TCA Titan's Blog

If you've ever felt your heart race, palms sweat, and knees wobble at the mere thought of a final test or public speaking, don't worry – you're not alone! The fear of public speaking, known as  glossophobia, is very common. It’s estimated that 75% of people have this fear to one degree or another. Test Anxiety affects between 10% and 40% of students. Performance anxiety affects people of all ages, but it's particularly common among high school and college students or young adults in the workplace. We’re here to share some fantastic tips to help you conquer those nerves and shine on stage or in class.

Embrace the Butterflies

It's normal to feel anxious before speaking in front of others. The same goes for test preparation. Instead of seeing it as a weakness, view it as a sign that you care about doing well. Embrace those butterflies in your stomach; they are your body's way of preparing for a great performance!

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare

Preparation is key to reducing anxiety. Familiarize yourself with the content and practice regularly. Rehearse in front of a mirror, with friends, or family. Study with friends and challenge each other. The more prepared you are, the more confident you'll feel, and confidence is the opposite of fear.

Know Your Audience

When it comes to public speaking or classroom presentations, understanding your audience is important. Tailor your message to resonate with them. This connection can make you feel more at ease and feel like you're speaking to friends rather than strangers.

Start Small

If you're new to public speaking, don't start with a massive crowd. Practice with a couple of friends. If you can, increase the number gradually. As you increase the audience size, you’ll gain confidence. The same principle applies to testing. Take practice quizzes, then move into full practice tests. This allows you to experience the feel of ‘the real thing’ before it happens.

Visualization Techniques

Athletes have been using visualization to overcome performance anxiety for decades. Picture yourself acing the exam or presentation. Imagine positive feedback, maybe even applause. Visualization can help build self-assurance and reduce anxiety.

Breathe and Relax

When the nerves start to kick in, breathing exercises can help. The 4-7-8 breathing exercise is a commonly recommended one. Harvard University published a blog to help their students understand how to use breathing to ease anxiety. Incorporating breathing exercises into daily routines serves as an invaluable coping mechanism. This practice fosters a heightened awareness of the present moment, facilitating emotional regulation and stress reduction. Deep breathing, as a relaxation technique, can be effortlessly integrated into moments of heightened stress, providing immediate relief.

Focus on Your Mission, Not Yourself

Shift your internal focus away from yourself and towards your mission. For speaking, concentrate on delivering value to your audience. When you care about what you're saying, anxiety tends to take a backseat. As it applies to testing, focus on understanding the question fully, then applying the learning you have already done in preparation.

Engage with Your Audience

During presentations, interact with your audience to create a more dynamic atmosphere. Ask questions, encourage participation, or share relatable anecdotes. Engaging with others can ease tension and make the experience enjoyable for everyone. Not only does it help with your anxiety, but it makes your audience feel more interested.

Make Mistakes Gracefully

No one is perfect, and that's okay! If you stumble or make a mistake, don't let it derail you. Acknowledge it, laugh it off, and keep going. Remember, your audience is on your side and wants you to succeed.

Re-frame Negative Thoughts

Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Instead of thinking, "What if I mess up?" say to yourself, "I've prepared well, and I can do this!" Here is a guide to cognitive reframing exercises that can help you apply one to your situation.

Celebrate Your Successes

Each time you conquer performance anxiety and deliver a successful presentation or ace an exam, pat yourself on the back! Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. It's all part of your growth journey.

Remember, public speaking and taking exams are skills that can be developed with time and practice. Be patient with yourself, and don't be too hard on your first few attempts. Embrace the learning process and know that everyone deals with anxiety. So, go out there and nail that presentation or test!

At The Classical Academy (TCA), our elementary students enjoy a series of events called Curriculum Days. Each grade level has its own unique Days that match the subjects they are studying during the year. These events help students reinforce their learning in a fun and immersive way. 

How Do Curriculum Days Work?

Curriculum days are special, hands-on learning events that serve as a culmination of key units of study. These days provide opportunities for students to immerse themselves in the history they have been studying and to experience the culture, the people, and the traditions of that period. Students dress as people from the time period and participate in activities that provide an authentic look at the people, places, and events.

