IUGO WORLD MAY 2024 1 : simplebooklet.com

We sincerely hope that your family embraces the power of learning and the warmth of community by making our gazette a monthly addition to your home. We are committed to providing you with educational insights, inspiring stories, community support, and topics to bring families together in dialog and meaningful action. Our hope is that together, as resilient members of the San Fernando Valley, we can transform our children's backyard into the equitable and safe community they truly deserve. Welcome to our inaugural edition—a celebration of learning, growing and rebuilding the indomitable spirit of the San Fernando Valley.Page 2- IW Learning & Living Gazette, May 2024IW Learning and Living GazetteMonthly distribution direct to 25,000 HOMES throughout the San Fernando ValleyCall us at: (888) 502-6795 or visit iugo.world/iwgazetteYour businessin 25,000 homesADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESSAs a resident living at the vibrant core of the San Fernando Valley, I find myself at a crossroads. Last year, I read a study from UCLA that found “Living in the San Fernando Valley is a Downer.” Certainly, the challenges loom large: inflation, income disparities, social division and discrimination, the homelessness and mental illness crisis, crime, food insecurities, and school lockdowns are just the tip of the iceberg. All these issues have a substantial impact on our community and quality of life. It is most definitely a major downer —especially when we consider that our children are growing up in the thick of these challenges. Nevertheless, as a mother and educator, I strongly believe there is a ray of hope amid these overwhelming complexities, and that is education and community.With this in mind, we are thrilled to announce the launch of the first issue of Iugo World Learning and Living (IWLL) gazette. This monthly publication is fueled by the conviction that education in its diverse forms extends far beyond textbooks if it is to broaden our perspectives, while community empowers us to transform what we cannot change. Transformation is a larger concept than change. It entails profound reinvention of our collective culture as a community, which begins at home. In this issue, you will find Kendra Thompson's article, “Why Hope is Different from Optimism”, that Celebrating Our Very First IssueBy Windy FamaCo-founder, Iugo Worlddescribes the importance of defining what hope looks like in the thick of uncertainty so we can endure challenges. This powerful article will not only help us find solid ground, but also to engage in meaningful dialog to help our young people cope during difficult stages of their lives.Iugo /pronounced you-go/ in Latin means to bind together, and to connectAs a community, we depend on each other for shared resources, social connection and collective impact.iugoworldiugoworld14242 Ventura Blvd, #100 Sherman Oaks, CA 91423Sandra NannoziReal Estate Agent with Luxury Collective RealtyDRE #02205516(818) 791-2029sandralexy@kw.comSelling your home or planning to buy your dream home?We can get it done!Home distribution in these cities: Calabasas, Chatsworth, Encino, Granada Hills, North Hollywood, Northridge, Porter Ranch, Reseda, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Van Nuys, Woodland Hills.Subscribe for mail delivery at: iugo.world/iwgazette-subscription

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If you find yourself connecting with a parent at the local playground and come to learn they homeschool their kids, four questions that might pop into your mind are: “Aren't you worried they will lack social skills?”, “Won't they fall behind?”, “Are you qualified to teach them?”, and “Don't you want them to go to college?”. These are the four questions that most seasoned homeschool parents dread being asked (and they will be asked), not because we don't like talking about it, -on the contrary, but because all too often, they are masked in judgement. The truth is if you visit anyThe Truth About HomeschoolingBy Windy Fama homeschool Facebook group, you will find hundreds of posts asking for guidance, and for each question, at least a few dozen more well-intentioned answers from parents that have never set foot in a classroom as a teacher. Keep scrolling and you will eventually find that cry-for-help/I'm ready to throw in the towel post from yet another parent that feels like they're getting it all wrong. This is what homeschool looks like. It is hardly the perfect process of education, but it is the most organic one. Traditional classroom schooling is the status quo for K-12 education in the U.S., but just because it's conventional doesn't mean it's ideal or even necessary. The four burning questions about homeschooling are familiar to every homeschool parent. After all, they relate to the four key developmental components of education: social-emotional development, teacher development, curriculum and instruction, and college readiness. So how does homeschooling account for these vital building blocks? By personalizing a learning experience that encompasses all vital educational components.Homeschooling isn't about replicating school at home, which is what we experienced during the pandemic, when online instruction was structured, and social distancing was required. It's quite the opposite. Homeschooling is a social experience where students connect with and relate to other people inside and outside of the family, --which answers the first question: No, we're