Wednesday, 13 February 2013

Advantages Of Learning Through Audio Books


Books on tapes, audio books, and other audio learning devices are fast gaining popularity in the education field. In using audio book learning systems for the purpose of education, parents, teachers, and educators are relieved that its benefits are numerous. The increasing success of starting and struggling readers is often credited to using audio books as part of their learning process. Aside from this, there are other advantages in using audio materials not only in schools, but also in homes and other places.

In education, it is generally cheaper to provide a single set of books on tape, audio books, and other audio learning materials for the class to share. Money is saved because individual books are not needed. Plus, the teacher will be able to do more with his or her time while the class listens to audio lessons. Researches also show that a large percentage- 85%- of our learning and knowledge actually comes from listening. Another plus factor for using audio books is the improvement of the students' listening and comprehension skills. They are compelled to listen attentively since they cannot follow what is being played on tape with a book. In addition, studies have proved that reading beginners see printed words as disconnected symbols. Through the aid of audio learning, the rhythm of the speech and its patterns are made distinct, thereby making the printed material flowing and easily absorbed. What's more, early readers can learn the pronunciation of words through listening to books on tapes. This minimizes the risk of losing interest in reading. Difficulty in pronouncing words and the pressure of pronouncing words correctly are two of the most common reason why people lose interest in reading. Also, even if the reader does not understand the definite meaning of words or of what they're hearing, they will have an idea about its meaning depending on how it is said on tape.

The importance of books on tape, audio books, and audio learning devices are not confined to the classroom. Homeschoolers often use audio books during their classes at home. Advantages for using audio books include the development of interest for literature. It is common knowledge that children loved to be read to. Audio books and learning are a great way to expose them to literature other than the traditional fairy tales. The danger of them being bored is very minimal as professional actors usually narrates and portrays the characters. Interesting sound effects are also added for additional enjoyment. Plus, children at an early age will learn to associate literature with a fun activity. For adults, books on tape, audio books, and audio learning devices are great ways to learn a foreign language. It is proven that learning a new language is easier if you hear it often. Also, the need to enroll in a language course is not necessary unless it is a certification that you want.

Reasons for using books on tapes, audio books, and audio learning devices are many; but still, education is the greatest. These reasons should and hopefully will provide readers with ideas on how important, and fun, audio learning is when used for education. A hoped-for and expected effect of books on tape and audio books are that children and students read at home with willingness and interest.

Tuesday, 19 June 2012

Bible School Kindness Game

I Will Tell Relay: A Super Bible School Activity for Memorizing Isaiah 63:7

Author: Kathy Vincent
Can you list some kindnesses of the Lord?  For example, He is kind enough to surround us with friends.  He is kind enough to take care of all our needs.  He was kind enough to create the beautiful world that we live in.  Of course, those are just to name a few.  There are so many kindnesses that we should proclaim to everyone we meet.  In fact, Isaiah 63:7 encourages us to do just that.  It says, "I will tell of the kindnesses of the Lord."  Pretty simple, but very profound.  Here is a fun Bible school activity you will want to try with your kids to help them memorize this wonderful Bible verse.  I call it "I Will Tell Relay".
Here's what you do:
For this Sunday school lesson bible game, you will need 2 cans that are the #10 size.  This is usually the can that holds 28 oz.  Cut off both ends with a can opener and make sure that there are no sharp edges anywhere.  You may even want to place tape around the edges.  These cans will be passing from arm to arm, so safety is very important.  Make sure the cans are clean and wrap each can with a different color of construction paper.
Before playing the game, take the time to introduce Isaiah 63:7.  Ask the kids to help you make a list of the kindnesses of the Lord much in the same way I did at the beginning of this article.  As they say, a kindness, write it somewhere on each of the cans.  Now, have the class say the Bible verse together several times so that they begin to memorize it and are ready to play the game.  Finally, explain how the game is played and help them understand that as they are "shaking hands" and passing the "can of kindnesses" they are representing what it is like to share the Lord's kindnesses with everyone they meet.
Here's how you play:
Divide your class into 2 teams. Have them form 2 parallel lines facing each other about 3 to 4 feet apart.  Have the first person in each line place the can on their arm.  After talking about the verse, tell the children that on your word, "Go!", the first person in each line must pass the can to the person next to them by shaking hands through the can.  Each person can only use one hand to pass the can.  In other words, they cannot use their other hand to help them in any way.  Once the can gets to the end of the line, the last person must pass the can to a teacher or helper and say Isaiah 63:7 to that teacher or helper.  If he says it correctly, he takes the can back to the beginning of the line and steps away.  There is now one less person in the line.  The game proceeds as before.  If a child does not say the verse correctly, he must go to the beginning of the line and start the can again.  The first team to "get rid of" all their teammates is the winner of this super Bible school activity.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/childhood-education-articles/i-will-tell-relay-a-super-bible-school-activity-for-memorizing-isaiah-637-2848854.html
About the Author
Next, if you liked this Sunday School/Homeschooling idea, then sign up to receive Scripture Lady's Free Email Newsletter packed full with creative ideas and receive 6 FREE Bible Review Games to help get the kids you minister to excited about the Bible! Just click here: http://myfreebiblegames.com/

