https://www.loudspeaker.org/programs/boys-built-better?ref=rssA bi-weekly show dedicated to parenting boys.Boys Built Better is bringing you experts in all areas of parenting boys, from the normal everyday parenting stuff to big current day issues. Join me so we all can live a slightly saner life and do better for our boys, one episode at a time. Part of the Loudspeaker family. Hear more at https://www.loudspeaker.org.Boys Built Better is bringing you experts in all areas of parenting boys, from the normal everyday parenting stuff to big current day issues. Join me so we all can live a slightly saner life and do better for our boys, one episode at a time. Part of the Loudspeaker family. Hear more at https://www.loudspeaker.org.enen© 2026 Loudspeaker Studioshello@loudspeaker.org (Jessica Crow and Loudspeaker Studios)OykuJessica Crow and Loudspeaker StudiosJessica Crow and Loudspeaker StudiosJessica Crow and Loudspeaker Studioshello@loudspeaker.orgJessica Crow and Loudspeaker Studioshello@loudspeaker.orgyeshttps://my.loudspeaker.org/?ref=boys-built-betterFort Collins, CO, USApodcastepisodichttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1384/Boys-Built-Better-Pod.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/programs/boys-built-better?ref=rssnonoKids & FamilySociety & CultureyesThu, 25 Jun 2026 16:18:16 -0600Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:18:16 -0600Jessica CrowFamily and Show UpdatesTune in for an update on where my family is now vs. when Boys Built Better started two years ago. There is more details in the episode, but for now, this is our last regularly scheduled show. Be sure to subscribe or like us on Facebook or Instagram for updates on new episodes. https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/ https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/Tune in for an update on where my family is now vs. when Boys Built Better started two years ago. There is more details in the episode, but for now, this is our last regularly scheduled show. Be sure to subscribe or like us on Facebook or Instagram for updates on new episodes. https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/ https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-032-family-and-show-updates-16107449?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orgc59ea929-2580-4269-b665-147c640123b8Wed, 09 Oct 2019 14:00:00 -060022441344fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1315/435da439dd069e36ff1c9f00d9749ae6.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-032-family-and-show-updates-16107449?ref=rssnonoJessica CrownonoTune in for an update on where my family is now vs. when Boys Built Better started two years ago. There is more details in the episode, but for now, this is our last regularly scheduled show. Be sure to subscribe or like us on Facebook or Instagram f...Vaping 101Vaping has been all over the news lately, but if you are raising a young adult vaping has probably been something that they have been exposed to for a lot longer than the recent headlines. Today I am chatting with health educator Christa Timmerman about the basics of vaping, its health concerns and how to talk to you child. Show Notes and LinksFor more information on vaping check out: https://www.larimerhealth.org/vapingFor resources on how to help you child quit visit: https://www.larimerhealth.org/youthquitDoes your child want to become a youth advocate? Check out: https://youthactionforhealth.comLike Boys Built Better on https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/ or follow us at https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/Timestamps •What is an e-cigarette (3:56) •Why is vaping so interesting to teens? (8:18) •Vaping rates in boys (10:00) •What regulations are in place to protect kids? (11:57) •Health Risks associated with vaping (15:36) •Recent Headlines (18:11) •What addiction really means (21:20) •How can parents prevent vaping (22:13) •Vaping in the community (24:24) •What to do if you find vaping products (25:24) •Does vaping hlep smokers quit? (26:38)Vaping has been all over the news lately, but if you are raising a young adult vaping has probably been something that they have been exposed to for a lot longer than the recent headlines. Today I am chatting with health educator Christa Timmerman about the basics of vaping, its health concerns and how to talk to you child. Show Notes and LinksFor more information on vaping check out: https://www.larimerhealth.org/vapingFor resources on how to help you child quit visit: https://www.larimerhealth.org/youthquitDoes your child want to become a youth advocate? Check out: https://youthactionforhealth.comLike Boys Built Better on https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/ or follow us at https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/Timestamps •What is an e-cigarette (3:56) •Why is vaping so interesting to teens? (8:18) •Vaping rates in boys (10:00) •What regulations are in place to protect kids? (11:57) •Health Risks associated with vaping (15:36) •Recent Headlines (18:11) •What addiction really means (21:20) •How can parents prevent vaping (22:13) •Vaping in the community (24:24) •What to do if you find vaping products (25:24) •Does vaping hlep smokers quit? (26:38)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-031-vaping-101-46126601?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orgb9e8c05c-23ed-4f19-8d16-6b279d6dafe1Wed, 25 Sep 2019 13:59:00 -060022331802fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1316/7a868b00fe97f96544845dba3810013b.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-031-vaping-101-46126601?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowChrista TimmermannonoVaping has been all over the news lately, but if you are raising a young adult vaping has probably been something that they have been exposed to for a lot longer than the recent headlines. Today I am chatting with health educator Christa Timmerman abo...Tough Conversations with Your Kids (Part 2)Boys Built Better returns on Loudspeaker with part two of our conversation recorded live at Heyday Fort Collins with guest Kori Wilford. Learn more about how to have tough conversations with your kids.Boys Built Better returns on Loudspeaker with part two of our conversation recorded live at Heyday Fort Collins with guest Kori Wilford. Learn more about how to have tough conversations with your kids.https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-030-tough-conversations-with-your-kids-part-2-88802374?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orgd1674929-b297-4af2-b267-cc1fa25fa465Wed, 11 Sep 2019 14:00:00 -060022222928fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1317/0fcb7b58f8bad862af786473d4bb7304.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-030-tough-conversations-with-your-kids-part-2-88802374?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowKori WilfordnonoBoys Built Better returns on Loudspeaker with part two of our conversation recorded live at Heyday Fort Collins with guest Kori Wilford. Learn more about how to have tough conversations with your kids....Tough Conversations with Your Kids (Part 1)Earlier this summer, I was asked by my neighbor and friend Jennifer Little if I would speak at her shop Hey Day as part of its Hey Day grows series. We’d had several conversations about raising kids at our neighborhood get togethers and decided that it was information worth sharing.Would I speak alone? Oh, no! I reached out to my resident conversation expert and previous guest Kori Wilford. In this episode, we tackle how to talk to your kids about tough things while also respecting their curiosity and their right to know. The longer I host this show, the more I learn that this, above all other parenting topics, is the heart of our relationships with our kids.Want more Kori? Check out our original episode on talking to your kids about sex: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/podcast/creating-sexually-healthy-boys-of-all-ages-and-talking-to-your-son-about-sex/Want more Jen? Check out Hey Day online: https://theheydaystore.com/ https://www.instagram.com/theheydaystore/Want more Boys Built Better? Follow us: https://www.boysbuiltbetter.com/ https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/ https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Earlier this summer, I was asked by my neighbor and friend Jennifer Little if I would speak at her shop Hey Day as part of its Hey Day grows series. We’d had several conversations about raising kids at our neighborhood get togethers and decided that it was information worth sharing.Would I speak alone? Oh, no! I reached out to my resident conversation expert and previous guest Kori Wilford. In this episode, we tackle how to talk to your kids about tough things while also respecting their curiosity and their right to know. The longer I host this show, the more I learn that this, above all other parenting topics, is the heart of our relationships with our kids.Want more Kori? Check out our original episode on talking to your kids about sex: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/podcast/creating-sexually-healthy-boys-of-all-ages-and-talking-to-your-son-about-sex/Want more Jen? Check out Hey Day online: https://theheydaystore.com/ https://www.instagram.com/theheydaystore/Want more Boys Built Better? Follow us: https://www.boysbuiltbetter.com/ https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/ https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-029-tough-conversations-with-your-kids-part-1-53671594?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orge4f748e9-3f06-437d-9bb4-a12605ee7d21Wed, 28 Aug 2019 14:00:00 -060022113588fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1318/5dc10ea5fd1b1d2e575b479558552a25.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-029-tough-conversations-with-your-kids-part-1-53671594?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowKori WilfordnonoEarlier this summer, I was asked by my neighbor and friend Jennifer Little if I would speak at her shop Hey Day as part of its Hey Day grows series. We’d had several conversations about raising kids at our neighborhood get togethers and decided that...Starting Middle School (Rebroadcast)Reposting an episode from last summer about transitioning to middle school. In addition to my chat with parent Erin Dirvonas, I’m reflecting on how my son did during his first year. Listening to this again, it’s amazing how much stuff that she mentioned also came up for us. Is your child heading into middle school? Get prepped with this episode.Topics• The sixth-grade experience • Similarities to Elementary? • Teacher Communication • Developing Independence • Lunch Questions • Dealing with the locker • Time Management • Learning to speak for yourself • Picking an instrument • All the girls • Changing throughout the year/ grades • What to prepare for ahead of time • Learning to contemplate and expand ideas • Devices and social media • Parenting through middle schoolReposting an episode from last summer about transitioning to middle school. In addition to my chat with parent Erin Dirvonas, I’m reflecting on how my son did during his first year. Listening to this again, it’s amazing how much stuff that she mentioned also came up for us. Is your child heading into middle school? Get prepped with this episode.Topics• The sixth-grade experience • Similarities to Elementary? • Teacher Communication • Developing Independence • Lunch Questions • Dealing with the locker • Time Management • Learning to speak for yourself • Picking an instrument • All the girls • Changing throughout the year/ grades • What to prepare for ahead of time • Learning to contemplate and expand ideas • Devices and social media • Parenting through middle schoolhttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-028-starting-middle-school-rebroadcast-74749902?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org3d391f3c-89e1-4e3e-9735-ab41b9c235b3Wed, 31 Jul 2019 14:00:00 -06001128282582bonushttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1319/7a1039366b35cce72a2da3bc68773b8e.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-028-starting-middle-school-rebroadcast-74749902?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowErin DirvonasnonoReposting an episode from last summer about transitioning to middle school. In addition to my chat with parent Erin Dirvonas, I’m reflecting on how my son did during his first year. Listening to this again, it’s amazing how much stuff that she me...Transitioning to Elementary School (Rebroadcast)Re-airing last year’s episode about transitioning your child to kindergarten. Last year I was working really hard to get my youngest prepared and am know happy to report back that he had a great, successful year. Is your own child about to start elementary school? From academics to independence skills, we’ve got a lot of great tips on how to make the transition a success.Looking for some last minute prep ideas? Find recommended workbooks at: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/education/best-workbooks-for-pre-k-children/The easy way I taught my middle son to tie shoes is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5b0PiWo5rC4My favorite lunchbox is can be found at: https://amzn.to/2lgav6LRe-airing last year’s episode about transitioning your child to kindergarten. Last year I was working really hard to get my youngest prepared and am know happy to report back that he had a great, successful year. Is your own child about to start elementary school? From academics to independence skills, we’ve got a lot of great tips on how to make the transition a success.Looking for some last minute prep ideas? Find recommended workbooks at: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/education/best-workbooks-for-pre-k-children/The easy way I taught my middle son to tie shoes is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5b0PiWo5rC4My favorite lunchbox is can be found at: https://amzn.to/2lgav6Lhttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-027-transitioning-to-elementary-school-rebroadcast-52023674?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org656345ac-9f36-4450-8fd0-acaa008d17b6Wed, 17 Jul 2019 14:00:00 -06001127272022bonushttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1320/8e33729a8f86983ecf411504ebf32c6c.