not worried about their social skills.The popular belief that homeschooled children have less opportunities for social interaction is as much a misconception as the assumption that all students in brick-and-mortar schools are actively engaged in meaningful and productive friendships and group activities during school hours. Homeschoolers strive to develop social skills by interacting with individuals of various ages in real-life situations like grocery shopping, organizing outings, and volunteering. They also engage in group field trips with other families, local clubs, sports teams, community programs, and tailored social experiences just like traditional students do after school. No, they won't fall behind.The second question of falling behind academically is not exclusive to homeschooling, but a common concern of every parent, teacher, school administrator and policy maker. Historically, the concept of 'falling behind' is based on performance assessment which fails to consider individual student readiness and growth beyond standardized testing. Moreover, the concept assumes that each student should achieve a standard within a given timeframe without consideration of factors that impact a student's readiness to learn. This stands in stark contrast to educational equity. An individualized learning needs approach that encompasses student culture and emotional well-being is the cornerstone of academic success. Homeschoolers understand this. We also know by experience that learning and progress are not linear, and setbacks are a key component of the process. Historically, the concept of 'falling behind' is based on performance assessment which fails to consider individual student readiness and growth beyond standardized testing.Yes, we are qualified to teach them (even though most of us don't have a teaching degree). Technology has revolutionized education, making knowledge, content, and resources more accessible. K-12 classroom teachers leverage technology to facilitate student learning. This requires training and expertise in a comprehensive classroom setting that caters to a wide range of learning needs and abilities with cultural and background differences. Let's be clear, it's an insurmountable challenge, especially when high expectations and complex policies intersect with the teaching-learning process. By contrast, homeschool parents focus on child-centered learning and rely on research, textbooks and other resources, community, hands-on opportunities, and specialized collaboration with subject tutors and other professionals, not only when the target content or skill exceeds their know-how, but to introduce new perspectives. Successful teaching in any form requires collaboration, and this is something these brave parents in Facebook homeschool groups know all too well. (Continued to page 7)FeatureIW Learning & Living Gazette, May 2024 - Page 3

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The most inﬂuential relationship a young child will have in their growth and development is the one that exists between parent/caregiver and child. To support and strengthen this bond, the Early Learning Readiness (ELR) Program provides a stimulating environment to help children, ages 0-5, develop the physical, verbal and social-emotional skills that they need for school. ELR focuses on enhancing caregiver-child bonding, fosters a support network for parents/caregivers, and provides weekly resources related to children and families. This includes topics that are not always easy.A Unique Support Network for Parents With Children Ages 0-5 “Our programs aim to provide a safe haven for families, especially mothers, healing from post-partum stressors or mental health concerns. We understand the experiences of stress, loneliness and isolation women face, that often accompany having a newborn or young child. ” -Program DirectorLearning & Education Mothers share about the beneﬁts of connecting with their child for a dedicated two hours of an ELR class, versus trying to attend to them while multitasking through an endless array of responsibilities at home. The mothers and other caregivers in our program support and uplift each other, share resources, stories, wisdom, and an openness to diﬀerent perspectives. ELR provides biweekly ELR classes, monthly ﬁeld trips, special events, parent empowerment workshops, and an annual graduation ceremony! Give yourself a gift this Mother's Day to explore the supportive resources in your community at your local YMCA. The ELR Program opens its doors to you at the Mid-Valley Family YMCA in Van Nuys, in addition to the East Valley YMCA in North Hollywood. Contact the ELR Family Resource Director, Judy Szklarek, at (213) 898-5743 to register for the program. “ELR has been great for our child. She has developed great social skills and looks forward to the program. The staﬀ is friendly, kind and patient. It truly is helping my child get ready for pre-school next year.” -ELR ParentPage 4- IW Learning & Living Gazette, May 2024GET A HEAD START ON EDUCATIONEarly Learning Readiness (ELR)Stop by the Y to register for free ELR classes today!East Valley Family YMCA, North HollywoodMid Valley Family YMCA, Van NuysContact Judy Szklarek at:JudySzklarek@ymcaLA.org(213) 898-5743Are You Thinking About Homeschooling?Don’t miss this , live online conferencefreeAre You Thinking About Homeschooling?Don’t miss this , live online conferencefreeTuesday, June 4th at 6:00 p.m.The pros and cons of homeschoolingIs it is right for your family?Legal