have delicate hands to add elaborate details onto craftworks. A special exhibit ‘Exquisite and Precious: The Splendor of Korean Art’ at Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art in Hannam-dong, Seoul, provides a rare opportunity to give a look into the exquisite handiworks of Korean master artisans.”

“Barbie Is Far From Her Glory Days, As Mattel Sales Fall”

Capital World | topic(s): dolls
“Barbie sale rates have fallen 19% and total revenue fell even lower than predicted by analysts. Long gone are the days when Barbie was America’s number one toy, and every little girl wanted a beautiful doll of her own. Along the years, Barbie has faced severe scrutiny, as the doll was believed to convey an unrealistic image on the female body and to have affected the self esteem of the girls who loved Barbie so much during their childhood. Some girls actually took looking like Barby a little bit too seriously.”

“How Educational G Can Help with Global Teacher Shortages”

Venture Beat | topic(s): educational games
“Almost half the countries in the world have an acute teacher shortage according to the United Nations, and educational games might be able to help. Speaking to seasoned education-technology entrepreneur Osman Rashid last week, I was interested to hear his thoughts on how educational games can help us cope with a lack of teachers. While he stopped short of heralding an entirely teacher-less future, he believes that educational games partnered with emerging tech solutions can fill a gap that’s only likely to worsen. Rashid says that advanced A.I., virtual and augmented realities, and voice recognition will combine in the next few years to help deliver powerful, targeted educational content to kids.”

“In Multicultural’ West, Indian Arts Are Still Seen Through Racist Eyes”

Scroll.in | topic(s): multiculturalism, arts and crafts
“Festival organisers in the West tick the diversity objective with tokenistic events around Bollywood and then return to their mainstream programming.”

“Merging Art and Literature to Solve Illiteracy”

Rappler | topic(s): children’s literature
“Founded in 2005, CANVAS works with artists and writers to promote children’s literacy, national identity, and public awareness of the environment, arts, and culture. In their 10th year, CANVAS hopes to broaden its advocacy through their One Million Books for One Million Filipino Children Campaign. According to Executive Director Gigo Alampay, 80,000 books have been distributed to children from Batanes to Zamboanga since 2013. They hope to reach 1 million in 5 to 7 years. It’s their hope that one of the stories they publish, one of the artworks they show, or one of the ideas they share — will one day inspire a child to make the world a better place.”

“We Need Diverse Books: Video”

San Jose Public Library | topic(s): children’s books
“Learn more about the We Need Diverse Books campaign by clicking the video link above.”

“Multicultural Books Expand Worldview”

Citizen-Times | topic(s): children’s books
“For babies and toddlers, it is developmentally appropriate for them to think they are the center of the world. They are interested primarily in their wants and needs. They have an imperfect comprehension of life outside their family circle. As they age into preschool and elementary school, however, children begin to develop an understanding that the world is made up of not just them and their family, but many people and many families. Accordingly, as the pure ego shrinks, empathy blossoms. Learning to navigate a world where the wants and needs of other people should be considered is not something kids grasp instantly. Like other crucial life skills, it takes time. One way parents and caregivers can encourage kids to think outside the confines of their own interests is by sharing multicultural and multigenerational books with them.”

“Amazon Whisper Expands With More Tools for Educators”

Education World | topic(s): educational apps
“Amazon Whisper is a platform designed to deliver eBooks, eTextbooks and educational Apps to schools across the nation, ranging from grades K-12. It’s a free tool that promotes both the discovery and management of multiple types of digital texts and tools. With the widespread use of their product, Amazon has released an updated version of the tool that will make it easier for teachers and professors to manage the materials they share through Whispercast.”

“Keep Kids’ Minds Active to Stop Summer Learning Loss”

WMBF News | topic(s): early childhood education
“Having a few months off for relaxation might seem beneficial to students, but it can actually have some serious consequences, it can lead to ‘summer learning loss.’ Think about when you take time off of work, it’s hard to get back in the swing of things; that’s what happens to students when they have time off of school. Local organizations are trying to change that. The Claire Chapin Epps Family YMCA joined Ocean Bay Elementary to push forth a summer learning loss prevention program.”

“Hands-On The Cartier Ronde Louis Cartier Filigree Panthers Motif Watch”

Money Life | topic(s): craftsmanship
“The Cartier Ronde Louis Cartier Filigree Watch unveiled at the 2015 edition of the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in Geneva, presents the brand’s iconic panthers using an old technique practiced by Portuguese goldsmiths. Cartier’s Carole Forestier-Kasapi showed us different steps in the making of this watch during our most recent trip to the Maison’s new Maison des Métiers d’Art department.”

“Investing in Barbie? A New Index Reveals Most Expensive Dolls”

Money Life | topic(s): dolls
“If you are bored up with investing in stocks, properties, diamonds and luxury cars, here is another option for investors. According to a new index, the 1959-made doll is worth $9,000 in top condition – just ahead of the blonde version of Barbie #1 at $8,250. According to JustCollecting.com, a picture-sharing community for collectors that launched the Barbie index, the brunette version of Barbie provided the best investment since 2005 – up 6.6% a year on average.”

“Innovative UW Research Center Uses Games to Promote Learning”

Milwaukee Wisconsin Journal Sentinel Online | topic(s): educational games, early childhood education
“The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, GLS is a key player in a growing field that brings together scientists, educators and game designers to try to augment traditional science education with games that engage students with dynamic, immersive lessons. The innovative center uses games to promote learning about biological systems, civic activism, empathy, literacy and more. Far from replacing educators, game designers hope the games promote smarter classrooms where teachers use games to extend their lessons in new ways.”

“Apps for Kids: Road Trips”

Daily Herald | topic(s): educational apps, early childhood education
“A family road trip is a special time for family bonding and adventure. Unfortunately, a road trip can take a wrong turn fast when your kids get bored and start incessantly asking, “Are we there yet?” Keep your kids entertained and happy on the open road with these three iPad apps.”

“10 Must-Have Educational Apps On Your Smartphone”

Silicon India News | topic(s): educational apps, early childhood education
“Learning is one difficult thing to make it happen from toddlers to teens, but it can be changed as long as it is interesting and in their own way. Apps for kids do not mean that they are only for entertainment, there are apps that are dedicated to educate your child in an entertaining way, making learning an enjoyable experience for them. Here is a list of 10 apps for education that are perfectly apt for toddlers to teens helping them through their educational tenure and further.”

“Airline, Book Publishing Company Deliver Children’s Books Via Vending Machines”

Vending Market Watch | topic(s): children’s books, travel
“As part of an initiative to bring literature to children, JetBlue and Random House Children’s Books revealed book vending machines in Washington, D.C. that provide children in the Southeast neighborhood with free access to books. Washington, D.C. was chosen to launch this program after a study commissioned by JetBlue found that the Anacostia section of D.C. is a large book desert, leaving residents little or no access to purchase age-appropriate children’s books.”

“Children with Autism and Other Neurodevelopmental Disorders Make Crafts and Friends”

Orange County Register | topic(s): arts and crafts
“According to a 2014 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism affects approximately one in every 68 children in the United States. In Orange County, these numbers are higher. According to the Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, one in 50 children locally have been diagnosed with autism. Andry’s Color and Play for Crafty Kids workshop, continuing through Aug. 28, is one of many programs offered through the Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, which also provides clinical, education and outreach services, and conducts research into the disorders. The center is affiliated with UC Irvine’s School of Medicine, Chapman University’s College of Educational Studies and Children’s Hospital of Orange County.”

“Adult Coloring Books Selling Like Crazy”

New York Post | topic(s): children’s books, arts and crafts
“Adult coloring books are giving Harper Lee a run for the money on best-seller lists this summer. Dover Publications has sold more than 3 million adult coloring books with titles like ‘Flower Fashion Fantasies.’ Quarto Publishing will have 1.3 million in print this year ranging from mandalas to fairies. ‘Secret Garden: An Inky Treasure Hunt,’ by one of the genre’s most popular illustrators, Johanna Basford, remains a top seller on Amazon two years after its initial publication.”

“In Historic Iran Deal, Carpet Industry Gets Early Reprieve”

News X | topic(s): carpet weaving, arts and crafts, craftsmanship
“We are not removing our trade embargo on Iran. US persons and banks will still be generally prohibited from all dealings with Iranian companies, including investing in Iran, facilitating cleared country trade with Iran. The only adjustment we will make to those sanctions at the implementation date will be to allow the import of food and carpets from Iran and the export of civilian aircraft and parts to Iran, which has one of the worst airline safety records in the world. Carpet weaving has been at the heart of Persia’s culture for at least 2,500 years, if not longer. the oldest hand-woven carpet found so far is the Pazyryk Carpet, dating back to 500-400 BC.”

“Investing in Barbie? A New Index Reveals Most Expensive Dolls”

Money Life | topic(s): dolls
“If you are bored up with investing in stocks, properties, diamonds and luxury cars, here is another option for investors. According to a new index, the 1959-made doll is worth $9,000 in top condition — just ahead of the blonde version of Barbie #1 at $8,250.”

“New Book Aims to Kickstart Diversity in the Mostly White World of Kid Lit”

KALW | topic(s): children’s books
“Tim Osterbuhr is the co-founder of a new children’s book publishing company called Crayon Crunch. Their book, My Magical Adventure, is a high-tech personalized children’s book where families can design what the protagonist looks like — down to their freckles, or prosthetic limb.”

“What Lies Ahead for Digital Education”

IBN Live | topic(s): educational apps
“The efficacy of new tools and techniques used in education have been repeatedly proved in this time period. Researchers have found that performance of students using digital learning platforms outperforms those using conventional methods by 30 to 80 per cent. Apart from having an impact on performance of students, technology assists in reducing the cost of education. A study on cost effectiveness of digital platforms found a reduction in institutional cost by 10 to 35 per cent by using technological features.”

“Which Apps Are Educational and Why? It’s in the Eye of the Beholder”

The Conversation | topic(s): educational apps
“Some apps might be regarded simply as pacifiers to keep kids entertained, but when parents and adults interact with children playing the apps you will be surprised at the amazing learning conversations you might have and the things you will learn – and that’s educational.”

“Why Are Learning Games Not in the Cards?”

Games and Learning | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Learning games revenue could reach $2.5 billion dollars by 2018, but some industry leaders are looking to rely less on government grants and deals with school districts and start relying exclusively on the consumer market, which spends nearly five times more on games than K -12 organizations.”

“Scandanavia’s New Religion: Multiculturalism”

Front Page Mag | topic(s): multiculturalism
“During recent travel to Scandinavia after a six year absence, the take-away now is even more pronounced: Christianity is a diminishing reality and the new faith that has arisen is multiculturalism.”

“A Tribute to Multiculturalism”

The Hindu | topic(s): multiculturalism
“This is the culture of the city. People pray to different Gods and speak different languages. But they live in harmony. A multi-religious Iftar is a tribute to the city where people are judged by character and not by their religion.”

“Barack Obama’s Top Education Adviser Says Apps and Websites That Can Be Constantly Updated Will Make Them Obsolete”

Daily Mail | topic(s): educational apps
“Richard Culatta, of the U.S. Department for Education, said the many digital resources available will soon make textbooks obsolete. He said that while textbooks are outdated as soon as they are printed, apps and websites can be constantly updated. Digital resources also suit pupils who do not want to learn in a ‘linear’ fashion, and can help partially-sighted pupils who need bigger text.”

“Dolls Awaken Hopes Dreams and Imagination”

The Courier-Journal | topic(s): dolls
“For a child, dolls have been a way to escape from the surrounding world and create a fantasy or dream scenario by dressing them up.”

“Lebanese Doll Startup Aims to Present a More Realistic Body Image”

Wanda | topic(s): dolls
“Long before touchscreens, virtual reality games, and hardware toys dominated kids’ entertainment, it was just dolls in make-believe fantasy worlds. Dolls have been witnessing a resurgance recently, with startups like Dumya and Theradolls focusing on bringing back the doll experience to make a difference in children’s lives. Lebanese doll company My Doll and Me is working on “Arabizing” healthy looking dolls that reflect positive values on girls’ body image.”

“Tips to Supplement Kids’ Learning at Home”

Reporter-Times | topic(s): educational games
“Your world is a classroom that can provide an abundance of lesson plans. Start in your own home by exploring key concepts around the house. From using measuring cups in the kitchen to identifying shapes in the playroom, there are lessons to be learned in every room.”

“Organic Dolls Reflect Anatolian Toy Culture”

Daily Sabah | topic(s): dolls
“A ladies’ club in Turkey’s Karaman province teaches its attendees how to make dolls using cotton, wire, fabric and an organic extract from a plant called tragacanth. Today, most dolls are made of plastic. It is an open question as to what extent these plastic materials and paints are healthy, but these dolls are completely natural. They are not just dolls, but also handcrafted works of art.”

“Ed-tech Start-ups Envision L.A. as a Hub for the Growing Sector”

Los Angeles Times | topic(s): educational games
“The Los Angeles tech scene has spawned numerous e-commerce websites, dating and messaging apps, and online video companies, but a growing contingent of start-ups wants the attention to shift to a new sector: educational technology. Better known as ed-tech, the term includes online math and language programs, Web-based grade books that help parents and teachers communicate, and games and mobile apps that teach children how to code. In short, ed-tech is anything that fosters learning in new and creative ways, for people of all ages.”

“Identifying Trends in Indonesia’s Growing Mobile App Space”

e27 | topic(s): educational apps
“Apps targeted towards kids and tourists experience the highest browse-to-download conversation rates — 58.41 per cent for kids-related apps and 49.67 per cent for tourism apps.”

“8 Tips to Keep Summer Break from Dumbing Down Your Kids”

Alabama.com | topic(s): early childhood education
“Summer break should be a fun, relaxing time for kids, but parents should make sure their boys and girls keep their minds engaged and retain what they have learned over the previous school year. Children often lose as much as two to three months of math and reading skills during the summer, according to early childhood education experts at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).”

“She Looks Just Like Me!”

Millionaire Corner | topic(s): dolls
“It is a sad truth that children born with physical disabilities or deformities often alter the dolls they are given so that the dolls have the same abnormality as the doll’s owner. But, thanks to a British toy and doll company named Makies, those children won’t have to alter their Barbies or American Girl dolls any longer.”

“Can Playing Poker with Your Children Really Make Them Smarter?”

Herald (Ireland) | topic(s): educational games
“Many mathematical and problem-solving skills go hand-in-hand with card playing. The experts reveal all about Snap, Gin Rummy and some other old favourites. Nowadays, however, the chance of finding a group of children playing cards or even a board game is relatively slim. According to a new study from Barclaycard, only 44pc of children under the age of 14 know how to play these traditional games as most would rather spend time transfixed to an electronic device.”

“Minecraft in School? How Video Games Could Be the Future of Learning”

Christian Science Monitor | topic(s): educational games
“Math, geography, art, design – these are just some of the things that children can learn from the popular video game Minecraft, a new study shows. Essentially a kind of digital Lego through which users can create their own building-block worlds, the game has the potential to engage students in problem-solving, research, creative thinking, and even social interaction, say the Australia-based researchers. Their findings add to a growing body of research supporting not only the use of video games in classroom learning, but also the idea that learning is less an exercise in one-time memorization than an exciting, continuous experience.”

“Australia is Years Behind the Times on Childcare”

Sunshine Coast Daily | topic(s): early childhood education
“The Abbott government’s $3.5 billion childcare package treats the education of Australia’s young children as babysitting, a new report has claimed. The McKell Institute report has found serious flaws in the package, which focuses on getting mothers back into work rather than ensuring children get the best possible early education.”

“Early Childhood Education in Dismal State, Says Study”

Times of India | topic(s): early childhood education
“Most children up to eight years of age are deprived of development during schooling in India. According to a study carried out by a researcher at MS University’s (MSU) faculty of community sciences, the model of western education followed across pre-schools and primary schools currently lacks the spiritual aspect of education.”

“The Art of Craft Master Robert Alejandro”

CNN (Philippines) | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Before becoming a painter, award-winning graphic artist, crafter, and one of the pillars of Filipino arts and crafts shop Papemelroti, Robert Alejandro knew he was an artist since birth. In an exclusive interview with CNN Philippines’ Claire Celdran, Alejandro said he didn’t really discover his calling for arts, rather, he knew he was born with it.”

“UNESCO Adds Dazzling New Travel Sites to its World Heritage List”

The Globe and Mail | topic(s): travel, destinations
“After meeting in Bonn, Germany, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, or UNESCO, has named more than dozen new sites to its World Heritage list in recent days. This year’s honorees include some well-known tourist destinations – and some relatively unknown spots worth a visit.”

“Newport News Children’s Librarian Encourages Love of Reading”

Daily Press | topic(s): children’s literature
“One of my responsibilities as a children’s librarian and mom is to find ways to encourage a love of reading. I want children to find a special connection with a book. That connection between a child and a book begins with exposing children to all types of literature.”

“Why Diversity in Children’s Literature Really Matters”

Huffington Post | topic(s): children’s literature
“Fortunately, an enormous push to increase diversity in children’s literature has emerged, thanks to campaigns like We Need Diverse Books. However, this push hasn’t always been prevalent among writers and readers. We need tales of diverse heroes in the plots we know and love. Give us a Native American boy who uses his acute detective skills to solve the mystery of The Basketball Net Bandit. Give us a girl with a speech impediment who was raised by a single dad, struggling against her best friend for the lead role in the school play. Above all, give us reality.”

“Family Matters: What Goes into the Writing of Children’s Books”

Cape Talk (South Africa) | topic(s): children’s books
“Children books form the better part of a child’s development. In this week’s Family Matters we look at what the authors of children’s books go through when writing these books and what their books intend to achieve.”

“Inspired Luxe Is The Site For Handmade Wearable Art That’s Ethical And Exquisite”

Huffington Post | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“As the founder and CEO of the e-commerce site Inspired Luxe, Bradley-Tyson’s mission is supporting the imagination of small-scale makers and showcasing artisanal treasures, traditions and innovations from around the world. Inspired Luxe is not driven by trends, but rather craftsmanship — which is an anomaly in a business dominated by fast fashion. But we’ve learned that slow style is often worth the time and investment.”

“Celebrating the Intricate Craftsmanship of Native American Art”

PBS | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian in Evanston, Illinois, has delved deep into its archives for its latest exhibit. On display are the custom clothes and adornments of Native Americans from across the U.S. and Canada.”

“Kentucky Science Center Unveils $3 Million Play Exhibit to Help Prepare Children for School”

Louisville Business Journal | topic(s): early childhood education
“On Thursday, the Kentucky Science Center unveiled a new exhibit called Science in Play powered by PNC Grow Up Great. The $3 million overhaul of the first floor is meant for children and their families to explore the power of play in hopes of better preparing Kentucky kids for school.”

“Craft in Australia: Let’s Not Forget the Real Value of the Handmade”

The Conversation | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“With the possibility of technology taking over our jobs, now is the perfect time to remind ourselves of the value of Australian craft culture, and the beauty of the handmade. The extent of the Australian community’s engagement with craft and design (over 2 million participants) is a powerful affirmation of the deep seated satisfaction which people gain from the exercise of their imagination and skill. The ambition of the National Craft Initiative is to stimulate engagement of the Australian craft and design sector with new ideas, ways of doing things, connections and opportunities.”

“Illustrating Characters – Telling Children Stories Through Pictures”

Irish Examiner | topic(s): children’s books, multiculturalism
“Children will get the most out of a book when they can identify with its heroes and are not being talked down to. Judi Curtin, one of Ireland’s most popular children’s literature writers, notices children are more open and less prejudiced than adults. They’re more accepting, more tolerant of race and religion, for example. Because her books are written in the first person, she finds writing with a child’s voice the most challenging aspect of her storytelling.”