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-027-transitioning-to-elementary-school-rebroadcast-52023674?ref=rssnonoJessica CrownonoRe-airing last year’s episode about transitioning your child to kindergarten. Last year I was working really hard to get my youngest prepared and am know happy to report back that he had a great, successful year. Is your own child about to start elem...Talking to Kids (of All Ages) About Sex (Rebroadcast)Re-airing one of the most informative episodes of the show to date. I recently spoke with Kori at an event regarding having tough conversations with your kids. While we recorded that event and it will be available as an episode in the fall, we had so many people reach out to us regretting that they couldn’t be there I thought I would re-air Kori and I’s first conversation.We are talking to Kori Wilford, a public health educator with the Larimer County Department of Health on how to raise sexually healthy boys and how to initiate that conversation early and often.From the definition of sexual health, to today’s research, to what to teach at all ages, this episode is not only fascinating but filled with great information and practical tips on how to tackle this conversation no matter how old your child is.Recommended Resources:It’s Perfectly Normal by Robie Harris https://amzn.to/2Lx8JJtWhat’s the Big Secret?: Talking about Sex with Girls and Boys by Laurie Krasny Brown https://amzn.to/2Lw6RRmWhat’s Happening to my Body? Book for Boys by Lynda Madaras https://amzn.to/2JkBtClAdvocates for Youth Parent Sex Ed Center http://www.advocatesforyouth.org/parents-sex-ed-center-homeProduct links on this post may be sponsored/non-sponsored affiliate links. Boys Built Better will receive a small percentage of any purchase you make after clicking such links. There is no extra cost or charges to you.Re-airing one of the most informative episodes of the show to date. I recently spoke with Kori at an event regarding having tough conversations with your kids. While we recorded that event and it will be available as an episode in the fall, we had so many people reach out to us regretting that they couldn’t be there I thought I would re-air Kori and I’s first conversation.We are talking to Kori Wilford, a public health educator with the Larimer County Department of Health on how to raise sexually healthy boys and how to initiate that conversation early and often.From the definition of sexual health, to today’s research, to what to teach at all ages, this episode is not only fascinating but filled with great information and practical tips on how to tackle this conversation no matter how old your child is.Recommended Resources:It’s Perfectly Normal by Robie Harris https://amzn.to/2Lx8JJtWhat’s the Big Secret?: Talking about Sex with Girls and Boys by Laurie Krasny Brown https://amzn.to/2Lw6RRmWhat’s Happening to my Body? Book for Boys by Lynda Madaras https://amzn.to/2JkBtClAdvocates for Youth Parent Sex Ed Center http://www.advocatesforyouth.org/parents-sex-ed-center-homeProduct links on this post may be sponsored/non-sponsored affiliate links. Boys Built Better will receive a small percentage of any purchase you make after clicking such links. There is no extra cost or charges to you.https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-026-talking-to-kids-of-all-ages-about-sex-rebroadcast-64030709?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org23a52db9-ab63-4e8c-a684-0a70c6080197Wed, 03 Jul 2019 15:32:00 -06001126263469bonushttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1321/49617ca4d7db9beef3ff66c266290eed.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-026-talking-to-kids-of-all-ages-about-sex-rebroadcast-64030709?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowKori WilfordnonoRe-airing one of the most informative episodes of the show to date. I recently spoke with Kori at an event regarding having tough conversations with your kids. While we recorded that event and it will be available as an episode in the fall, we had so...Patreon and Our Personal Story of DepressionA few weeks ago, I talked with Dr. Hector De Leon about adolescent depression. During that episode I mentioned our own experience with depression but in an effort to get his information out, I didn’t say much about our personal story. Today I am chatting about what it was like to go through that with my son and how you can hear more personal stories of ours going forward.Show Notes and LinksWant to hear more exclusive audio on Patreon? Sign up to support us: https://www.patreon.com/boysbuiltbetterIf you haven’t already check out our interview with Dr. Hector DeLeon on Adolescent Depression: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/education/e22-depression-in-young-children-and-adolescents/Check out Kaiser Permanente’s site on depression including a self-assessment tool: https://findyourwords.orgWant more Boys Built Better? https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/ https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/A few weeks ago, I talked with Dr. Hector De Leon about adolescent depression. During that episode I mentioned our own experience with depression but in an effort to get his information out, I didn’t say much about our personal story. Today I am chatting about what it was like to go through that with my son and how you can hear more personal stories of ours going forward.Show Notes and LinksWant to hear more exclusive audio on Patreon? Sign up to support us: https://www.patreon.com/boysbuiltbetterIf you haven’t already check out our interview with Dr. Hector DeLeon on Adolescent Depression: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/education/e22-depression-in-young-children-and-adolescents/Check out Kaiser Permanente’s site on depression including a self-assessment tool: https://findyourwords.orgWant more Boys Built Better? https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/ https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-025-patreon-and-our-personal-story-of-depression-10996782?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orge26a08b8-a334-4cb2-9c9a-8b24a2fe02e9Wed, 19 Jun 2019 14:40:00 -06001125251174fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1322/7e0c2f7542e69a1d3399262352cca93b.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-025-patreon-and-our-personal-story-of-depression-10996782?ref=rssnonoJessica CrownonoA few weeks ago, I talked with Dr. Hector De Leon about adolescent depression. During that episode I mentioned our own experience with depression but in an effort to get his information out, I didn’t say much about our personal story. Today I am ch...Boys Beyond The Ball - Choir and Vocal PerformanceThis time last year, my oldest son chose choir as his middle school arts elective. At this time, I think he chose it because he thought it was the easy route out (he was not a fan of the practice requirements of band). A year later and he not only performs in his grade level choir but an extra-curricular choir as well AND practices at home without being asked. Always shy and never the child that I thought was a performer, he blossomed in choir in ways that I never expected and it is joy to watch him perform.In another episode of our Boys Beyond the Ball series (episodes that highlight the experience and benefits of activities outside of standard team sports) today we are talking to Joseph Perron, choir director at Lesher Middle School in Fort Collins, about what it is like having participated in music as a child, the benefits choir can have on boys today and both the expected and unexpected skills that one grows as a result.Topics• Participating in music as a child (3:33) • What commitment to music looks like (7:38) • How music helps boys in adolescence (11:52) • Middle choir programs (19:01) • Challenges boys face today (24:30) • Skills that being in a choir grows (32:35) • Unexpected skills gained by boys in choir (36:36) Want more Boys Built Better?Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/This time last year, my oldest son chose choir as his middle school arts elective. At this time, I think he chose it because he thought it was the easy route out (he was not a fan of the practice requirements of band). A year later and he not only performs in his grade level choir but an extra-curricular choir as well AND practices at home without being asked. Always shy and never the child that I thought was a performer, he blossomed in choir in ways that I never expected and it is joy to watch him perform.In another episode of our Boys Beyond the Ball series (episodes that highlight the experience and benefits of activities outside of standard team sports) today we are talking to Joseph Perron, choir director at Lesher Middle School in Fort Collins, about what it is like having participated in music as a child, the benefits choir can have on boys today and both the expected and unexpected skills that one grows as a result.Topics• Participating in music as a child (3:33) • What commitment to music looks like (7:38) • How music helps boys in adolescence (11:52) • Middle choir programs (19:01) • Challenges boys face today (24:30) • Skills that being in a choir grows (32:35) • Unexpected skills gained by boys in choir (36:36) Want more Boys Built Better?Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-024-boys-beyond-the-ball-choir-and-vocal-performance-92915466?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org810efd7a-8a4b-4ba1-88f1-ced11d1c512bWed, 05 Jun 2019 14:00:00 -06001124242747fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1323/3ef1bf481144a23c36382f4320a20f68.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-024-boys-beyond-the-ball-choir-and-vocal-performance-92915466?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowJoseph PerronnonoThis time last year, my oldest son chose choir as his middle school arts elective. At this time, I think he chose it because he thought it was the easy route out (he was not a fan of the practice requirements of band). A year later and he not only per...Keeping Up with Academics in the SummerEvery time that summer rolls around, I make plan on how to keep my kid engaged over the next three months. This year, more than ever I am thinking about how the “summer slide” and how to keep up with academics. Find out the latest research on what kids lose over the summer and how I’m working to prevent that this year.Topics • What is the Summer Slide (0:45) • Why I am thinking about it (1:55) • Research Behind it (8:39) • Our plan (22:23) • Academic Options for Early Elementary (28:01) • Academic Options for Upper Elementary (31:27) • Academic Options for Middle School (33:57) • The BBB Summer Challenge (38:52)Show Notes and Links • Check out the Summer Reading Challenge Grand Prize https://amzn.to/2YCQlSD • Science kit to try for Science Friday https://amzn.to/2HsGTvx • Read Aloud for older children https://amzn.to/2WfIdtN • Get two books free for trying Audible https://amzn.to/2HuX4bS • Research on Summer Learning Loss https://www.nwea.org/blog/2018/summer-learning-loss-what-we-know-what-were-learning/ http://ideas.time.com/2013/07/01/do-kids-really-have-summer-learning-loss/ • Research on Summer Math Loss https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/16/06/summer-math-loss or https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2015/10/bedtime-problems-boost-kids-math-performance • Electronic Math Games https://www.prodigygame.com • E-tools for Reading https://www.getepic.com • Printable Math Facts http://www.nebo.edu/resources/math/pages/fastfacts/fastfacts.htmWant more Boys Built Better? Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/ Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/ Get full episode notes at https://boysbuiltbetter.com/Every time that summer rolls around, I make plan on how to keep my kid engaged over the next three months. This year, more than ever I am thinking about how the “summer slide” and how to keep up with academics. Find out the latest research on what kids lose over the summer and how I’m working to prevent that this year.Topics • What is the Summer Slide (0:45) • Why I am thinking about it (1:55) • Research Behind it (8:39) • Our plan (22:23) • Academic Options for Early Elementary (28:01) • Academic Options for Upper Elementary (31:27) • Academic Options for Middle School (33:57) • The BBB Summer Challenge (38:52)Show Notes and Links • Check out the Summer Reading Challenge Grand Prize https://amzn.to/2YCQlSD • Science kit to try for Science Friday https://amzn.to/2HsGTvx • Read Aloud for older children https://amzn.to/2WfIdtN • Get two books free for trying Audible https://amzn.to/2HuX4bS • Research on Summer Learning Loss https://www.nwea.org/blog/2018/summer-learning-loss-what-we-know-what-were-learning/ http://ideas.time.com/2013/07/01/do-kids-really-have-summer-learning-loss/ • Research on Summer Math Loss https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/16/06/summer-math-loss or https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2015/10/bedtime-problems-boost-kids-math-performance • Electronic Math Games https://www.prodigygame.com • E-tools for Reading https://www.getepic.com • Printable Math Facts http://www.nebo.edu/resources/math/pages/fastfacts/fastfacts.htmWant more Boys Built Better? Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/ Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/ Get full episode notes at https://boysbuiltbetter.com/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-023-keeping-up-with-academics-in-the-summer-99439198?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org6f41c32c-0b33-4dbd-ac21-1d34d6b2ce1fWed, 22 May 2019 14:00:00 -06001123232463fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1324/c7e78c764b4eb1907eebc1519f97d117.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-023-keeping-up-with-academics-in-the-summer-99439198?ref=rssnonoJessica CrownonoEvery time that summer rolls around, I make plan on how to keep my kid engaged over the next three months. This year, more than ever I am thinking about how the “summer slide” and how to keep up with academics. Find out the latest research on wha...Depression in Children and Adolescents“As many as 1 in every 5 teens experience depression at some point during adolescence, but they often go undiagnosed and untreated.” My own son was diagnosed with depression at the age of 11, but he had been suffering for probably a year before that diagnosis. As a parent, I had an inkling but wasn’t sure and really didn’t know at what point to seek help and certainly didn’t know what to expect when finally making that appointment. Today I am speaking with pediatrician Dr. Hector De Leon about depression in children and adolescents. We are chatting about what depression is, its symptoms, how it’s diagnosed and what treatment looks like. From stigma to how to talk to your kids about it, Dr. De Leon covers everything you need to know to identify depression and get your child the help he needs.Topics• Understanding depression (4:50) • How depression is different in children (8:66) • Symptoms of depression (10:46) • Depression in older children vs. younger children (12:35) • How depression progresses (13:45) • Boys and depression (17:50) • How and When to seek a diagnosis (21:50) • How depression is diagnosed (24:06) • Related Conditions (25:38) • How to talk to your kids (27:00) • Treatment options (29:20) • Reoccurrence (34:44) • Resources (38:09)Show Notes and Links• Head over to https://findyourwords.org to check out Kaiser Permanente’s site on depression including a self-assessment tool • The CDC has several pages dedicated to depression check out the childhood depression page at https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/depression.html • The American Academy of pediatrics also has several pages on depression that can be accessed at https://www.aap.org/ including this article by Nerrisa S. Bauer that I pulled the above quote from available at https://www.aap.org/en-us/aap-voices/Pages/Adolescent-Depression.aspx • Want more Boys Built Better? Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/ or follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/ • Get full episode notes at https://boysbuiltbetter.com/“As many as 1 in every 5 teens experience depression at some point during adolescence, but they often go undiagnosed and untreated.” My own son was diagnosed with depression at the age of 11, but he had been suffering for probably a year before that diagnosis. As a parent, I had an inkling but wasn’t sure and really didn’t know at what point to seek help and certainly didn’t know what to expect when finally making that appointment. Today I am speaking with pediatrician Dr. Hector De Leon about depression in children and adolescents. We are chatting about what depression is, its symptoms, how it’s diagnosed and what treatment looks like. From stigma to how to talk to your kids about it, Dr. De Leon covers everything you need to know to identify depression and get your child the help he needs.Topics• Understanding depression (4:50) • How depression is different in children (8:66) • Symptoms of depression (10:46) • Depression in older children vs. younger children (12:35) • How depression progresses (13:45) • Boys and depression (17:50) • How and When to seek a diagnosis (21:50) • How depression is diagnosed (24:06) • Related Conditions (25:38) • How to talk to your kids (27:00) • Treatment options (29:20) • Reoccurrence (34:44) • Resources (38:09)Show Notes and Links• Head over to https://findyourwords.org to check out Kaiser Permanente’s site on depression including a self-assessment tool • The CDC has several pages dedicated to depression check out the childhood depression page at https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/depression.html • The American Academy of pediatrics also has several pages on depression that can be accessed at https://www.aap.org/ including this article by Nerrisa S. Bauer that I pulled the above quote from available at https://www.aap.org/en-us/aap-voices/Pages/Adolescent-Depression.aspx • Want more Boys Built Better? Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/ or follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/boysbuiltbetter/ • Get full episode notes at https://boysbuiltbetter.com/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-022-depression-in-children-and-adolescents-64334920?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org26f5646e-23f4-42f9-900b-1a578d447c60Wed, 08 May 2019 14:00:00 -06001122222488fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1325/b7f5603c675b75bffa310a8e8007be5d.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-022-depression-in-children-and-adolescents-64334920?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowDr. Hector De Leonnono“As many as 1 in every 5 teens experience depression at some point during adolescence, but they often go undiagnosed and untreated.” My own son was diagnosed with depression at the age of 11, but he had been suffering for probably a year before tha...Raising Boys in an Era of #MeTooWhile planning content with SAVA for our consent series, the topic of boys in the era of #MeToo came up. I had seen some posts on social media raising concern for boys today and they had me wondering. Is it harder to be a boy today? What effect does the #MeToo movement have on men? And on parents raising boys? Today I am chatting with Brett Naylor of the SAVA Center on what it means to be a man today.Topics• What the #metoo movement is (2:50) • Its significance (5:25) • What does #metoo mean to men (7:26) • Is it more dangerous to be a man today? (10:15) • Fake accusations (11:58) • Parenting Boys (17:50) • Men Too (20:07) • Terry Crews (25:13) • Fathers (30:59) • Supporting Survivors (33:26) • Resources (38:50)Show Notes and LinksFor more on Terry Crews’ story: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/arts-and-entertainment/wp/2017/11/15/i-will-not-be-shamed-actor-terry-crews-details-his-alleged-sexual-assault/For sexual violence support outside of Northern Colorado visit: https://www.rainn.orgThe national domestic violence hotline: https://www.thehotline.org/The national suicide hotline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.orgThe SAVA Center: http://savacenter.org Want more Boys Built Better? Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/While planning content with SAVA for our consent series, the topic of boys in the era of #MeToo came up. I had seen some posts on social media raising concern for boys today and they had me wondering. Is it harder to be a boy today? What effect does the #MeToo movement have on men? And on parents raising boys? Today I am chatting with Brett Naylor of the SAVA Center on what it means to be a man today.Topics• What the #metoo movement is (2:50) • Its significance (5:25) • What does #metoo mean to men (7:26) • Is it more dangerous to be a man today? (10:15) • Fake accusations (11:58) • Parenting Boys (17:50) • Men Too (20:07) • Terry Crews (25:13) • Fathers (30:59) • Supporting Survivors (33:26) • Resources (38:50)Show Notes and LinksFor more on Terry Crews’ story: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/arts-and-entertainment/wp/2017/11/15/i-will-not-be-shamed-actor-terry-crews-details-his-alleged-sexual-assault/For sexual violence support outside of Northern Colorado visit: https://www.rainn.orgThe national domestic violence hotline: https://www.thehotline.org/The national suicide hotline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.orgThe SAVA Center: http://savacenter.org Want more Boys Built Better? Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-021-raising-boys-in-an-era-of-metoo-39969455?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orga691ebf9-b977-4e5e-a512-297fbc7c9debWed, 24 Apr 2019 14:00:00 -06001121212489fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1326/951640ba87645fbdcac7ad746336e598.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-021-raising-boys-in-an-era-of-metoo-39969455?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowBrett NaylornonoWhile planning content with SAVA for our consent series, the topic of boys in the era of #MeToo came up. I had seen some posts on social media raising concern for boys today and they had me wondering. Is it harder to be a boy today? What effect does ...Teaching Children of All Ages About ConsentIn honor of Sexual Assault Prevention Month, today we are talking about teaching your children about consent. The idea of consent has been coming up a lot in the media lately, so much so that now it can be added to the list of things that SHOULD be talked about with your children. What I love about this conversation is that it really highlights how consent education not only develops an understanding of the what consents is and how to ask, but also helps to create your child’s own body autonomy and better self-awareness.Topics:* How a Perpetrator is Created (3:50) * Approaching Consent with Kids (10:47) * Talking About Consent at Every Age (17:18) * Body Autonomy (20:46) * Normal Development and Red Flags (25:33) * Media’s Influence (32:31) * What Kids See vs. Reality (39:35) * Programs SAVA Teaches (44:18) * Community Involvement (46:12) * Resources (48:30)Show Notes and Links:How is consent like a cup of tea? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGoWLWS4-kUFor the previous episode on understanding assault, harassment and consent: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/podcast/understanding-harassment-assault-and-consent/For our episode on how to talk to your kids about sex: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/podcast/creating-sexually-healthy-boys-of-all-ages-and-talking-to-your-son-about-sex/For more information on the text lines mentioned: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-rocky-mountains/information-teens/icyc-case-youre-curious https://www.loveisrespect.org/Contact the SAVA Center: http://savacenter.org Want more Boys Built Better? https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/In honor of Sexual Assault Prevention Month, today we are talking about teaching your children about consent. The idea of consent has been coming up a lot in the media lately, so much so that now it can be added to the list of things that SHOULD be talked about with your children. What I love about this conversation is that it really highlights how consent education not only develops an understanding of the what consents is and how to ask, but also helps to create your child’s own body autonomy and better self-awareness.Topics:* How a Perpetrator is Created (3:50) * Approaching Consent with Kids (10:47) * Talking About Consent at Every Age (17:18) * Body Autonomy (20:46) * Normal Development and Red Flags (25:33) * Media’s Influence (32:31) * What Kids See vs. Reality (39:35) * Programs SAVA Teaches (44:18) * Community Involvement (46:12) * Resources (48:30)Show Notes and Links:How is consent like a cup of tea? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGoWLWS4-kUFor the previous episode on understanding assault, harassment and consent: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/podcast/understanding-harassment-assault-and-consent/For our episode on how to talk to your kids about sex: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/podcast/creating-sexually-healthy-boys-of-all-ages-and-talking-to-your-son-about-sex/For more information on the text lines mentioned: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-rocky-mountains/information-teens/icyc-case-youre-curious https://www.loveisrespect.org/Contact the SAVA Center: http://savacenter.org Want more Boys Built Better? https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-020-teaching-children-of-all-ages-about-consent-49138126?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org8601d4bd-87ca-4b74-8bb2-412e8ce13d9bWed, 10 Apr 2019 14:00:00 -06001120203106fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1327/c50ea2aa2f4d6bf795ece1aed2f19221.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-020-teaching-children-of-all-ages-about-consent-49138126?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowBrett NaylorHannah ButlernonoIn honor of Sexual Assault Prevention Month, today we are talking about teaching your children about consent. The idea of consent has been coming up a lot in the media lately, so much so that now it can be added to the list of things that SHOULD be ta...Understanding Harassment, Assault, and ConsentYou cannot raise boys today without being cognizant of what that means in our current society. Recent events such as the #MeToo movement and the Kavanaugh hearings have placed the topic of consent on the forefront of my mind as a mom of boys. Not only does it mean that as a parent I need to be responsible for teaching about consent to my children, but it also means that I need to be more informed as well. Today I am chatting with Hannah Butler of the SAVA Center and we are defining assault, harassment, and consent as well as discussing how society sets up an environment in which these exist. It’s a topic that you might think you understand, but it is also an ever-changing landscape and something to consider discussing regularly with your child so that you both understand the ramifications of all types of behavior.Topics* Pyramid of Violence (4:25) * Media Involvement (14:44) * How Individuals Can Make a Difference (19:27) * Defining Harassment (21:42) * Defining Assault (25:28) * Title IX (32:48) * Examples of Harassment and Assault (36:50) * Defining Consent (40:28)To view SAVA’s Pyramid of Violence, visit: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Pyramid-of-Violence.jpgHow is consent like a cup of tea? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGoWLWS4-kUFor more info on SAVA Center go to: http://savacenter.org Want more Boys Built Better? Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/You cannot raise boys today without being cognizant of what that means in our current society. Recent events such as the #MeToo movement and the Kavanaugh hearings have placed the topic of consent on the forefront of my mind as a mom of boys. Not only does it mean that as a parent I need to be responsible for teaching about consent to my children, but it also means that I need to be more informed as well. Today I am chatting with Hannah Butler of the SAVA Center and we are defining assault, harassment, and consent as well as discussing how society sets up an environment in which these exist. It’s a topic that you might think you understand, but it is also an ever-changing landscape and something to consider discussing regularly with your child so that you both understand the ramifications of all types of behavior.Topics* Pyramid of Violence (4:25) * Media Involvement (14:44) * How Individuals Can Make a Difference (19:27) * Defining Harassment (21:42) * Defining Assault (25:28) * Title IX (32:48) * Examples of Harassment and Assault (36:50) * Defining Consent (40:28)To view SAVA’s Pyramid of Violence, visit: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Pyramid-of-Violence.jpgHow is consent like a cup of tea? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGoWLWS4-kUFor more info on SAVA Center go to: http://savacenter.org Want more Boys Built Better? Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-019-understanding-harassment-assault-and-consent-17623433?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org36ab78e3-ac45-43b8-96ae-29009319db60Wed, 27 Mar 2019 14:00:00 -06001119193114fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1328/79ddef0d1ed811883c8359c122f3300c.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-019-understanding-harassment-assault-and-consent-17623433?