Back to School 2024 - San Fernando Valley Issue : simplebooklet.com

The “back to school” season is sporting a fresh, new look as unique and diverse as the families gearing up for the 2024 academic year. It’s an exciting time for education in America. The public/private school system and homeschooling alternative are reﬂective in widely adapted, more recent approaches to learning like microschooling, learning pods, learning centers, unschooling and coops. Yet one thing remains unchanging, the individual as the focus of learning and doing.Our Back to School Learning Guide addresses the very heart of education: the student. In our this issue, you will ﬁnd practical tools and resources designed to help you make the most of the academic year and help your learner thrive. We explore how traditional milestones are being redeﬁned by a growing emphasis on soft skills and what this means for learners and educators. This is a great year to get your learner started with a foreign language. Drawing on the latest research, we provide insights into when, how and why it’s beneﬁcial to start learning a second language.For those considering homeschooling, our comprehensive “Roadmap on How to Start Your Homeschool” provides a step-by-step guide to getting started. From legal requirements to curriculum choices, this infographic article is a must for any parent embarking on the homeschooling journey.As you embark on a new year of learning, we hope you ﬁnd this issue both useful and inspiring. Happy reading!San Fernando Valley EditionLearning & Living Magazine iugoworldPUBLISHER / EDITORWindy FamaASSOCIATE EDITORMai TranCONTRIBUTING WRITERSSamantha CruzJennifer YatesADVERTISING DIRECTORLori Carreseadvertising@iugo.worldPRODUCTIONSenior Graphic DesignerDavid StoneIUGO WORLD LEARNING & LIVINGMAGAZINE1968 S. Coast Hwy Ste. 2359Laguna Beach, CA 92651Tel: (888) 502-6795iugo.world/magazinecontact@iugo.worldPRODUCED BYIugo World LLCIUGOWORLD Living well through educationIugo in Latin /pronounced you-go/ means to bind together, to connectIugo World Learning & Living Magazine (IWLL) is a multi-generational publication dedicated to empowering parents, students, homeschoolers, and seniors with educational tools and resources that support their journey toward growth and personal fulfillment. We are committed to delivering valuable, high-quality content that encourages genuine connection and transformation. 02 Aug 2024 Iugo World Learning & Living San Fernando ValleyBy Windy FamaEditor and Co-founder, Iugo WorldAn Exciting Time for Education in America

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Language learning does not need to be a formal process, but it does need to be enjoyable to be sustaining. How children learn a foreign language should mimic the way they are learning their ﬁrst language, -as naturally as possible. If ﬁrst language learning stage includes songs, stories, games and role-play to support daily conversations, then the foreign language should be taught, similarly. If your child is older and learning about grammar for example, then introducing the mechanics of the foreign language will enhance the experience. Consistent practice is the most important factor when it comes to language learning. This is where the saying “practice makes perfect” deﬁnitely applies. Encourage your child to use the new language in daily life. This could be as simple as labeling and naming objects at home, having a conversation at the dinner table or watching your child's favorite cartoon in the foreign language. How to Get Started to Thriving By: Samantha CruzContributing WriterThe idea of learning a new language can be both exciting and intimidating at the same time. As our world becomes more interconnected, it's clear that learning a foreign language is a “must” skill for our children that will open doors to new ways of communicating and deepen their appreciation for different cultures, while boosting their cognitive skills. While it’s never too late to learn a new language, there are key strategies to consider that will make the learning experience both effective and fun for our children.When you start questioning if it's time to start, -it’s time to start! Infants and toddlers have an innate ability to absorb new languages, mimic sounds and adopt pronunciation with ease. During this time, language learning is actually helping shape their brains and strengthen cognition skills. Selecting the right language for your learner may be just as overwhelming as the learning process itself, but it doesn't have to be. However, there are key factors to consider that can help you narrow down the options: usefulness of the language, availability of learning resources, access to the to the culture, level of difﬁculty, and interest. After all, his/her motivation to continue learning the language will be inﬂuenced by how effectively they can use the language.START EARLYCHOOSE THE LANGUAGEENCOURAGE PRACTICEMAKE IT FUNWhen you start questioning if it's time to start, -it’s time to start!IS IT TIME TO LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE?Find organic ways to connect the language into your child's daily routine.Children learn best when they involve all their senses. Learning a foreign language is not limited to listening and speaking but should include the cultural aspects as well. Incorporate the music, ﬂavors and smells, and traditions of the target culture to make the experience meaningful.The renowned linguist Stephen Krashen identiﬁed a crucial stage of language learning called “the silent period”. This phase of language acquisition is where the learner is actively processing the new language, and although they are improving their language skills through active listening, they are not yet producing it. Language learning is a life-long process, so it is important to be patient and celebrate the small victories along the way. USE A VARIETY OF RESOURCESBE PATIENTMaintain a positive attitude towards learning and make sure your child knows that making mistakes is a part of the learning process. Encourage them to keep trying and assure them that every effort brings them one step closer to their goal.If possible, ﬁnd a ﬂuent speaker for your child to practice with. This could be a friend, family member, or a language tutor or learning group. Regular interaction with a like-minded learners can greatly enhance language acquisition.There is nothing like the ﬁrst-hand immersion experience of traveling to the country where the language is spoken. However, exposing your child to local venues, such as a local festival, a restaurant that serves authentic cuisine, a community event or cultural district. These experiences can make the language come alive for the learner.Remember, it's never too early (or too late) to learn a foreign language. Even more than being a valuable skill, it is highly enriching and rewarding. With the right approach and resources, your child can not only start learning a foreign language, but also thrive!ENCOURAGE A POSITIVE ATTITUDEFIND A LANGUAGE PARTNERTRAVELhallobonjourtulasbomdiaholahejsziani haoalohagatnetugsawadeekonichiwaciao 06 Aug 2024 Iugo World Learning & Living San Fernando Valley Edition