“Livingstone Shares its Multicultural Story in Artwork”

The Morning Bulletin | topic(s): multiculturalism, arts and crafts
“The Shell Story is a collective artwork put together by stitching together 16 individual artworks inspired by 16 community members. Mayor Bill Ludwig said more than 40 nationalities called Livingstone Shire home. The council aims to embrace this diversity and promote an inclusive, liveable community where everyone feels they belong.”

“Nursery school to Offer Full-day Preschool Program”

Shelton Herald (CT, USA) | topic(s): early childhood education
“HCNS representatives said the decision reflects the school’s dedication to early childhood learning, and their desire to provide the best possible foundation for student success and to assist the community with quality care outside the home. The nursery school’s preschool program is based on the fundamental factors of child development in physical, cognitive, social and emotional growth.”

“Child Care Is Biggest Expense For A Growing Number of Families”

Forbes | topic(s): early childhood education
“Poor-quality care has negative impacts on development — especially for low income and minority children. According to a March 2014 U.S. Department of Education report, boys and African American children are disproportionately expelled or suspended from early care and education programs. For preschool programs outside state prekindergarten systems, the rates were far higher. Thirty-nine percent of child care providers reported at least one expulsion in the past year, an expulsion rate more than 13 times higher than in K through 12 schools.”

“Women Showcase Handcrafting Skills”

Santa Cruz Sentinel | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“Michael Gillis attended the fine woodworking program at the College of the Redwoods. He attended the program for two years, working six days a week to hone his craft.”

“Michael Gillis: Award-winning Woodworker is a Master of the Craft”

Santa Cruz Sentinel | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“Michael Gillis attended the fine woodworking program at the College of the Redwoods. He attended the program for two years, working six days a week to hone his craft.”

“Cape Breton’s Many Cultures Celebrated”

Cape Breton Post | topic(s): multiculturalism
“We have many different communities within our community and basically we celebrate our diversity. We have great diversity here — we sometimes forget that so we want to make sure that on this, the national Multiculturalism Day, that we celebrate that fact.”

“If Only I Could Find My Inner Grayson Perry”

The Guardian | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“Like lots of people whose work does not involve their hands, and whose teachers’ idea of creativity extended only as far as the school play, I have a powerful yearning to make things, one that grows stronger every year. And since I can’t make things, I guess I’ll have to make do with reading about making things.”

“Hands On”

Business Times (Singapore) | topic(s): craftsmanship
“MBA? Been there, done that. Achieved the highest GPA score humanly possible? Big deal. Paper qualification acronyms are so last generation. Just like how the slackers of the nineties abandoned the paper chase to wallow in grunge-fuelled apathy, the millenials that followed are equally disillusioned with climbing the corporate ladder. Not only are they forsaking stable desk-bound jobs and the ‘marketable’ majors that their folks insisted they pursue, they are investing time and cash into learning obscure crafts. And making a living out of it.”

“Enclaves Finally See the Light of Education”

Dhaka Tribune | topic(s): early childhood education, destinations
“For 68 long years, the children of the enclaves in Kurigram have been deprived of education. But that scene has now changed. The recently established preschools in the enclave areas are now vibrant with children. To educate these deprived children, the Islamic Foundation established these education centres in mosques, courtyards in the Choto Kamat, Boro Kamat, Raser Mela and other areas of the Dasiarchara enclave in the district. With the door to education and opportunities now open, parents along with the children are now excited.”

“How Long It Takes Kids to Read These Popular Children’s Books”

Lifehacker | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
“It’s important for kids to learn literacy skills. And some of the classic books we read as children come to be our favorite stories as adults. It’s interesting to know just how long it takes kids to read those classics. Whether you’re gauging your child’s reading speed or simply trying to plan how long it’ll take to finish an assignment, that info can come in handy.”

“Diversity in Children’s Books Is Hard to Find — But Important”

Chicago Magazine | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
“From the 1940s through today, librarians have lamented the color of kid’s lit. The market might not provide diversity, but you can find it at your local library.”

“Why This is a Golden Age for Children’s Literature”

The Independent | topic(s): children’s literature
“Children’s books are, paradoxically, one of the most important forms of writing we have, and the most overlooked. They are the first real visual and literary culture that an unformed person receives, and this is one reason why we tend to remember children’s books as our favorites. 
But they also give a child a lever with which to pry open the world. They tell us that life is much bigger and more complex than we might have imagined, and that it contains people who are both like and unlike ourselves. This may seem daunting, but a great children’s book portrays an environment in which the young are not powerless. Such books confront our deepest fears of being lost, hungry or in mortal danger, and they reinforce a child’s inner ability to cope with this fearfulness and to discover where true strength lies.”

“Free Preschool Push from Early Childhood Advocates”

ABC News | topic(s): early childhood education
“Studies found that children who attended preschools and play groups had much better educational outcomes later in their schooling. Children become more socially skilled, less prone to anxiety, more likely to do well in their academic work and overall generally do better than they otherwise would.”

“Latino Educators Stress Making Early Childhood Education A Priority”

Deadline Hollywood | topic(s): early childhood education
“Dr. Libby Doggett, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for 
Policy and Early Learning at the Department of Education has cited bilingualism as an early learning advantage. In order for the United States to remain globally competitive, it’s essential to strive for more dual language programs in early education. When a child hears multiple languages at a young age, she can develop reasoning skills even before she begins speaking. With community engagement, families can learn that speaking to children in any language is critical. Speaking Spanish isn’t a deficit. It’s a strength that we need to build on in this country.”

“In San Carlos, Bamboo Brings Life to Native Craft”

Deadline Hollywood | topic(s): adventure
“Disney has closed a deal to acquire an untitled pitch that Oscar-winning Traffic scribe Stephen Gaghan will write to direct. Scant details were available, but I’m told that it is an adventure film involving Charles Darwin, the British naturalist and geologist who made breakthroughs in the areas of evolution and natural selection. Darwin had a bit of that Indiana Jones-like swashbuckling spirit in him, and in his formative years he took a daring five-year voyage in 1831 to chart the coastline of South America. He made many discoveries along the way which harnessed the later theories that would make him one of the most influential figures in human history.”

“In San Carlos, Bamboo Brings Life to Native Craft”

Inquirer | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Residents of San Carlos City in central Pangasinan have long been maintaining an intimate affair with the bamboo. For generations, they have been crafting practical articles for the house and farm, and they do this not only to augment their income from agriculture. For most of them, it is a way of life.”

“Is Kindergarten Too Late?”

Asia One Women | topic(s): early childhood education
“Governments are going about it all wrong by focusing on children only after they start school. Education authorities are also emphasising the wrong things when they target boosting cognitive skills or raising academic scores. The Carolina Abecedarian Project – better known as ABC – provided cognitive stimulation, training in self-control and social skills for children from the time they were just a few months old, as well as parental education. The children were also provided with health check-ups and healthcare. This programme was found to have lasting effects on IQ, parenting practices and child attachment, leading to higher educational attainment and more skilled employment among those in the treatment group.”

“Does Kindergarten Have to Bring Butterflies?”

Springfield News-Leader | topic(s): early childhood education
“The Readiness for Kindergarten report, a study of kindergartners in the 2014-15 year released last month, highlighted a growing need to hone the academic and social skills of preschool-age children entering kindergarten. The report showed nearly 28 percent of students who entered kindergarten in fall 2014 — or six children in a class of 20 — were “not prepared” to learn. They were less likely to know shapes and colors or how to hold a book, line up or keep their hands to themselves. Four years ago, just 20 percent, or 1 in 5, were not ready.”

“Hillary Clinton Pledges Preschool For Every American Child If She Becomes President”

iSchoolGuide | topic(s): early childhood education
“It’s hard enough to pay for any preschool or child care at all, let alone the quality programs that help kids develop and flourish. Funding for these opportunities has not kept up with changing times and rising demand.”

“From Scars to Books: School Equips Street Children with Education”

The Express Tribune (Pakistan) | topic(s): early childhood education, children’s books
“Finding it difficult to make both ends meet, most parents still try to engage their children in begging. Only some of them succeed in doing so as education has changed their children’s mind.”

“Column: William and Mary Turns the World into a Classroom”

Virginia Gazette | topic(s): travel, destinations
“Our goal with the Alumni Journeys program is to provide our alumni and friends of the College the opportunity to engage with each other and the College. While enjoying the excitement of visiting and learning about other destinations through the country and the world.”

“For Florida Economy to Prosper, Raise the Skills of Preschoolers Today”

Tampa Bay Times | topic(s): early childhood education
“Why is this a business column? Frankly, Florida stinks at preparing its youngsters to read by the third grade — despite boasting a high rate of enrollment of 4-year-olds in its Voluntary Prekindergarten, or VPK, Education Program. Keep up that lousy job and guess what? Florida will be stuck with an under-educated workforce ill-prepared for the demanding critical thinking, communication, and math skills that the business community wants today but will increasingly insist on tomorrow.”

“Early School Success Paves Way for Higher Education”

Springfield News-Leader | topic(s): early childhood education
“Where do we learn grit, self-control and determination? Certainly we can learn it from our parents, and perhaps we are born with a certain personality that makes it easier or more difficult to gain the skills. The author also contends that grit, determination, and certainly self-control are all skills learned in preschool.”

“Growing Seeds for a Multicultural, Multiracial Teaching Force for Our Rainbow Children”

Huffington Post | topic(s): early childhood education, multiculturalism
“U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan is increasingly worried that teachers and administrators don’t reflect the great diversity of our nation’s students. That is a real problem. If we are serious about having more of our young men of color be successful, we need a heck of a lot more men of color in our classrooms. Freedom Schools is helping to create that pipeline.”

“Bring Back Risk and Adventure to the Classroom, Expert Says”

The Telegraph | topic(s): adventure
“We somehow have taken out the excitement, the risk and adventure out of what we allow young people to do. We are very careful about not letting them walk too far away from our front door and unfortunately if young people can’t get excitement and adventure in ways which we consider to be acceptable to society, they will get them in ways which are unacceptable to society. It is almost a paradox that we are expecting young people to do certain things but we’re not necessarily giving them the opportunities to do them.”

“Mobile Library on Wheels Brings Smiles to Children in Rural Myanmar”

The Asahi Shimbun | topic(s): children’s literature
“In early April, the mobile library on wheels operated by a local public library arrived at this elementary school in the Kyo Khone village in the outskirts of Pyay, central Myanmar. It was the first time the 33 pupils, who live about 5 kilometers from the nearest public library, had seen a number of picture story books at one time. Parents can afford to buy school textbooks for their children but have no more capability to give their children books from which they can learn life lessons and attain wisdom.”

“Why It Doesn’t Make Sense to Double Early Head Start’s Funding”

Daily Signal | topic(s): early childhood education
“Early Head Start had little to no effect on white and Hispanic participants, who are the majority of program participants. For Hispanic children, the program failed to have a short-term impact on all measures of child cognitive and language development, while the program had a beneficial effect on only one of nine measures of child-social-emotional development.”

“Pre-K Seems Bipartisan — But It Won’t Last”

Vox | topic(s): early childhood education
“The US currently lags far behind other rich nations in enrolling 3- and 4-year-olds in school. About 78 percent of 4-year-olds are enrolled in early childhood education, leaving the US ranked 25th out of 38 rich countries and developing economies. Mexico, Portugal, and France all have higher pre-K enrollment than the US. So increasing enrollment in pre-K programs is a goal that governors from both parties have supported. But it’s unlikely to be bipartisan at the national level, because there’s a deep ideological divide between Republicans and Democrats over what role the federal government ought to play.”

“Boom Time for Children’s Books as Sales Soar, But Where Are Readers?”

Telegraph | topic(s): children’s books
“Sales of children’s books are at an all-time high, yet it is harder for publishers to reach young readers, says the owner of a literary agency that represents more than 200 children’s illustrators and writers. Vicki Willden-Lebrecht, founder of London-based The Bright Group, said funding cuts at schools and libraries has meant there are fewer books than ever on display, making it harder to reach families that do not normally buy books.”

“10 Places to Visit Before They Disappear”

Yahoo Travel | topic(s): travel, destinations
“We’ve put together a list of incredible places that are experiencing major changes. Soon these places will be changed forever (by the effects of climate change), so if you’ve been longing to see glaciers up close, take in the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, or see the Taj Mahal in person, you should do so in the near future.”

“U.S. House Republican Budget Would Eliminate 19 Education Department Programs But Increase Early Childhood And Special Education Grants”

iSchool Guide | topic(s): early childhood education
“The House Republican spending bill also lists various increases in education spending, including a $192 million increase for Head Start. Politico adds that $150 million of that is “a down payment toward coming to a deal with the president on early childhood education.”

“Rwanda in Early Childhood Development Campaign”

Spy Ghana | topic(s): early childhood education
“In a bid to improve a child’s chances of survival and lead to optimal growth and development, Rwanda has embarked on a drive that seeks to promote early childhood development. Early Child Development Policy (EDC) and Strategic Plan will ensure that all children in Rwanda develop in a holistic manner through the provision of integrated health, nutritional, early stimulation and learning, and protection services to families and communities.”

“Chicago Rolls Out Mobile Early Childhood Learning Services Focused On STEM And Art”

Chicago Inno | topic(s): early childhood education
“Starting this summer, children at 200 early childhood learning centers across the city will have access to additional resources for learning about science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). The mayor’s office and Chicago Public Library announced the roll out of three mobile STEAM learning trucks that will bring additional curriculum and resources to early childhood learning centers across the city. The aim is to bring STEAM resources to children in high need areas who otherwise wouldn’t be exposed to enrichment learning opportunities.”

“Exhibition Shows Tongyeong’s Craftsmanship”

The Korea Times | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Often referred to as the Naples of Korea, Tongyeong in South Gyeongsang Province has many factors making it an attractive tourist destination. Besides its breathtaking scenery by the sea, the city holds a great legacy of producing high-quality craftworks from ancient times.”

“Nature Art Camp Introduces Children to Outdoor Fun”

Tahlequah Daily press | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Children 3-6 years old placed beans representing pebbles on a blue, painted paper plate Tuesday morning, then put their yellow hand print – their goldfish – on the plate to complete a fish bowl. This activity was part of the Nature Art Summer Camp put on by Northeastern State University’s Continuing Education Department.”

“Etsy Tests Crowdfunding to Enable Sellers to Raise Money to Make Stuff”

Silicon Republic | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Online arts and crafts marketplace Etsy has launched a two-month pilot programme that will enable sellers to raise money through crowdfunding to fund production of new products. By funding a campaign, buyers can participate in a new product’s journey from initial concept to their front door while forging even more meaningful relationships with Etsy sellers about whom they care. Etsy has more than 1.4m active sellers and gets a 3.5pc share of each transaction.”

“11 Arts And Crafts Apps For The DIY Enthusiast, Because Sewing And Smartphones Totally Mix”

Bustle | topic(s): arts and crafts
“Crafty types may often look at technology with a thoroughly suspicious, borderline-Luddite eye — but just because you’re into DIY and arts and crafts hobbies like embroidery, woodworking, or knitting doesn’t mean that tech is totally irrelevant to your pursuits. Far from it — while some particularly advanced crafters may invest in serious machinery to help them further their goals, you don’t need to throw down for an embroidery machine or other heavy-duty supplies to get some assitance with your hobbies. With crafting apps, you have access to help and inspiration of all sorts, right at your double-tapping fingertips.”

“How to Swap Game Consoles for Books (and Get Kids Reading)”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books
“Alex Scarrow’s son was a gamer not a reader, so that’s why he decided to use every trick he learned as a games designer to write addictive books that keep readers coming back for “just one more go.”

“Berluti Crafts Wholecut Shoes From a Single Piece of Leather”

Esquire | topic(s): craftsmanship
“The wholecut shoe is a thing of beauty. About as good an argument for minimalism as you’re likely to find in footwear—or anywhere, for that matter—it does away with extraneous elements like cap toes and brogueing in favor of an elegantly understated upper, unadorned and cut from a single piece of leather. It’s no small feat of craftsmanship, as difficult to perfect as it is easy on the eyes.”

“Michelle Obama Unveils Girls’ Education Initiative During London Trip”

CNN | topic(s): early childhood education
“62 million girls are out of school around the world When a girl receives a quality education, she is more likely to earn a decent living, raise a healthy, educated family and improve the quality of life for herself, her family and her community. The United States and United Kingdom will collaborate to improve girls’ access to education by enrolling students in accelerated primary school programs, reducing barriers to school access and mobilizing parental and community support. Both countries will also try to improve the quality of materials used in teaching and learning, and to improve school governance.”

“Childhood Education in Pakistan”

The Nation (Pakistan) | topic(s): early childhood education
“Early Childhood Education (ECE) is a branch of education theory which relates to the teaching of young children (formally and informally) up till the age of about eight years. It’s a time of remarkable brain growth, as these years lay the foundation for subsequent learning and development. People in the 6th largest country of the world are unable to receive this basic education.”

“Hillary Clinton Proposes More Funding for Early Childhood Education”

Bloomberg | topic(s): early childhood education
“Republicans aren’t just missing the boat on early childhood education, they’re trying to sink it. Hillary Clinton embraced her new role as a grandmother and her longer-term one as a child advocate on Monday, offering up proposals on early childhood education and calling for tax cuts to help middle-class parents pay for child care.”

“Inuit Fine Art and Crafts to Tour Country”

The Labradorian | topic(s): arts and crafts, destinations
“The SakKijâjuk exhibition will provide a wonderful opportunity to introduce Nunatsiavut artists and craftspeople to the national and international Inuit art market and the field of Inuit art history.”

“Where are the Children’s Books with Girls in Trousers?”

The Guardian | topic(s): children’s books
“We now have lots of confident, strong girls in picture books, but from Katie Morag to Emily Brown to Lola, most are drawn wearing skirts and dresses. The Book Doctor searches for girls in trousers – but clearly more are needed. Urgently!”

“Children’s Books Are Great Tools — If They Are Accurate”

Kearney Hub (blog) | topic(s): children’s books
“Beyond reading and recognition skills, it is essential to consider what else we are teaching our children when we sit down with a storybook, whether farm themed or otherwise. The reader must be alert to issues of fact, quality and impression.”

“The Dark Side of Nursery Rhymes”

BBC | topic(s): early childhood education, children’s literature
“Mothers of small children around the world are mindlessly singing along to seemingly innocuous nursery rhymes that, if you dig a little deeper, reveal shockingly sinister backstories. Babies falling from trees? Heads being chopped off in central London? Animals being cooked alive? Since when were these topics deemed appropriate to peddle to toddlers?”

“Our Cultures Should Interact, Not Just Coexist”

Mail & Guardian (Africa) | topic(s): multiculturalism
“Integration has to be planned, supported, and lived if diversity is not to be simply about tolerance.”

“Multiculturalism Isn’t a Failure; It’s a Force of Nature”

News 24 (South Africa) | topic(s): multiculturalism
“It appears to me there is a strong anti-multicultural sentiment across the world at the moment. Multiculturalism is being passed off as an impossible dream, some failed experiment, even by high-ranking liberals like Angela Merkel. It doesn’t work, people say. Racial groups need to stick within their boundaries. Europe for Europeans. Africa for Africans. To which I say, what a bunch of… Let’s be entirely clear about something. This will probably challenge a lot of people’s notions and political ideologies. Here’s the fact: multiculturalism is not a choice, or a policy, or an ideal. It is a simple fact of nature: inevitable and unstoppable.”

