Printable Binder Covers

I have 3 kids in school this coming year (7th, 9th and 11th grade). Let me just tell you that they have used A LOT of binders over the years.

Here's a quick tip, check your local thrift stores year round and pick up any binders in good condition. Shopping at your local office supply store gets real pricey when you need to buy multiple 2-3" binders.

When shopping in your local second hand/thrift store make sure they are in good shape and will last. They can't be ripping at the sides and they must close well.  My kids prefer that they have a clear front pocket to add their own cover to make it personalized.

Since there were so many cute designs out there, I thought I would share a few that you can print out and use from sites all over their web. There are so many more. This is just a sampling. Enjoy!

TheCutestBlogOnTheBlock.com

Template.net/design-templates/print/binder-cover-template/

SweetSweetSecondGrade.blogspot.com/2013/07/binder-covers-anyone.html

ClassroomDoodles.com/binder-covers.html

DIY.MyFeed.info/binder-cover-coloring-pages/

HowDoesShe.com/printable-binder-covers-to-color/

Stage-Presents.com/tag/back-to-school-binder-covers/

Should Taking Your Kids Out Of School For Family Vacation Be Illegal?

I was watching the Today Show the other day and one segment really surprised me. You can see it here. Apparently in some states it is "illegal" to take your kids out of school to go on a family vacation. Really?!?

If the kid misses a month of school maybe, but a week or less absolutely not.   As long as the parent knows that it is the family's responsibility to get caught back up to the class. 

The teacher would be copying all the handouts anyways. Honestly, how much time would it take to put them in a paper clip or folder for when the kid returns. 

What is your opinion on this?

Help Your Kids Ace Their Exams

Mid year exams are quickly approaching and I was searching for a way to help my daughter ace her very first exams.

Here are some sure fire ways to great on tests or exams that your children could benefit from also.

1. Use a Rhyme or Song
Make it fun and it's more likely to be remembered. Anyone remember "School House Rock"? Look at this video to learn the quadratic formula set to Pop Goes the Weasel.

2. Youtube.com
Search for videos on key topics you are studying.  Sometimes just hearing a difficult subject explained by someone else will help give you the Ah-ha moment.

3. Flashcards
Use index cards or an app on your smart phone.  Chegg Flashcards, Quizlet and StudyBlue are all good applications for your phone or tablet that will help you study from any location.

4. Breaks
Get up and leave your study area. Eat a healthy snack, get a drink (caffeine?!?), go for a walk, or just veg out in front of the television a few minutes. Stretch your legs or do a little yoga. Just give your brain and body a break.

5. Classical or Ambient Music
Some people benefit from having background noise. Soft music can help students feel less anxious about the task at hand.

6. Take Your Time
Plan ahead and don't cram all your studying into one night. Review for a short time each day will work much better.

7. A Good Night's Sleep & Healthy Breakfast
That is really important to get a good night's sleep and a healthy breakfast with some protein. Some whole wheat toast peanut or almond butter and a piece of fruit will help you feel full but won't upset a queasy stomach.