Kathy Vincent is the director of a performing ministry for children called The Scripture Lady and has been traveling around Southern California for the past 15 years ministering to preschoolers and elementary aged children with the Word of God through musical, thematic presentations. She is also a regular seminar speaker, author/creator of over 30 products for the Christian children's worker and a veteran homeschooling mom of two.

Wednesday, 13 June 2012

Kids understand Your Story Hour Bible stories

Top Five Bibles for Kids

There are many awesome resources you can buy today when you are looking for bibles for kids.  It is not difficult to find different versions of the Word for all generations, but it can be a bit overwhelming with all of the choices that are out there!  It is my opinion that buying a Bible for a child is perhaps the most important investment you can ever make! We often spend more money on video games and entertainment for our children than we do on teaching them about Jesus!  When it comes to getting a new Bible for your child, price should never be a major issue in selecting a new Bible.
There are literally thousands of different Bibles you can purchase for kids today.  Here are the top five Bibles for kids available today.
The Beginner's Bible by Henley Karyn
This is the perfect new Bible for younger children that are just learning about Jesus for the first time.  Kids must make their own decision to accept Jesus as their Lord and personal Savior, but a fun Bible with vibrant photos and art is a great way to introduce children to the teachings of Jesus.  This Bible won the 2006 Retailers Choice award for nonfiction children's books. The Bible includes many illustrations and over 90 stories that will be easy for kids to review.  Young children are captivated with all the beautiful art, and they can learn about Jesus even before they know how to read!  Of all of the Bibles for kids you can purchase today, this is probably my favorite Scripture. 
Day By Day Bible by Reeves Eira
One of the biggest challenges for youth and adults is in staying disciplined in reading the word on a daily basis.  The day by day Bible is a great tool for helping children get into a disciplined habit of reading the Scriptures every day.  If we teach our children to study the Scriptures when they are young, they will be much better off as they get older!  It is never too early to teach your kids to study the Scriptures. 
ICB Compact Kids Bible – Pink Camo-Imitation Leather from the Intern Child Bible Company
Some kids think that the Bible is boring and not for them.  You may want to try purchasing a cool Bible that your child will love!  This pink camo Bible is perfect for girls who are into fashion.  You can take it anywhere you want, and it is very flexible.   It is one of the top selling Bibles on the market today. 
King James Version Study Bible for Boys from Baker Books
This is another great Bible you can buy for boys who want to have a cool Bible!  This Bible includes devotions and study notes to help boys learn the different books of the Bible.  It also details the daily lives of Biblical characters in Bible times.  In addition, it challenges boys to make good decisions about values and to dress appropriately.
NIV Childrens Illustrated Bible from Zondervan Bibles
This illustrated Bible is full color presentation pages, and it has a beautiful illustrated cover.  While it has illustrations, it is designed for older children ages 8 and older.  The NIV version is the most popular English translation in the world today, so your child will have the same translation of the Scriptures that most people have. 
These are just some of the many Scriptures you can give to your kids today.  There are many Bibles for kids that are perfect for introducing children to the love of Jesus!
Find more Christian resources here!
About the Author
Unlock great New International Version Bibles for every occasion.