“12 Standards for Early Childhood Institutions”

Jamaica Observer | topic(s): early childhood education
“This is the time of year when many parents are exploring options for their young children’s education, and many will be enrolled in early childhood institutions this coming September. But do you know what to look for when choosing a space? Infrastructure, adequate space and a friendly staff are one thing, but there are others, as outlined in the Early Childhood Commission’s standards for early childhood institutions”

“A New Foundation That Believes in the Power of Play”

Inside Philanthropy | topic(s): early childhood education
“The Caplan Foundation for Early Childhood has its priorities straight and knows a few things about how to support our littlest folk, and more academic pressure and testing is not what they are into. Play—physical, emotional, verbal—in early childhood is what this foundation is all about.”

“Child Labor Deprives Millions of Kids of Education”

Deutsche Welle | topic(s): early childhood education
“The number of child laborers aged five to 14 fell from 186 million in 2000 to 120 million in 2012 due to a global push for access to primary education as part of the UN Millennium Development goals.”

“Creating Enthusiastic Readers: The Importance of Children’s Books”

St. George’s Blog (Luxemburg) | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
“We often focus on the skills and knowledge children need to learn to read but not the attitude. This is important because if we want them to be life long lovers of books then they need to want to read for pleasure. We all know how much reading can enrich our lives, as research continues to reflect, children who read or who are read to at home regularly have richer vocabularies, are able to express their emotions better and attain higher overall grades in all areas.”

“This Children’s Book Grows Into a Tree When Planted”

Jamaica Observer | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
“AS a parent, it is important that you inspire your children to read from as early as possible. This will form the basis for developing educational skills that will enhance your child’s future. Although most children do not begin to read until about five or six years old, parents are encouraged to start reading to them from as early as birth.”

“This Children’s Book Grows Into a Tree When Planted”

Paste Magazine | topic(s): children’s books
“The remarkable children’s book is handmade and printed on recycled, acid-free paper, using biodegradable ink, with jacaranda seeds embedded in the pulp of its pages. Buenos Aires, Argentina-based publisher Pequeño Editor created Mi Papá Estuvo en la Selva as part of Tree Book Tree, an initiative meant to inspire youngsters everywhere to take an interest in books and the environment.”

“The Last of Iraq’s Hand-woven Carpets”

Al-Monitor | topic(s): carpet weaving, arts and crafts, craftsmanship
“More Hawke’s Bay children are under the corporate care of listed early-childhood education company Evolve Education Group, after it bought four centres. Auckland-based Evolve now owns nine Hawke’s Bay centres. Parents choose their level of engagement with activities organised and managed by qualified staff.”

“Early Learning Group Expands into Corporate Child Care”

Hawke’s Bay Today (Auckland, NZ) | topic(s): early childhood education
“More Hawke’s Bay children are under the corporate care of listed early-childhood education company Evolve Education Group, after it bought four centres. Auckland-based Evolve now owns nine Hawke’s Bay centres. Parents choose their level of engagement with activities organised and managed by qualified staff.”

“Hong Kong’s Early Childhood Education Lacks a Vital Element — Fun”

South China Morning Post | topic(s): early childhood education
“Since preschool children have yet to fully develop their physical muscles and mental cognition, it can be torture if they have to write thousands of words or repeat the same things daily, never mind being fed with burdensome information far beyond their level of understanding. For preschool children, a meaningful education vision would revolve around healthy and creative play in a safe environment, assisted by teachers and parents, rather than being force-fed knowledge. An excessively long and harsh learning schedule will stress out the children.”

“Maximizing the Potential of Early Childhood Education to Prevent Externalizing Behavior Problems”

Science Direct | topic(s): early childhood education
“Early childhood education (ECE) programs offer a promising mechanism for preventing early externalizing behavior problems and later antisocial behavior. Programs that more intensively targeted children’s social and emotional development were associated with additional significant reductions in externalizing behavior problems.”

“1 in 5 Students is Living in Poverty”

Deseret News | topic(s): early childhood education
“The number of school-aged children living in poverty has increased 40 percent since 2000. As of 2014, 1 in 5 school-aged children in the United States is living in poverty, according to the NCES’s report. In 2000, 1 in 7 children was living in poverty.”

“Sesame Street’s Long-Lasting Impact on School Readiness”

Wall Street Journal | topic(s): early childhood education
“Sesame Street brought Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Bert and Ernie, and scores of other characters into American living rooms with the intent to help educate little kids across the country. It worked. A new paper by Melissa Kearney, an economics professor at the University of Maryland, and Phillip Levine, an economics professor at Wellesley College, finds that the television show helped improve school readiness, an advantage that lasted at least through high school.”

“Smart Beginnings Start with Mom and Dad”

Richmond Times-Dispatch | topic(s): early childhood education
“Early childhood education advocates and pediatricians have launched a campaign to raise awareness of basic steps families can take to help children excel in school and life. The Smart Beginnings Start with Families initiative started Mother’s Day and runs through Father’s Day, June 21.”

“Deconstructing Federalism”

The Hindu | topic(s): multiculturalism
“India’s founding fathers saw decentralisation as creating living social spaces around constitutional protections blending together pride of ‘citizenship’ with the richness of multi-cultural identities.”

“International Experts Criticise Australian Childcare Plan”

The Age | topic(s): early childhood education
“International childcare experts have criticised the Coalition’s move to make parents work to get childcare funding, describing it as a “retrograde step” that will hurt vulnerable families who are most in need of early learning and care.”

“Debate Persists Around Early-Reading Standards”

Education Week | topic(s): early childhood education
“Among the many debates around the Common Core State Standards is an ongoing one about kindergarten: Do the standards ask too much of 5- and 6-year-olds in reading? At the heart of the dispute is a literacy standard that says kindergartners should be able to read emergent-reader texts with purpose and understanding. Experts agree it’s a more advanced expectation than appeared in most previous state standards—but there’s less consensus on whether it’s a better expression of what kindergarten pupils should be doing or an overreach.”

“Early-Childhood Social-Skills Program Boosted by $20 Million Donation”

Education Week | topic(s): early childhood education
“Could teaching preschoolers and elementary school students how to get along better lead to a drop in divorce rates later on? That idea led banking entrepreneur T. Denny Sanford to Arizona State University in Tempe, where the school of social and family dynamics bears his name. In 2008, he asked researchers there to create a program that could help improve relationships and understanding between boys and girls. Now the program is expanding nationwide, thanks to a $20 million anonymous donation to San Diego-based National University announced this week. An additional $10 million from the program will come from National University’s endowment, and the university will coordinate the effort.”

“Write More Children’s Books, Urges President Lungu”

Zambia Daily Mail | topic(s): children’s books
“President Lungu has called on Zambian authors to write more children’s books in local languages and to help schools with teaching materials. He advised children to work hard, be disciplined, and humble for them to enjoy a bright future. He also urged teachers to ensure that they instil discipline in pupils to shape their future.”

“Childhood Professionals to Protest in Dublin, Cork, and Sligo”

Irish Examiner | topic(s): early childhood education
“Childhood professionals have encouraged people across the country to support tomorrow’s ‘fair pay’ rallies in Dublin, Cork, and Sligo. The events follow an earlier national rally in Dublin, which was held last February.”

“3-D Printing Throws Ceramics into a Spin”

The Japan Times | topic(s): craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“Cutting-edge 3-D printing technology is changing the dynamics of Japanese ceramics as designers merge the traditional craft with a digital framework in pursuit of aesthetic refinement — and drastically reduce the time needed to create their artwork by ditching the potter’s wheel.”

“Mecanoo Brings Dutch Craftsmanship to Boston”

ArchPaper | topic(s): craftsmanship
“For the new volume, the architects looked both to the surrounding urban fabric and to their own strengths. Boston has a very rich tradition of using brick. Coming from the clay country of The Netherlands, brick has been used in many projects, and the team really wanted to use it here to show off the craftsmanship that goes into bricklaying.”

“The Road Home to Craftsmanship”

GOOD | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Carhartt’s four-part series honors the spirit of craftsmanship and celebrates the values of the American worker. These craftspeople and small business owners are resetting the standard of excellence and rebuilding America through their passion, vision and purpose.”

“Zhouzhuang Bringing Back Pinwheels and Windmills All Summer”

Global Travel Industry News | topic(s): arts and crafts, craftsmanship
“Zhouzhuang has launched a series of events in 2015 starting with the windmill season to present a cultural heritage tour for visitors to enjoy traditional arts and crafts. Windmills appeared 2,000 years ago in Asia and Europe with the practical function of converting the wind to power grain mills and water pumps. The windmill also brings a memory of childhood to many. While in traditional Chinese culture, spinning wheels represent rolling in the good fortune and a continuously steady flow of life as an emotional reflection.”

“Quality Accessories Highlight Superior Craftsmanship”

South China Morning Post | topic(s): craftsmanship
“Collectors and connoisseurs who covet quality, timeless and classic designs appreciate subtle details. Sophisticated clients are drawn to quality accessories that showcase couture techniques.”

“Iceland Among Adventure Destinations for Families”

Chicago Tribune | topic(s): adventure, travel, destinations
“In Iceland, for example, there’s the Family Land of Fire & Ice. This is an eight-day package that explores areas in the western part of the island such as the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which you can walk behind. The Geysir geothermal area also is on the itinerary, along with the chance to zip-line across a waterfall.”

“Early Childhood Teachers Share Successful Strategies”

aMissourian | topic(s): early childhood education
“Teachers visited the school board in May to discuss how they used the Professional Learning Communities (PLC) process. As things evolved, visual strategies and visual communications have been the focus for instructional strategy at Parents as Teachers. The center serves a lot of children with communication needs.”

“Early Education Recommendations Focus on Reading”

Wood TV | topic(s): early childhood education
“Teaching children to read at an early age is imperative to lifelong learning, according to a governor-appointed panel on early childhood development — but the group stopped short of mandating third-graders be held back if they fail to meet reading standards for their age group. The group delivered a report on early childhood education in Lansing on Wednesday.”

“Exquisite Kashmir Handicrafts Back to Doing Brisk Business”

DNA (India) | topic(s): arts and crafts, carpet weaving
“For the first time since September deluge, orders worth US $700,000 were booked on the spot in first two days for different handicrafts items, including carpets and shawls, during the Kashmir Expo — sixth edition of international buyer-seller meet here.”

“Özil Enjoys the Multiculturalism at Arsenal”

TurkishFootball.com | topic(s): multiculturalism
“It’s really a great thing, when there are so many different cultures in the one team. The best thing is that we are respectful with each other. We all enjoy the experience together,” he added. Several language other than English are spoken by Arsenal players including Portuguese, Polish, Japanese, French and Czech. Özil is bi-lingual in Turkish and German and also speaks Spanish as well as English. The 26-year-old is no stranger to living in a multicultural environment as he is from a Turkish family but grew up in Germany in an area with a diverse ethnic mix.”

“White, White and Read All Over”

Newsroom at Northern Illinois University | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education, multiculturalism
“U.S. children’s picture books continue to show predominantly white characters, an NIU study shows. The imbalance – still an issue 50 years after Nancy Larrick’s landmark “The All-White World of Children’s Books” was published Sept. 11, 1965, in the Saturday Review – spurs young readers of color to feel that they do not matter or even that to be white is to be better.”

“Young Readers Do Things by the Book”

ECNS | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
“At the China Children Book Expo, you would have been amazed to see the variety of children’s books on sale and the eager young readers picking out their favorites. The expo, which ran in Beijing from May 28 to June 1, featured activities such as storytelling and children’s art workshops. It was the first child-centered event that had been included in the annual Beijing Reading Season, hinting at the growing importance of the children’s book market.”

“Children Read Atlanta Provides Free Books for Pre-Kindergarteners”

Neighborhood Newspapers | topic(s): children’s books, early childhood education
“Marlene Zeiler, a former bookstore owner, shares her passion for reading and lifelong literacy through Children Read Atlanta, which provides free books for children in low-income homes before they reach kindergarten. The program provides new and gently-used prekindergarten books that teach the alphabet, numbers, and other age-appropriate themes to Head Start and other programs that reach families in need.”

“So You Want to Start a Craft Brewery”

Entrepreneur | topic: craft traditions
“In the past few years, craft brewing has come out of the basement and into the limelight to give traditional beer companies a run for their money. Embracing European traditions, craft brewers use malted grains and fresh hops to revive old styles as well as to invent new ones.”

“Pay-for-Success: Opportunities for Public-Private Innovation”

Lehigh Valley Live | topic: early childhood education
“We have introduced legislation to allow state agencies to enter into Pay-for-Success contracts with the private investors and philanthropic organizations that believe they can deliver these services more efficiently. Pay-for-Success could potentially transform early childhood education initiatives in the state and allow us to offer quality Pre-K programs, which have been proven to improve educational outcomes while saving taxpayers’ money, to students throughout the Pennsylvania. In the Lehigh Valley, a mere 14 percent of children have access to high quality Pre-K education, and we know that these numbers are woefully unacceptable. Pay-for-Success can change this.”

“Carpet Weaving: $140m Loans for Entrepreneurs”

The Express Tribune (Pakistan) | topic: carpet weaving
“The provincial government has secured $140 million from the Islamic Development Bank to provide interest-free loans to entrepreneurs in the carpet weaving industry, Minister for Excise and Taxation Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman said on Monday. These loans would be in addition to Rs3 billion in loans that had been issued to 168,000 entrepreneurs through the Punjab Small Industries Corporation during the current fiscal year.”

“Make Every Pre-school a Good Pre-school”

Asia One | topic: early childhood education
“Oxford University professor Edward Melhuish is aware of Singapore’s impressive showing in international education tests and the Ministry of Education’s attempts to make every school here a good school. But after spending two decades tracking large groups of British children from birth to adulthood, the developmental psychologist is convinced that governments are putting their eggs into the wrong basket when they focus their efforts on primary and secondary schools.”

“Zimbabwe: Craft Artists Map the Way Forward”

All Africa | topic: arts and crafts
“A basket trade conference themed “Contemporary Art and Traditional Crafts Contributing to Social and Economic Development” was held in Zimbabwe. Topics discussed included the economic value of crafts, craft-based cultural tourism, impacts of art and crafts development on the environment, sustainable utilisation of the natural resources in Zimbabwe, defining intellectual property and patent, access to genetic resources, and the benefits of sharing genetic resources, among others.”

“The World is Our Classroom”

The Star Online | topic: multiculturalism
“Multiculturalism is a form of education. “It is culture that provides the world with the soul and passion for doing things better. We encourage our students to celebrate culture and diversity. It’s very heartwarming to see students mix and bond with people from other countries. It allows us to learn from each other and become better individuals through tolerance, appreciation and empathy.”

“Reading is Magical, Whether You’re a Child or a Child at Heart”

The Malay Mail Online | topic: children’s book
“International Children’s Day arrives tomorrow and this year the young ones will have plenty to rejoice about. Children’s book publisher Yusof Gajah Picture Book House has lined up a fortnight of activities.”

“Children’s Book Transforms Into a Tree When Planted”

Dogo News | topic: children’s book
“While e-books are on the rise, most people, especially young kids still prefer printed versions that they can pore over for hours on end. Though that is an excellent habit, it also means cutting down precious trees. But what if the book could revert to its roots and transform back into a tree? Now thanks to a Brazilian children’s book publisher, that is possible, at least for one book.”

“A Sucker for Life”

The Hindu | topic: craft traditions
“When I shoot a craft process, it is important to show the hands that make it. Wherever I go, I try to bond with people, strike conversations with random people. That’s how you get your stories, that’s how you get pictures.”

“Promise Campaign Funds Arts, Sciences and Early Learning in Bellingham Schools”

Bellingham Herald | topic: early childhood education
“Expanding early childhood education was a focus. For the second year the foundation supported Promise K, which gives mid-year entrance to kindergarten to children who haven’t been able to attend private preschool or Head Start, giving them a jump start on kindergarten for the following year. We also helped fund a second grads program to serve pregnant and parenting teens.”

Read more here: http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2015/05/31/4318534/promise-campaign-funds-arts-sciences.html#storylink=cpy”

“Woman Says Daughter, 4, Too Smart to Wait to Start Kindergarten”

Neosho Daily News | topic: early childhood education
“Superintendent Dan Decker said the policy requires a child be 5 years of age by Aug. 1 to attend kindergarten, a policy that mirrors Missouri law (Section 160.053, RSMo). Nichelle Mitchell said she was told her daughter is too smart to attend Field Early Education Center, and after completing Head Start last year, if she can’t attend kindergarten she cannot go to school next year.”

“1st China Children’s Book Fair Opens in Beijing”

Women of China | topic: children’s literature
“The five-day event, which is expected to attract around 100,000 children and parents from all over the country, aims to encourage children to discover the joy of reading ahead of International Children’s Day (June 1). The book fair consists of six major, theme-based reading pavilions, covering popular science, cartoons, traditional culture, picture books, children’s literature and international culture, with each featuring a variety of activities.”

“Texas Governor Signs Emergency Pre-K Bill into Law”

Breitbart | topic: early childhood education
“Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law House Bill 4, the signature legislation of his emergency early childhood education initiative. The bill establishes a grant program that sets aside $130 million over two years for public school districts to improve the quality and accountability of the state’s pre-Kindergarten or pre-K programs. Abbott declared early education issues to be an emergency item during his State of the State Address in February.”

“The World of Arabic Books Springs to Life for Children”

The National | topic: children’s books
“From the UAE to Morocco, the Arab world has been witnessing a different kind of Arab Spring – that of the publishing kind. The region has the smallest reading audience in the world, according to a recent UN Arab Human Development Report, but it has witnessed the establishment of many specialised children’s publishing houses. At the forefront of this new literary spring are women. These female “literary activists” are hoping to encourage reading from a young age and improve literacy in the Arab world. However, they face a tough task — such as a lack of talented writers, copyright issues, poor distribution links, and the indifference of the cultural ministries.”

“Fewer Kids at Auckland Kindergartens”

Auckland Now | topic: early childhood education
“Kindergarten has played a key part in helping the Ministry of Education reach its target of 98 per cent involvement in early childhood care for children aged more than three years by 2016. Kindergarten teaches children while they were having fun and makes the transition to school easier.”

“Why We Need to Invest in Early Childhood in Montenegro”

Unicef | topic: early childhood education
“The government of Montenegro has committed to increasing the enrolment of children in pre-school from 52% to 95% by 2020 with the technical support of UNICEF, through the establishment of a free-of-charge three-hour daily programme for all children, focusing on the poorest first.”

“Programs Aim to Boost Preschool Educations for Low Income Children”

LA Times | topic: early childhood education
“California has begun to restore its childcare and preschool programs after $1 billion in cuts following the 2008 recession. Over the last three years, Gov. Jerry Brown and the Legislature have reinvested more than $400 million into the programs, including 11,500 seats in the California State Preschool Program serving 3- and 4-year-olds.”

“The Creative Economy: Fine Craft and Craft Education Contribute to Economic Health”

Enterprise | topic: arts and crafts
“Creativity and innovation have always been the driving forces behind economic growth. And it is a fact that arts and crafts and culture-related businesses and organizations, known as creative industries, provide direct economic benefits to states and communities. They create jobs, attract investments, generate tax revenues and stimulate local economies through tourism and consumer purchases. In addition, creative organizations and businesses bring enjoyment and cultural diversity to our cities and towns and help foster community pride. This also helps make our communities more desirable places to live, work and visit.”

“Tips for Getting Kids to Read this Summer”

The Tennessean | topic: children’s books
“Multi-national companies with operations in Africa are uniquely positioned to be a force for good in combating polarisation and stereotypes and to improve understanding and cooperation among people from different cultures.”