complianceLearning outcomesResources, curriculum and supportSpecial needsCommunityGetting startedWhat if I fail?Transcripts and graduationGetting into collegeRegister at www.iugo.world/new-to-homeschoolingiugoworldAll Your Questions Answered ONEgeneration's Senior Symposium will Highlight Multiple Services for Seniors, their Families and the Community. ONEgeneration's mission is to support and enrich the lives of older adults, children, and their families throughout our diverse communities. Established in 1978, we embrace our role in improving the health and well-being of Los Angeles's most vulnerable communities through a series of safety net services, interventions that improve health outcomes, caregiver support, addressing disparities in access and care, and encouraging a person-centered approach in a community-based setting. Through our intergenerational program efforts, we strive to strengthen the connective fabric among all ages.A great opportunity to learn more about ONEgeneration and our services will be at our upcoming Senior Symposium on May 18 th . If you want to connect with resources, tools and organizations that support older adults and their families please come to this free event. To learn more about ONEgeneration, and the multitude of services we provide (homeless prevention, case management, utility assistance and energy conservation, vaccine access and clinics, Encino Farmers Market, CalFresh, nutrition, meal deliveries, transportation, etc.). For more information, please visit https://www.onegeneration.org.iugoworldiugoworld

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Page 5- IW Learning & Living Gazette, May 2024 King's prophetic words express the virtue of hope amid hardship. He was not optimistic that he would reach the “Promised Land,” yet he was hopeful about the ultimate goal. In conversation, “hope” and “optimism” can often be used as synonyms. But there’s anWhy Hope Is Different Than OptimismBy Kendra ThomasLong-term hope is not about looking on the bright side. It is a mindset that helps people endure challenges.” On April 3, 1968, standing before a crowded church, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. painted his vision for justice. “I've seen the Promised Land,” he said. “I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land.” Twenty-two hours later, he was assassinated.challenges and tackle them head-on and keep their eyes on the goal—a virtue that Dr. King and other community leaders exemplify. We, Not Me Hope is often defined in psychological research as having strong will to succeed and plans to reach a goal. Hope is stronger than optimism at predicting academic success and people's ability to cope with pain. Plenty of scientific evidence suggests that hope improves individuals' health and boosts their well-being, butbranding hope as a self-improvement tool cheapens this long-established virtue. Helping Our Children to Endure Challenges When he said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice,” he was not describing its natural trajectory, but what people have the power to change. You cannot expect greener pastures if they are not tended today. Dr. King was not alone in leveraging virtuous hope for justice. Brazilian educator Paulo Freire described hope as an “existential imperative” that promotes action. Nelson Mandela, who spent 27 years in prison, called hope a “powerful weapon.”(Continued to page 7)important gap between them, as psychology research suggests. One of the most common tools to measure optimism asks people how much they agree with statements such as, “In uncertain times, I usually expect the best.” Those who strongly agree are regarded as highly optimistic. But optimism can rely on a sense of luck over action. Self-help books on optimism are lined with hacks—like imagining your greatest possible self or focusing on the best-case scenario. My psychology research studies how people perceive hope and justice. Long-term hope is not about looking on the bright side. It is a mindset that helps people endure Hope has benefits beyond the self. Thus, many psychologists are expanding the study of hope beyond personal success. My research team defines this “virtuous hope” as striving toward a purposeful vision of the common good—a hope often shaped by hardship and strengthened through relationships. Many leaders, including Dr. King, have channeled that lesson to inspire change. Centuries of spiritual and philosophical work describe hope as a virtue that, like love, is a decision, not a feeling.The Myth of Time Dr. King wasn't known for looking on the bright side or expecting the best from others. He faced repeated waves of criticism, and, at the time of his death, fewer Americans approved of him than of the Vietnam War. In “Letter from a Birmingham Jail,” Dr. King lamented the optimism of moderate white Americans who said they supported his goals but took little action. There is a “strangely irrational notion that there is something in the very flow of time that will inevitably cure all ills,” he wrote. “Actually, time itself is neutral; it can be used either destructively or constructively.” He cha s t is e d soc i ety f o r b e lie v i ng t h at improvement would simply happen on its own.IW Learning & Living Gazette, May 2024 - Page 5