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowHannah ButlernonoYou cannot raise boys today without being cognizant of what that means in our current society. Recent events such as the #MeToo movement and the Kavanaugh hearings have placed the topic of consent on the forefront of my mind as a mom of boys. Not only...Coming Out and Supporting Your Son's SexualityWhen does a child who is gay start to realize that? And what does coming out look like from both that boy’s perspective and his parents? Today we are chatting with my friend Leslie Lubell and her son Eli about one story from two perspectives. From bullies, to bravery, today’s episode will shed light on what it feels like to realize you are homosexual and how best to support your child through those early days.Topics* Coming Out as a Child (4:23) * At Home vs. At school (9:20) * Advice for other’s in the same position (12:12) * Coping with Bullies (17:04) * Coming Out as a Parent (19:10) * How did you know so young? (38:57) * Advice for parents who are struggling (41:22)Show Notes and LinksTo contribute to Eli’s athletic fundraising campaign visit: https://on.loudspeaker.org/2TIBzuLFor more information about supporting your child visit PFLAG: https://pflag.org Want more Boys Built Better? Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/When does a child who is gay start to realize that? And what does coming out look like from both that boy’s perspective and his parents? Today we are chatting with my friend Leslie Lubell and her son Eli about one story from two perspectives. From bullies, to bravery, today’s episode will shed light on what it feels like to realize you are homosexual and how best to support your child through those early days.Topics* Coming Out as a Child (4:23) * At Home vs. At school (9:20) * Advice for other’s in the same position (12:12) * Coping with Bullies (17:04) * Coming Out as a Parent (19:10) * How did you know so young? (38:57) * Advice for parents who are struggling (41:22)Show Notes and LinksTo contribute to Eli’s athletic fundraising campaign visit: https://on.loudspeaker.org/2TIBzuLFor more information about supporting your child visit PFLAG: https://pflag.org Want more Boys Built Better? Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter/Get full episode notes: https://boysbuiltbetter.com/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-018-coming-out-and-supporting-your-sons-sexuality-91544112?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orgab209795-87d2-4c94-94f6-3d1959c02bd4Wed, 13 Mar 2019 13:00:00 -06001118182958fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1329/f2efbcc0e08a0403e6a498af9809d52c.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-018-coming-out-and-supporting-your-sons-sexuality-91544112?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowLeslie LubellnonoWhen does a child who is gay start to realize that? And what does coming out look like from both that boy’s perspective and his parents? Today we are chatting with my friend Leslie Lubell and her son Eli about one story from two perspectives. From...Talking To and Teaching Boys About MoneyAll the QuestionsMan, have I been fielding a lot of questions about money lately. How much money do we have? Can we buy a Lamborghini? I want to go out to lunch with friends, can you give me some cash? All this talk prompted me to consult the internet for tips and tricks on how to talk to my boys about money and help grow them into financially literate adults.Financial LiteracyDid you know that was a thing? I honestly didn't until a few weeks ago. Being financially literate means that you as an adult have an understanding of things like: budgeting, debt, interest, and saving.Do you know what else? Statistics show that most of us ADULTS are unlikely to be financially literate and that it is not generally being taught in schools. That means that if your kids are going to grow up understanding all the ins and outs of handling money, YOU are going to have to teach them.Today we are talking about what it means to be financially literate and the skills you should possess as well as how to talk to your kids about money (Hint: if you listened to this show on how to talk to kids about sex, money is the same way. It is never too late, and never too early to start.) I also let you in the big debate on how to handle getting money to your kids and what we are doing at our house.Show Notes and Links:Find the definition of financial literacy: https://www.financialeducatorscouncil.org/financial-literacy-definition/For more about the skills needed to be financially literate check out: https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/what-is-financial-literacy https://www.fastweb.com/student-life/articles/the-5-key-components-of-financial-literacyWant to know about how to talk to your kids about money? https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/how-to-talk-to-your-kids-about-money https://childmind.org/article/talking-kids-money/The expert that says allowance is OK: https://slate.com/business/2015/02/kids-allowances-youre-doing-it-completely-wrong.htmlI am currently reading "The Opposite of Spoiled" by Ron Leiber, an expert whose tone as generally resonated with me. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062247026/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=boysbuiltbe04-20Timestamps: Financial Literacy (7:30) Talking to your kids about money (11:59) The allowance debate (21:16) What is working for us (23:45) Looking Ahead (30:30)All the QuestionsMan, have I been fielding a lot of questions about money lately. How much money do we have? Can we buy a Lamborghini? I want to go out to lunch with friends, can you give me some cash? All this talk prompted me to consult the internet for tips and tricks on how to talk to my boys about money and help grow them into financially literate adults.Financial LiteracyDid you know that was a thing? I honestly didn't until a few weeks ago. Being financially literate means that you as an adult have an understanding of things like: budgeting, debt, interest, and saving.Do you know what else? Statistics show that most of us ADULTS are unlikely to be financially literate and that it is not generally being taught in schools. That means that if your kids are going to grow up understanding all the ins and outs of handling money, YOU are going to have to teach them.Today we are talking about what it means to be financially literate and the skills you should possess as well as how to talk to your kids about money (Hint: if you listened to this show on how to talk to kids about sex, money is the same way. It is never too late, and never too early to start.) I also let you in the big debate on how to handle getting money to your kids and what we are doing at our house.Show Notes and Links:Find the definition of financial literacy: https://www.financialeducatorscouncil.org/financial-literacy-definition/For more about the skills needed to be financially literate check out: https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/what-is-financial-literacy https://www.fastweb.com/student-life/articles/the-5-key-components-of-financial-literacyWant to know about how to talk to your kids about money? https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/how-to-talk-to-your-kids-about-money https://childmind.org/article/talking-kids-money/The expert that says allowance is OK: https://slate.com/business/2015/02/kids-allowances-youre-doing-it-completely-wrong.htmlI am currently reading "The Opposite of Spoiled" by Ron Leiber, an expert whose tone as generally resonated with me. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062247026/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=boysbuiltbe04-20Timestamps: Financial Literacy (7:30) Talking to your kids about money (11:59) The allowance debate (21:16) What is working for us (23:45) Looking Ahead (30:30)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-017-talking-to-and-teaching-boys-about-money-47101200?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org1949b5ae-9d6e-4205-9d03-62b7f2f45593Wed, 27 Feb 2019 15:00:00 -07001117172136fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1330/2931152a07a74522b84378d490f6bd66.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-017-talking-to-and-teaching-boys-about-money-47101200?ref=rssnonoJessica CrownonoAll the QuestionsMan, have I been fielding a lot of questions about money lately. How much money do we have? Can we buy a Lamborghini? I want to go out to lunch with friends, can you give me some cash? All this talk prompted me to consult the internet...Boys Beyond the Ball - Boys in Theater with Jason Peck"To Thine Own Self Be True"  -William ShakespeareIn our first Boys Beyond the Ball episode, I am talking to Jason Peck director of theater at St. Luke’s School as well as the founder and co-artistic director of Thrown Stone Theater Company.  We are chatting about what it is like participating in theater growing up and the positive impact that it can have on kids today. We discuss everything from what goes into a production, the myriad of skills that theater can develop (hello, empathy!), specific challenges boys face and how theater can help boys overcome those challenges.Show Notes and Links* Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast player * Like Boys Built Better on Facebook * Want to know more about Jason? Check out Thrown Stone Theater Company   Timestamps* Getting Started (6:50) * What being in theater looks like (9:41) * Positive Effects on Boyhood (13:31) * Components of a Production (16:00) * Backstage Opportunities (19:05) * Skill Building (20:50) * Participating in Theater Today (27:46) * Challenges Boys Face Today (31:36) * Working with Boys in Theater (33:47) * Theater Helping Boys (36:21) * Tips for Parents on getting your son involved in theater (38:12)"To Thine Own Self Be True"  -William ShakespeareIn our first Boys Beyond the Ball episode, I am talking to Jason Peck director of theater at St. Luke’s School as well as the founder and co-artistic director of Thrown Stone Theater Company.  We are chatting about what it is like participating in theater growing up and the positive impact that it can have on kids today. We discuss everything from what goes into a production, the myriad of skills that theater can develop (hello, empathy!), specific challenges boys face and how theater can help boys overcome those challenges.Show Notes and Links* Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast player * Like Boys Built Better on Facebook * Want to know more about Jason? Check out Thrown Stone Theater Company   Timestamps* Getting Started (6:50) * What being in theater looks like (9:41) * Positive Effects on Boyhood (13:31) * Components of a Production (16:00) * Backstage Opportunities (19:05) * Skill Building (20:50) * Participating in Theater Today (27:46) * Challenges Boys Face Today (31:36) * Working with Boys in Theater (33:47) * Theater Helping Boys (36:21) * Tips for Parents on getting your son involved in theater (38:12)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-016-boys-beyond-the-ball-boys-in-theater-with-jason-peck-28611612?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org0923ac2b-51cd-401c-b729-0c00a3d56cf9Wed, 13 Feb 2019 15:00:00 -07001116162563fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-016-boys-beyond-the-ball-boys-in-theater-with-jason-peck-28611612?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowJason Pecknono"To Thine Own Self Be True"  -William ShakespeareIn our first Boys Beyond the Ball episode, I am talking to Jason Peck director of theater at St. Luke’s School as well as the founder and co-artistic director of Thrown Stone Theater Company.  We are...Boys and Speech: Supporting Speech Development and Identifying a DelayI’ve been thinking about boys and speech. Maybe it’s because my nephew is in speech therapy, maybe it’s because my friend’s son is too or maybe it’s because I have concerns about my own 6-year-old.Do boys talk later than girls? What can I do as a parent to support speech development? And where do I start if I’m concerned?Today I am chatting with Sarah Armstrong a Speech and Language pathologist with over 22 years of experience.  We are talking about the role of a Speech and Language pathologist, understanding speech development, boys and speech, identifying a delay and supporting speech growth.   Recommended Resources:* Visit the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association asha.org to find therapists and for more information on speech disorders * Visit speakingofspeech.com or teacherspayteachers.com to find resources for helping your own child with speech * Want to hear more from Sarah? Reach out at sarahtheslp@gmail.com or find Sarah Oakden Armsrong on Linked InTimestamps* Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff (2:00) * What is a Speech Language Pathologist? (7:50) * Speech vs. Language (10:35) * Stages of Development (13:23) * Do boys talk later? (17:05) * Identifying a Delay (21:37) * Where to get a diagnosis (25:50) * The importance of Early Intervention (28:08) * Speech Delay and its relation to other learning delays (29:48) * How to catch up (32:40) * What to look for in a good therapist (36:03) * Speech and older kids (40:33) * School Therapy vs. Private (42:50) * Supporting Speech Development in all children (45:08) * Things Parents Should or Shouldn’t do (50:03) * Resources (57:30)I’ve been thinking about boys and speech. Maybe it’s because my nephew is in speech therapy, maybe it’s because my friend’s son is too or maybe it’s because I have concerns about my own 6-year-old.Do boys talk later than girls? What can I do as a parent to support speech development? And where do I start if I’m concerned?Today I am chatting with Sarah Armstrong a Speech and Language pathologist with over 22 years of experience.  We are talking about the role of a Speech and Language pathologist, understanding speech development, boys and speech, identifying a delay and supporting speech growth.   Recommended Resources:* Visit the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association asha.org to find therapists and for more information on speech disorders * Visit speakingofspeech.com or teacherspayteachers.com to find resources for helping your own child with speech * Want to hear more from Sarah? Reach out at sarahtheslp@gmail.com or find Sarah Oakden Armsrong on Linked InTimestamps* Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff (2:00) * What is a Speech Language Pathologist? (7:50) * Speech vs. Language (10:35) * Stages of Development (13:23) * Do boys talk later? (17:05) * Identifying a Delay (21:37) * Where to get a diagnosis (25:50) * The importance of Early Intervention (28:08) * Speech Delay and its relation to other learning delays (29:48) * How to catch up (32:40) * What to look for in a good therapist (36:03) * Speech and older kids (40:33) * School Therapy vs. Private (42:50) * Supporting Speech Development in all children (45:08) * Things Parents Should or Shouldn’t do (50:03) * Resources (57:30)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-015-boys-and-speech-supporting-speech-development-and-identifying-a-delay-36471379?