“Support Diversity – Be it Race, Ethnicity, Nationality or Faith”

Capital FM | topic: multiculturalism
“Multi-national companies with operations in Africa are uniquely positioned to be a force for good in combating polarisation and stereotypes and to improve understanding and cooperation among people from different cultures.”

“Etsy May Face Handmade Rival From Amazon”

CNet | topic: arts and crafts
“Craft makers, would you decamp from Etsy for someplace called Handmade at Amazon? The e-commerce giant is looking to gauge your interest.”

“Where Are All the Characters in Children’s Books?”

The Guardian | topic: children’s book
“When Jim McLaughlin saw a 10-ton skip being filled with books destined for an incinerator he had to take action. The thought of the books being destroyed when so many families out there could not afford such luxuries made him sick. But little did Jim know that saving the books would be the catalyst for a new career move.”

“Where Are All the Characters in Children’s Books?”

The Guardian | topic: children’s book
“When Jim McLaughlin saw a 10-ton skip being filled with books destined for an incinerator he had to take action. The thought of the books being destroyed when so many families out there could not afford such luxuries made him sick. But little did Jim know that saving the books would be the catalyst for a new career move.”

“Groups Increase Pre-K Access with Innovative Programs”

Charlottesville Tomorrow | topic: early childhood education
“One organization that is serving children in a non-school-based location is ReadyKids — formerly called Children, Youth & Family Services. During a ParentingMobile visit — which lasts two hours — children have the opportunity to participate in developmentally and educationally appropriate activities alongside their parent or guardian, who also learns educational techniques from the ReadyKids teachers. While two hours is substantially less classroom time than a full-day preschool program, Bryant said the teaching and learning extends beyond the visit.”

“Hillary Clinton Comments on Early Childhood Education”

lohud | topic: early childhood education
“Education is absolutely key. And you have to start early. The years birth to 5 are critical.”

“For Early Literacy Success — Invest, Not Invent”

Statesman Journal | topic: early childhood education
“The 2014 Oregon Assessment of Knowledge and Skills shows that 34 percent of Oregon’s third-grade students are not meeting state reading standards, which, for low-income children, quadruples their risk of school dropout. Further, there is a concerning and growing achievement gap among students at greater risk for falling behind.”

“Celebrating Children’s Right to Play, Education”

Manila Standard Today | topic: children’s literature
“Laro is an advocacy campaign bringing children back to the outdoors through play. Using their artistic talents, it showcases Filipino games interpreted through different art and musical forms to inspire the enrichment of children through play.”

“Rwanda Children’s Book Initiative Making Significant Success”

Spy Ghana | topic: children’s books
“The “Rwanda Children’s Book Initiative” (RCBI) started two years ago as a pilot project aimed at supporting publishers to produce high quality, age appropriate, Kinyarwanda children’s books for schools. It also aimed at improving teachers’ skills, knowledge, and confidence to use the books in support of literacy acquisition. During the project, publishers, illustrators, and editors were trained on how to work together to publish high quality children’s books.”

“Niche Brands Raise the Bar on Luxury with Their Quality and Craftsmanship”

South China Morning Post | topic: craftsmanship
“As luxury brands evolve into global powerhouses and lifestyle empires, consumers have started to question the true meaning of luxury. With this in mind the industry has welcomed a host of niche brands intent on recapturing the fading ideals of what luxury should represent: artisanal craftsmanship, high quality materials and the creation of specialised products.”

“Formal Instruction in Early Childhood is Harmful”

Education Week | topic: early childhood education
“The key is to allow children the opportunity to engage in what may seem to outsiders as immature behavior. That’s because it is actually the proper basis for developing sound learning habits. I’m not saying that converting classrooms into playgrounds is the answer. But under the eyes of a qualified teacher, unstructured acitivity can be highly educational. Toddlers learn how to learn.”

“Survey: Kids Rule in Choice of Vacation Location”

Travel Pulse | topic: travel, destinations
“The survey of 2,800 kids and parents across the U.S. and Europe also revealed that more than one-third (34 percent) of millennial parents let their children make the final decision on the family’s vacation destination.”

“Report Shows Fewer Than Half of Kindergartners Prepared to Learn”

WBAL | topic: early childhood education
“A new report released Tuesday shows that fewer than half of Maryland’s 5-year-olds are fully prepared for kindergarten. Most educators agree that starting students in pre-kindergarten and Head Start programs tend to give them an advantage in the classroom.”

“The Importance of Helping Your Baby Learn”

Daily American | topic: early childhood education
“New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristoff suggested in his column that education reformers should shift their efforts toward early childhood education — the time when children are too young to head to class but old enough to develop social, language and educational skills.”

“Promotion of Early Childhood Education Puts Hong Kong on the Right Track”

South China Morning Post| topic: early childhood education
“Recently, we asked 522 parents of children aged up to six what they regarded as the most important aspects of quality in preschool education. Topping the list was the ability of teachers to form a trusting and loving relationship with students, followed by an all-round education and the teachers’ ability to demonstrate the core values of professionalism and use developmentally appropriate teaching methods and strategies.”

“Azerbaijan Positions Itself as Promoter of Multiculturalism”

EurActiv | topic: multiculturalism
“Baku is hosting a world forum on intercultural dialogue, conveying the message that if multiculturalism was failing in some European countries, it is alive and kicking in Azerbaijan and could be an example to the world.”

“3DiTALY’s 3D Printed Eggform Furniture Blends Craftmanship with Modern Technologies”

3Ders | topic: craftsmanship
“3DiTALY co-founder Antonio Alliva showed off the new concept during the Milan Design Week in April. The company’s first foray into furniture — the Eggform line of products — represents all of the core values that the company wants to highlight with their new furniture design direction: make all designs fully customizable, create objects that are larger than most 3D printers allow for and to equip 3D printed plastic items with an inner core.”

“College of Arts and Crafts Imparts Artistic Skills in State”

The Times of India | topic: arts and crafts
“The College of Arts and Crafts, a constituent unit of Patna University, is the only one of its kind in Bihar attracting boys and girls from all over the country for advanced training in visual arts. The objective of the teaching programme and training in the college is to achieve overall refinement of the students’ perception not confined to the skills of the profession alone but also to create the right kind of intellect, as well as emotional cultivation to arrive at a level of composite creativity and thought. The college offers a four-year Bachelor of Fine Arts course.”

“Arts and Crafts: Festival Celebrating Cultural Diversity Kicks Off”

The Express Tribune | topic: arts and crafts, multiculturalism, destinations
“Federal education secretary Imtiaz Tajwar, who was the chief guest at the inauguration, said cultural diversity is our shared heritage and today is under attack by violent extremists because it is the symbol of freedom thought and the infinite creativity of the human being.”

“Smart Independent Bookstores and Children’s Publishing Slow Down Book Sales’ Decline”

Italy 24 | topic: children’s books
“It is children’s and teenagers’ books that drive the book market. At the beginning of 2015, they joined forces with a prestigious ally: independent bookstores. The latter did not only contribute by 75% to the growth of children’s publishing, but with its upbeat performance helped offset a drop in fiction book sales. Among the indicators that help understand the market is the relevance of the children’s books industry, which posted a significant increase (+6.4%). Today, books for kids and teens make up 22% of all books sold.”

“Why Are Children Reading Books? Don’t They Know It’s Digital First?”

Huffington Post | topic: children’s literature
“What we have to do — what we need to do — is understand that e-books are not better, nor do printed books make you old fashioned. Ebooks are not simply a better format replacing an inferior one; they offer a wholly different experience.”

“World Bank Announces $5bn Drive to Improve Quality of Global Education”

The Guardian | topic: early childhood education
“On eve of World Education Forum, results-based initiative shifts focus from school enrolment to quality of learning, but aid agencies urge caution.”

“Angel Taveras: I Was One of Millions Head Start Helped”

Providence Journal | topic: early childhood education
“Head Start helped me get comfortable with school, so when I entered kindergarten I was confident and ready to learn. This early love of learning served as a driving force throughout my academic career and continues to inspire both my career and my commitment to my community today.”

“the UN’s New Education Goal is Ambitious and Sudacious — It Has to Be”

The Guardian | topic: early childhood education
“We should all be restless to do more for the children of the world. That’s why in Korea this week, I’ll be urging the international community to take bold steps to ensure every child receives a quality education.”

“Some Old Craft, Some New Cuttings”

The Hundu | topic: arts and crafts
“I have been travelling to Kutch because of its fascinating history of arts and crafts. People from different parts of the globe come to this dry arid region but blessed with such talented weavers, craftsmen and heritage of textiles. These people are so colourful, spirited. In most families there are National Award winners or artisans who need to be promoted. So fashion for me is a tool to help weavers to showcase their outstanding work.”

“Indian American Kids Learn Indian Culture from ‘Bharat Babies’ Storybooks”

India West | topic: children’s books
“The idea for Bharat Babies first came about in 2013, when Joshi — who holds degrees from Northeastern University, Harvard and Simmons College — was having a difficult time finding developmental books to put in her newborn daughter’s library that featured her own Indian heritage. To fix this gap in children’s literature, the Bharat Babies team does social research and comes up with story ideas and manuscripts that are both interesting and culturally appropriate for children. The illustrators work to make beautiful pictures that catch children’s eyes as well as maintain accuracy.”

“Promoting Their Handiwork: Heritage Fair Brings Traditional Craftsmanship to the Fore”

The Express Tribune (Pakistan) | topic: craftsmanship, destinations
“Reimagining Karachi and I Am Karachi have taken steps to provide a platform not only showcasing the craftsmanship that has been passed on through the ages, but also giving artisans opportunities that they would not otherwise find in their own communities.”

“Report: Growth in state-run preschool programs moving at snail’s pace”

The Washington Post | topic: early childhood education
“The National Institute for Early Education Research, or NIEER, cites 10 benchmarks as markers of a quality program, including a teacher with a bachelor’s degree and specialized training in early education. The report says only 15 states could be verified as providing enough per-child funding to meet all 10. As only 13 percent of the children enrolled in state-funded pre-K attend those programs, the vast majority of children served in state-funded pre-K are in programs where funding per child may be inadequate to provide a quality education.”

“AUDIO: Meet Frances Campbell, A Pioneering Researcher In Early Childhood Education”

WUNC | topic: early childhood education
“Today, many scientists consider the Abecedarian Project one of the most significant advances in what we know about early intervention for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Not only does it improve intelligence, but it leads to better health and socioeconomic outcomes more than 40 years later.”

“Every Child Deserves to Have Their Life Represented in Books”

The Guardian | topic: children’s literature
“Author Cerrie Burnell failed in her search for disabled characters in books to identify with when she was growing up – and that’s why her own children’s books embrace diversity in all its glory.”

“What is Curriculum in Early Childhood Education?”

Study.com | topic: early childhood education
“Using video art designed by Vernon Ah Kee (and co-choreographed by Koen Augustijnen of Belgium’s Les Ballets C de la B), the work is a gripping hour-long exploration of the aboriginal people of northwest Australia and the region’s unique multiculturalism.”

“Gudirr Gudirr is a One-woman Dance Show of Evolving Aboriginal Repression”

The Globe and Mail | topic: multiculturalism, destinations
“Using video art designed by Vernon Ah Kee (and co-choreographed by Koen Augustijnen of Belgium’s Les Ballets C de la B), the work is a gripping hour-long exploration of the aboriginal people of northwest Australia and the region’s unique multiculturalism.”

“Golden Age for UK Children’s Books”

The Guardian | topic: early childhood education
“Children’s literature has become the most successful outpost of the British publishing industry, bucking the trend of declining sales and falling print runs. This is a golden age of children’s literature. There’s never been such a steady flow of extraordinary fiction for younger readers. Children are far more prepared to read challenging material.”

“Early Childhood Education Levels Playground Playing Fields”

Santa Monica Daily Press | topic: early childhood education
“Experiences in early childhood, from birth on, have been shown to impact development across the life span. To enhance quality of life, maximize success for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and protect our youth’s future, we must invest in quality education for children ages 0-5.”

“VIDEO: Multiculturalism in Israel — Literary Perspectives”

TLV1 | topic: multiculturalism
“Dr. Adia Mendelson-Maoz of the department of Literature, Language and the Arts at Israel’s Open University joins host Gilad Halpern to talk about her exploration of literary works written by four Israeli groups – Arabs, Mizrahis (Jews of Middle Eastern origin), Russians, and Ethiopians – focusing on the tension between collective and particular identities.”

“Early Childhood Vital in Zambia”

Zambia Daily Mail | topic: early childhood education
“Early childhood education plays a very vital role as the main foundation on which a learner will build his or her academic life. This is why the government of Zambia has introduced early childhood education in most primary schools.”

“Russian Fashion Pack Queen Ulyana Sergeenko Pairs Craftsmanship with Style”

South China Morning Post | topic: craftsmanship, destinations
“Her foray into the world of haute couture reflects a desire to promote and preserve her country’s traditional artisans.”

“I Am and Always Will Be the Optimist”

The Stringer Independent News | topic: multiculturalism
“The real value of multiculturalism is not just in being able to get a curry or lasagna, but also in the fact that relationships with people from different cultures offer important insights into our own. We expect newly arrived migrants to share our values but we also learn from theirs. Politicians often talk about the importance of family values and respect. Nowhere is the role of family and respect for the wisdom of elders more evident than in the many new cultures that reach our shores, or the ancient one that predates them.”

“Children’s Book Sales Soar Back to Magical Days of Harry Potter”

Financial Times | topic: children’s books
“British publishers’ sales of children’s and young adult books rose 11 per cent to £349m in 2014, the best performance since 2007, when Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was released.”

“Ancient Chinese Craftsmanship: Making Xuan Paper”

CCTV | topic: craftsmanship
“The traditional skill of making the paper by hand has been passed down through the generations. The process takes as many as 100 steps, including washing, fermenting, bleaching, pulping, drying and cutting, and all of these require a level of delicacy.”

“Children’s Books that Mock Native Names Pave the Way for Adam Sandler’s Satire”

Navajo-Hopi Observer | topic: children’s books, multiculturalism, destinations
“Native actors walked off the set of Adam Sandler’s new movie, “The Ridiculous Six,” because of the ways the script denigrates Native women and mocks Native culture via the names created for Native characters.”

“Early Childhood Education Doesn’t End with Pre-K”

Ed Central | topic: early childhood education
“Today there is a false assumption that by age 5, children leave early childhood behind. That leads educators to make misguided attempts to make kindergarten and early grade classrooms resemble those for older students. Research on children’s development across the ages of 5 through 8 show that the days of guided play, exploration, read-alouds, and socialization activities should not cease. Kids need to be able to learn in small groups and through hands-on participation.”

“It’s All About Education: Re-Imagining Our Educational System”

Go Local Prov | topic: early childhood education
“Young children learn best in environments that are bright, engaging, and offer multiple opportunities for social interaction and physical exploration. Play is an important vehicle for developing self-regulation and promoting language, cognition, and social competence. Hands-on experiences and an integrated curriculum provide concrete connections among subjects.”

“Handmade in Pittsburgh”

Pop City Media | topic: craftsmanship
“People are looking for higher end, local, unique pieces rather than more mass-produced. TechShop is helping to facilitate that, empowering people to be creative.”

“Rolls-Royce Displaying Craftsmanship at London Craft Week”

GT Spirit | topic: craftsmanship
“As part of the display, the British luxury automaker will showcase how its famous Starlight Headliner is created with 1340 individual fibre optic lamps which are hand-woven into the roof lining. The Starlight Headliner is completely customisable and attendees at the London Craft Week will be provided a glimpse of the limitless scope of personalisation offered for the headliner.”

“Glimpse into the Tradition of Arts and Crafts of Sri Lanka”

News LK | topic: craftsmanship, arts and crafts
“Ambalangoda is a small town in Southern part of Sri Lanka which is famous for handmade masks and masks dancing. Mask making is a tradition in Sri Lanka. The finished masks are used in festivals to decorate the houses and for dance performances.”

“First Book, Corporate Partners Make 60,000 Books Available to Children in Need”

Publishers Weekly | topic: early childhood education, multiculturalism
“The Washington, D.C. literary nonprofit is partnering with the Target Corporation, KPMG, and JetBlue to make 60,000 trade paperbacks — of six different titles, containing diverse characters and multicultural themes — available to educators and programs that deal with economically disadvantaged children.”

“Obama on Letterman”

Gov Exec | topic: early childhood education
“If we provide early childhood education, it pays huge dividends all the way through. So, we’ve got to make sure we focus on the earliest parts of school.”

“3 Steps to Make Early Education More Accessible”

Education Week | topic: early childhood education
“We don’t need more early-childhood policy documents without teeth. We don’t need more debates about the respective roles of the public and private sectors. We don’t need more economics, either. The real barrier is not the lack of policy or the role of the private sector or the lack of economic analysis. The real barrier is finance. First, we have to increase public spending on young children. Second, we have to recognize that most programs for very young children are delivered by the private sector. Third, we have to get early-childhood financing away from the early-childhood experts. No one of these steps is the magic right step. All three are needed in different combinations in different economies and societies. But all three need to be tried—even if some mistakes are made in the process.”

“First Book’s Stories for All Project™ Arms Educators with Diverse, Inclusive Children’s Books to Fuel Learning, Promote Educational Equity”

PR Newswire | topic: children’s books
“Educational outcomes improve when children have access to books in which they see their lives reflected. They become more engaged and enthusiastic readers, a critical step to succeeding in school and in life. Therein lies the goal of the Stories for All Project™, an ongoing market-driven solution developed by the nonprofit social enterprise First Book to increase diverse voices and promote inclusivity in children’s literature.”

“Rihanna’s Met Gala Dress Made a Bold Statement — and Every Other Star Should Take Notes”

Identities.Mic | topic: multiculturalism
“It’s Chinese couture and it’s made by a Chinese woman named Guo Pei. It took her two years to make. Based in Beijing, Pei has been designing for over a quarter-century, dressing Chinese stars like Li Bingbing and Zhang Ziyi, according to Vanity Fair online. In other words, Rihanna honored China by actually wearing a dress by a Chinese designer based in Beijing.”

“Botswana: Arts, Craft Projects Viable”

All Africa | topic: arts and crafts
“Residents of Shakawe and Xakao have been urged to take advantage of poverty eradication initiatives and venture into arts and craft projects.”

“Children Stand up Against Abuse with Arts and Crafts”

Yahoo News – Maktoob | topic: arts and crafts
“In our painting workshop today, we are aiming to instil a feeling of courage and say no to violence. The children paint according to that theme. We also teach them how to stand up for themselves and others and call for necessary assistance.By crafting a face that looks happy, the children themselves feel happy. We’ve also put some jazz music on in the background so it can further promote a relaxing atmosphere. The children love it. If we approach them offering help, they tell us they want to design the face themselves. It’s cute.”

“Demonstration at Weymouth Restaurant Showcases Mexican Craftsmanship”

The Patriot Ledger | topic: craftsmanship
“They don’t waste much of the wood, and they incorporate as much art as they can. The things they make are truly incredible. The brothers used basswood, the softest wood readily available in this part of the country. They carved a variety of festival and traditional masks, including masks for Día de la Candelaria, a holiday celebrated in the artists’ home of Tocuaro, a village in the Mexican state of Michoacán.”

“Shadows at the Library: Multicultural Puppet Show Draws in Youngsters”

Corvallis Gazette-Times | topic: multiculturalism
“Dana Campbell, a youth services librarian, describes the day as a celebration of children, multiculturalism and books. And she said the event’s multicultural elements account for its strong turnout.”

