Monday, January 25, 2016

P/T Conference Success!

Hi Moms:
If you have children in grades Kindergarten through High School, you've probably experienced a Parent/Teacher Conference.  It should be a time where parents, teachers and students work together as a team to openly discuss any opportunities and challenges your child may be experiencing. And the goal should end with a positive solution for that child's success. Unfortunately, too many sessions end with a shouting match,  were parents feel berated having a stranger telling them what their child needs, the child feels defeated, because they feel they aren't doing a good job and teachers feel defensive, because no one wants to take their advice.
As one who has experienced many P/T Conferences, here's some suggestions to end the Drama:

  1. Make a list. Instead of going to the meeting unprepared, write the talking points you want to discuss.
  2. Listen.  Parents can become defensive, especially when the teacher shares negative reports. However, listen, think, breath and then respond.
  3. Follow up.  Most Parent/Teacher Conferences are limited to a specific length of time. So, if you feel another conversation is needed to resolve any unfinished business, make another appointment with the teacher.  If needed, request the school Principal or Counselor be present too for support.
The bottom line: Advocate so your child receives services and gets the best education experience to keep them on the right track.
A Message from N. Michelle Sutton - The Mentor 4 Moms
Building Our Village One Mom at a Time!

Monday, January 18, 2016

Happy MLK Day!

Hi Moms:
As we honor Rev. Dr. Martin  Luther King, Jr. today, let's not only remember him for his incredible speech. Find books to share with our children, so they'll know more about the life of his amazing man. And as we discuss his dream today, let's design our dream for a lifetime! #MLKDay
A Message from N. Michelle Sutton - The Mentor 4 Moms
Building Our Village One Mom at a Time!

Monday, January 11, 2016

Helping Eachother

Hi Moms:
As a seasoned Mom, not a perfect Mom, I feel pretty confident in my parenting skills.  I may not always make the right decisions (just ask my daughters) or manage my household with perfection.  But despite some exhaustive days and sleepless nights, I have the satisfaction in knowing I've done the best job I know how. And I may have this sense of confidence because I had a great Mom and some wonderful Mentors, who held my hand and gave me advice as I struggled in my new role of being a Mom.
And as we learn and mature, we should do the same thing for our younger Moms.  Scripture in the book of Titus says, more experienced Moms are suppose to teach and encourage our younger Moms; show them how to take care of their families.
Find a Mom you can mentor or seek one who you can gain some knowledge.  Build confidence to begin some Mentoring Moments.
A Message from N. Michelle Sutton - The Mentor 4 Moms
Building Our Village One Mom at a Time!

Monday, January 4, 2016

Enjoy Your Life!

Hi Moms:
Back in the day I remember the song, Girls Just Want to Have Fun!  In the music video, quirky entertainer Cyndi Lauper belts out the catchy tune, joined by energetic girls, dancing and bopping to the beat!  Girls of all shapes, sizes and shades are enjoying themselves; young and silly and sassy.
Sounds like many of us before children. But now many of us have forgotten that carefree attitude.
That doesn't mean we live without purpose or direction, but when was the last time you had fun; laughing so hard until you cried?  Too often Moms forget that life should be fun too; not just busy and boring.  God wants us to have a good life.
So turn off the cell phone and turn on the CD; dance around the room with your husband and kids or just party by yourself!  You deserve a silly moment too, cause - Moms Still Need to Have Fun!
N. Michelle Sutton - The Mentor 4 Moms
Building Our Village One Mom at A Time!

Friday, January 1, 2016

For Auld Langs Syne?

Hi Moms:
As we begin a Blessed New Year, for many of us, it's time for a fresh start:  Starting that diet (again), learning a new skill, beginning a new career.  As we make new plans, let's also think about the old things we've left behind, like old relationships from year's gone by. Every year I promise to reconnect with my childhood friends and reminisce about the  "good old days".  There have been times when I've finally found an old phone number, reached out to that friend, and sadly discovered it's too late, and that friend has passed away. So I encourage you in 2016 to seek those friends, playmates, even family members who you haven't spoken too in a long time, for Auld Langs Syne.

                                                 N. Michelle Sutton, The Mentor 4 Moms
                                               Building Our Village One Mom at a Time!