Developing children’s communication skills is one of the cornerstones of FasTracKids’ curriculum. The goal is if communication improves in the classroom, then the chance of making children even better students increases. Research shows that the average child misses 25% of what is being said in a normal classroom setting. That number can go as high as 40% in lost communication, depending on the classroom environment.

Teacher Appreciation Week (May 7-11th) is almost upon us and as I reflect on what makes a good teacher, I recall 7th grade with Mrs. Popick as my Social Studies teacher.  Just typing her name brings a smile to my face.  She was, without a doubt, the most challenging, knowledgeable, dedicated and committed teacher that I had ever met.

When FasTracKids conducts training for new franchisees and reiterates the importance of the programs, we share insights from The Global Achievement Gap book. Author and education expert, Tony Wagner, conducted interviews with business leaders asking them what skills are necessary when hiring young employees today.

There are many benefits for children who learn more than one language. Bilingual students are exposed to different perspectives, ideas and cultures. A second language can offer a child new opportunities for self-expression. For students who speak a different language at home than the primary language spoken at their school, bilingual education can be a source for increased self-esteem. In the long term, speaking more than one language may mitigate the effects, or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

Sharing, listening, belonging, communicating. These actions and feelings can all be associated with how a child learns an important life skill called socialization. During the critical developmental period of a child’s life, from birth to 8 years old, relationships are created with his or her parents, siblings and friends. These relationships require a bond, whether it’s reading a book, sharing a toy or playing a game. The more social interaction a child can experience, the easier it is for them to achieve shared goals.

This past weekend I was at my local store buying groceries for the week. I did not have my child with me, so I could casually listen as other parents interacted with their children. I overheard one conversation between a mom and her 2-year-old daughter that brought a smile to my face.

It is fascinating to watch a preschooler at play. Their energy, focus and imagination cannot be duplicated in the adult world. A four year old does not understand the courage it takes to create a work of art or produce a sculpture out of playdough; those fears and inhibitions only come with age. Sara Gable, a State Extension Specialist at The University of Missouri writes about the importance of encouraging creativity in children and ideas for promoting creativity in young children.

As our world has become more of a global economy, there are many things to learn outside of the local culture. One of the more important skill sets in understanding other cultures and communities is by learning their language.