“72 Hours in Dhaka”

The Huffington Post | topic: destinations
“What do I know about Dhaka? Nothing. A first time visit to Dhaka provides the rare travel clean slate. No expectations. Very few concrete plans on what to see and where to go. I saw ZERO tourists over my three day trip. The first time I saw other travelers was on the return flight to Singapore. I’d prefer others to have the same Dhaka “clean slate” experience as me, so rather than share my thoughts on the city, I will only provide my three day itinerary.”

“ShopClues to Partner Government Scheme for Ancestral Arts & Craft”

Economic Times Retail | topic: arts and crafts
“ShopClues will help beneficiaries of the ministry, mainly artisans, to understand existing demand in the ecommerce market. The move will help open up marketing opportunities for these artisan.”

“Acadian and Francophone Early Childhood Sector Flourishing in Nova Scotia”

Digital Journal | topic: early childhood education, destination
“The CPRPS’s role in early childhood education is crucial to enhancing the vitality of Nova Scotia’s Acadian and Francophone communities. Our Government is proud to support their activities.”

“Early Childhood Education: Increase in Maori and Pasifika Children”

The New Zealand Herald | topic: early childhood education, destinations
“Hekia Parata today released statistics saying the Maori participation rate was at 93.8 per cent, up 3.3 percentage points since 2012, and the Pasifika rate at 91, up 4.8 percentage points in the same time frame. The national rate is now 96.1 percent. The government has a target of 98 percent participation by 2016.”

“Connect with India’s Crafts”

Mid-Day | topic: craftsmanship
“The subject of craft is closely tied to the idea of national tradition and culture, and hence, it becomes a delicate issue. Craft also gets located in the pre-modern context as against the Contemporary and Modern in art, which is another problem. As a result, we are unable to look at the question of craft, either as a sociological issue or a matter of human labour, history of aesthetics, or transforming and changing practices or ideas, or the confluences and exchanges in artisanal practices.”

“Santa Clara Valley Carvers Share Their Passion for a Timeless Craft”

Irish Times | topic: craftsmanship
“In a region known throughout the world for forward-looking technology, the Santa Clara Valley Carvers are working to share and preserve a timeless craft. The organization is interested in preserving the art of woodcarving, and in encouraging others to try it. The club is made up mostly of retirees who have devoted many years to the therapeutic art.”

“Ceadogán Rugs: Traditional Craftsmanship Meets Contemporary Design”

Irish Times | topic: craftsmanship
“Husband and wife Denis Kenny and Fiona Gilboy have run Ceadogán Rugs for 25 years from their rural Co. Wexford base. The company makes unique rugs and wall hangings by combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.”

“Vacheron Constantin Unveils Bronze Sculpture Marrying Swiss and Chinese Craftsmanship”

Blouin Art Info | topic: craftsmanship
“Throughout mankind’s history, the hand itself has been the most beautiful tool of ours, especially for the craftsmen. Its power manifests through gestures that matures in a long process of learning from master to apprentice. This sculpture aims to capture the invisible trace of inheritance.”

“Art Meets Design: BoConcept Links Nigerian, Scandinavian Crafts”

NGR Guardian News | topic: craftsmanship
“I’m Danish, but a Nigerian by marriage. I grew up with Danish design, which is known all over the world. Our household was obviously full of Danish designs. That’s one of the things I was missing when I was travelling around. So, returning to Nigeria I felt, why not introduce quality designs with functionality because that’s really what I felt was missing here.”

“First Showroom of Moroccan Handicrafts to Open in Washington DC Area”

Morocco World News | topic: craftsmanship
“The whole idea is to promote the Moroccan handcraft, and showcase the Moroccan culture in USA. Having a permanent showroom so near to Washington, DC and Dulles International Airport gives us a great opportunity to sell the Moroccan story to audiences across North America.”

“Crafting Connections: North-South Bonds Forged Through Yarn, Beads and Thread”

CTV News | topic: craftsmanship
“There’s cultural sharing involved, where elders are receiving gifts and knowing that they’re cared about by southern members,” she said. “They’re also sharing their knowledge of how to make traditional crafts with younger members of their community. The group also gives members a peek at what life is like in Canada’s north, a place that remains unfamiliar to many Canadians living in urban centres.”

“Wood Inlaying, a Traditional Craftsmanship of Damascenes”

Syria Online | topic: craftsmanship
“The Syrian craftsman is distinguished with this craft which has been attached historically to Damascus, where in the past he made the most beautiful antiques inlaying in seashells, gold, silver and tin and is still producing splendor
artistic icons to keep it.”

“Local ‘Stories of Creativity, Craftsmanship, Industry’ Featured in Salem County Historical Society Exhibit”

NJ.com | topic: craftsmanship
“The Salem County Historical Society opens a new exhibit, “How to Make It in Salem County: Stories of Creativity, Craftsmanship and Industry,” on Saturday, May 2. The exhibit features select stories of the creation of new things in Salem County over our more than 300 years of history. Starting with the very first peoples in the area, the Lenni Lenape, the exhibit looks at art, crafts and industry of the region. ”

“Libraries Are Paving The Way For Cultural Unity”

The Huffington Post | topic: children’s literature, multiculturalism
“Yet, the lack of diverse children’s books published annually does not reflect the rich cultural tapestry that surrounds us. According to the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Cooperative Children’s Book Center (CCBC), only 393 of the more than 3,500 titles published in the U.S. in 2014 represented Nonwhites.”

“United Way Survey on Education: What Are the Issues?”

WBKO | topic: early childhood education
“90% of what they’re ever gonna learn they take in before they’re 5 years old. And that birth to 3 period is even more critical than that. They’re learning, they’re hearing sounds. They’re having to take all of that in, so that they can then talk, communicate, move around. I think that helping parents understand the impact they have the first 3 or 4 years of their child’s life, that not only prepares them to be ready to start school, but possibly for their entire life.”

“Grassroots Campaign to Make Kids, Education Top Priority”

LA Times | topic: early childhood education
“To ensure America remains the world’s economic leader, we must invest in the education, health and overall well-being kids need to succeed. Common Sense Kids Action is working to ensure that no decision is made in this country without thinking about children and their education first.”

“AARP Survey Finds 47% of People 45-Plus Plan to Take a Multi-Generational Family Trip Within a Year”

AARP | topic: travel
“Traveling with parents, kids and grandparents can be transformative in many ways. The following are the top benefits of multi-generational travel as identified in the new AARP Travel research: 1. bringing the entire family together (83 percent), helping build special memories (69 percent), grandparents are able to spend time with grandkids (50 percent), quality one-on-one time with family/spouse (36 percent), adult relatives spending time with younger generations (29 percent).”

“Finish This Book”

The Guardian | topic: children’s literature
“I really like this book. It’s a combined mystery and outside activity book. You try to solve the mystery and at the end you get to make the book your own.”

“Why is Children’s Poetry So Invisible?”

The Guardian | topic: children’s literature
“Booksellers say that there aren’t many poetry books being published; book consultants and journalists tell me that they aren’t told about new children’s poetry books when they are published. It seems that the chain between children’s poetry and its audience has many broken links. Some of the broken links are caused by fear. We know that children love poetry. They respond enthusiastically when it’s read to them, they love the wordplay, rhythms and rhymes, and they write their own fantastic poems in workshops. A poet who visits schools can expect their highest sales from children who buy their own signed and dedicated copies. So in schools, the chain isn’t broken between poetry and its audience.”

“Tagore’s Collective Arts and Secular Festivals: From Bengal To Bangladesh”

The Huffington Post | topic: craftsmanship
“Collective art is not an individual leisure time occupation, added to life; it is an integral part of life itself, corresponding to a basic human need. It means the same as ritual; it means to respond to the world with our senses in a meaningful, skilled, productive, active, shared way. The need for the creation of collective art and ritual on a non-religious basis is at least as important as literacy and higher education.”

“London Craft Week Spotlights The City’s Best Artisans”

Londonist | topic: craftsmanship
“This month, the capital celebrates its long-held artisan traditions with the first-ever London Craft Week, taking place over the weekend of 6-10 May. The four day long programme is packed with events, workshops and demonstrations in both high-end department stores and small manufacturing labs.”

“Historical Futures: Four Artists Who Share a Common Fascination with Craftsmanship”

Artlyst | topic: craftsmanship
“Historical Futures brings together four artists who have a common fascination with the methodologies of craftsmanship. By intensive making processes, each artist in the exhibition explores the ways in which traditional media can be relevant to the contemporary world.”

“HTC One M9 Designer Talks Craftsmanship, Modular Phones and Evolving an Icon”

Trusted Reviews | topic: craftsmanship
“Craftsmanship is really important to us. When we talk about our products, we talk about our inspiration. We think of ourselves as makers – like shoemakers, watchmakers, instrument makers – and get inspired by attention to detail. That’s the level of perfection that we try to apply.”

“Thunder Hawk Shares Communion with Nature in Art”

Bismarck Tribune | topic: arts and crafts
“This art exhibit gives the public a chance to see and understand the cultural and personal beauty of not only my work, but the beauty of Native American peoples’ imagination and cultural importance.”

“Nigeria: Shell Trains 60 Niger Delta Youths in Arts and Crafts”

All Africa | topic: arts and crafts
“Through the training tagged ‘Arts of the Delta,’ our commitment to achieving sustainable development through youth empowerment in the Niger Delta is being realised.”

“Carbon Wood Bike Fuses Handcraft, Design and Technology”

Design Boom | topic: craftsmanship
“The frame is entirely handcrafted — including the saddle and handlebar — with layers of bent ash, mahogany and carbon fiber — weighing in at just over nine kilos. Once completed with carbon fiber components, the bike is as sturdy as any aluminum or steel frame. The carbon wood bike was designed and built in Italy.”

“9 Basic Concepts Americans Fail to Grasp”

Salon | topic: multiculturalism
“A lack of worldliness is clouding our vision on everything from sex to economics, and the proof is in our policies.”

“Overcome Agile Hangovers with a ‘Software Craftsman’ Approach

ZDNet | topic: craftsmanship
“Software craftsmanship is more than simply having pride in one’s work. It’s a two-way street. A craftsman approach also helps increase the respect of the business for their IT professionals, who bring high-level expertise and a sense of purpose that will advance the business. In software, developing a deep obsession with the customer’s needs is part of being a craftsman approach. After all, obsession with customer satisfaction is what helps business succeed at the highest level.”

“Family Album: A Look at Child-Friendly Destinations

Express | topic: travel
“From picture-postcard Austria to sun-kissed Lanzarote, our writers discover the ideal child-friendly destinations.”

“Smithsonian’s Crafts & Decorative Arts Museum to Reopen

Miami Herald | topic: arts and crafts
“The Renwick Gallery, home to the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s craft and decorative arts program, will reopen in November after a two-year renovation program.”

“Britain’s Craft Boom Produces New Model Artisan Army”

The Guardian | topic: arts and crafts
“If you look at professional makers, 50% are in their second career. Academic talent is placed above creative production. I think it is for that reason that we turn to making only in later life. These second-career makers might have pursued a profession and thought: I don’t want to be working on a computer for the next 20 years. The opportunities to learn, make and sell, and the affordability of the technology, have allowed people to shift career.”

“How to Get Kids into Arts and Crafts”

Manila Times | topic: early childhood education
“You will never know if your child can be the country’s next Luna or Amorsolo if you don’t get them off their gadgets and encourage them to explore their creativity. Careful selection of a child’s toy will not only make learning fun for them, but also lead them to discover their special abilities and interests as they play.”

“Beyond Education Wars”

The New York Times | topic: early childhood education
“There is mounting evidence that early childhood is a crucial period when the brain is most malleable, when interventions are most cost-effective for at-risk kids.”

“Children’s Books Take Center Stage”

Publishers Weekly | topic: children’s books
“In 2014, physical kids’ books had their best year ever, with 226 million units sold—compared to 139 million a decade ago, according to McLean. That gain is good news for indies since they were just two percentage points behind Barnes & Noble when it came to sales of physical children’s books in 2014, accounting for 12% of unit sales compared to B&N’s 14%. By contrast, Books-A-Million represented only 2% of unit sales of children’s books, while Amazon was the single biggest retailer, with a 19% share. Children’s book buyers do more than half of their book buying in person, with 56% of purchases taking place in stores in last year’s fourth quarter. Online purchases accounted for 27% of unit purchases in the same period.”

“Investment of $1.1 Billion in Children’s Education and Early Development”

New Nouveau (Brunswick Canada) | topic: early childhood education
“Education and early childhood development is a top priority for our government because we recognize children and youth must receive the best education possible. This budget will ensure New Brunswick children continue to receive high-quality educational and early childhood services, and it will promote the long-term sustainability of the public school system.”

“8 Tips for Finding the Right Pre-K for Your Child”

DNA Info | topic: early childhood education
“With so many new options to choose from, we asked early childhood education experts for advice on picking the program that’s best for your child.”

“Children’s Institute Celebrates Diversity, Growing Children’s Market”

American Booksellers’ Association | topic: children’s books
“I’ve come to really appreciate how important it is to put a book into the hands of a kid. It connects the reader to a narrative in a way digital devices just can’t.”

“23 Children’s Books You Need to Read Again as an Adult”

Business Insider | topic: children’s books
“It just so happens that there are a lot of important life lessons, conspiracy theories, and hidden messages in the books we loved as children — we just probably didn’t pick up on them back then.”

“The Take: Cultural Appropriation — an Inevitable Result of Multiculturalism”

The Daily: UW | topic: multiculturalism
“In a classroom, the differences between cultures are exposed with a simple compare and contrast exercise. But in the real world, where multiculturalism has blurred the lines, people are allowed to cross cultural boundaries, and sometimes those people traverse borders in the worst way.”

“Kids Should be Nurtured with Science, Culture”

The Gulf Today | topic: children’s literature
“In the UAE, children come first, and they are the focus of Sharjah’s care and attention. The UAE provides children with everything they need to ensure that they enjoy a good life in a healthy and safe environment, with access to education and all the means necessary to develop their talents and abilities to the utmost.”

“Crafting Beautiful Music in Palestine”

AlJazeera | topic: arts and crafts, destinations
“Shalalda says he became very interested in the craftsmanship, and tried to make his own violin from a piece of wood. Noticing the young man’s dedication, luthier Paolo Sortigiantoni invited him to his workshop in Florence, where Shalalda made his first two violins. A year later, Shalalda set off for the UK to study to become a luthier. Today, he works in the same workshop that once sparked his interest in repairing violins, and in addition to the repair work, he also makes three or four new violins each year. He tries to visit Europe each year to buy maple wood for his violins and to spend time with different luthiers to improve his craft.”

“Pakistan Fashion Week: Nida Azwer Honours Crafts”

Gulf News: Fashion | topic: arts and crafts, destinations
“We always try to highlight and promote indigenous artisanship and design elements within a modern context. People worldwide appreciate our traditional art and craft and so, it is my responsibility as a designer to promote it in the best way possible. We are appreciated for our use of more classic and vintage design elements infused with traditional crafts such as tukri ka kaam, rilli, kantha, zardozi and miniature embroidery, worked into contemporary fashion, and we are proud of that.”

“Obama’s Claim That Every Dollar Spent on Pre-kindergarten Education Earns $7 Back”

The Washington Post | topic: early childhood education
“Every dollar we put into high-quality early childhood education we get $7 back in reduced teen pregnancy, improved graduation rates, improved performance in school, reduced incarceration rates. The society as a whole does better.”

“How Oshilaja Interrogates Multiculturalism in His Art”

The Guardian | topic: arts and crafts, multiculturalism
“United Kingdom-based artist Damilola Oshilaja recalls how art was directly responsible for the disposition, format, and formations of civilization. To keep the relevance of art alive, he suggests Art should be as much of core subject of study as English, Math or Science.”

“How Travel Bloggers Can Change Afro-pessimistic Stigmas”

Traveller: News 24 | topic: travel, multiculturalism
“Despite making ‘best-of’ destination lists around the world, South Africa is still considered to be a slightly dubious destination for many visitors due to fears over crime, Ebola scares and uncertainty over stringent new visa restrictions – with the current xenophobic attacks doing little to help the situation. I think it’s important for DMOs and tourism boards to engage with bloggers to get the message out there that coming over to South Africa is a great idea and that there’s absolutely nothing that’s scary. Yes, you get crime, like you do all around the world. So, really, there’s no particular reason why should not want to visit South Africa.”

“Children Fiction No Child’s Play”

WLTX 19 | topic: early childhood education
“Unlike adult literature which employs complex expression of ideas, children’s literature deals with simpler expression of ideas. The whole is made up of intricacies that only an adult can understand. Certainly, it is longer in length because of this. You will not find this in children’s literature. Depending on the level, children’s literature may comprise pictures that form a story, a word and a picture, a few words and pictures or a few short sentences that are straightforward.”

“Jennifer Garner: Early Childhood Education is Important”

WLTX 19 | topic: early childhood education
“Just like a computer screen will go to sleep if its not used, your brain does that too. For little kids, when their brains aren’t being used and they are just sitting quietly — that’s not good. You want them running around. You want them messy. They are working through things. They are growing. That’s the point.”

“Etsy Stock Almost Doubled: $3.3 Billion Valuation for Unique Arts and Crafts Marketplace”

Inquistr | topic: arts and crafts
“Etsy stock almost doubled after its first day as a public company on the NASDAQ Thursday, according to BuzzFeed, closing out at $30 per share and a $3.3 billion valuation. Trading under the ticker of ETSY on the NASDAQ, the arts, crafts, and handmade goods giant opened the day at $31 per share, which was well above its Initial Public Offering (IPO), priced at $16 per share Wednesday.”

“Early Childhood Education Bill Passes Senate, on its Way to the Governor”

Prairie Public News | topic: early childhood education
“The Senate agreed with the House on a bill providing $3 million in grants to low income parents to send their children to pre-K educational programs. The original bill was $6 million. The House focused the money toward children who receive free or reduced cost school meals. And that was acceptable to the Senate sponsors. The bill passed 32 to 14.”

“China Man’s Biscuit Cutters an Online Success”

Central Maine | topic: craftsmanship
“Craft shows are overrun with wooden rolling pins, spoons, spatulas, ladles and other kitchenware, but it’s not often you see a new take on a biscuit cutter. Al Mather’s (biscuit cutter) was inspired by an aluminum donut cutter with a red handle that belonged to his mother.”

“Etsy Shares Surge 88% on US Market Debuts”

BBC | topic: arts and crafts
“The investors we met on the roadshow understand that the key to Etsy’s long-term success is building on and extending what has made Etsy successful to date: an inspired community of creative entrepreneurs, buyers who want to buy unique merchandise that they can’t find anywhere else, and a values-led community-based business that focuses on the long term.”

“Support Early Education Centers”

Santa Monica Daily Press | topic: early childhood education
“An extensive body of research in education, developmental psychology, neuroscience, medicine and economics shows that quality early childhood education programs produce better education, health, economic and social outcomes for children, families, and the nation.”

“Etsy: Can craft and Capitalism Coexist?”

BBC | topic: arts and craft
“More than a century ago, English artist and activist William Morris argued ‘nothing should be made by man’s labour which is not worth making, or which must be made by labour degrading to the makers.’ The 21st century version of that argument is ‘buy good things from real people’ — the motto of online crafts marketplace Etsy.”