Friday, 16 March 2012

Importance of Bible Games

Bible Games For Kids - Playing With Purpose
Author: Brad Miller
Let's not play games here or maybe we should! Let me clear this up. The games I like to play are Bible games with a purpose. If someone looks into my classroom during a kids Bible lesson they might think we are just playing around. This is only partly true. We are playing... but this playing has a definite purpose. Kids Bible games are part of the learning process. This process uses Bible games and activities that hit the Bible lesson from different angles and perspectives. Games and activities hit various learning styles too. The cool thing is that kids learn while having fun!
Games Teach That Church Is Fun
Do we really need to teach that? I mean, the church is a place to be quiet. You need to at all times be reverent and look pious. Uh, no... you don't, and especially not in the kids ministry area. I like noisy churches with lots of laughter and learning going on. It needs to be alive and on fire with the living, breathing, powerful word of God. I've seen a lot of churches over the years and this is one thing I don't compromise on. Kids Bible lessons should be exciting, captivating, encouraging and here is that word again...fun! They need to be full of Bible games, joy and laughter! Kids learn through play with a purpose. Bible games teach that even though you are in church, you can have fun too.
Lesson Review
I use Bible games for kids to reinforce what was taught in the Bible story. Here are some ideas that have been kid tested and found fun and effective:
* Play a card matching game similar to concentration using images from your Bible lesson. Make two cards of each image and turn the cards so the image can't be seen. Kids try to make matches from the cards. For instance a Bible lesson on creation would have images of trees, animals, fruit, etc. Yeah this isn't new but kids really like it. A simple game like this works even for the youngest kids so it is perfect for multiage groups.
* Turn over the letter card. Kids take turns guessing and turning over the letters to reveal the name of a character in the Bible story, a main point or the Bible memory verse. The idea is to guess the proper letters to reveal the word. This is an example of another tried and true Bible game that works great.
* Use a deck of cards with questions to quiz the kids on the Bible lesson. Take it up a notch and display the questions using PowerPoint. Play as teams or as a large group. My experience is that kids pay attention for a longer period of time when they know the information will be used in a Bible game for review.
Kids Apply the Lesson
Application is one of the most important benefits of Bible games for kids. Take some creativity liberty, explore the kids Bible lesson and choose an important aspect of it to apply. Let's say your Bible story is about being filled with God's love, compassion or the fruit of the Spirit. Make a masking tape heart on the floor. Kids roll marbles or pitch paper wads into the heart to fill it up.
I did a lesson on water baptism. I put toy figures on a plastic plate and floated the plate in a pan of water. The kids pitched coins into the plate to immerse or baptize the figures. They still talk about this one and ask to play it again. I found out later that some kids had anxieties about being immersed in baptism. This simple, fun Bible game eased their anxiety about baptism. Bible games for kids are playing with purpose. Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to help you create games that apply the kids Bible lesson.
Fun for the Fun of It
Kids are being forced to grow up fast, sometimes too fast. 4th and 5th graders are like 7th and 8th graders a few years ago. Often kids are pressured to act older and be cool. Kids need a time to relax, have fun and act like kids! Yeah, I believe in Bible games for kids and playing with purpose. But, I also believe that just allowing kids to be kids serves an important purpose too!
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/childhood-education-articles/bible-games-for-kids-playing-with-purpose-2119952.html
About the Author
Hi -  My name is Brad Miller.  My passion is to create fun and effective resources for anyone who ministers to kids. I create, write and publish kids Bible lessons under the title of Kickrickulum Fun Bible Lessons for Kids. For more creative tips, teacher resources and  free sample Bible lessons, visit our site and sign up for our newsletter!