Kindergarten

In kindergarten, the focus is on laying a solid foundation for future learning. Our kindergarten students enjoy multiple Curriculum Days during the year.  Mother Goose and Dr. Seuss Days celebrate amazing literature and characters.  The thanksgiving feast and Mother’s Day tea help kindergarten students learn about current holidays and share those times with family. Kindergarten students spend their 100^th day of school discovering numbers and their importance. Through engaging activities and stories, students are not just taught, but they actively participate in their learning, making connections between the classroom and the world around them.

First Grade

As students progress to first grade, they continue to expand their horizons. First-grade students have three Curriculum Days:  Egyptian Day, Colonial Day, and an Archeological dig. Learning becomes an adventure as students don their archaeological clothing and embark on a dig, bringing history and science to life. Past cultures are explored, and their history becomes more vivid through various crafts and activities that were common in those time periods.  

Second Grade

The four Curriculum Days for second grade cover topics in US and world history. This helps students deepen their understanding of the world around them. They explore major world religions, gaining insights into different cultures and belief systems. Ancient civilizations such as Greece and China are explored. Students also delve into the history of their own country, learning about the foundation of the U.S. government and the pioneers who shaped its expansion westward. Curriculum days for 2^nd grade include Constitution Day, Pioneer Day, Immigration Day and A Trip Around the World.

Third Grade

Third-grade students study Ancient Rome and the Vikings, learning about the challenges faced by these civilizations and how they overcame them. Each unit ends with a trip through Roman and Viking curriculum days. Through the study of history, students gain valuable insights into the human experience, discovering the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. They also explore the age of exploration, uncovering the stories of adventurers like Columbus and the spirit of discovery that drove them forward. This period of exploration serves as a reminder that challenges are an inherent part of life, but with resilience and determination, they can be overcome.

Fourth Grade

In fourth grade, students delve into the Middle Ages, a time of knights, castles, and feudalism. This creates a deeper understanding of medieval society. They also explore colonial America, learning about the early settlers and the foundations of the United States government. Students choose one historical figure, learn in-depth information, and bring that person to life through costumes, reports, and a living museum. Fourth graders continue to deepen their understanding of human biology, exploring concepts such as digestion and the importance of organs like the heart and lungs. Three curriculum days include Medieval Day, Patriots Day, and Science Share Day.

Fifth Grade

Fifth grade dives into the Renaissance period, exploring the rebirth of art, science, and humanism in Europe. Through the study of influential figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Galileo, students gain insights into the transformative power of ideas and innovation. They also examine the impact of the Renaissance on society, politics, and philosophy, recognizing its enduring legacy in the modern world. Fifth graders also explore the wonders of the universe, studying astronomy and the discoveries of Copernicus and Galileo. This exploration of the cosmos inspires awe and curiosity, encouraging students to question, wonder, and seek truth in the world around them. Fifth Grade Curriculum Days are Explorer and Renaissance Day.

Sixth Grade

The final year of elementary school prepares for the transition to secondary education. Students revisit myths and legends from earlier grades, deepening their understanding and appreciation of ancient storytelling traditions. Journeying with Odysseus and his men, students explore themes of heroism, adventure, and the human condition. Students also learn about the importance of Spanish language and culture in our society. As they prepare to move forward, students are equipped with a solid foundation of knowledge, critical thinking skills, and a passion for learning. The sixth grade has two days that include Olympics and Viva Spanish Day.

The educators at TCA view guiding students through this educational journey as both a privilege and a responsibility. Our teachers strive to create an environment where curiosity is nurtured, questions are encouraged, and knowledge is actively constructed. We recognize the importance of fostering a love for learning in each student, inspiring them to explore, inquire, and discover.

If you would like to know more about the Curriculum Days or how you can be an active partner in your student’s education, please contact us.

The art of cursive writing may seem like a relic of the past to some people. However, the importance of cursive extends beyond penmanship. Cursive writing is taught at TCA in second grade.

In today's digital age, where typing and texting dominate communication, the art of cursive writing may seem like a relic of the past to some people. However, the importance of children learning cursive extends far beyond mere penmanship. This timeless skill not only fosters a connection to history but also plays an important role in cognitive development, enhancing various aspects of a student's learning journey.