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org7b3b20c0-4a3f-4f92-b90d-6f71620726fbTue, 29 Jan 2019 12:57:00 -07001115153668fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-015-boys-and-speech-supporting-speech-development-and-identifying-a-delay-36471379?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowSarah ArmstrongnonoI’ve been thinking about boys and speech. Maybe it’s because my nephew is in speech therapy, maybe it’s because my friend’s son is too or maybe it’s because I have concerns about my own 6-year-old.Do boys talk later than girls? What can I do ...Identifying, Diagnosing and Living with Dyslexia“Dyslexia robs a person of time; accommodations return it.” –Dr. Sally Shaywitz   Learning to Read is hard enough as it is, right? But what if your child also has a language processing disorder? And how would you know?   Today I am talking with Lindsay Terry-Lloyd founder of the non-profit Klimb Consulting (www.klimbconsulting.org) a bay-area based company dedicated to helping parents navigate a dyslexia diagnosis. In this episode, Lindsay shares her own family’s story as well as tips on identifying dyslexia and living with dyslexia while maintain your child’s confidence. Things I never knew until this interview:* 20 percent of the population is dyslexic * A Dyslexia diagnosis can range from mild to severe * While dyslexics do struggle with reading, dyslexia comes with identifiable positive attributes such as extraordinary building and/or drawing talentsRecommended Resources:* For a list of signs and additional information, check out the Yale Center for Dyslexia (dyslexia.yale.edu) * Recommended Therapy Modalities:* Orton Gillingham * Slingerland (Assessment as well) * Wilson * Barton * Linda Wood-Bell* Get assistance for Learning and attention issues at Understood.org * Learn more about Dyslexia at International Dyslexic Association * Audible is a great resource for audio books, we have an account that my kids use nightlyClick to Try Audible and get two books free!! Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks* Get audio textbooks at Learning Ally * Online Text-to-Speech Reader at Natural ReaderFor more even more info, check out Klimb Consulting Timestamps* 3 Children with Dyslexia (4:48) * Hereditary Component (7:11) * Getting Through a Diagnosis (8:42) * Enough Information? (11:39) * Prevalence of Dyslexia (14:10) * Early Signs of Dyslexia (16:08) * Positive Attributes of Dyslexia and Famous Dyslexics (19:05) * Types of Interventions (20:53) * Seeking a Diagnosis (23:05) * Accommodations at School (25:33) * Importance of Early Diagnosis (28:24) * After Diagnosis, What’s Next? (30:50) * Naming Dyslexia (34:25) * Dealing with the Additional Stress and Maintaining Confidence (37:30) * How Parents Can Help Support Students (40:40) * Finding Help (42:10) * Support Reading Growth at Home (44:22)“Dyslexia robs a person of time; accommodations return it.” –Dr. Sally Shaywitz   Learning to Read is hard enough as it is, right? But what if your child also has a language processing disorder? And how would you know?   Today I am talking with Lindsay Terry-Lloyd founder of the non-profit Klimb Consulting (www.klimbconsulting.org) a bay-area based company dedicated to helping parents navigate a dyslexia diagnosis. In this episode, Lindsay shares her own family’s story as well as tips on identifying dyslexia and living with dyslexia while maintain your child’s confidence. Things I never knew until this interview:* 20 percent of the population is dyslexic * A Dyslexia diagnosis can range from mild to severe * While dyslexics do struggle with reading, dyslexia comes with identifiable positive attributes such as extraordinary building and/or drawing talentsRecommended Resources:* For a list of signs and additional information, check out the Yale Center for Dyslexia (dyslexia.yale.edu) * Recommended Therapy Modalities:* Orton Gillingham * Slingerland (Assessment as well) * Wilson * Barton * Linda Wood-Bell* Get assistance for Learning and attention issues at Understood.org * Learn more about Dyslexia at International Dyslexic Association * Audible is a great resource for audio books, we have an account that my kids use nightlyClick to Try Audible and get two books free!! Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks* Get audio textbooks at Learning Ally * Online Text-to-Speech Reader at Natural ReaderFor more even more info, check out Klimb Consulting Timestamps* 3 Children with Dyslexia (4:48) * Hereditary Component (7:11) * Getting Through a Diagnosis (8:42) * Enough Information? (11:39) * Prevalence of Dyslexia (14:10) * Early Signs of Dyslexia (16:08) * Positive Attributes of Dyslexia and Famous Dyslexics (19:05) * Types of Interventions (20:53) * Seeking a Diagnosis (23:05) * Accommodations at School (25:33) * Importance of Early Diagnosis (28:24) * After Diagnosis, What’s Next? (30:50) * Naming Dyslexia (34:25) * Dealing with the Additional Stress and Maintaining Confidence (37:30) * How Parents Can Help Support Students (40:40) * Finding Help (42:10) * Support Reading Growth at Home (44:22)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-014-identifying-diagnosing-and-living-with-dyslexia-38765452?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orgaeb5a712-1b80-4484-8a95-4d96a35fa455Tue, 15 Jan 2019 13:20:00 -07001114143286fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-014-identifying-diagnosing-and-living-with-dyslexia-38765452?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowLindsay Terry-Lloydnono“Dyslexia robs a person of time; accommodations return it.” –Dr. Sally Shaywitz   Learning to Read is hard enough as it is, right? But what if your child also has a language processing disorder? And how would you know?   Today I am talking with...Connecting With Your Child and Supporting Emotional DevelopmentHappy New Year!!!My resolution this year is to continue to be there for my boys in a greater way than just checking in on homework assignments daily.  And today we are talking about just that.   I met my guest, Amber Olsen, through Facebook several months ago.  Amber, is the founder of The Kaleidoscope Project, which is an organization helping to support the emotional development of girls.  As I learned more about what she is doing, it became more and more apparent that the same issue is not only relevant but essential for boys and that Amber would make an awesome guest.   I feel like more and more I am reading about how critical it is to support your son’s emotional development to the same extent, if not more, than you would support a girl.  The thing about boys is that they are constantly working against a societal expectation of being emotionless.  But boys, especially pre-teens, aren’t emotionless and navigating the highs and lows of life is a complex emotional roller coaster and requires parental support.   But here’s the thing about supporting your child.  There also has to been connection there.  If you want to be able to talk feelings, you need to be present in your son’s life for more than just nagging about homework.   How can we, as parents, connect with our boys and use that connection to facilitate emotional development and health? Tune in to find out.   Resources* Article on 12 Year Old Boys Emotional Development * The Mask You Live In, film on emotional pressures of boys now playing on Netflix * Article on Ramifications of Social Media on Emotions * The Five Love Languages  Timestamps* New Year’s Resolutions (1:15) * Why Emotions (5:25) * Middle Schoolers Unique Emotional Needs (8:29) * How emotions are being affected today (13:14) * Social Media Pressures (15:04) * You Are What You Take In (18:22) * How can Parents Support Emotional Health (20:00) * Introvert vs. Extrovert (23:08) * Do you want me to Listen or do you want Feedback? (24:08) * Connecting with Your Child (25:05) * Checking-in Emotionally (30:00) * How involved should you get? (31:13) * Ways we can make sure our child is being acknowledged and heard (39:18) * Hug It Back (42:02) * Strategies for dealing with emotions (44:58)Happy New Year!!!My resolution this year is to continue to be there for my boys in a greater way than just checking in on homework assignments daily.  And today we are talking about just that.   I met my guest, Amber Olsen, through Facebook several months ago.  Amber, is the founder of The Kaleidoscope Project, which is an organization helping to support the emotional development of girls.  As I learned more about what she is doing, it became more and more apparent that the same issue is not only relevant but essential for boys and that Amber would make an awesome guest.   I feel like more and more I am reading about how critical it is to support your son’s emotional development to the same extent, if not more, than you would support a girl.  The thing about boys is that they are constantly working against a societal expectation of being emotionless.  But boys, especially pre-teens, aren’t emotionless and navigating the highs and lows of life is a complex emotional roller coaster and requires parental support.   But here’s the thing about supporting your child.  There also has to been connection there.  If you want to be able to talk feelings, you need to be present in your son’s life for more than just nagging about homework.   How can we, as parents, connect with our boys and use that connection to facilitate emotional development and health? Tune in to find out.   Resources* Article on 12 Year Old Boys Emotional Development * The Mask You Live In, film on emotional pressures of boys now playing on Netflix * Article on Ramifications of Social Media on Emotions * The Five Love Languages  Timestamps* New Year’s Resolutions (1:15) * Why Emotions (5:25) * Middle Schoolers Unique Emotional Needs (8:29) * How emotions are being affected today (13:14) * Social Media Pressures (15:04) * You Are What You Take In (18:22) * How can Parents Support Emotional Health (20:00) * Introvert vs. Extrovert (23:08) * Do you want me to Listen or do you want Feedback? (24:08) * Connecting with Your Child (25:05) * Checking-in Emotionally (30:00) * How involved should you get? (31:13) * Ways we can make sure our child is being acknowledged and heard (39:18) * Hug It Back (42:02) * Strategies for dealing with emotions (44:58)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-013-connecting-with-your-child-and-supporting-emotional-development-62158770?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org72c436bc-8608-47ee-9dd9-22fdeefc349fTue, 01 Jan 2019 15:00:00 -07001113133172fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-013-connecting-with-your-child-and-supporting-emotional-development-62158770?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowAmber OlsennonoHappy New Year!!!My resolution this year is to continue to be there for my boys in a greater way than just checking in on homework assignments daily.  And today we are talking about just that.   I met my guest, Amber Olsen, through Facebook several m...Farm School and Inspiring Boys to Get OutsideLaughing Buck Farm Today I am chatting with Rosemary Graff owner of Laughing Buck Farm in Fort Collins. Five or so years ago, a friend introduced me to this little gem in Northern Fort Collins and my children have been going there in some capacity ever since. Laughing Buck Farm is home to a farm preschool, home-school classes, summer camps and more. I am so grateful for the time my youngest spent at farm preschool. He started when he was just three and was lucky enough to attend for three years before transitioning to kindergarten. During that time, he fed the animals, worked in the garden, rode horses, climbed hay bales and explored. He worked in the rain, in the heat of the early school year and even showed up all bundled with a thermos of hot chocolate when it was 20 degrees. And do you know what? He is more resilient for it. Today we are discussing farm life, the reality of chores how you can (or cannot) build work ethic and growing boys who love to be outside. Live in Fort Collins? Check out the programming available at Laughing Buck Farm Timestamps • Growing up on a Farm (5:30) • Deciding to Buy Acreage (7:08) • Raising Kids on a Farm (10:28) • Work Ethic? (11:58) • Growing Responsibility with animals (15:29) • Creating a Farm School (17:26) • Daily Life (20:46) • Understanding the Circle of Life (25:09) • Outside Year Round (29:00) • Allowing Kids to Take Risks (35:00) • Getting Kids Outside (39:54)Laughing Buck Farm Today I am chatting with Rosemary Graff owner of Laughing Buck Farm in Fort Collins. Five or so years ago, a friend introduced me to this little gem in Northern Fort Collins and my children have been going there in some capacity ever since. Laughing Buck Farm is home to a farm preschool, home-school classes, summer camps and more. I am so grateful for the time my youngest spent at farm preschool. He started when he was just three and was lucky enough to attend for three years before transitioning to kindergarten. During that time, he fed the animals, worked in the garden, rode horses, climbed hay bales and explored. He worked in the rain, in the heat of the early school year and even showed up all bundled with a thermos of hot chocolate when it was 20 degrees. And do you know what? He is more resilient for it. Today we are discussing farm life, the reality of chores how you can (or cannot) build work ethic and growing boys who love to be outside. Live in Fort Collins? Check out the programming available at Laughing Buck Farm Timestamps • Growing up on a Farm (5:30) • Deciding to Buy Acreage (7:08) • Raising Kids on a Farm (10:28) • Work Ethic? (11:58) • Growing Responsibility with animals (15:29) • Creating a Farm School (17:26) • Daily Life (20:46) • Understanding the Circle of Life (25:09) • Outside Year Round (29:00) • Allowing Kids to Take Risks (35:00) • Getting Kids Outside (39:54)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-012-farm-school-and-inspiring-boys-to-get-outside-30562553?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org2f2db6f4-94fa-4f43-865f-f3ca51fa2c88Wed, 19 Dec 2018 12:55:00 -07001112122742fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-012-farm-school-and-inspiring-boys-to-get-outside-30562553?