Monday, 12 March 2012

Coloring and listening to Your Story Hour stories

Christian Coloring Pages For Kids
Author: Jonathan Hostetler
Looking for a way to keep your child occupied while teaching them the Word of God at the same time? Christian coloring pages for kids are a great tool you can use to do just that. As your children color pictures of Bible stories or characters, it will help reinforce their knowledge of the Bible and of God.
Probably the easiest way to get ahold of pages for your kids to color is to print them out from websites online. There are plenty of sites that offer free downloadable coloring pages. Just search for "Christian coloring pages" or "Biblical coloring pages" in your favorite search engine, and you'll find a bunch of results.
There are so many different pictures available that you may have better success using specific terms like "Jesus healing the blind man coloring page" or "Tower of Babel coloring page," as examples. This is a great idea if you're looking for a coloring page to compliment your evening devotions or a Sunday School lesson at church. In those situations, you can let your children color in a picture that represents the Bible story you are teaching them. After they are done coloring, they can tape their picture in their bedroom, which will help them remember that particular Bible story.
Alternatively, you could use coloring pages as a reward that you give to your child when he or she does something good, like says thank you, gives a compliment, or helps out before being asked. Not only does it reward them by giving them an activity they will enjoy doing, but it also demonstrates to them that it's good to do things that please the Lord.
Websites aren't the only place you can get coloring pages. You can also find Biblical coloring pages and activity books at your local Christian bookstore or at some arts and crafts stores. Giving your child a coloring book of Bible stories is great, because it allows them to see the sequence of events.
Local Christian bookstores usually also have individual pages or reproducible coloring books from which you can make copies so that more than one child can color in the same story picture. This is particularly useful if you want to give your Sunday School students something to color while you are teaching the lesson.
Give it a try! Print out a few Christian coloring pages for your kids and see how they respond. It's a great way to keep them thinking about the things of the Lord.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/parenting-articles/christian-coloring-pages-for-kids-5340539.html
About the Author
To discover fun and exciting ways you can experience the Bible, visit How-to-Experience-the-Bible.com, where you will also find out how Biblical coloring pages can help your children enjoy learning God's Word.

Monday, 5 March 2012

Your Story Hour Bedtime Story makes for easy bedtime routine

Can a bedtime routine anchor the entire day? 
Author: Lorin Young
The components of a bedtime routine will vary, of course, from family to family, but being consistent is important for everyone in the family. I strive to balance four important things:
cleaning up and getting ready for the next day getting ready for bed reviewing the day transition time with a parent
1. Cleaning up and getting ready for the next day:
Personally I prefer having the kids clean up before dinner because it\'s an easier cleaning up after dinner and toys, with a 'family fifteen' or other clean up game . Whenever you clean up, I do believe that tidying up one\'s personal and common space is an important habit to have (and I'm not just talking about the kids, people!)
Getting ready for the next day could mean setting out clothes for the next day, or at least just deciding what to wear. It also might involve knowing your child\'s school schedule. If it\'s a school night, you might want to make sure kids have what they need for the next day (is it library day? Does he need gym clothes? Does she have all her homework? Where is the backpack anyway?)
2. Actually getting ready for bed:
This is the part of the bedtime routine that is probably pretty similar from household to household. This would include at a minimum getting into jammies, brushing teeth, and putting dirty clothes in their hamper or dirty clothes basket/crate.
3. Reviewing the day together:
For me, this is the part of the bedtime routine that is tempting to blow off some days in the interest of time. It is also the most important: spending time with you. In our family, this is the part of the day where I like to go over the kids\' reward charts (true confessions: I usually don\'t get to this every night) and we talk about how the day went. This generally helps with sibling relations and reduces sibling fighting, because my kids talk to each other about problems or disagreements after the emotion is behind them. We occasionally do love games and write in our day book.