Historical Continuity

Cursive writing is a form of artistic expression that has stood the test of time. Learning this skill provides children with a unique connection to historical documents, enabling them to decipher handwritten letters and documents from the past. By mastering cursive, children gain the ability to read historical artifacts, fostering an appreciation for the evolution of language and communication.

Personal Identity

Cursive writing also carries a personal touch that distinguishes one's identity. A handwritten signature, for instance, is a hallmark of individuality. Encouraging children to learn cursive ensures they can craft their distinctive signatures, contributing to a sense of personal identity and pride in their abilities.

Fine Motor Skills and Hand-Eye Coordination

One of the undeniable benefits of cursive writing is its positive impact on fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The intricate loops and curves inherent in cursive letters demand precision and control. As children practice forming these elaborate shapes, they refine their fine motor skills, enhancing their dexterity.

Cursive writing requires a smooth coordination between the hand and the eye. As children engage in the fluid movements required to connect cursive letters, they develop a heightened sense of spatial awareness and refine their hand-eye coordination. These foundational skills are crucial for future academic pursuits and everyday tasks.

Enhanced Reading and Academic Proficiency

Studies have shown a positive correlation between cursive writing and improved reading skills. The rhythmic flow of cursive letters aids in the development of letter recognition and retention. When children practice connecting letters in cursive, it reinforces their understanding of letter sequences, leading to increased reading fluency.

Furthermore, the act of writing in cursive engages different parts of the brain compared to typing or printing. This unique cognitive engagement has been linked to improved information processing and retention. As children navigate the intricacies of cursive, they stimulate brain regions associated with language and memory, laying a robust foundation for academic success.

Boosting Creativity and Self-Expression

Beyond the confines of standardized testing and structured curricula, cursive writing provides an avenue for self-expression. It is, in some respects, an art form. Encouraging children to experiment with different styles of cursive enhances their creative abilities.

Children can use cursive to bring their thoughts and ideas to life, creating a tangible representation of their unique voice. The freedom to infuse personal flair into their writing fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their work. This not only boosts confidence but also nurtures a lifelong appreciation for the art of written expression.

Encouraging Patience and Perseverance

Learning cursive is a journey that requires patience and perseverance. The intricacies of mastering each cursive letter and connecting them into words demand practice and dedication. In an era of instant gratification, instilling the value of persistence through cursive writing is a valuable life lesson.

As children navigate the challenges of learning cursive, they develop resilience in the face of difficulties. Overcoming the initial hurdles of forming unfamiliar shapes instills a sense of accomplishment, reinforcing the idea that perseverance leads to mastery. These lessons extend beyond the realm of writing, shaping a mindset that embraces challenges with confidence.

Embracing the Timeless Craft

The importance of children learning cursive writing extends well beyond the confines of traditional penmanship. It is a gateway to historical continuity, a catalyst for cognitive development, and a canvas for self-expression. Encouraging children to embrace the timeless craft of cursive not only equips them with essential skills but also encourages a love for the art of writing that will accompany them throughout their academic careers and beyond.

We’re always here to help our TCA parents. If you need more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 719-484-0091.

A Symphony of Benefits: Music and Fine Arts Education for Your Child

In the pursuit of nurturing well-rounded, exemplary citizens, the importance of music and fine arts education for students cannot be overstated. Let's explore the myriad ways in which these creative disciplines contribute to your child's holistic development.

Cultivating Cognitive Development Through Music

Academic Performance: Numerous studies consistently affirm the positive correlation between music education and academic success. Engaging in the intricacies of musical composition sharpens critical thinking, problem-solving, and mathematical skills. Some studies have indicated that students who have several years of musical education are as much as a year ahead of their nonmusical peers by 12^th grade.

Memory Mastery: Learning to play an instrument is like a workout for the brain's memory centers. The repetition and memorization involved not only enhance information retention but also boost overall cognitive capacity. Studies have shown that children who undergo musical training have better verbal memory.

Tune into Language Skills: The world of music involves decoding notes, rhythms, and lyrics. This intricate process cultivates a heightened sensitivity to language nuances, leading to improved reading and verbal communication skills. This includes learning a second language.

Fine Arts: A Palette of Emotional Intelligence

Expressive Freedom: Art, be it through painting, drawing, or sculpting, provides a canvas for emotional expression. In a world where emotions can be complex, fine arts offer a safe way for your child to communicate and process feelings.