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In a world of gift-wrapped surprises, for mom, the most precious one remains unboxed. It’s not a shiny adornment or a fancy gadget—it’s the heartfelt simplicity of her children, all present and accounted for, any day of the year, which is why Mother’s Day is so much more than another holiday on the calendar. It’s an opportunity for a family reunion that revisits the cherished memories and a chance to fill the house with laughter so that mom knows that her innate selflessness, quiet endurance, and unwavering dedication and care isn’t unrecognized. There are moms that enjoy being celebrated, while others that say it’s all part of the job. Nevertheless, the holiday forces us to pause and reflect on our appreciation for mom and that it’s time to show some serious gratitude. For some, this leads to making reservations and gift shopping, but celebrating her doesn’t have to feel like navigating a maze of sentiment and surprise (not to mention crowds of people). So what do moms really want? A safe bet is what we all want, a slice of joy! Whether it's a large family gathering or 24 hours of "her" time, creating the perfect game plan only involves tuning into what she enjoys most. Celebrating Mother’s Day on any budget can turn a simple celebration into the most enjoyable event. Here are some unique ideas to ensure her day is memorable.Brunch Plans Avoid the crowds and opt for a more intimate setting and prepare, pick-up or cater her favorite dishes and enjoy a family picnic at her preferred park, beach, or another suitable outdoor spot. If she prefers staying indoors, bring the celebration home, but don't forget to clean up afterwards. If you're unable to be there in person, organize a virtual family gathering. Arrange for food delivery and share the meal together via video call. Be sure to have some memorable stories and photos to share. It’s a wonderful way to bridge distances and create new memories.Gift Giving Honoring mom with a thoughtful gift isn’t about grand gestures, but rather the small details that speak to her heart. Consider curating a gift basket that reflects her life’s narrative. Help her rekindle fond memories of her past with a vintage record or a compilation of hits from bands she loved as a teenager, or the novel that inspired her in her youth. Be sure to include a framed photograph of the two of you from the early years. Indulge her present senses with a luxury or splurge that she wouldn’t get for herself. Consider a selection of gourmet artisan chocolates, a set of handcrafted candles and soaps, or an arrangement of her most-loved blooms. Ensure that serenity and wellness are in her future with a set of shower steamers in her favorite scents, a premium meditation app subscription, a handwritten uplifting letter to be opened only in challenging times, or a guaranteed family night once a month to reconnect. However you choose to celebrate mom, focusing on her unique spirit and thoughtfully expressing your appreciation will make her feel like the reigning queen of the castle.A Slice of Joy for Mother’s Day By Mai TranFor the health conscious-momFrozen Fruit Soft-Serve Maker$30-$70Pictured: Yonana Brand Frozen Fruit Soft-Serve MakerFor the mom that loves to loungeDouble Hammock with Frame $59-$209Pictured: Vivere Double Cotton HammockFor the mom that loves natureLucky Bamboo $15-$150For the arts and crafts momFresh Cut Pop-Up Bouquet$12-$29 at www.freshcutpaper.comFor the overwhelmed momCalming Shower Steamer Tablets$8-$20Pictured: CalmNFizFor the empty nester momDigital Frame$54-$150Pictured: FRAMEO 10.1 Inch Smart WiFi Digital Photo Frame Last Minute Gift Ideas for MomFamily & LivingPage 6- IW Learning & Living Gazette, May 2024For the sentimental momA Mother’s Guided Journal$12 on amazon.comFor the tea/coffee drinking momGlass Coffee Enamels Mug (Lead-free)$25 on amazon.comPictured: OEAGO Glass Enamel MugFor the all-things-organic momIndoor Hydroponic Herb Garden $34- $127Pictured: RAINPOINT Indoor Hydroponics Growing SystemFor the athletic momPickleball Paddles$29-$130Pictured: Helium Store Pickleball Paddles Set of 4iugoworldPictured: Grand Peony Paradise

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Technical writingEditingDocument TranslationsLive TranscriptionLegal & Medical Transcription Translation Services for Spanish/English Closed CaptioningCopywritingContent WritingCreative WritingCall us at (213) 314-4455 for free project consultationSimply the best in the business, guaranteed!(Continued from page 3) Of course, we want them to go to college (if they want to). City colleges, State Universities, private colleges and the Ivy leagues recognize homeschooling as a valid educational path. Families that are working towards college acceptance will plan to satisfy the admissions requirement for each college of choice, including supplemental learning experiences, extracurricular activities and in some cases, admission tests (such as the SAT or ACT). Colleges recognize that homeschooled students can bring a different experience to the college community, and they value diverse backgrounds and experiences, which can enhance the overall educational environment.  