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowRosemary GraffnonoLaughing Buck Farm Today I am chatting with Rosemary Graff owner of Laughing Buck Farm in Fort Collins. Five or so years ago, a friend introduced me to this little gem in Northern Fort Collins and my children have been going there in some capacity ever...Holiday Gifts for BoysWhat on Earth do you get a 12-year-old boy for XMAS?!This is what I typed into my search bar this weekend. He just had a birthday and he couldn’t even tell me what he wanted for that, now XMAS? In a way, I am glad. He understands that he already has what he needs and seems to appreciate those things. That’s awesome. But I still need to find at least something to put under the tree, right?With that in mind, I opened my computer and combed through multiple articles on “What to get your 12-year-old boy”. Did you know those articles existed? If you haven’t already searched the same thing, let me tell you there are hundreds of them! But here is what I found on my own search, none of them are very good. The links that I clicked came up near the top of my search and what I noticed is that none of them seemed to written by actual parents of boys!!!!I want Christmas morning to be special, and I want the interest in those gifts to last longer than those few hours. Despite how quickly my kids rip through the packages, I actually put a lot of thought into what I buy and use those gifts to (when I can) spark new interest or new hobbies. My answer? Another one of those lists!!!There is no way my list will appear anywhere close to the top of a similar google search, but this is a list of what my boys are actually getting this year (shhh, don’t tell) and tried and true favorite gifts from over the years. Real gifts with real thoughts on them.GamesThis is a tradition of ours. Every year, each one of my children gets a new game. I love that we have something that we get to sit around and learn together and that gets to be brought out again and again as part of our time together. Here is what will be under the tree this year plus a few favorites from the part.For the 2-year-old – Catan For the 10-Year-Old- Double Shut the Box For the 6-Year-Old – HoneycombsPast favorites For 8+ – Farkle  For 8+ – Sushi Go For 6+ – Labyrinth Preschool – Feed the WoozleBuildingGiven that my middle son has always loved Legos, I usually include a building toy. I have started moving away from Lego sets as my builder tends to build them once and then break them down to be used to rebuild something from his imagination. That means we have a lot of Legos!!!! If there was a particular set I would probably give one, but this year I thought we would up our building game by trying something new.For the 10-year-old – LittleBits For everyone (over 3) – PlusPlus Past Favorites For 3+ – Magnetic Blocks For 5+ – Straws and ConnectorsActiveWhether indoor or outdoor, I love gifts that get my kids moving. This year my oldest is getting the most active toys and I am trying to inspire him to spend less time in front of his...What on Earth do you get a 12-year-old boy for XMAS?!This is what I typed into my search bar this weekend. He just had a birthday and he couldn’t even tell me what he wanted for that, now XMAS? In a way, I am glad. He understands that he already has what he needs and seems to appreciate those things. That’s awesome. But I still need to find at least something to put under the tree, right?With that in mind, I opened my computer and combed through multiple articles on “What to get your 12-year-old boy”. Did you know those articles existed? If you haven’t already searched the same thing, let me tell you there are hundreds of them! But here is what I found on my own search, none of them are very good. The links that I clicked came up near the top of my search and what I noticed is that none of them seemed to written by actual parents of boys!!!!I want Christmas morning to be special, and I want the interest in those gifts to last longer than those few hours. Despite how quickly my kids rip through the packages, I actually put a lot of thought into what I buy and use those gifts to (when I can) spark new interest or new hobbies. My answer? Another one of those lists!!!There is no way my list will appear anywhere close to the top of a similar google search, but this is a list of what my boys are actually getting this year (shhh, don’t tell) and tried and true favorite gifts from over the years. Real gifts with real thoughts on them.GamesThis is a tradition of ours. Every year, each one of my children gets a new game. I love that we have something that we get to sit around and learn together and that gets to be brought out again and again as part of our time together. Here is what will be under the tree this year plus a few favorites from the part.For the 2-year-old – Catan For the 10-Year-Old- Double Shut the Box For the 6-Year-Old – HoneycombsPast favorites For 8+ – Farkle  For 8+ – Sushi Go For 6+ – Labyrinth Preschool – Feed the WoozleBuildingGiven that my middle son has always loved Legos, I usually include a building toy. I have started moving away from Lego sets as my builder tends to build them once and then break them down to be used to rebuild something from his imagination. That means we have a lot of Legos!!!! If there was a particular set I would probably give one, but this year I thought we would up our building game by trying something new.For the 10-year-old – LittleBits For everyone (over 3) – PlusPlus Past Favorites For 3+ – Magnetic Blocks For 5+ – Straws and ConnectorsActiveWhether indoor or outdoor, I love gifts that get my kids moving. This year my oldest is getting the most active toys and I am trying to inspire him to spend less time in front of his...https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-011-holiday-gifts-for-boys-44009187?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orgc220529a-013d-43c0-921a-4c1865caf3b4Tue, 04 Dec 2018 13:57:00 -07001111111776fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-011-holiday-gifts-for-boys-44009187?ref=rssnonoJessica CrownonoWhat on Earth do you get a 12-year-old boy for XMAS?!This is what I typed into my search bar this weekend. He just had a birthday and he couldn’t even tell me what he wanted for that, now XMAS? In a way, I am glad. He understands that he already has ...Complex Regional Pain Syndrome AwarenessToday I am chatting with Shana Kagan, founder of Jedi Tedi about her son’s Complex Regional Pain Syndrome diagnosis.Since November is CRPS Awareness Month, I thought I would help shed a little more light on Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. This is something that my son was unfortunately diagnosed with this time last year after a competitive soccer injury. After days of not being able to bear weight on his leg after the injury, we saw a local sports medicine doctor who x-rayed my son’s leg. Although swollen, he did not find any significant injury: certainly nothing that would cause the amount of pain he was in. An MRI came back clear as well...In the doctor’s office, after the MRI, we were given a diagnosis of CRPS. For my son, the symptoms were pain disproportionate to the initial injury, inability to bear weight on his right leg, inability to bear any contact with his right leg and cold to the touch body temperature below the affected knee. We were sent on our way and told to let the doctor know if he didn’t get better in 6 weeks at which time we would be sent to the pain clinic at our local children’s hospital.For my son, his pain lifted about a week and a half after his injury and although he has experienced a handful of “flare ups” over the past year, it is not something that we are dealing with chronically. While I am grateful for my own son’s recovery, other patients are not as lucky. It seemed important to bring more awareness to this not only for the sake of those currently suffering, but as a reminder that you never quite know what it’s like in someone else’s shoes. And you certainly can’t judge a book by its cover.Recommended Resources: • Know someone with CRPS or want to donate to Jedi Tedi? Find out more information at jeditedi.net or follow Jedi on Facebook • Visit the RSDSA for more information about CRPS in youth • Need help with your child’s chronic pain? Check out Conquering Your Child’s Pain by Lonnie ZeltzerTimestamps: • What is CRPS? (4:23) • The Struggle to get Diagnosed (7:33) • Prognosis (9:14) • Pain Levels (10:49) • Let’s Not Judge (12:58) • Treatments (15:54) • Therapies (22:34) • Giving Back (29:20)Want to Learn More about visiting South Africa? Contact channel@iafrica.comToday I am chatting with Shana Kagan, founder of Jedi Tedi about her son’s Complex Regional Pain Syndrome diagnosis.Since November is CRPS Awareness Month, I thought I would help shed a little more light on Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. This is something that my son was unfortunately diagnosed with this time last year after a competitive soccer injury. After days of not being able to bear weight on his leg after the injury, we saw a local sports medicine doctor who x-rayed my son’s leg. Although swollen, he did not find any significant injury: certainly nothing that would cause the amount of pain he was in. An MRI came back clear as well...In the doctor’s office, after the MRI, we were given a diagnosis of CRPS. For my son, the symptoms were pain disproportionate to the initial injury, inability to bear weight on his right leg, inability to bear any contact with his right leg and cold to the touch body temperature below the affected knee. We were sent on our way and told to let the doctor know if he didn’t get better in 6 weeks at which time we would be sent to the pain clinic at our local children’s hospital.For my son, his pain lifted about a week and a half after his injury and although he has experienced a handful of “flare ups” over the past year, it is not something that we are dealing with chronically. While I am grateful for my own son’s recovery, other patients are not as lucky. It seemed important to bring more awareness to this not only for the sake of those currently suffering, but as a reminder that you never quite know what it’s like in someone else’s shoes. And you certainly can’t judge a book by its cover.Recommended Resources: • Know someone with CRPS or want to donate to Jedi Tedi? Find out more information at jeditedi.net or follow Jedi on Facebook • Visit the RSDSA for more information about CRPS in youth • Need help with your child’s chronic pain? Check out Conquering Your Child’s Pain by Lonnie ZeltzerTimestamps: • What is CRPS? (4:23) • The Struggle to get Diagnosed (7:33) • Prognosis (9:14) • Pain Levels (10:49) • Let’s Not Judge (12:58) • Treatments (15:54) • Therapies (22:34) • Giving Back (29:20)Want to Learn More about visiting South Africa? Contact channel@iafrica.comhttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-010-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-awareness-50269375?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orga5c418b0-39c3-4d5b-ab5f-91013de3bbccWed, 14 Nov 2018 18:34:00 -07001110101936fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-010-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-awareness-50269375?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowShana KagannonoToday I am chatting with Shana Kagan, founder of Jedi Tedi about her son’s Complex Regional Pain Syndrome diagnosis.Since November is CRPS Awareness Month, I thought I would help shed a little more light on Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. This is som...Creating Sexually Healthy Boys of All Ages and Talking To Your Son About SexIf there is one thing that has been in the news lately, it is boys and sex.The focus has been on violence and men behaving badly, right? Well, as a parent how do you combat that? How do you teach your own son to do better?  It starts by talking about sex and that conversation needs to happen earlier than you would expect.Today we are talking to Kori Wilford, a public health educator with the Larimer County Department of Health, on how to raise sexually healthy boys and how to initiate that conversation early and often.From the definition of sexual health, to today’s research, to what to teach at all ages, this episode is not only fascinating but filled with great information and practical tips on how to tackle this conversation no matter how old your child is.Things I never knew until this interview:* Sexual Health is like skin care, it’s never too early or too late to start * Research shows that a comprehensive approach to sex education delays your child’s first sexual experience * Young children who can properly name body parts are less likely to be perpetrated against * Your child will come to you with questions if they haven’t already learned that questions are not okay * You can teach about your family’s values while also teaching about sex * If you decide to pick up a book for your child read it first (but maybe not on a plane, because that is when I decided to preview The What’s Happening to My Body: Book for Boys and while I LOVE this book, I’m not sure my fellow passengers were prepared for the diagrams)Recommended Resources:* It’s Perfectly Normal by Robie Harris * What’s the Big Secret?: Talking about Sex with Girls and Boys by Laurie Krasny Brown * What’s Happening to my Body? Book for Boys by Lynda Madaras * Advocates for Youth Parent Sex Ed CenterTimestamps* The Definition of Sexual Health (8:35) * Sex Education research today (9:36) * Comprehensive Approach Vs. Sexual Avoidance (11:14) * What’s Different Today (12:52) * Sex Ed at Different Ages (16:19) * Infants and Toddlers (17:01) * Preschool Aged Kids (18:58) * Elementary School (27:40) * The Start of Puberty (33:52) * Middle School (35:30) * Teaching Your Families Values (39:41) * Learning Your Child is LGBTQ (42:13) * High School (44:08) * The Dos and Don’ts of Answering Questions (48:11) * Resources (51:20)If there is one thing that has been in the news lately, it is boys and sex.The focus has been on violence and men behaving badly, right? Well, as a parent how do you combat that? How do you teach your own son to do better?  It starts by talking about sex and that conversation needs to happen earlier than you would expect.Today we are talking to Kori Wilford, a public health educator with the Larimer County Department of Health, on how to raise sexually healthy boys and how to initiate that conversation early and often.From the definition of sexual health, to today’s research, to what to teach at all ages, this episode is not only fascinating but filled with great information and practical tips on how to tackle this conversation no matter how old your child is.Things I never knew until this interview:* Sexual Health is like skin care, it’s never too early or too late to start * Research shows that a comprehensive approach to sex education delays your child’s first sexual experience * Young children who can properly name body parts are less likely to be perpetrated against * Your child will come to you with questions if they haven’t already learned that questions are not okay * You can teach about your family’s values while also teaching about sex * If you decide to pick up a book for your child read it first (but maybe not on a plane, because that is when I decided to preview The What’s Happening to My Body: Book for Boys and while I LOVE this book, I’m not sure my fellow passengers were prepared for the diagrams)Recommended Resources:* It’s Perfectly Normal by Robie Harris * What’s the Big Secret?: Talking about Sex with Girls and Boys by Laurie Krasny Brown * What’s Happening to my Body? Book for Boys by Lynda Madaras * Advocates for Youth Parent Sex Ed CenterTimestamps* The Definition of Sexual Health (8:35) * Sex Education research today (9:36) * Comprehensive Approach Vs. Sexual Avoidance (11:14) * What’s Different Today (12:52) * Sex Ed at Different Ages (16:19) * Infants and Toddlers (17:01) * Preschool Aged Kids (18:58) * Elementary School (27:40) * The Start of Puberty (33:52) * Middle School (35:30) * Teaching Your Families Values (39:41) * Learning Your Child is LGBTQ (42:13) * High School (44:08) * The Dos and Don’ts of Answering Questions (48:11) * Resources (51:20)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-009-creating-sexually-healthy-boys-of-all-ages-and-talking-to-your-son-about-sex-44686895?