“Huawei Launches the P8; A Revolutionary Light Painting Smartphone That Perfectly Blends Technology, Fashion, Humanity, and Art”

Business Wire | topic: craftsmanship
“The Huawei P8 takes beauty to the next level, striking a flawless balance of artistry and creativity. Based on a deep understanding of human-machine design, the Huawei P8 delivers a new level of usability for applications impacting everyday life — at work and at play. With craftsmanship that pushes the bounds of possibility and new revolutionary light painting modes, the Huawei P8 provides consumers with an inspiration for creativity.”

“Students Should Seek Knowledge to Combat Ignorance”

Pakistan Observer | topic: early childhood education
“Punjab Education Minister Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan stressed that children should take the straight path that could be long but would reach the destination for sure.”

“Capitalizing on Children’s Motivation to Discover Key in Early Education”

Grand Forks Herald | topic: early childhood education
“It may look like children are just playing — as they giggle, babble, and analyze items that have caught their eye and sparked their curiosity. In this digital age, it’s easy to forget that the young child’s brain becomes organized through hands-on exploration, creating the capacity to acquire complex skills and knowledge. They’re actually engrossed in the important work of building the foundation on which future learning depends.”

“Law Enforcement: Early Childhood Education Key in Crime Prevention”

My Suburban Life | topic: early childhood education
“Right now, the state’s looking at ways to reduce the prison population. We’ve come to realize this — that if you keep them out of the system in the first place, then it’s the best investment there ever is. It’s difficult for people to see that because you have to invest now for something that you won’t see for 15, 20 years.”

“Smithsonian to Debut Cultural Travel Magazine”

Travel Pulse | topic: travel, destinations
“Each edition of the quarterly publication, known as Smithsonian Journeys, will focus on one destination in particular, featuring a combination of photos and editorial content pertaining to the destination’s history, food and customs, among other aspects.”

“Malaysia on Track to Become Top Tourist Destination”

New Straits Times | topic: travel, destinations
“A century of living together in a closely knit society has contributed to the blending and forging of a unique culture — which is diverse yet harmonious and vibrant, and which we are proud to share.”

“Crafts for Kids (Even for Uncrafty Moms)”

A Cup of Jo | topic: arts and crafts
“I am hopelessly uncrafty. My boys have a box of crayons and will casually doodle sometimes, but we don’t really do art projects at home. (I wouldn’t know where to begin.) So when Seedling asked if we wanted to try one of their activity kits, we jumped at the chance.”

“Take a Look Inside the 600 Page Rewrite of No Child Left Behind”

The Washington Post | topic: early childhood education
“The bill would provide grants to states to develop or improve comprehensive literacy programs to teach writing and reading to disadvantaged children from early childhood through grade 12, as well as grants to organizations that teach pre-literacy skills to children from birth until kindergarten.”

“UNESCO Report: Despite Major Gains, World’s Education Goals Far from Achieved”

United Nations News | topic: early childhood education
“Released today, the report found that 47 per cent of countries reached the goal of early childhood education, and another eight per cent were close. Twenty percent were very far from the goal. Yet, in 2012, nearly two-thirds more children were enrolled in early childhood education than in 1999.”

“Reading by Third Grade: Impacts of Early Education Extend Beyond Classroom”

Holland-Sentinel | topic: early childhood education
“In Michigan, about two in five third-grade students didn’t test as proficient in reading in 2013. Research shows that achievement gaps present by third grade only widen as students grow up — making the early years of school the most important ones.”

“Most Children’s Books Have Become Shamelessly Derivative”

The Spectator | topic: children’s books
“Given the speed with which children’s authors come and go, it’s difficult to establish which fleeting phenomenon is going to cut it in the long term, at least until the next edition.”

“The Health Perks of Arts and Crafts for Adults”

Time | topic: arts and crafts

“Arts and Crafts Activities May Stave Off Dementia”

Live Science | topic: arts and crafts
“The people who engaged in artistic activities such as painting or drawing, in both middle age and when they were 85 and older, were 73 percent less likely to develop mild cognitive impairment than those who did not engage in artistic activities.”

“Kenya: Malindi Multicultural Festival a Roaring Success”

All Africa | topic: multiculturalism
“There is need for Kenyans to reflect and appreciate the rich cultural heritage that counties like Kilifi, Mombasa, Lamu and Turkana have to offer. Cultural extravaganzas bring about inclusiveness, respect, and a sense of belonging for everyone.”

“South Korea’s population becoming more diverse, but tolerance lagging”

UPI | topic: multiculturalism
“There’s negative perception regarding multiculturalism. Even in Europe, [Koreans say] multiculturalism has failed, so why would a small country like South Korea succeed? Many natives have opinions of migrants that range from negative to indifferent.”

“Autistic Teen Publishes Children’s Book”

WTMT Mountain News (KY) | topic: children’s books
“Perhaps that’s because when a 17-year-old says he wants to write and illustrate a book it seems a little out of reach. With a lot of support from the people in the school district this young man’s dream has come true. He knew it had to be a hardback because he said that’s the only thing that’s going to be a classic.”

“Molding Young Readers One Book at a Time”

UT San Diego | topic: children’s books
“For more than 30 years, San Diego children have been receiving free books, all thanks to Roosevelt Brown. The Emerald Hills resident is the director of Reading Literacy Learning, Inc., an organization that hosts the annual Children’s Book Party in Balboa Park. There are new books given to everyone from kindergarten through 12th grade in the hopes of inspiring children to read.”

“The Strange Rise of Children’s Books for Adults, Decoded”

The Washington Post | topic: children’s books
“The No. 1 and No. 2 best-selling books on Amazon right now are coloring books for adults. In the UK, five of the top 10 titles are now adult coloring books. Coloring is all about regaining mindfulness and getting a digital detox. I think it is really relaxing, to do something analogue, to unplug … Coloring books are also an easy way to flex our creative muscles in a way we likely haven’t since our good old paste-eating elementary school days.”

“See Art Through the Eyes of a Child”

Oregon Capital Insider | topic: early childhood education
“This one-night-only art exhibit will help to raise awareness and much needed funds to support the importance of art in the early childhood education experience.”

“Children’s Books: A Bit of Imagination and a Leap of Faith”

Jakarta Globe | topic: destinations, children’s books
“What I like most about reading is its ability to transport me to another reality, and the fact that it’s so private. Watching movies is a shared experience, and it has its own charm. With books, it’s always one-on-one — just you and the book. There’s a certain satisfaction from being sucked into an entirely different realm from the person sitting next to you: in the waiting room, on the train, or anywhere — while that person has no idea what you are experiencing.”

“Adventure Trips Provide Unique Opportunities for Students”

TCU360 | topic: adventure
“I loved how the whole trip was about teamwork. I had never gone camping before, but they taught me small things like how to build a tent so that I could contribute. It was a peaceful trip and nice getaway from my ordinary college schedule.”

“New Street Art Campaign Aims to Make Australians More Welcoming”

SBS | topic: multiculturalism
“It’s worth acknowledging that it’s natural to fear people that seem different and so it takes courage to welcome them or at least try to. It’s all about discussing what it means to be Australian and embracing one of the greatest things about that, which is our multiculturalism.”

“Tipping Point: The Majority Will Become the Minority by 2044”

Advertising Age | topic: multiculturalism
“By 2050, the U.S. population will be 47% white, 28% Hispanic, 13% black and 8% Asian-American. By 2060, close to one in three U.S. residents will be Hispanic, up from about one in six today. And today’s multicultural population is increasingly born in the U.S. rather than abroad.”

“Reading with Mother”

Nation Multimedia | topic: children’s literature
“Each child has a unique language that opens the door to their imagination and so a writer of children’s books has to be able to find and accept her own inner child. Children receive the world with their emotions and they try to communicate their experiences in their own way. My young character Embla enjoys playing by herself and is addicted to visual images. She likes asking questions and learns a great deal from nature, from the changing of the seasons.”

“Artisan Craft Fair Expected to Attract Thousands as it is Held in Bristol for First Time”

The Bristol Post | topic: craftsmanship
“The Artisan Craft Shows take the traditional craft show to another level – with hand-picked exhibitors, crafts to buy, demo stage, expert-led taster workshops, ‘makers in residence’, pop-up café, Crafty Kids area and much more. The idea is to tap into a growing appetite for all things craft.”

“Master Seeks to Popularize Traditional Metal Craft”

The Korean Times | topic: craftsmanship
“We have a long history of creating splendid metalwork. Even today, artisans have kept the tradition of producing high-quality artwork using the ancient skills that have been handed down from generation to generation. But we don’t have any widely known brand that is based on a centuries-old traditional craft.”

“High School Students Write Stories for First Grade Book Buddies at James Burd”

The Sentinel (Cumberlink.com) | topic: children’s books
“In February, 54 students from Jaime Shirk’s two high school children’s literature classes visited their first-grade buddies in the classrooms of Jill Martin and Louanne Burt at James Burd Elementary School. They returned in March to read the books they had written and illustrated about the youngsters.”

“Early Education Workforce Needs Support, Report Finds”

EdSource | topic: early childhood education
“Holding lower educational expectations for early childhood educators than for those working in early elementary grades perpetuates the perception that educating children before kindergarten requires less expertise than educating older students. This perception justifies paying these professionals less and providing less funding for the programs and ongoing training of the staff.”

“Adventures in Early Childhood: Building Friendships”

Lake County News Chronicle | topic: early childhood education
“There are countless factors of extreme importance in the early years of a child’s life as they prepare for kindergarten and the elementary school years. At the top of that list, in my opinion, is social and emotional development in terms of building and maintaining positive friendships with peers. Although it seems like a rather simple concept to most adults, the ability to initiate and sustain quality relationships is a complex process for a young child as he develops emotionally.”

“India’s Multiculturalism Counters is Radicalization”

The Hindu | topic: multiculturalism
“India respects human rights, has democratic values, and it turns out that those are the patterns that allow for individuals to feel included in society. That could be one of the reasons it is not seeing this problem of radicalization.”

“Honolulu Early Childhood Program Receives $12.5M Grant”

Pacific Business News | topic: destinations, early childhood education
“Early-childhood learning is a critical step in establishing a solid foundation from which our children are able to grow and thrive. Unfortunately, due to increasing financial issues, there are limited child care and education services. With the rising costs of sending a child to school, it is crucial that we continue to provide support for programs like Head Start that provide an enormous, and affordable educational benefit to our keiki.”

“The Sooner The Better: Early Childhood Education, A Key To Life-Long Success”

Forbes | topic: early childhood education
“Research also shows that high-quality early childhood programs lead to income gains of 1/3 to 3.5 percent each year when the children are adults. That may not seem like much. But compounded, the higher earnings account for between $9,000 and over $30,000 when the program costs are subtracted. High-quality early childhood education programs provide long-term benefits that far outweigh the costs.”

“Langston Hughes Wrote a Children’s Book in 1955”

Branding Magazine | topic: children’s books
“First Book of Jazz might be intended for children, but with its deep explanation of the history and techniques of jazz music, it’s just as fruitful of a read for adults. You can read the whole book online here.”

“Beer: The Next Generation of Craft”

Branding Magazine | topic: craftsmanship
“Craft is here to stay but it is the heart and real meaning of craft that we need to rediscover, reinstate, and re-express. And we believe that there is a breakthrough opportunity for mass beer brands to secure a new future for their brand and, most importantly, their true craft.”

“Meet the Made in Italy-Themed E-Commerce Start-Up That is Trending in the USA”

Forbes | topic: craftsmanship
“We wanted to promote Italy abroad, through its craftsmanship and creativity.”

“Charlotte’s Web Voted Best Children’s Book of All Time”

Telegraph | topic: children’s literature
“In the poll for BBC Culture, critics from around the world named 151 favourites which were whittled down to a top 21. The result is a snapshot of classics from the past two centuries including Little Women and Alice in Wonderland, and ranges from picture books (Goodnight Moon) to Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy. Charlotte’s Web, EB White’s classic 1952 book about a pig who is saved from slaughter by a resourceful spider, has been voted the best children’s book of all time.”

“Botswana: Evolution of Arts, Crafts”

All Africa | topic: arts and crafts
“The Botswana National Museum will be decorated for the next two months with wood carvings, basketry, beadwork and pottery, among others. This will be through an exhibition dubbed arts and crafts of Botswana. It was an all-encompassing exhibition of some of Botswana cultural artifacts, the objective of which was to trace their historical significance from the basic traditional functionality, to their use today.”

“Reading Fest to Nurture Kids’ Creativity, Talent”

Gulf Today | topic: children’s literature
“I am confident that the participation of Arab and foreign publishers will enrich the children’s library in the UAE, thanks to the high quality of books released by these publishers. These books will attract children, despite the challenges posed by digital devices that take up so much of their attention. It is our hope that children will still find a lot of books that are no less entertaining than any electronic device and are therefore able to enjoy learning, discovering and exploring in this world as opposed to virtual reality.”

“Venice’s Sink or Swim Moment”

CNN | topic: destinations
“People know Venice is special and fragile, so they come — to the tune of 20 million tourists a year. Meanwhile, the watery headaches and cost of living has created a mass exodus of native Venetians: 100,000 have moved to the mainland in a single generation, and around 60,000 remain. On a busy summer day, tourists outnumber Venetians 600-1. In Manhattan, that number is 8-1.”

“Charting the ‘Blurring’ Lines of Craft, Art”

IOL | topic: arts and crafts
“Craft can be something of a conundrum in the local art scene. What was different this time about the craft scene? Many aspects but, important for me, was the increase in the blurring of lines, distinguishing what is art and what is defined as craft. Craft art embraces the conceptuality of art as well as the physicality of craftsmanship.”

“Sir Terence Conran: Why Design, Art and Craftsmanship Matter”

Marketing Magazine | topic: craftsmanship
“At the most basic level, design makes us think about problems and devise a way to solve them; making things develops creativity, inventiveness and problem-solving. This is why it is so important we support and encourage the creative spark in young talent.”

“Reviving Craftsmanship, Empowering Women in South Asia”

Daiji World | topic: craftsmanship
“In districts like Kutch there is scarcity of water and rainfall. This usually leads to migration but we offer to teach these women in group, train them and introduce them to the designers who tell them about colour combinations. So women are empowered as they are earning and at the same time you are reviving the craft by creating opportunities for future generations. Initiatives like this are making skill development a lucrative job opportunity and making handicrafts fashionable.”

“Vancouver Named Best Travel Destination in Canada”

VanCityNews | topic: travel destinations
“Vancouver nabs the top spot in Canada, thanks to our snow-capped mountains, waterfront forests, cityside beaches, Olympic history, and the world’s highest suspension bridge. Oh, and PS: Hipsters welcome.”

“Northeast Artisans Get Platform to Showcase Craftsmanship”

Ani News | topic: arts and crafts
“It is the vision of the government of India that rural artisans, who in fact are the keepers of the knowledge of traditional arts, should be given opportunity to not only showcase traditional arts but also pave way for their economic upliftment.”

“The UpBeat: Helping to Build a New Guatemala Through Education, Partnerships”

Ottawa Citizen | topic: early childhood education
“The only way this world is ever going to change is by teaching children to love themselves and care about others from their earliest possible years. They need to learn to think, to problem solve and to create so they can lead their generation into a whole new way of being in this world … a way of freedom … a way of peace … and a way of love. The new hope of Guatemala’s future rests with its children. Quality education is not just about getting them ready for the job market. It is preparing them for life.”

“Lessons to be Learned from Teaching in a Multicultural Environment”

The Irish Times | topic: multiculturalism
“If I had children, I would want them to grow up in a multicultural environment. The students learn about how other cultures do things, as well as how they think. It also makes the children very accepting of other cultures and teaches them to be good and kind to one another.”

“In Awe of Bali’s Arts and Crafts”

Telegraph | topic: arts and crafts
“Shops buzz with visitors buying Balinese fabrics, homewares, fashion, wood carvings, ceramics, baskets and jewellery, and jazz cafes are a popular night out. Plenty of shops cater specifically to Western visitors, selling locally made goods that veer from the affordable to the exorbitant.”

“Create: a Journal of Perspectives on the Value of Art and Culture”

LinkedIn | topic: arts and crafts
“Create is a new journal that aims to stimulate discussion about the true value of art and culture to our society.”

“Defining Luxury for a Modern Era”

New York Times | topic: craftsmanship
“There are a lot of people working in a craft-based way today and who are dedicated to materials and processes, but in ways that you couldn’t call at all nostalgic. Their work is in no way heritage, but they also aren’t happy to just hand over the whole process to a machine.”

“Force-fed Education Hampers Pre-schoolers: Teachers”

The Nation (Thailand) | topic: early childhood education
“It takes time to raise a child. If you force a kid to overdevelop, he/she could still [develop] but would lack a good foundation. The best way is to let pre-schoolers use and develop all senses through playing, which also boosts creativity and lets them grow in an appropriate pace of child development.”

“Study: Universal Pre-K Could Have Unintended Effects”

Star-Telegram | topic: early childhood education
“Parents of children 3 and under could end up paying more for day care as a result of the universal pre-kindergarten program in the Fort Worth school district, a study presented Tuesday by early childhood education advocates shows.”

“Italy and the U.S. Attend Bologna Children’s Book Fair for Diversity and Global Connectivity”

Digital Journal | topic: children’s books
“The Bologna Children’s Book Fair is where some of the world’s most popular children’s publishing and multimedia companies present their contribution to the global industry.”

“Children’s Books Could Save the Independent Bookstore”

BRW | topic: children’s literature
“Brick-and-mortar book shops that sell printed books are enjoying a resurgence in Australia just a few years after the rapidly expanding digital book sector threatened their very existence. At least four new independent stores have opened since December; two of them are dedicated to children’s literature.”

“Alice in Wonderland: 150 Years On, What’s the Secret of its Success?”

The Independent | topic: children’s books
“Carroll’s stories would permanently alter how readers thought about children on and off the page. Her adventure is not the kind of boring book she (and we) ought to be reading, (‘What is the use of a book,’ thought Alice, ‘without pictures or conversations?’) and her own story, by contrast, is full of both pictures and conversations.”

“M.Gemi Reinvents Italian Luxury Footwear”

Market Watch | topic: craftsmanship
“It’s not only important that we’re using the best possible materials, but also that fit remains consistent, so once a client finds a forma that works for her, she can order additional styles made on the same forma and never have to think twice about size. While styles will constantly change, fit and quality will not.”

“Even Office Mice Now Come with a Narrative of Craftsmanship and Care”

The Verge | topic: craftsmanship
“One thing I hadn’t yet seen is a design story for a good old computer mouse. But here it is, the Logitech MX Master Wireless Mouse, replete with its own genealogical narrative. Every design buzzword is present: it’s a precision instrument that has been sculpted and honed by hand, with the fine detail of every surface tuned to create a delightful and unique finished product.”

“Plan Ahead to Make Summer Educational, Fun for Kids”

The Tennessean | topic: arts and crafts
“Whether it’s backyard/neighborhood theater productions or performing arts camps facilitated by professionals like Bravo Creative Arts, exercise those unscathed imaginations through the magic of make-believe.”

“Unruh Furniture Combines Craftsmanship and Compassion”

The Kansas City Star | topic: arts and crafts
“When he started his company, it took awhile for Unruh to get each piece just right. But once he finished a piece, he’d draw detailed sketches of how he did it, which made building subsequent pieces a lot more efficient.”

“Female Artisans carry on Family Tradition”

Lebanon Pulse | topic: arts and crafts
“Craft survival is not a big part of Lebanon. Crafts are the base of culture in the country. If we lose these, we lose the identity of Lebanon. These crafts have been helping families live for centuries.”

“Artists, Patrons Speak About Fairhope Arts and Crafts Fest”

Alabama.com | topic: arts and crafts
“From its beginnings as a week-long Arts and Crafts tour in 1952 to a festival that drew an estimated 300,000 people in 2013, the Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival has made a name for itself.”