Contrary to popular belief, homeschooling is anything but unconventional. Learning time can be more efficient and cover more ground than the traditional counterpart. It can accommodate more time to discover, play and create experiences. However, like the daily routines and dynamics of family life, homeschooling comes with its own set of challenges that are often resolved the way everyday issues would be handled. It is part of real-life, and just like their children/students, homeschooling parents adapt, learn, and overcome obstacles to create a nurturing and effective learning environment at home. It is education at its most organic form and truly advocates for the concept of life-long learning.The Truth About Homeschooling(Continued from page 5) Forged in Adversity What makes hope a virtue is not its ability to promote happiness and success, but its commitment to a greater good beyond the self. I study virtuous hope in a South African Zulu community, where there are few reasons for optimism. South Africa has the world’s steepest inequality. Unemployment is high, and social mobility is low. This is the part of the country where HIV is most widespread, with the percentage near 50% in some communities. We studied several people seen as embodying hope, based on their reputation and community suggestions. These individuals demonstrated an unwavering focus on striving for a better future, often unglued from expectations of personal success. One local farmer nominated by his community struggled to buy seeds for his crops but still helped others apply for grants to buy them. Even when his own future was uncertain, he was not hoarding. He described his hope as a commitment to help others. His hope is not a positive expectation but a moral commitment. Our interviewees did not describe hardship as a suppressor of hope but as its context to grow. One unemployed young woman said she had applied for jobs for four years and would continue, though she was not naive about the tough future. She said applying for jobs and reading to her child were her acts of hope. Her hope didn’t expect a quick improvement, yet it warded off paralysis. Many of our interviewees anchored their hope in their Christian faith, as did Dr. King. Dr. King often referenced St. Paul, one of the first Christian writers, who wrote, “Suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope. Now this hope does not disappoint us.” Hope, in other words, plays the long game: enduring suffering with integrity. Like Dr. King’s, it manifests in hardship and is refined in adversity. Hope enables communities to march for justice and democracy even while tasting the danger of dictatorship, apartheid or oligarchy. Hope knows it may take another generation to reach the Promised Land, but it acts today to bend the moral arc toward justice. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Original article link on digital version at www.iugo.world/iwgazetteWhy Hope Is Different Than OptimismOdds & EndsIW Learning & Living Gazette, May 2024 - Page 7iugoworldiugoworldFood--don't waste it. World War I poster by Frederic Cooper, 1917. Prints & Photographs Divisionfrom the bLASTPast Armed Forces Day“There is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer.” — General James H. DoolittleMother’s Day“Behind all your stories is always your mother’s story, because hers is where yours begins.” — Mitch Albom Memorial Day“It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather, we should thank God that such men lived.” — General George S. PattonNational Teacher’s Day"It's the teacher that makes the difference, not the classroom." –Michael MorpurgoNational Nurse’s Day“America’s nurses are the beating heart of our medical system.” – Barack Obama6Find more May celebrations, homeschool lessons and fun ways to celebrate at iugo.world/iwgazetteMay Celebrations7121827Quality Guarantee Cultural Sensitivity & Accuracy Experienced Timely Delivery Aﬀordable Rates

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Eighth page5” W x 4” HStop by the Y to register for free ELR classes today!East Valley Family YMCA5142 Tujunga Avenue North Hollywood, CA 91601Tuesdays & Thursdays10am-12pmMid Valley Family YMCA6901 Lennox AvenueVan Nuys, CA 91405Mondays & Wednesdays, 10am - 12pmContact: Judy Szklarek at JudySzklarek@ymcaLA.org or 213 898 5743*Caregivers can be anybody of legal age such as parent, aunt or uncle, older brother or sister, grandparent, neighbor or even nanny.ymcaLA.org/ELROur Early Learning Readiness program creates a space for young children to play, learn, and develop the skills they’ll need for school. A caregiver or parent attends each class with their child and learns developmental activities to do at home..Program Highlights: Help your child develop and get ready for school Enjoy games, books, resources and more! Meet other caregivers of young children Your child can interact with other children his/her age Class meets twice a week Classes are oﬀered in English and SpanishworldiugoOnly one app brings it togetheralliugo.worldResourcesTeaching & learningInterest groupsEventsUmbrella WorkshopsEducational ExpertsCommunitySchoolCurriculumThere are countless resources available for homeschoolers and educators these days, so why would you need iugo.world? Our all encompassing app was created to help you connect with the diverse tools your learners need. Whether they have their sights set on the Ivy League, art school, the UC system, or are eager to tackle the workforce, the iugoAPP is designed to assist you in leading with the heart of a parent and the know-how of an educational administrator. This ensures that your learners have every advantage when it comes to their future. Consider us your personal team of educators and specialists, creating and curating the resources your learners need without you having to sift through hundreds of resources and lesson plans. We help you focus on what really matters—the teaching and learning. Sign up for your free trial in the month of May.

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