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Language learning does not need to be a formal process, but it does need to be enjoyable to be sustaining. How children learn a foreign language should mimic the way they are learning their ﬁrst language, -as naturally as possible. If ﬁrst language learning stage includes songs, stories, games and role-play to support daily conversations, then the foreign language should be taught, similarly. If your child is older and learning about grammar for example, then introducing the mechanics of the foreign language will enhance the experience. Consistent practice is the most important factor when it comes to language learning. This is where the saying “practice makes perfect” deﬁnitely applies. Encourage your child to use the new language in daily life. This could be as simple as labeling and naming objects at home, having a conversation at the dinner table or watching your child's favorite cartoon in the foreign language. How to Get Started to Thriving By: Samantha CruzContributing WriterThe idea of learning a new language can be both exciting and intimidating at the same time. As our world becomes more interconnected, it's clear that learning a foreign language is a “must” skill for our children that will open doors to new ways of communicating and deepen their appreciation for different cultures, while boosting their cognitive skills. While it’s never too late to learn a new language, there are key strategies to consider that will make the learning experience both effective and fun for our children.When you start questioning if it's time to start, -it’s time to start! Infants and toddlers have an innate ability to absorb new languages, mimic sounds and adopt pronunciation with ease. During this time, language learning is actually helping shape their brains and strengthen cognition skills. Selecting the right language for your learner may be just as overwhelming as the learning process itself, but it doesn't have to be. However, there are key factors to consider that can help you narrow down the options: usefulness of the language, availability of learning resources, access to the to the culture, level of difﬁculty, and interest. After all, his/her motivation to continue learning the language will be inﬂuenced by how effectively they can use the language.START EARLYCHOOSE THE LANGUAGEENCOURAGE PRACTICEMAKE IT FUNIS IT TIME TO LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE?Find organic ways to connect the language into your child's daily routine.Children learn best when they involve all their senses. Learning a foreign language is not limited to listening and speaking but should include the cultural aspects as well. Incorporate the music, ﬂavors and smells, and traditions of the target culture to make the experience meaningful.The renowned linguist Stephen Krashen identiﬁed a crucial stage of language learning called “the silent period”. This phase of language acquisition is where the learner is actively processing the new language, and although they are improving their language skills through active listening, they are not yet producing it. Language learning is a life-long process, so it is important to be patient and celebrate the small victories along the way. USE A VARIETY OF RESOURCESBE PATIENTMaintain a positive attitude towards learning and make sure your child knows that making mistakes is a part of the learning process. Encourage them to keep trying and assure them that every effort brings them one step closer to their goal.If possible, ﬁnd a ﬂuent speaker for your child to practice with. This could be a friend, family member, or a language tutor or learning group. Regular interaction with a like-minded learners can greatly enhance language acquisition.There is nothing like the ﬁrst-hand immersion experience of traveling to the country where the language is spoken. However, exposing your child to local events, such as festivals, a restaurant that serves authentic cuisine, a community event or cultural district will prove greatly beneﬁcial. These experiences make the language come alive for the learner.Remember, it's never too early (or too late) to learn a foreign language. Even more than being a valuable skill, it is highly enriching and rewarding. With the right approach and resources, your child can not only start learning a foreign language, but also thrive!ENCOURAGE A POSITIVE ATTITUDEFIND A LANGUAGE PARTNERTRAVELhallobonjourtulasbomdiaholahejsziani haoalohagatnetugsawadeekonichiwaciao San Fernando Valley Edition Iugo World Learning & Living Aug 2024 07When you start asking if it's time to start, -then it’s time to start!