“Education a Low Risk, High Return Investment”

The Bristol Bay Times | topic: early childhood education
“Investments in early childhood save money in the schools by reducing the need for remediation, special education, and holding children back. It save costs in the criminal justice system and welfare while yielding revenue in the form of greater productivity.”

“The Shape of Things to Come”

The Nation | topic: arts and crafts
“Hosted by the Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand, ‘Craft Trends in Asean 2015’ will see a dozen leading architects, designers, and artists involved in contemporary arts and crafts in Asean member countries exchanging ideas and experiences as well as looking ahead to future trends.”

“Early Childhood Education in Rural China Needs Investment”

Shanghai Daily | topic: early childhood education
“Early brain development and function is the foundation for learning, behavior and capabilities later in life. Investing in early interventions for the most disadvantaged children is the most effective and cost-effective way for societies to ensure all children develop their full potential.”

“Beware The Loss Of Literature”

The Federalist | topic: children’s books
“Sales for children’s and YA books rose by 20.8% to $1.9 billion for 2014, while children’s and YA e-book sales soared by 33.7% to $227.3 million, making up 12.0% of sales, up from 10.9% in 2013.”

“Chile Hosts Living Maori Art and Culture (+ Video)”

Rotorua Daily Post | topic: arts and crafts
“Tuku Iho is a core representation of our mandate and the work we do. It helps preserve and promote Maori culture, allowing us to foster a wider awareness of Maori stories, values and traditions. It also reflects the passing down of knowledge to preserve our unique cultural heritage.”

“Elaborate Woodcuts Convey Jagermeister’s Craft, Complexity”

Media Post | topic: craftsmanship
“There has never been more demand to know more about what’s behind the brand, and that is coinciding with a boom in interest in and appreciation of craftsmanship in the U.S. — all of which adds up to the perfect time for Jägermeister to tell the story of its heritage, ingredients and process.”

“Myanmar Refugees Weave Love into Handmade Crafts”

ABC13: Houston TX | topic: arts and crafts
“Refugee women displayed their woven goods and demonstrated traditional craftsmanship using a technique called back-strap looming. The women used specialty yarn to create original one-of-a-kind items like purses, table runners, and jewelry. They use the money from the sale of the designs to support their families. The women are in the United States to escape political persecution in their home country.”

“Moscow Promotes Itself as Solo Destination”

Express Travel World | topic: travel
“Being one of the major upcoming outbound markets, we wish to promote ourselves better in India. By participating in various exhibitions across the nation, we hope to receive positive feedback and establish Moscow as a solo destination.”

“Instill Joy of Reading”

LoHud: The Journal News | topic: early childhood education
“One of the fundamental principles in developing good readers is to instill motivation, build motivation, and nurture the motivation to read. Many educators agree that choice, for example, can help to build motivation. For this reason, it may be fine for a child to choose the book that he or she wants to read, and likes to read at home, especially after a long day of being told what to do at school.”

“Top Tips to Get Your Children to Read Quality Books”

Sunday Express | topic: children’s books
“Reading to children relaxes both of you and allows them to access books they may not be able to read themselves.”

“Entrepreneurs Click Their Way to Success Using Online Marketplaces to Peddle Crafts”

Columbia Daily Tribune | topic: arts and crafts
“In generations past, even for a small retail establishment selling arts and crafts or whatever, you had to have a physical space. You had to have a table at a flea market, or an intermediary like Blue Stem. Everybody who’s sold anything on eBay is essentially engaged in online entrepreneurship, even if they don’t think of it as their full-time gig.”

“A One-stop Place for Crafts”

The Hundu | topic: arts and crafts
“What makes the crafts fair interesting is the access to a wide variety of wares at one stop where people will get a chance to procure them directly from the artisans. Those who have come to showcase their products for the first time say that it is a nice opportunity to break away from their comfort zones.”

“The Conservative Business Case for Early Education Funding”

Beltway Insiders | topic: early childhood education
“Nationwide, the annual cost of private preschool runs from about $4,500 to more than $12,000, which is well out of reach for many working families. You might even argue middle class families headed by two working wage earners are in the toughest position because they earn too much to qualify for programs such as Head Start and too little to pay for high quality private preschool. This is where a greater funding stream — indeed a federal-state partnership — could come in.”

“Seuss’ Works Universal, Timeless Works of Art”

North Neighbor News | topic: children’s literature
“If you go through schools, you will see posters of Dr. Suess. You go to the libraries (and) you see books from Dr. Suess. If you use different websites you see Dr. Suess characters. Everything created is so common and prevalent to our world.”

“Babies and Toddlers Need More Reading Time”

The Cooper Era | topic: children’s literature
“Children whose families read aloud to them develop larger vocabularies and become stronger readers. This leads to the children doing better in school.”

“Schools to Get Multicultural Boost”

PS News | topic: multiculturalism
“Students want a coordinated way in which they can work with each other and the school staff to promote inclusion and multiculturalism, and they want ways in which they can celebrate their own cultures and heritage while learning about those of others.”

“The Artisans in Danger of Disappearing”

BBC | topic: craftsmanship
“The skills required to make unique masterpieces such as these (pieces of jewelry), however, are at risk of disappearing in this modern age of mass production. The number of craftspeople making such products in Paris has halved over the past two decades as a result of falling demand. This has led to a shortage of certain skills, such as moulding, setting stones, and polishing.”

“Can Etsy Keep Artistic Roots With IPO?”

Practical eCommerce | topic: craftsmanship
“With our vision of responsible manufacturing, we are promoting a new, people-centered model in which artisans can preserve the spirit of craftsmanship and grow responsibly by collaborating with people at small-batch manufacturers to make their goods.”

“Approach a Big Project Like You Would an Adventure”

Lifehacker | topic: adventure
“There’s only so much research you can do before you visit a new destination. Sure, you probably read some articles, mapped out your itinerary and routes, and asked friends about their experiences. And all of that preparation is valuable — but it’s no substitute for actually walking around and seeing the sights.”

“Arts & Crafts: Vintage Pop-up Bazaar to Occupy Glasgow’s GOMA”

Herald Scotland | topic: arts and crafts
“It was here that they brought together the idea for the Beatroot and Lace Bazaar – to mix the best of the past with music, with art and design of the present and future.”

“Craftsmanship: Each Material is an Achievement in Itself.”

Apple | topic: craftsmanship
“From the very beginning, Apple Watch was designed with a deep reverence for the art of fine watchmaking. For the raw materials, every choice we made was intended to not merely honor the traditions of the past, but to advance them. From the custom gold alloys to the sapphire crystal, each element comes together with an unrivaled level of care and precision, giving Apple Watch a beauty that is both timeless and thoroughly modern.”

“31 Quotes from Children’s Books That Will Inspire You at Any Age”

BuzzFeed | topic: children’s books
“Members of the BuzzFeed Community to tell us their favorite lines from children’s classics.”

“Fiction Unlocks a More Meaningful World for Young Readers”

South China Morning Post | topic: children’s books
“A recent study showed that young children who were read stories developed a keener theory of mind than those who weren’t. Theory of mind is the capacity of the brain to figure out the intentions and feelings of others; it is different from empathy. Although both help us to identify with another person, the perspective is different. When I see a homeless man and think, ‘I can imagine how I would feel if I were in his shoes,’ I am feeling empathy. On the other hand, I have theory of mind when my thought process delves deeper, ‘I can imagine how it feels to be him in his shoes.’ The former approach is to consider the plight of the homeless man; the latter approach is to understand his view of the world based on his experiences, fears and dreams.”

“Children’s Books Only Cater to White People, Authors Say”

The Mirror | topic: children’s books
“Children will go with any story as long as its good but white adults sometimes think that if a black child’s on the cover it is perhaps not for them. Books teach children to see the world through the eyes of others and empathize with others. It’s about the story.”

“Desire to Buy Local, Handmade Driving Artisan Boom”

The Herald-Dispatch | topic: arts and crafts
“To purchase an artisan product, you really have to appreciate it in person. Catalogs and photos online just don’t do it because there is so much more of a tangible aspect to a hand-crafted product to feel how a wooden spoon feels in your hand, or that smooth finish of a beautiful pot or a wooden bowl. You don’t see that online or in a picture. I know they may turn to Etsy, and I know that works, but I think it is even more important to have handcrafted products for them to touch.”

“A Life of Adventure Lands a Danish World Traveler in Alaska”

News Miner | topic: adventure
“I went and looked at a world map and said, how can I get around the world hitchhiking, which would be the cheapest way to travel, and the first thing that catches my eye is that huge expanse of Siberia.”

“Sri Lanka as a Haven for Multiculturalism”

The Nation | topic: multiculturalism
“Sri Lanka is one of the best examples of a multicultured society. It has four main ethnic identities: Sinhalese, Muslim, Tamil, and Burgher. Sri Lankans follow one of four major religions: Buddhism, Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Multiculturalism is a point of attraction for a country especially for tourism purposes.”

“Racial Disparities in Early Childhood Hurts U.S.”

New Pittsburgh Courier | topic: early childhood education
“While the United States as a whole has become an increasingly educated country over time, very significant educational disparities exist between whites and people of color. Since the majority of infants are children of color, improving the continuum of early childhood programs available to children under age 3 and their families provides an opportunity to stifle these disparities before they begin.”

“Pundits Who Say What is — and isn’t — Art Can Really Needle You”

Saultstar | topic: arts and crafts
“I have entertained my embroidery, leather, and bead artwork as being an art form to share alongside my paintings. But I have been told it is not a fine art form and therefore should be with arts and crafts as opposed to fine arts exhibition shows. I will never accept that.”

“Daddy Days: A Life of Adventure Can Depend on Your Attitude”

Statesman | topic: adventure
“It’s easy to go on adventures with a toddler, because pretty much everything is an adventure for a toddler. Parking in a parking garage? Toddler adventure. Going up an escalator? Toddler adventure. Feeding ducks at the park? Toddler adventure extraordinaire!”

“Multikulti: as Old as Humankind”

Business Day Live | topic: multiculturalism
“The reality is that, if we trace descent far enough into the past, no one is where their ancestors once were. We are all migrants. We are none of us indigenous except by suppressing historical reality.”

“Online Handicrafts Marketplace Blisby Wants to Be the Etsy of Thailand”

e27 | topic: arts and crafts
“Etsy doesn’t have a big presence here and prior to our launch, Thailand didn’t have this kind of platform. We have artisans all around us and I want Blisby to be the online community where they can showcase their craft. I want them to tell their story and inspire others to create, so I built Blisby to service these artisans.”

“10 Lessons All Adults Could Learn From Children’s Books”

The News Hub | topic: children’s books
“We all have an absolute favorite childhood story, a tale that captured our imaginations and opened our eyes to a fantastical world separate from our own. But have you ever stopped to think that maybe there was deeper meaning in your favorite childhood book, that maybe it might even be able to teach you something? Looking at a children’s tale through adult eyes may actually give you some of the best life advice you’ve ever had.”

“The World of Children’s Books is Still Very White”

Five Thirty Eight Life | topic: children’s books
“In any given year, the number of books about one racial group would go up slightly while the number of books about another group decreased. In February, the Cooperative Children’s Book Center released its newest data, which for the first time showed a year-over-year increase in every category. The quantities remain tiny when considered as a percentage of children’s books published in the U.S.”

“Why Swedish Early Learning is So Much Better Than Australia’s”

The Conversation | topic: early childhood education
“Research evidence shows that when children have access to quality early childhood education they can expect better school success, a decreased crime rate, less substance abuse, and increased long-term employment – all positives for the economy.”

“Titusville Sketches a Downtown Arts and Crafts Incubator”

Keystone Edge | topic: arts and crafts
“The approximately 3,000 square foot space would house microbusinesses, giving the vendors a year-round retail presence, and freeing them from reliance on holiday and craft show sales. The incubator could also leverage the reuse of an adjacent, one-time restaurant.”

“15 Important Pieces of Wisdom Found in Children’s Books”

Radio Times | topic: children’s books
“We like to source our inspiration from the authors who catered for our childhood years. We’re talking Dahl, Seuss, Rowling — their books are packed with nuggets of wisdom for young and old alike.”

“Partnerships That Make a Difference: Center for Children’s and Young Adult Literature”

Tennessee Today | topic: children’s literature
“Tennessee’s only center for children’s and young adult literature provides workshops for teachers and librarians, and sponsors talks by authors and illustrators which are open to the public.”

“Michaels Expands Education Offering”

Globe Newswire | topic: arts and crafts
“Creativebug offers Michaels customers classes that capture the spirit of in-person teaching, so they feel like they are learning alongside their instructor, but at their own pace. The partnership with Creativebug provides a tremendous resource for our customers who are interested in making a project but are looking for step-by-step instruction and encouragement to make it a reality.”

“Ozzy Osbourne’s ‘Arts And Crafts Time’ With Granddaughter Pearl”

Blabber Mouth | topic: arts and crafts
“Heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne posted a photo to Instagram with a caption that reads, “Arts and crafts time with Papa.”

“Books Help to Invest in Children’s Future”

Daily Telegraph | topic: children’s books, early childhood education
“One in five Australian children starts school developmentally vulnerable and not fully ready to learn. Children who attend early childhood education performed better in tests of reading, maths and science than those who had not attended.”

“The History and Philosophy of Adventure”

Public Books | topic: adventure
“Does our yearning for adventure have a history? It would be tempting to answer that, no, our fascination with the impossible and the enticement of adventure are inherent to human nature, and that the specificity of the human condition stems precisely from this thirst for adventure, a thirst that pushes humanity to always attempt new things, to go further and further, to see, and that is the driving force behind its progress.”

“The Key to Success in the Global Workplace is Being Culturally Fluent”

SBS | topic: multiculturalism
“With many companies operating in a more global world than ever before, the idea of encouraging cultural fluency is taking hold. Corporations may find that some aspects of human resources are best handled through colorblindness, others through multiculturalism, and still others through interculturalism.”

“Growing Up in a Multicultural Environment “

Luxembourg Wort | topic: multiculturalism
“The talk will explore how adolescents growing up in a multicultural environment organise and experience their different nationalities.”

“How Multiculturalism Can Make Canada Stronger This Century”

Hill Times | topic: multiculturalism
“Multiculturalism was one of our country’s social revolutions of the 20th century. In the 21st century — a century in which American global leadership may be lacking — Canada needs a socio-strategic revolution.”

“Hillary Clinton’s K-12 Record Could Be Campaign Fodder”

Education Week | topic: early childhood education
“Hillary Clinton’s history of involvement in children’s issues — going back to her work in the 1970s for an anti-poverty organization that later became the Children’s Defense Fund — offers clues to where she might want to go on academic standards, teacher quality, and early learning, among other matters, and the approach she’d take to get there.”

“Plan to Boost Reading Involves Testing Kindergartners”

Lansing State Journal | topic: early childhood education
“The state has made a significant investment in early childhood education — the largest increase in the country. The goal of the kindergarten tests would be to determine where the students are at academically at the end of those preschool years, which will help determine what changes might be needed for kindergarten, first, second and third grades to get students to proficiency.”

“How One Company Convinced Anthony Bourdain to Shill as it Re-brands Scotch”

Fast Company | topic: craftsmanship
“Craftsmanship is about doing things the old-school way, the slow way, the long way, the stupid way.”

“Learn What Playcentre is About”

New Zealand Herald | topic: early childhood education
“”We have 16 areas of play including clay and play dough, a collage area, and messy play — finger painting and normal painting. The kids can come in and make a big mess and not destroy things at home. We also have a carpentry area with real tools so they learn how to use them.”

“Cartoon Network’s ‘Adventure Time’ Heads To Big Screen At Warner Bros.”

Huffington Post, Deadline Hollywood | topic: adventure
“Adventure Time, one of the most popular shows on Cartoon Network, is being developed for the big screen as an animated feature.”

“Arts and Crafts Used as Therapy”

WTNH News 8 (Connecticut) | topic: arts and crafts
“If we can occupy brainwaves doing something like repeating a gesture of sewing or brush strokes — that kind of thing — then it allows for other states of consciousness, other brainwave states, to become more dominant. Research shows repetitive motions involved with arts and crafts actually trigger the reward center in the brain, releasing a chemical called dopamine.”

“Student Writes Children’s Book to Teach Business Terms”

News 8000 | topic: children’s books
“The book focuses on them creating a plan, working really hard, and doing their own thing without a lot of help from others.”

“Japanese Woman’s Accessory Business Helps Keep Filipino Mountain Tribe’s Culture Alive”

The Asahi Shimbun | topic: craftsmanship
“I’d like to help them pass on their traditional craftsmanship to the next generation. If their craftsmanship is recognized by people around the world, they will gain pride in themselves.”

“Changing Minds Through Storytelling”

Manila Standard Today | topic: children’s literature
“As a child listens to the story, he is able to ask questions and interact with the storyteller. The child is also given the opportunity to imagine and explore possibilities based on the stories read. As a learning tool, storytelling is able to encourage students to think and imagine beyond what is presented.”

“China Sends Kindergarten Teachers to Learn from Taiwan”

Want China Times | topic: early childhood education
“Children appear to be playing and having fun, but were able to express themselves and be sensitive to beauty. They were not only playing, but also developing their creativity. This is what they are still unable to achieve in Shanghai.”

“Are Indians Killing Their Traditions?”

Social Story | topic: craft traditions
“For traditional art forms to be marketed as premium products, the product quality needs to be very high. We tell artisans that every product needs to be perfect. We need to build that work ethic in them.”

“The Joy of Craft in a Digital Age”

The Telegraph | topic: arts and crafts
“Craft was an opportunity to be self-employed, self-expressive, self-sufficient, and self-actualised — the telling word being self. We were not particularly self-absorbed for our time and place, however.”

“Ghana is Running Out of Artisans”

Spy Ghana | topic: craftsmanship
“With about a population of 5,000, Klefe could only boast of three carpenters who are without apprentices because the youth were not interested in craftsmanship.”

“The Autonomous 3-Year-Old”

Slate | topic: early childhood education
“France is 180 years ahead of the United States in terms of universal Pre-K. French 3-year-olds are expected to do many things by themselves: go to the bathroom, put on shoes, carry their lunch tray in the cafeteria. Many economists, among them Nobel laureate James Heckman, have advocated for preschool as one of the most efficient uses of education dollars.”

“Why the Future of Pre-K is at Home”

edSurge | topic: early childhood education
“It’s said that education is always the last thing to change. The United States ranks in the bottom one-third of the developed world in terms of pre-K, according to an OECD report. We can’t let that be true. Pre-K is precisely the time that children learn best.”

“John Legend: Let Every Child’s Light Shine”

CNN | topic: early childhood education
“My father taught us that success isn’t measured in money, but in joy and the lives you’re able to touch. What if we set our schools to help students discover and pursue a personal passion instead of a predictable path?”

“Why Stories Aren’t Just for Bedtime”

The Guardian | topic: children’s books
“When it comes to telling stories, I think we’re too used to telling them at bedtime. It doesn’t have to be like that. There are stories around us all the time.”

“Continuing the Conversation: Authors, Illustrators, and Editors Talk Diversity”

Publisher’s Weekly | topic: multiculturalism
“Diversity is the ability to see characters who do not look like yourself but to identity with them. Real progress will have been made when we see stories with diverse characters that have nothing to do with diversity.”

“What Children’s Programming Can Teach Content Marketers”

Content Standard | topic: early childhood education
“Toyetic is a term that has been coined to describe properties with high merchandising potentials.”