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org6e8302f8-292b-4964-9995-b28cd3dfbb31Wed, 31 Oct 2018 19:29:00 -060011993330fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-009-creating-sexually-healthy-boys-of-all-ages-and-talking-to-your-son-about-sex-44686895?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowKori WilfordnonoIf there is one thing that has been in the news lately, it is boys and sex.The focus has been on violence and men behaving badly, right? Well, as a parent how do you combat that? How do you teach your own son to do better?  It starts by talking about ...Sleep Apnea, Tonsillectomies, and My Biggest RegretIf I could go back in time: Sleep Apnea and TonsillectomiesRaising kids is full of ups and downs and there are definitely things I wish I could have done differently along the way.  If I could, for example, I would have changed the way I handled video games at an earlier age.  But even though I have some regrets about that, it’s nothing I couldn’t change now if I wanted to.  There is one thing, though, I didn’t handle well and now that it is done, I cannot undo the consequences.My middle son, most likely had undiagnosed sleep apnea for 4 years.  I noticed the first symptoms at 1 year of age and his tonsils and adenoids were removed at 5.  In between, he was chronically unrested which led to behavior issues and academic delays that I believe still haunt us to this day.Unfortunately, there isn’t much I can do about his journey. But, with my youngest just being ordered a sleep apnea test, I thought I would tell our story so others may avoid all the difficulties we had.Show Notes Articles on Sleep Apnea* Stanford Children’s Health-Obstructive Sleep Apnea * Mayo Clinic- Pediatric Sleep Apnea * Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia- Obstructive Sleep ApneaTonsillectomy Book* Good Bye, TonsilsTimestamps* My One Regret (0:38) * I’m Not a Doctor (3:58) * What is Sleep Apnea? (4:34) * Causes of Sleep Apnea (6:06) * My Child Snores (6:58) * ENT Visit (10:10) * Symptoms of Sleep Apnea (10:44) * How to Get Diagnosed (15:54) * Treatment (18:32) * Tonsillectomy Tips (19:30)If I could go back in time: Sleep Apnea and TonsillectomiesRaising kids is full of ups and downs and there are definitely things I wish I could have done differently along the way.  If I could, for example, I would have changed the way I handled video games at an earlier age.  But even though I have some regrets about that, it’s nothing I couldn’t change now if I wanted to.  There is one thing, though, I didn’t handle well and now that it is done, I cannot undo the consequences.My middle son, most likely had undiagnosed sleep apnea for 4 years.  I noticed the first symptoms at 1 year of age and his tonsils and adenoids were removed at 5.  In between, he was chronically unrested which led to behavior issues and academic delays that I believe still haunt us to this day.Unfortunately, there isn’t much I can do about his journey. But, with my youngest just being ordered a sleep apnea test, I thought I would tell our story so others may avoid all the difficulties we had.Show Notes Articles on Sleep Apnea* Stanford Children’s Health-Obstructive Sleep Apnea * Mayo Clinic- Pediatric Sleep Apnea * Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia- Obstructive Sleep ApneaTonsillectomy Book* Good Bye, TonsilsTimestamps* My One Regret (0:38) * I’m Not a Doctor (3:58) * What is Sleep Apnea? (4:34) * Causes of Sleep Apnea (6:06) * My Child Snores (6:58) * ENT Visit (10:10) * Symptoms of Sleep Apnea (10:44) * How to Get Diagnosed (15:54) * Treatment (18:32) * Tonsillectomy Tips (19:30)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-008-sleep-apnea-tonsillectomies-and-my-biggest-regret-18469932?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org58e76e4f-89b3-4be0-97e5-cdbbcdc5bfc8Tue, 16 Oct 2018 12:21:00 -060011881654fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-008-sleep-apnea-tonsillectomies-and-my-biggest-regret-18469932?ref=rssnonoJessica CrownonoIf I could go back in time: Sleep Apnea and TonsillectomiesRaising kids is full of ups and downs and there are definitely things I wish I could have done differently along the way.  If I could, for example, I would have changed the way I handled video...Raising High School BoysIn the last of our series on transitioning to schools, today I am chatting with Alexis Karasek, a mom whose son just graduated high school.  In our other transitioning episodes, we focused on making a one-grade leap.  Since high school spans a lot of change maturity wise, today we are talking about your child from 9th-12th.   Want more transitioning episodes?  Check out our episode on starting elementary school and our episode on middle school.   Show Notes* Parenting with Love and Logic * Parenting with Love and Logic for Teens * Are you a lawnmower parent? Here’s a link to the article we talked about if you haven’t seen it.   Timestamps* Why talk about high school as a whole instead of just 9th? (3:44) * First two/ last two years of high school (4:47) * Learning to Drive (8:59) * Looking Back with Perspective (11:40) * Bad Decisions (13:52) * Letting your son find himself (17:33) * Personality vs. Parenting (21:59) * Don’t save him (25:40) * Fail and Figure it out (26:51)In the last of our series on transitioning to schools, today I am chatting with Alexis Karasek, a mom whose son just graduated high school.  In our other transitioning episodes, we focused on making a one-grade leap.  Since high school spans a lot of change maturity wise, today we are talking about your child from 9th-12th.   Want more transitioning episodes?  Check out our episode on starting elementary school and our episode on middle school.   Show Notes* Parenting with Love and Logic * Parenting with Love and Logic for Teens * Are you a lawnmower parent? Here’s a link to the article we talked about if you haven’t seen it.   Timestamps* Why talk about high school as a whole instead of just 9th? (3:44) * First two/ last two years of high school (4:47) * Learning to Drive (8:59) * Looking Back with Perspective (11:40) * Bad Decisions (13:52) * Letting your son find himself (17:33) * Personality vs. Parenting (21:59) * Don’t save him (25:40) * Fail and Figure it out (26:51)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-007-raising-high-school-boys-48135279?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org739269f7-3e99-461a-bde8-28facdb1e21fTue, 02 Oct 2018 12:08:00 -060011771906fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-007-raising-high-school-boys-48135279?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowAlexis KaraseknonoIn the last of our series on transitioning to schools, today I am chatting with Alexis Karasek, a mom whose son just graduated high school.  In our other transitioning episodes, we focused on making a one-grade leap.  Since high school spans a lot of...Transitioning to Middle SchoolChatting with my friend Erin Dirvonas about transitioning to middle school. Since I have two kiddos making transitions this I have been thinking a lot about them.  Today I am chatting with my friend Erin about middle school and making the change easiest on everyone.Show Notes* Cooler Lunch Bag * Locker Shelf * Locker White Board * Bike rackTimeStamps* The sixth-grade experience (5:50) * Similarities to Elementary? (6:44) * Teacher Communication (7:54) * Developing Independence (10:07) * Lunch Questions (13:14) * Dealing with the locker (14:24) * Time Management (15:45) * Learning to speak for yourself (17:25) * Picking an instrument (19:36) * All the girls (22:50) * Changing throughout the year/ grades (25:20) * What to prepare for ahead of time (29:22) * Learning to contemplate and expand ideas (31:14) * Devices and social media (33:41) * Parenting through middle school (36:14)Chatting with my friend Erin Dirvonas about transitioning to middle school. Since I have two kiddos making transitions this I have been thinking a lot about them.  Today I am chatting with my friend Erin about middle school and making the change easiest on everyone.Show Notes* Cooler Lunch Bag * Locker Shelf * Locker White Board * Bike rackTimeStamps* The sixth-grade experience (5:50) * Similarities to Elementary? (6:44) * Teacher Communication (7:54) * Developing Independence (10:07) * Lunch Questions (13:14) * Dealing with the locker (14:24) * Time Management (15:45) * Learning to speak for yourself (17:25) * Picking an instrument (19:36) * All the girls (22:50) * Changing throughout the year/ grades (25:20) * What to prepare for ahead of time (29:22) * Learning to contemplate and expand ideas (31:14) * Devices and social media (33:41) * Parenting through middle school (36:14)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-006-transitioning-to-middle-school-65599880?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org614b9e3f-b258-4a87-b91d-f6a454d7cf73Wed, 04 Jul 2018 17:25:00 -060011662338fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-006-transitioning-to-middle-school-65599880?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowErin DirvonasnonoChatting with my friend Erin Dirvonas about transitioning to middle school. Since I have two kiddos making transitions this I have been thinking a lot about them.  Today I am chatting with my friend Erin about middle school and making the change easie...Transitioning to Elementary SchoolChatting with my friend Sydney Smith about transitioning to kindergarten. I’ve been thinking a lot about getting my own son ready for kindergarten and moving to such a big building.  We discuss academics, independence skills and tips to make the transition easier. Show Notes* Sydney’s favorite thing: Guardians of galaxy CD * Jessica’s favorite thing: Hose reel * Recommended workbooks to prep academically * Easier way to tie shoes * Easy to open(and pack!) lunchboxTimeStamps* Our current favorite things (1:23) * Getting to know this week’s guest (3:30) * Thought on becoming a mother later in life (4:29) * Kindergarten overview (5:58) * Waiting a year (8:22) * What you need to know about academics (10:14) * Zippers, buttons and pants, oh my! (19:04) * The joys of new kids and peer pressure begins (24:54) * Carpool Etiquette (29:05) * Thinking about Lunch (30:58)Chatting with my friend Sydney Smith about transitioning to kindergarten. I’ve been thinking a lot about getting my own son ready for kindergarten and moving to such a big building.  We discuss academics, independence skills and tips to make the transition easier. Show Notes* Sydney’s favorite thing: Guardians of galaxy CD * Jessica’s favorite thing: Hose reel * Recommended workbooks to prep academically * Easier way to tie shoes * Easy to open(and pack!) lunchboxTimeStamps* Our current favorite things (1:23) * Getting to know this week’s guest (3:30) * Thought on becoming a mother later in life (4:29) * Kindergarten overview (5:58) * Waiting a year (8:22) * What you need to know about academics (10:14) * Zippers, buttons and pants, oh my! (19:04) * The joys of new kids and peer pressure begins (24:54) * Carpool Etiquette (29:05) * Thinking about Lunch (30:58)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-005-transitioning-to-elementary-school-10915848?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org4afaa346-1dbd-4ee1-b136-e27a170fd8ccThu, 21 Jun 2018 18:50:00 -060011552115fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-005-transitioning-to-elementary-school-10915848?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowSydney SmithnonoChatting with my friend Sydney Smith about transitioning to kindergarten. I’ve been thinking a lot about getting my own son ready for kindergarten and moving to such a big building.  