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Vendors Wanted!Health Education Family ServicesExhibitorOPEN!Opportunitiesstarting this year. There is so much informationout there about homeschooling, frankly it’soverwhelming. Please advise – Carol G., Agoura Hills, CABy Windy FamaWHERE TO START?Indeed! There has been so much written abouthomeschooling, it’s challenging to discern what todo from what not to do. Given that California hasrelatively lenient homeschooling regulations (and-yes, there are), much of the guidance and know-how for establishing a solid homeschoolingfoundation comes from social media.While every homeschool is inherentlyunique, there are common elements that arestandard across the board, even if not in thetraditional sense, such as identifying the student’slearning proﬁle, routines and expectations,activities, the use of tools and resources, learningoutcomes, observable achievements andadministrative tasks (e.g.. attendance tracking).Your homeschool approach should be authenticand realistic, -in sync with your family’s pace.Attempting to mimic a traditional schoolclassroom at home or enforcing inﬂexibleschedules could lead to challenges that extendbeyond the scope of teaching and learning.Our Homeschool Roadmap can assist you inmapping out your homeschool. Identify the stepsthat align with your vision and start from there.QWe’ve decided to homeschool our 6th graderAHi Carol,Q&A

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© 2024 iugo.worldDesignate appropriate teaching & learning spaceBrainstorm youreducational philosophy & mission Identify learning outcomes for core subjects (e.g. state standards)543Research & comply with state and local homeschool laws atiugo.worldIdentify goals forwhy you are homeschooling.1Embrace ﬂexibilityand enjoy the journey!20Decide on a learning approach aligned with your family’s educational philosophy & goals, values & cultureIdentify activities for talent and skills development (sports,music, art, etc.)68Determine your homeschool budget9Establish who will teach your learner(s) & method of instruction (Ex: parent or tutor, live, online, blended)Research, explore and choose method &curriculum or learning approach10Establish record keeping and internaladministrative system1312Map out the teaching & learning plan for the grade, year, or stage.Establish progress tracking and learning benchmarks14Establish yearly calendar including holidays, breaks, events, ﬁeld trips etc.15Establish & discuss expectations for teaching & learning, behavior, schedules, routine, etc.16Identify and gatherteaching & learningresources & tools17Plan & carry-out “Orientation Day” to set the tone19Thriving HomeschoolUp AheadDesignate an achievement board or wall to showcase your learner’s progress18Identify your student(s) learning proﬁle 711STARTING A iugoworldROADMAP:TheHOMESCHOOLSan Fernando Valley Edition Iugo World Learning & Living Aug 2024 09DOWNLOADABLERESOURCE

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ARE SKILLS THE NEW Identifying Skills at Every Stage of DevelopmentMILESTONES? In the blink of an eye, relentless innovation and technological advancement transform how we live on personal, professional, and even spiritual levels. As we adjust to the effects of this progress on our lives, we should consider how this transformation is equally affecting our children. Current educational theory promotes digital platforms, interactive learning software, and online resources to equip our kids with the knowledge and skills that should enable them to carve their own path in a post-AI world. However, readiness extends far beyond our children merely knowing how to leverage the tools at hand. When it comes to technology and our children, the big question that looms like a cloud is: How can we teach them to use these resources to support learning without adversely affecting their unique identity, growth and natural development?By Windy Fama San Fernando Valley Edition Iugo World Learning & Living Aug 2024 11