“The Most Needy Kids Missing Vital Early Learning”

SBS | topic: early childhood education
“Quality preschool sets children up for a good transition to school.”

“Kool Trip Explores Unknown Destinations”

Tempo | topic: travel destinations
“Kool Trip explores unknown destinations, those hidden paradises waiting to be discovered and developed. Hopefully, their natural attractions are not spoiled.”

“Photographer Captures Beauty Around the World”

CNN | topic: multiculturalism
“Beauty means diversity, and I travel the world to discover it.”

“CCBC Stats Show Children’s Books Shifting Toward Diversity”

Publisher’s Weekly | topic: children’s literature
“Diversity is the missing piece of the puzzle in children’s books and [the CCBC] has had its finger on the pulse of this issue from the very beginning.”

“Learning the World: The Outdoor Classroom Project Brings Outdoor Education to Early Childhood Centers”

Santa Maria Sun | topic: early childhood education
“We want children to be independent. We are very child directed, which means we follow the lead of the child. We’re out here to help support them, but as you can see, the staff are just following the lead of the children, and whatever they are interested in, that’s what they are doing.”

“Construction Begins on $40 Million Museum of the American Arts & Crafts in Florida”

Art Fix Daily | topic: arts and crafts
“It’s probably the best collection of American Arts and Crafts artifacts that exists, so it’s a very important museum.”

“An Early Look at the Toys Destined to Go Viral in 2015”

Inc Magazine | topic: arts and crafts
“Whether kids are building with classic blocks, designing their own dolls, playing in virtual worlds, or ‘mashing up’ play patterns, toy makers are giving them more freedom than ever to play exactly how they want. Mimicking their parents and grandparents, children today are still excited by low-tech and old-school toys ranging from plush toys to retro concepts.”

“Zagreb Museum of of Arts and Crafts Celebrates its 135th Anniversary”

Dalje | topic: arts and crafts
“The Museum has at its disposal holdings containing about one hundred thousand items of the fine and applied arts, drawn from the 14th to 21st centuries.”

“Yorkshire Poet Calls for School Creativity”

The Press | topic: children’s books
“We developed performance poetry and I could see them (children) become more confident and articulate in front of me, becoming creators as well as observers. That’s the thing about creativity, it’s at the heart of us all, it helps us learn and, crucially, become better human beings. Schools have a responsibility to bring creativity into the classroom.”

“Children’s Dentist Eases Fear of Office Visits in New Book”

Florida Courier | topic: children’s books
“It’s very common for children to be afraid of going to the dentist and National Children’s Dental Health Month is the perfect time to assuage their fear. I’m hoping to encourage parents to make dental health more of a priority, and to get their children excited about establishing healthy oral hygiene habits for life.”

“Impact of Arts on Early Learning”

Wolf Trap Online | topic: early childhood education
“A recent independent study (funded by the US Department of Education and conducted in Fairfax County, VA) indicates that teachers using Wolf Trap Institute’s arts-integrated strategies have significant positive effect on children’s learning.”

“Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning through the Arts”

Wolf Trap Online | topic: early childhood education
“The way we engage children in the first years of their lives has a profound impact on future learning and success. They need to be highly creative in the classroom — and they deserve the best tools possible. Arts-integrated tools fall under the category of ‘best tools possible.’ There is a wealth of research showing the efficacy of using the performing arts to engage children early and improve the way they learn.”

“McWane Center to Open $5M Early Learning Exhibit in May”

Birmingham Business Journal | topic: early childhood education
“It’s birth to age 6, but the abilities of a child who’s 18 months is so different than a child who’s 3 or 6. So we’re trying to make graduated activities so that when you come at one age, you can do some of the things, and when you come later you can do some more, and by the time that you’re 6, you can do all of them.”

“Where Learning is an Adventure”

Intelligencer | topic: adventure
“Older students helping younger ones, parents sharing their skills, hands-on activities, community outings and an accent on real-life learning. Meet Queen Victoria School’s Adventure Class. There are two Adventure classes. The primary class is grades 1 to 3, and the junior class is grades 4 to 6.”

“New Heights Brings ‘Adventure’ to Learning”

SeaCoast Online | topic: adventure
“Close collaboration with local schools has the potential to help youth learn critical concepts for future success as an adult through adventure experiences. Teamwork, accountability, communication, problem-solving — these are just some of the concepts we can help teach kids through a well-structured adventure experience. What connects all of these opportunities is the emphasis on helping youth develop thinking and social skills that can help them within and outside the classroom.”

“Pharrell Inks Deal To Write Four Children’s Books”

“Pharrell Turning ‘Happy’ into Children’s Book”

“Pharrell Williams to Write Children’s Book Based on Hit Single ‘Happy'”

Forbes / Rolling Stone / The Independent | topic: children’s literature
“”I’m humbled by the global success of ‘Happy,’ but especially in awe of the song’s young fans. My collaboration with Penguin allows me to continue a dialogue with these children in a fresh, new way. We’re both committed to feeding the curiosity of young minds with imagination. The book will feature photographs of children from around the world “celebrating what it means to be happy.”

“Pharrell Williams to Write Children’s Book Based on Hit Single ‘Happy'”

The Independent | topic: children’s literature
“The (recording artist’s) first (children’s) book will be inspired by his hit song “Happy,” and will feature photographs of children from around the world “celebrating what it means to be happy.”

“Early Investment Best Cure for Child Poverty”

Irish Examiner | topic: early childhood education
“We get the best return from investment when children are young. Children who attend quality pre-school reap the benefit across a range of areas — they do better in school, they have better health, and better civic and social engagement.”

“What Makes a Great Tour Guide”

Telegraph Travel | topic: travel destinations
“Lighten up. Don’t patronize or be giddily upbeat. Markets are more interesting than philosophers. These are some of the tips prescribed.”

“Adventure Playgrounds Unleash the Power of Play”

Deseret News National | topic: adventure
“At the entrance is a sign reading: ‘The Land. A space full of possibilities.’ Inside, children construct their own play spaces from discarded lumber, old tires, rope and all sorts of junk. Depending on the day, children might be playing with an old rowboat, shopping carts, bicycle parts or a discarded piano. Kids use saws and hammers, and even build fires to burn cardboard just for the fun of it.”

“The Art of Creating Custom Cars”

IOL Motoring | topic: arts and crafts
“Like an artist ‘sees’ his sculpture in the block of wood or stone before he even picks up a chisel, Barry Ashmole can ‘see’ a shape, a part of a car’s body, in a straight piece of steel or aluminum sheet.”

“Etsy IPO Stokes Fierce Debate as Some Say Artisan Craft Site is Selling its Soul”

The Guardian | topic: arts and crafts
“Etsy is betraying its original artists by selling out to make money. Financially this may make some people very rich, but it is not what Etsy was meant to be about. Artists and crafters are now just window dressing to give the website the appearance that [items] are handmade, but in most cases they are not. They have become the online version of Pottery Barn.”

“Asheville Takes Spotlight as Arts & Crafts Capital”

Citizen-Times | topic: arts and crafts
“Arts and Crafts has such an association with Asheville, with our architecture and our artisans over the past 100 years. Even more than Beer City, you can call Asheville the Arts & Crafts capital of the South.”

“Children’s Books are Never Just for Children”

The Guardian | topic: children’s books
“It’s striking how long children’s books can last. One explanation may be the way in which they’re read. They become part of our emotional autobiographies, acquiring associations and memories, more like music than prose. Another explanation may lie in the fact that children’s books are designed with re-reading in mind.”

“Viewpoint: The Business Case for Early Childhood Investment”

Denver Business Journal | topic: early childhood education
“Scientists have determined that 90 percent of physical brain development occurs by a child’s fifth birthday. It follows, then, that investments in health and in the development of social and cognitive skills during that critical period should pay off handsomely.”

“Ernie the Ant Aids Early learning at Woodland Heights”

Pensacola Today | topic: early childhood education
“Mayor Hayward and I know improving our community’s quality of life and workforce starts with education, and the most cost effective way is to engage preschool kids and their parents where they are — and get them ready.”

“Russian Immigrant Brings Old World Craftsmanship to New World Pianos”

The Advocate | topic: craftsmanship

“Don’t Read These Beloved Children’s Books To Your Kids”

Adequate Man | topic: children’s literature
“Plenty of classic children’s books should be burned, or thrown out, or at least ridiculed.”

“8 Classic Children’s Books You Didn’t Realize Were Racist”

Atlanta Blackstar | topic: children’s literature

“The Year’s Quirkiest Cruise Destinations”

Yahoo Travel | topic: travel destinations
“Get your Magellan on and venture to these unusual or slightly quirky places you may not have cruised before. ”

“Ghana: Traders Urged That Early Childhood Education Is Important”

All Africa | topic: early childhood education
“We’ve made it a point to regularly educate traders on the need to bring their children to the centre, which would not only help the child to develop his/her learning skills early, but also help the mother reserve energy to trade while the child is at school.”

“How About Watching Animals in their Natural Habitat, Adventure Junkie?”

Hindustan Times | topic: adventure
“Watching animals in their natural habitat is one of the most fascinating experiences. And, if you get to spot fauna that generally eludes the eye, the sense of adventure definitely increases.”

“Libraries Less Excited About Award Winner”

Big Fish Lifestyle | topic: children’s books
“It feels almost like a picture book meant for adults who want to reflect about childhood, rather than for children.”

“Pinewood Derby Teaches Craftsmanship, Sportsmanship”

Crestview News Bulletin | topic: craftsmanship
“Boy Scouts are learning skills such as being creative, crafting things by hand, and sportsmanship. And they’re having fun.”

“Printer Embraces Computing Age”

Times-Herald Record | topic: craftsmanship
“For all that we are about craftsmanship, for all that we’re about making things by hand, it’s a very technological business. It’s this marrying of craftsmanship and the Internet age.”

“‘The Craftsmen’ Takes an Inside Look at the Passionate, Gritty Work of Modern-day Artisans”

Imaging Resource | topic: craftsmanship
“Much of the work these guys do is extremely repetitive, precise and consumed with minutia. All the craftsmen shared a passion for the craft despite this, a quality that allowed them to persevere in what has now become an unconventional career path.”

“‘Everybody Has Abilities:’ Store Offers More Than a Job to its Employees”

The Shelby Star | topic: arts and crafts
“On the job, employees do everything from cleaning to pricing, packaging and presenting sale items on displays. The store also sells handmade jewelry and crafts, made by its employees, with help from their family, friends and supporters.”

“Arts and Crafts Market Bridges Gap Between Gentrification and D.C. Culture”

The Hilltop | topic: arts and crafts
“We wanted to have a place where folks could circulate their money in the neighborhood on something that wasn’t the usual gift-giving selection. These are unique, one-of-a kind arts and crafts and fashion items that people enjoy giving and receiving as holiday gifts.”

“Why Travel is Broken — and How to Fix it”

The Local | topic: travel destinations
“The reason we travel is to experience something different to what we have at home – whether that’s sun, the ocean, culture or food. Destinations want the same thing – they want to give you a reason to visit them. But it’s becoming harder and harder for them to sell themselves.”

“When it Comes to Multigenerational Travel, Kids Call Shots and Grandparents Foot Bill”

Post Crescent | topic: travel destinations
“Fully 40 percent of both grandparents and parents say their children ‘actively participate in or influence vacation planning,’ specifically with respect to daily activities (77 percent) and deciding which destinations to visit (62 percent).”

“How Educating Children Early and Well Creates a Ripple Effect for Us All”

The Washington Post | topic: early childhood education
“High-quality early-childhood programs offer a fiscally responsible way to unlock the earning potential of families, two generations at a time.”

“Early Childhood Programs Reduce Need for Special Ed”

The Journal | topic: early childhood education
“Attendance in an early childhood program dramatically reduces the chance that a child will need to be placed in pricier special education in third grade, according to research just published by Duke University.”

“Children’s Books Full of Weird Facts, Fun Science”

Bluff Country Reader | topic: children’s books
“Murphy doesn’t just teach in “Evolution,” “Bodies” or “Disgusting Science” – he entertains, too, with a back-and-forth format that seems like a conversation between author and reader, and frequent veering-off into all kinds of peripheral topics. That takes the stuffiness out of science and makes it more approachable and more interesting for kids who think science is boring. Furthermore, the illustrations are hilarious. For kids, that’s irresistible.”

“Victoria Schools Struggle to Help Poor, Minority Students”

Victoria Advocate | topic: early childhood education
“A wide gap exists between the educational achievement of minority students, most likely to be economically disadvantaged, and the rest of the student population.”

“MDE Meetings to Promote Early Childhood Literacy”

The Meridian Star | topic: early childhood education
“Parents are their child’s first teacher, and reading with children is a proven way to promote early literacy. Helping to make sure children are reading on grade level by third grade is one of the most important things a parent can do to prepare their children for the future.”

“Early Learning Promotes Student Success”

Dayton Daily News | topic: early childhood education
“Early childhood education has always been crucial to student success, but its importance has come to the forefront recently.”

“Plenty for Children to Enjoy and Admire in Re-issued Classics”

The Irish Times | topic: children’s literature
“A new generation of young readers will now have access to these editions, many of which are often very attractively produced and packaged.”

“Alice in Wonderland at 150: More Than Child’s Play and Tea Parties”

Reuters | topic: children’s literature
“The book lacks a conventional moral. Carroll played with standard moral tales of his day and turned them on their heads.”

“Struggle for Survival”

Daily Kashmir | topic: arts and crafts
“The floods of September 2014, which created havoc in the entire valley, also affected the Kashmir handicrafts.”

“Creative ‘Museum Geek’ Mixes Science and Art”

Tallahassee Democrat | topic: arts and crafts
“The arts are a part of every culture. No matter where I’ve been in the world, that’s always been something I’ve recognized.”

“Artist Jaime Guerrero Finds Purpose in the Art and Craft of Glass Blowing”

The Eastsider | topic: arts and crafts
“I love working with glass because it allows me to work out abstract ideas whether metaphysical, spiritual or dealing with nostalgia. The process of questioning and rediscovering always leads me to new forms.”

“Former Kindergarten Teacher Educates Public on Craftsmanship”

Olean Times Herald | topic: craftsmanship
“I feel strongly that it’s important for people to make things. It’s practical experience in problem solving and it’s what people have done since they first came to value their thumbs.”

“Investing in Early Childhood Development: What is Being Spent, And What Does it Cost?”

Brookings | topic: early childhood education
“In the developing world, more than 200 million children under the age of five are at risk of not reaching their full potential because they suffer from the negative consequences of poverty, nutritional deficiencies, and inadequate learning opportunities.”

“EU Promotes Quality Education”

The Daily Mail | topic: early childhood education
“We hope that through structured civil society engagement with government, more inclusive education policies shall be developed that promote universal access to quality early childhood and primary education for children in Zambia.”

“Early Childhood Development Linked to Skilled Workforce”

VTDigger.org | topic: early childhood education
“At the Federal Reserve, economists are convinced that investing in human capital at the very earliest ages will get the highest rate of return.”

“Tour Operators Start Offering Short-haul Packages to Cater to the Long-weekend Market”

The Economic Times | topic: travel destinations
“The long weekend market is growing significantly in the country as upwardly mobile, young Indian travellers now opt for two or three short breaks along with a long leisurely vacation in a year.”

“Beetles in Art, Myths, and Society”

Mother Earth News | topic: arts and crafts
“Humans may think they rule the world, but it’s beetles that really dominate it. Beetles have long occupied prominent places in our mythologies and in arts and crafts.”

“Between the Covers: What’s Really Going on in the World of Books”

The Independent | topic: children’s literature
“A study by the Centre for Children’s Literature at Aarhus University shows that Danish children aged nine to 12 are reading more, with 61 per cent reading books for pleasure in their free time.”

“The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall Visit Art Workers Guild Building Project”

Art Fix Daily | topic: arts and crafts
“Crafts are finally getting the recognition that fashion and the fine arts have enjoyed in London for some time.”

“Traditional Crafts Find New Energy in Hands of Women”

Japan News | topic: craftsmanship
“A true craftswoman can create the same object as many times as she wants.”

“Anthony Bourdain and the Balvenie Go on the Hunt for True Craftsmanship”

Forbes Magazine | topic: craftsmanship
“There is no doubt for me, that if you can have it, you want the stuff where people have taken their time, paid attention to and personally care about how it was created. It is very important to me that these kinds of crafts continue into the future and we value artisans who make the decision to choose quality over quantity.”

“Dr. Seuss’ ‘Oh, The Places You’ll Go!’ Turns 25”

CNN | topic: children’s literature
“Children’s books possess an enormous amount of wisdom for the adults mature enough to recognize it.”

“Frozen: Why Kids Can’t Let It Go”

CNN | topic: children’s literature
“When you’re small, you don’t feel powerful. Everyone is always dictating what you can and cannot do. Having a character they can empathize with that has powers can make them feel more empowered. Another aspect that kids see themselves in Elsa and Anna is the impulsiveness.”

“White House, NGOs Pony Up $1.1 Billion on Early Childhood Education Push”

The Journal | topic: early childhood education
“The White House is making the case that a small investment in early childhood education pays back nearly nine-fold.”

“Three New Children’s Books Have Arrived in Time for Summer Reading”

Examiner | topic(s): Tabula Raisa™
”Geography is a sadly, badly neglected subject in the U.S. school system, so the idea for Tabula Raisa by Eric S. Tounsend is clever. The protagonist, a little girl from Seville, Spain, is curious about the things around her home. A genie in her tablet allows her to explore anywhere she’d like. In this edition, she picks not the usual London/Paris/Dublin but Dhaka, Bangladesh.”

“Pack These Four For Your Kids”

Doug Bardwell Tech Website | topic(s): Tabula Raisa™
”When is a book not a book? When it’s a guide to exploration. The three main characters of this evolving 51-story series lead children to explore destinations around the world in order to find out where common household items come from. Raisa and her two friends open children’s eyes and suggest they learn about things one might take for granted.”

“Traveling *In Place*”

Hot Mama Travel | topic(s): Tabula Raisa™
”As a mama who understands the benefits of traveling with your kids, I also understand that world travel is harder for some families to obtain. Even if you can’t hop on a plane tomorrow to some faraway destination, doesn’t mean your kids can’t learn about the world from home. I’m a big fan of introducing kids to different cultures early in life by traveling in place through local simple activities such as eating diverse foods or attending local cultural festivals. Well, now traveling in place is as simple as reading a bedtime story.”

“Innovative New Education System Set to Whisk Children to 51 Global Destinations”

Exchange Magazine | topic(s): Tabula Raisa™
”A Renaissance man and son of two career educators, Eric S. Townsend was shocked to learn that established booksellers stocked very few titles to assist young children with exploring the world. He set out to augment that collection. Tabula Raisa™encourages a simple departure which can then expand horizons. Pique curiosity, spark creativity, build consideration, and boost a child’s confidence. The results can be spectacular.”

“Kickstarter Re-post”

Richard Haberkern Website | topic(s): Tabula Raisa™
”Join Raisa and friends as they travel to an international destination, meet an artisan, and learn to appreciate craftsmanship.”

“Publisher Announcement”

Mascot Books | topic(s): Tabula Raisa™
”The first product from the Tabula Raisa™ education series, the limited edition Destination Dhaka book, is now available for pre-order.”

“Interview with Tabula Raisa Creator Eric S. Townsend”

Radio Hotline | topic(s): Tabula Raisa™
”On March 17, 2015 I spoke with Eric S. Townsend, author and artist behind Tabula Raisa. It’s a new children’s book that he marketed through Kickstarter, the crowdsourcing platform. He shares insights from his experience.”