Confidence Unleashed: Engaging in visual arts encourages experimentation and risk-taking. As your child explores different artistic mediums, they learn to embrace their unique perspectives and build confidence in their abilities. This newfound self-assurance benefits them in almost every aspect of their developing lives.

Cultural Mosaic: Visual arts expose students to diverse cultures and perspectives, fostering empathy and cultural awareness. This exposure to a rich variety of artistic traditions contributes to a broader understanding of the world. Your child becomes a global citizen, appreciating the beauty in diversity.

A Symphony of Social Skills

Collaboration: Both music and fine arts education often involve collaborative projects, ensemble performances, and group exhibitions. These experiences instill essential teamwork and collaboration skills, teaching your child the value of working towards a common goal. The stage becomes a training ground for life's collaborative endeavors.

Communication: Whether playing in an orchestra, acting in a play, or participating in an art exhibition, students involved in the arts develop robust communication skills. They learn to express themselves effectively and listen attentively. They also learn to both provide and accept constructive feedback—a skill set that extends beyond creative pursuits into all aspects of life.

Discipline and Tempo: Mastering an instrument or honing an artistic technique demands discipline and time management. Students immersed in music and fine arts education naturally develop these crucial life skills, laying the foundation for future academic and professional triumphs.

Embrace the Artistic Journey

As parents, actively supporting and embracing your child's involvement in music and fine arts education is a gift that keeps on giving. Beyond notes and brushstrokes, they are creating a future rich in cognitive advancements, emotional intelligence, and invaluable social skills. The benefits derived from these creative pursuits resonate not only in the classroom but throughout their entire lives.

Let their artistic journey unfold. Encourage your student to dance to the rhythm of their creative heartbeat. In the world of music and fine arts, they are not merely students—they are the composers of their own development symphony.

If you would like to know more about our values and approach to education, please explore our website or contact our offices at 719-484-0091. We look forward to meeting you.

Many elements make up your child's education. Among those elements, literacy holds a pivotal role. In your position as a parent, you are key in shaping your child's academic journey. Here are some practical tips and insights on how you can nurture your child’s love for reading at home. Instilling a passion for reading early on not only propels academic success but often starts a lifelong love affair with learning. The love of learning is part of our Titan’s Creed.

Creating a Space for Reading

Begin by crafting a reading-friendly area at home. It doesn’t have to be an entire room. It could be a cozy corner dedicated to reading. Ensure there are no electronic screens, just a diverse array of age-appropriate books. The goal is to make books not just accessible but irresistible.

Weaving Reading into Routine

We have talked about the importance of routine before. Consistency is a great way to build solid reading habits. Whether it's a pre-bedtime ritual, a breakfast book journey, or a post-school escape into a world of words, having a routine adds structure and excitement to reading time. And remember, your active participation can make a big difference.

Diverse Books for a Diverse World

Expand your child's literary horizon by introducing a variety of books that introduce different cultures, perspectives, and genres. Letting your child handpick stories that capture their imagination can transform a trip to the library into a thrilling adventure. Variety not only enriches the reading experience but also broadens your student’s understanding of the world. This understanding aids in development as exemplary citizens.

Reading Together, Growing Together

You can make reading at home into more than a solitary activity. It can become an interactive journey. Dive into the story with your child, asking questions, dissecting plots, and delving into the characters. This not only boosts comprehension but also transforms reading into a shared, enjoyable experience. Share your thoughts and encourage your child to express theirs. You may be amazed at how insightful they can be.

Be a Reading Role Model

Children imitate those around them. Demonstrate your love for reading by incorporating it into your daily life. It doesn’t matter whether it's a novel, a magazine, or the morning newspaper, let your child witness your excitement for acquiring new knowledge. Modeling a positive reading attitude is a powerful influence.

Celebrate Milestones, Big and Small

Every reading achievement, no matter how small, deserves to be celebrated. From conquering a challenging book to mastering a set of new words, acknowledging these victories boosts your child's confidence and fuels their motivation. Consider a reading chart or a simple reward system to infuse fun into the learning process. This doesn’t just encourage the child to read, but it also teaches them about setting and achieving goals.