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One approach to steer the learning journey is to identify the skills highly prized in today's workforce, no matter the learner's present age or area of interest. Comprehending the dynamics of the professional landscape can offer invaluable insights to guide their growth trajectory and focus on skills that will anchor them through changing times. This can aid in tailoring an educational strategy that centers on the child's unique identity, personal interests and talents, and social-emotional intelligence without being drowned out by the noise that constant innovation and technology brings. The terms 'soft skills' and 'hard skills' may be speciﬁc to Human Resources jargon, however understanding their implications in relation to the developmental stages of our children can be powerful in guiding them to skill building to maintaining an authentic sense of personal identity.“Hard skills” refer to speciﬁc knowledge that can be learned and measured such as those taught in history, math and the sciences. They also denote specialized training like computer coding or speaking a foreign language. Our children acquire these skills as the basis of their academic learning. On the other hand, children build“soft skills”, (a.k.a. “people skills”) gradually through day-to-day interaction and experiences with people and their surroundings. These skills are motivated by self-reﬂection, and personal growth a cognitive and emotional level. For example, a child that has learned the hard skill of a foreign language will demonstrate their communication and teamwork skills by how s/he uses the language to reach a speciﬁc objective in which s/he may have been required to use persuasive language or show leadership. Similarly, a child's resilience might be demonstrated when they bounce back from moving away from their childhood home. Although “soft skills” are harder to measure, they are sometimes considered even more valuable in the work force because they show that an indi vidua l can nav igate thei r environment, work well with others, perform well and achieve goals based on their motivation.Continued development of your child's soft skills can help them establish a stable foundation and discover purpose to their learning journey. This means that by focusing on the growth of soft skills like communication, teamwork, and resilience, children not only learn 'what' to learn but also 'why' they are learning, which helps them stay focused, consistent and motivated as life long learners.“75 percent of long-term job success depends on people skills, while only 25 percent on technical knowledge.”― Peggy Klaus, The Hard Truth About Soft Skills: Soft Skills for Succeeding in a Hard Work 12 Aug 2024 Iugo World Learning & Living San Fernando Valley Edition

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SKILL’S DEVELOPMENTWITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF PIAGET’S STAGES OF COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENTDOWNLOADABLERESOURCECuriosity Explores their environmentAdaptability Adjusts to changes in routine; reacts to new situationCommunication Communicates using verbal and non-verbal languageActive listening Pays attention to what is being said and gives appropriate responsesCreativity Engages in pretend play and role playCultural Understands and communicates effectively with people across competence cultures.Emotional Identifies, and begins to manage emotions; empathizes intelligence with others Interpersonal Interacts and gets along with othersLeadership Guides and inspires others to achieve a common goalTeamwork Engages in games and activities that require collaboratingProblem solving Understands and sues the concept of cause and effectAccountability Takes responsibility for actionsSelf-motivation Shows a drive to set and achieve personal and academic goalsOrganizational Can plan and prioritize to achieve goalsResilience Bounces back from setbacks and keeps moving forward in the face of adversityNegotiation Engages with two or more parties in dialog to reach a mutually agreeable solutionFlexibility Adjusts actions/mindset to accommodate a new situationInnovation Adapts and changes to drive breakthroughDecision making Can analyze multiple alternatives and choose the best solutionQuick learner Quickly applies new knowledge and skills to a task at handSkills Foundational Actions Stage0-2years2-7years7-11yearsAdolescence to adulthood San Fernando Valley Edition Iugo World Learning & Living Aug 2024 13

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31HalloweenAdopted 19th Century Columbus Day Est. 193714Indigenous People’s Day Est. 199210World Mental HealthDay Est. 1992OCTOBERLabor Day Adopted 189428Grandparent’s Day Adopted 197917Constitution DayEst. 178721International Day ofPeace Est. 2001SEPTEMBER22First Day of FallAUGUST11Veteran’s DayEst. 195419National EntrepreneursDay Est. 2010 28Happy ThanksgivingDay! Est. 1938NOVEMBER3Daylight Savings Time Enacted 1966 20Easter SundayEst. Unknown22Earth DayEst. 1970 APRIL1April Fool’s Day Est. Unknown Father’s Day Proclaimed 197215Juneteenth Proclaimed 202114Flag DayEst. 1949JUNE1930International Day ofFriendship Proclaimed 2011JULY4Independence Day Est. 1776 20Martin Luther King Jr. DayEst. 1983Inauguration Day Est. 1789 27International HolocaustMemorial Day Est. 2005JANUARY1New Year’s Day 29Chinese Lunar New YearProclaimed 202 B.C. - 220 A.D25Christmas DayAdopted 1870 USA10International Human RightsDay Est. 1950DECEMBER31New Year’s Eve Proclaimed 46 B.C.20First Day of Spring Daylight Savings Time Enacted 19669St. Patrick’s Day Adopted 1737 7International Women’s Day Proclaimed 1977MARCH17Groundhog Day Adopted 1887214Valentine’s DayAdopted Early 19th Century17President’s DayEst. 1879FEBRUARYMother’s Day Est. 19081116National Bike to WorkDay Est. 195626Memorial DayEst. 1971MAY2024-2025 SPECIAL DATES CALENDAR 14 Aug 2024 Iugo World Learning & Living Conejo Valley Edition