4. Time with YOU
If you\'re still awake at this point, it\'s a nice time to have some private time with each child, even if it\'s just a few minutes. This could be reading or just cuddling together and talking. Anything that gives them your undivided attention even for a short time. This is especially crucial with multiple kids.
Give these ideas a try for creating a successful bedtime routine. Like anything else, implementing a routine consistently is the key, but I bet you\'ll start to look forward to this special time with your kids.
Furthermore, the more efficient your routine is, the sooner you get time for YOURSELF to recharge!
About the Author
Lorin Spangler Young is a Colorado mom with three boys. She and her husband, Rich, share homeschooling and each works outside of the home part time. Convinced that a perfectly clean and tidy house at all times is a myth, they\'ve dedicated their energy to their website, http://www.choresandchecklists.com, which details many strategies to involve kids in household.

Saturday, 6 August 2011

CDs better than digital media?

Your Story Hour has offered stories on cassette tape for many years and now these stories are available on CD. There is distinct advantages in getting these stories on CD as opposed to downloading the digital versions. A kid can hold something tangible in his hand and look at the pictures while listening to the story. Get Your Story Hour SA stories on CD - just email us at yourstoryhoursa@gmail.com.

Read more about these clear advantages here:
Why to Buy Kids Music on CD for Them
It is wonderful to hear kids music on CD. Children just love to flaunt their collection of kids personalized music. Although the Internet is a fast growing avenue to download children\'s songs, personalized kids CDs are always a better option for children. It not only gives them the pride of owning a huge collection of CDs but also presents a more authentic way to listen to music.

You even have the privilege of buying singles in CDs if you are not interested in the entire CD. The variety of songs available and the quality of the songs on CDs are of great repute. You have the advantage of listening to your child\'s name being called out among the songs on the CDs.
The Disadvantages of Using a Computer
Although you can use the Internet to download songs, you may not be able to get personalized kids CDs. And you still have to pay a lot despite not getting kids personalized CDs. You may get regular songs which will not have the songs calling out your child\'s name. It is possible to record all the regular songs on the computer but your children will always have to use the computer to listen to their songs.

However, kids music on CD can be heard whenever you want. The only requirement is a CD player. The rendering of the songs will also be without any disturbance. There is a possibility of the music stuttering and skipping in a computer. Besides all other applications on the computer may drag if you play the music.
How a Personalized CD Helps
It is also much easier to purchase kids music on CD. Besides, it gives a great feeling to browse through the collection of CDs in a music store. You can also order for your kids personalized CDs from an online store. In this way, you can get kids personalized music which will make your children much happier. These CDs help in the children\'s education too.

They help a child pronounce the words clearly while listening to the songs. Listening to their own names being repeated by their favorite characters also gives them a sense of accomplishment. It is not possible to get this facility by just downloading songs from the Internet. There are also many other things to consider while downloading songs from the Internet.

Advantages of Getting a CD


The very first thing is that you can never download kids personalized music from the Internet. You will only get regular songs which are available to any other person. Secondly, You need to consider the price. If you have to pay a hefty sum on the Internet, then it pays to get CDs from a renowned site. When there is hardly any difference in cost, then it is always advisable to get kids music on CD.

Always remember to check the compression formats and bit rates when downloading from the Internet. The sound quality of personalized kids CDs is much better. The music format of Internet based music may also be different from your CD player. This is also another advantage of buying CDs directly.

CDs Help In Overall Personality Development

Personalized kids CDs always enhance your child\'s mental and physical development. It helps him to focus better. You can even monitor your child\'s progress after listening to kids personalized music. You can see that he listens, follows directions and pays significantly more attention to important things than before. You will also take great pride in seeing your child improve in leaps, steps and bounds. Kids music on CD is surely a must for every growing child to add a definite development in his personality.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/why-to-buy-kids-music-on-cd-for-them-1179621.html
About the Author
Z Kids Music specializes in offering personalized kids CDs by incorporating the child\'s name in the song. You can order your kids personalized music at http://zkidsmusic.com.