We discuss academics, independence skills and tips to make the tra...Surviving the Summer with BoysSolo Episode, chatting about all things summer! Organizing yourself and your kiddos, fun activities, keeping up with academics and staying sane!!Tip 1- Get OrganizedTo Do Sheet – A few years ago, I used a “No Screen-time Until” sheet to this one to get us organized. I customized ours to reflect the things I wanted my kiddos to do each day. Here is a link to a great example. https://www.yourmodernfamily.com/no-screen-time-until-free-printable/Mom Bucks – Last year I used a more elaborate system of currency during the summer. My kids could earn “mom bucks” for doing chores, reading, spending time outside and then could spend the bucks on time playing video games, a special treat, or could save up to exchange for real dollars. The blog I based my system is this one. http://faithfilledparenting.com/mom-bucks/Organizing a summer with a Planner – This year, I am using an individual planner to keep my big kids organized. They are filling it out with daily and once a week chores. Check out my blog about using the planners here. https://boysbuiltbetter.com/education/summer-planner-lessons-for-tweens/Tip 2- Keep Up the AcademicsMath Facts – A small amount of time each day spent keeping up with math facts will make a big difference next school year. We get a packet sent home, but you could easily make your own based on your child’s level or buy a practice book. Tip! If you buy a book, put the pages in a sleeve protector and use a dry erase marker to complete, the book will last longer!!Here are some practice books specific to elementary school:Read 20 minutes a day – this is another great summer habit that will pay off next year. If you happen to have a reluctant reader, take the pressure off and choose books that your kiddo finds fun. This is the time to read for enjoyment!! The less pressure, the better.Handwriting lessons- Does your school teach handwriting? A lot of elementary schools have dropped this and no longer spend time working on it in class. I still think being able to hand-write is a great skill and there is research that states it supports the growth of reading, writing and language ability. Summer is a great time to work on growing this forgotten skill. And LOOK! There are even handwriting books developed just for boys:Tip 3- ActivitiesPerler Beads – This has been our favorite summer activity for three years straight. My boys started out copying designs and have now graduated to creating their own (sometimes 3-D) designs. Check out my blog about getting started. https://boysbuiltbetter.com/arts-and-crafts/getting-started-with-perler-beads/Rock Painting – This is the activity that I am introducing this summer (blog post coming soon). We recently went to the craft store and bought brushes https://amzn.to/2suZDmf, acrylic paint https://amzn.to/2syiH2U, varnish https://amzn.to/2JkEaCX and a great book https://amzn.to/2JmmQNI. I love this craft because we can hunt for rocks in our neighborhood and now that I bought a few supplies there is no additional cost for the canvas! We have already had a few neighbors around painting.Family Show – Because the summer is so open ended, I think creating some routines is helpful for kids. This year we decided to start watching America’s Got Talent together as a family. My husband, who often works nights, has set Tuesday’s aside and we are all sitting down together to enjoy it. A regular game night would also be a great option.Sci-Fri – I forgot to include this in the episode, but a few years ago I started Science Friday or “Sci-Fri” days during the summer. I got a small science kit https://amzn.to/2LqJJjA and we would work through an experiment every Friday. The kit is great because it includes the experiments as well as hard to find supplies.Evenings Outside – Another routine we started this year, is committing to spending sometime outside after dinner playing a game. There is something special about being outside just before dusk. We found a great outdoor game https://amzn.to/2szsHca that has you hitting a soft ball, but the included discs make the best Frisbee that is super easy to throw and catch.What are you doing to survive the summer? Let me know!Solo Episode, chatting about all things summer! Organizing yourself and your kiddos, fun activities, keeping up with academics and staying sane!!Tip 1- Get OrganizedTo Do Sheet – A few years ago, I used a “No Screen-time Until” sheet to this one to get us organized. I customized ours to reflect the things I wanted my kiddos to do each day. Here is a link to a great example. https://www.yourmodernfamily.com/no-screen-time-until-free-printable/Mom Bucks – Last year I used a more elaborate system of currency during the summer. My kids could earn “mom bucks” for doing chores, reading, spending time outside and then could spend the bucks on time playing video games, a special treat, or could save up to exchange for real dollars. The blog I based my system is this one. http://faithfilledparenting.com/mom-bucks/Organizing a summer with a Planner – This year, I am using an individual planner to keep my big kids organized. They are filling it out with daily and once a week chores. Check out my blog about using the planners here. https://boysbuiltbetter.com/education/summer-planner-lessons-for-tweens/Tip 2- Keep Up the AcademicsMath Facts – A small amount of time each day spent keeping up with math facts will make a big difference next school year. We get a packet sent home, but you could easily make your own based on your child’s level or buy a practice book. Tip! If you buy a book, put the pages in a sleeve protector and use a dry erase marker to complete, the book will last longer!!Here are some practice books specific to elementary school:Read 20 minutes a day – this is another great summer habit that will pay off next year. If you happen to have a reluctant reader, take the pressure off and choose books that your kiddo finds fun. This is the time to read for enjoyment!! The less pressure, the better.Handwriting lessons- Does your school teach handwriting? A lot of elementary schools have dropped this and no longer spend time working on it in class. I still think being able to hand-write is a great skill and there is research that states it supports the growth of reading, writing and language ability. Summer is a great time to work on growing this forgotten skill. And LOOK! There are even handwriting books developed just for boys:Tip 3- ActivitiesPerler Beads – This has been our favorite summer activity for three years straight. My boys started out copying designs and have now graduated to creating their own (sometimes 3-D) designs. Check out my blog about getting started. https://boysbuiltbetter.com/arts-and-crafts/getting-started-with-perler-beads/Rock Painting – This is the activity that I am introducing this summer (blog post coming soon). We recently went to the craft store and bought brushes https://amzn.to/2suZDmf, acrylic paint https://amzn.to/2syiH2U, varnish https://amzn.to/2JkEaCX and a great book https://amzn.to/2JmmQNI. I love this craft because we can hunt for rocks in our neighborhood and now that I bought a few supplies there is no additional cost for the canvas! We have already had a few neighbors around painting.Family Show – Because the summer is so open ended, I think creating some routines is helpful for kids. This year we decided to start watching America’s Got Talent together as a family. My husband, who often works nights, has set Tuesday’s aside and we are all sitting down together to enjoy it. A regular game night would also be a great option.Sci-Fri – I forgot to include this in the episode, but a few years ago I started Science Friday or “Sci-Fri” days during the summer. I got a small science kit https://amzn.to/2LqJJjA and we would work through an experiment every Friday. The kit is great because it includes the experiments as well as hard to find supplies.Evenings Outside – Another routine we started this year, is committing to spending sometime outside after dinner playing a game. There is something special about being outside just before dusk. We found a great outdoor game https://amzn.to/2szsHca that has you hitting a soft ball, but the included discs make the best Frisbee that is super easy to throw and catch.What are you doing to survive the summer? Let me know!https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-004-surviving-the-summer-with-boys-20887211?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org98e0defc-d80e-4d72-b050-3ff17a50afddThu, 07 Jun 2018 21:24:00 -060011441759fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1332/15f0b58ee29f20229e960dbb04726b64.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-004-surviving-the-summer-with-boys-20887211?ref=rssnonoJessica CrownonoSolo Episode, chatting about all things summer! Organizing yourself and your kiddos, fun activities, keeping up with academics and staying sane!!Tip 1- Get OrganizedTo Do Sheet – A few years ago, I used a “No Screen-time Until” sheet to this one ...Mental Well-being of Boys with Kyle DouglasInterview with Kyle Douglas, chatting about the mental health of boys with tips on how to raise boys to be mentally well and also information about what therapy is and when to utilize it.Show NotesChildren’s book about taking care of yourself so you can take care of others (https://amzn.to/2IzZoR0) Calm down toy to use during tantrums (https://amzn.to/2KER4f2) DIY calm down toy (https://childhood101.com/calm-down-bottle/) Brene Brown Ted Talk on Vulnerability https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability Want more from Kyle? Check out his website. (http://www.kyledouglastherapy.com/) TimestampsMen in therapy today (5:21) How to raise boys that are aware of emotions (9:32) Coping skills for children (14:37) What to expect in therapy (28:00) Length of therapy (34:00) The stigma of therapy (36:28) When to seek therapy (38:20) What to look for in a therapist (40:55)Interview with Kyle Douglas, chatting about the mental health of boys with tips on how to raise boys to be mentally well and also information about what therapy is and when to utilize it.Show NotesChildren’s book about taking care of yourself so you can take care of others (https://amzn.to/2IzZoR0) Calm down toy to use during tantrums (https://amzn.to/2KER4f2) DIY calm down toy (https://childhood101.com/calm-down-bottle/) Brene Brown Ted Talk on Vulnerability https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability Want more from Kyle? Check out his website. (http://www.kyledouglastherapy.com/) TimestampsMen in therapy today (5:21) How to raise boys that are aware of emotions (9:32) Coping skills for children (14:37) What to expect in therapy (28:00) Length of therapy (34:00) The stigma of therapy (36:28) When to seek therapy (38:20) What to look for in a therapist (40:55)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-003-mental-well-being-of-boys-with-kyle-douglas-67190919?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org541171e1-ab18-4c20-95ba-68e056811501Thu, 24 May 2018 21:27:00 -060011332791fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1331/5cedd49728b87ecbb3955daa7022f6dd.pnghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-003-mental-well-being-of-boys-with-kyle-douglas-67190919?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowKyle DouglasnonoInterview with Kyle Douglas, chatting about the mental health of boys with tips on how to raise boys to be mentally well and also information about what therapy is and when to utilize it.Show NotesChildren’s book about taking care of yourself so you ...Growth and Development of Boys with Pediatrician Roy BenarochLast Fall, at my oldest son’s 11 year checkup, the pediatrician mentioned the onset of puberty. Sounds silly, but I hadn’t really thought about it before and I certainly didn’t know about the changes my son was about to go through. (If you need a great puberty resource, check out the book I bought for my son and I here.)Want to know more about your own son’s development? Today I am interviewing Dr. Roy Benaroch and we are chatting about the development of boys from newborn baby through to puberty with parenting tips for each stage of growth. Show NotesRoy’s blog is www.pediatricinsider.com and follow him on Twitter at @pedinsider Search for Roy Benaroch at www.thegreatcourses.com to learn more about his Medical School for Everyone video courses Time StampsRoy’s number one parenting tip (1:38) Parenting Babies (7:19) How parents treat boys and girls differently (8:38) Toddlers are little scientists (13:37) Developing Independence in Preschoolers (15:44) School age boys (18:32) Early Sexual Development (23:59) Understanding Physical and Emotional Development during Puberty (27:13) Sexual Development in older boys (35:37) When to call your pediatrician (38:24)Last Fall, at my oldest son’s 11 year checkup, the pediatrician mentioned the onset of puberty. Sounds silly, but I hadn’t really thought about it before and I certainly didn’t know about the changes my son was about to go through. (If you need a great puberty resource, check out the book I bought for my son and I here.)Want to know more about your own son’s development? Today I am interviewing Dr. Roy Benaroch and we are chatting about the development of boys from newborn baby through to puberty with parenting tips for each stage of growth. Show NotesRoy’s blog is www.pediatricinsider.com and follow him on Twitter at @pedinsider Search for Roy Benaroch at www.thegreatcourses.com to learn more about his Medical School for Everyone video courses Time StampsRoy’s number one parenting tip (1:38) Parenting Babies (7:19) How parents treat boys and girls differently (8:38) Toddlers are little scientists (13:37) Developing Independence in Preschoolers (15:44) School age boys (18:32) Early Sexual Development (23:59) Understanding Physical and Emotional Development during Puberty (27:13) Sexual Development in older boys (35:37) When to call your pediatrician (38:24)https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-002-growth-and-development-of-boys-with-pediatrician-roy-benaroch-66503371?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org04c72e82-f965-4e0b-9a78-eae22a0d36e5Wed, 09 May 2018 21:29:00 -060011222486fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1332/15f0b58ee29f20229e960dbb04726b64.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-002-growth-and-development-of-boys-with-pediatrician-roy-benaroch-66503371?ref=rssnonoJessica CrowRoy BenarochnonoLast Fall, at my oldest son’s 11 year checkup, the pediatrician mentioned the onset of puberty. Sounds silly, but I hadn’t really thought about it before and I certainly didn’t know about the changes my son was about to go through. (If you need ...Welcome to Boys Built BetterIn this episode you will learn a little more about Boys Built Better and its host, Jessica Crow. Jessica is a mom to 3 boys aged 5, 9 and 11 who decided to get into podcasting after a particularly hard year as a parent.The Boys Built Better podcast is a bi-weekly show designed help all parents raise their boys, better.For more Boys Built Better follow us on Twitter @BoysBuiltBetter, Facebook at facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter and sign-up below to receive email updates.For more information about the art project mentioned in the show, check out our blog post about it here:https://boysbuiltbetter.com/arts-and-crafts/getting-started-with-perler-beads/In this episode you will learn a little more about Boys Built Better and its host, Jessica Crow. Jessica is a mom to 3 boys aged 5, 9 and 11 who decided to get into podcasting after a particularly hard year as a parent.The Boys Built Better podcast is a bi-weekly show designed help all parents raise their boys, better.For more Boys Built Better follow us on Twitter @BoysBuiltBetter, Facebook at facebook.com/boysbuiltbetter and sign-up below to receive email updates.For more information about the art project mentioned in the show, check out our blog post about it here:https://boysbuiltbetter.com/arts-and-crafts/getting-started-with-perler-beads/https://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-001-welcome-to-boys-built-better-70568084?ref=rsshello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.orghello@loudspeaker.org6ad3d392-f4d0-478d-8328-b173e200ae98Wed, 25 Apr 2018 21:31:00 -06001111580fullhttps://cdn.oyku.media/assets/1333/753a7d2489ba11b91c2aabf2500abe82.jpghttps://www.loudspeaker.org/episodes/bbb-001-welcome-to-boys-built-better-70568084?ref=rssnonoJessica CrownonoIn this episode you will learn a little more about Boys Built Better and its host, Jessica Crow. Jessica is a mom to 3 boys aged 5, 9 and 11 who decided to get into podcasting after a particularly hard year as a parent.The Boys Built Better podcast is ...