Writing: The Other Side of Literacy

Remember, literacy excellence isn't confined to reading alone. Encourage your child to explore the world of writing—be it through journaling, creating short stories, or even writing letters to friends and family. Writing activities provide a unique avenue for expression, strengthening language skills, and nurturing creativity. Writing skills also help students excel throughout their academic careers and beyond.

Empowering the Reader Within

We’re honored to be your partner in your student’s academic journey. Together, we can nurture a generation of confident and enthusiastic readers. If you need ideas or tips to encourage reading at home, our education professionals would be happy to help. Just reach out to us. Our office number is 719-484-0091 or email us at tcacontact@asd20.org.

Creating a Positive Learning Environment at Home: Tips for Parents

A positive learning environment is important to a successful education. Whether you are a parent involved in our Cottage School Program or our full time program, when student’s get home, the environment you create for them can help to move their learning ahead. Believe it or not, creating that environment isn’t difficult. Here are a few ideas and tips that can help you assist your student.

1. Create a Dedicated Learning Space

Designate an area in your home specifically for learning. Whether it's a corner in the living room, a desk in the kitchen, or a small separate room, having a dedicated space helps signal that it's time to focus and learn. That helps your learning environment be more effective.

2. Organize Supplies

Keep all learning materials handy. Whether it is books or art supplies, having everything in one place saves time and minimizes distractions. A tidy space leads to a clear mind.

3. Establish a Routine

Establishing a routine can be a powerful learning tool. Children thrive on predictability and a set schedule can do wonders for their progress. To that end, set a daily schedule. Design one that suits your family and the needs of your children. Consistency is key, so try to have expected times for lessons, breaks, and activities.

It is worth noting that while routines are important, make sure to mix it up. Incorporate different subjects and activities to keep things fresh and exciting.

4. Encourage Independence

Empower your children to take charge of their learning. This fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership. It can help to sometimes allow choices. When you can, offer a list of subjects or topics and let them choose.

Always celebrate success. At the same time, encourage self-assessment. When they reach a milestone, celebrate it! This can build their confidence and strengthen their motivation. It can also make learning feel more fun.

5. Be Patient and Flexible

Homeschooling can sometimes be an unpredictable journey. Some days will be smooth sailing, while others might have a few bumps. It’s completely natural.

Learning often involves making mistakes. Teach your children that it's okay to get things wrong; it's a natural part of the process. When they see you admit mistakes and take ownership of them, you are giving them a powerful lesson that helps them develop into exemplary citizens.

Also, don’t be afraid to be flexible. Different children learn in different ways, and adapting to their needs is a big part of homeschooling. That adaptation not only helps them learn more effectively, but it also helps you grow your skills in aiding them.

6. Foster Curiosity

Encourage your children to be inquisitive. Curiosity is the spark that fuels lifelong learning. There are a few ways you can do this. One is to ask open-ended questions. These encourage critical thinking. "What do you think will happen if..." or "Why do you think this works that way..."

Another way is to follow your children’s interests. If your children are curious about a specific topic, dive deep into it. It's amazing how much learning can happen when it's something they're passionate about. As a bonus, you may end up learning some new things too.

7. Be a Learning Role Model

Your attitude towards learning sets the tone. Be the best example for your children. One way is to show enthusiasm. When you're excited about a topic, your children are more likely to be as well. Share your enthusiasm and curiosity. Another way is to make learning a family affair. Explore new topics together, whether it's a DIY project, cooking a new recipe, or picking up a musical instrument. For example, a woodworking project can not only teach life skills, but it also shows your students the practical applications of math, visualization, reading comprehension, and good old attention to detail.

8. Stay Connected with the Outside World

Homeschooling doesn't mean isolation. A good learning environment can be in more than one place. Keep your children connected with the world. There are easy ways to keep them connected. Your family could enroll in our Cottage School Program, or engage in extracurricular activities like sports or performing arts to facilitate social interaction and learning.

You can also discuss current events with your students at an age-appropriate level. It's a great way to develop critical thinking skills and encourage them to approach issues with logic.

Homeschooling or supporting your children academically can be an incredibly rewarding experience. We hope these tips from our professional educators help you in your journey as your children’s primary educator or if you are supporting their learning in one of our classrooms. We’re always here to help our TCA parents. If you need more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 719-484-0091.