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A SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL YEARTools for hether our learners are kindergarteners,fifth graders, or high school seniors, each learningphase presents its own unique hurdles andtriumphs. We often find ourselves navigating aspectrum of emotions, from fulfillment toapprehension and everything in between. Amidthese fluctuations, it's crucial for our emotionalhealth, as pillars for our children, to maintain joythroughout the journey. Our emotions andattitudes towards their learning process cansignificantly influence their own perceptions andexperiences. If we approach their journey with positivity and enthusiasm, they are likely to adopt asimilar outlook. Conversely, expressing negativityor doubt may cause them to internalize thesefeelings, hindering their progress and self-confidence. However, each of our children bringsunique challenges to the table. So, how do we hangon to our joy in the process? American novelistChuck Palahniuk offers a recommendation: “Findjoy in everything you choose to do. Every job,relationship, home... it's your responsibility to loveit or change it.”W 16 Aug 2024 Iugo World Learning & Living San Fernando Valley EditionA Toolbox of Resources for Parents and KidsBy Jennifer YatesContributing Writer

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The essence of Palahniuk's quote is apowerful reminder that we don't have to be stuckin any circumstance. Certainly, we need to takeaction to change the dynamics when they are nolonger sustainable or beneficial. However, beingproactive and setting the environment up forsuccess is the first step for cultivating andmaintaining a healthy and joyful journey. Utilizingtools and resources can help us obtain the insightwe need to guide our children successfullythrough, what most likely will be an unpredictableschool year. K n o w i n g y o u r c h i l d g o e s b e y o n dunderstanding their personality, interests,emotions, strengths, and challenges. It involvesbeing aware of how they perceive and interactwith the world around them. One of the mostsignificant disadvantages that can affect learningoutcome is being taught the way the teacherlearns. For example, a parent or teacher who is avisual learner might tend to teach using visualstrategies, can be less effective or a learner thatrequires a hands-on approach.Your Childs’ Learning Profile San Fernando Valley Edition Iugo World Learning & Living Aug 2024 17A SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL YEAR

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Who has time for family meetings whenthings are going smoothly? We do! Not havingregular family meetings can open our home tomiscommunication and unexpected challengeswhich have a broader impact on everyone'sactivities down the road. Carving out specifictime for open communication as a family is anefficient strategy to maintain a peaceful home,not to mention mentally unload to de-escalatethat sometimes stressful inner voice. It's a wayfor everyone to render a wellness-check,provide support, get feedback, addresspressing issues and reconnect with the overallvision and expectation of the family.Family Meetings?!Creating a learner profile for your child will giveyou the insight you need to ensure they connectto the learning material (knowledge) or theactivity (skills) in ways that make sense to them.However, it’s important to not label your childsince their learning style will most likely changeas they develop. Understanding their learningstyle can help you, not only overcome learningchallenges but, help plan for effective learning.Your Childs’ Learning Profile contd’ Did you know that your local library is somuch more than a diverse source of books andacademic materials? It's a hub for communityprograms, continuing education, networks andopportunities, offering a wealth of freeresources to engage your children all year long.You might be surprised to discover that yourlocal library might host an intimate concert,book club reunion, language lessons, and evenyoga classes. Plus, they offer computer facilitiesand expert assistance, all at no cost. Be sure tocheck to stop by your local branch and ask forthe month's calendar of activities and events.The Local Library Our children quickly learn firsthand thatlife is a combination of positive and negativeexperiences. Encouraging them to viewnegative ones through the lens of opportunityhelps them make a conscious effort to changehow they think about learning and personaldevelopment. This is especially important in asociety that is quick to publicly celebrateachievement. Having a growth mindset will helpour children learn to appreciate the journey theyundertake, the challenges they overcome, theknowledge they gain, and the growth theyexperience along the way that are the truemeasures of their worth.Growth Mindeset 18 Aug 2024 Iugo World Learning & Living San Fernando Valley EditionMultiple Intelligences SurveyVARK Family Meeting PacketGrowth Mindset ResourceLos Angeles Library Resource

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