How to Improve Working Memory at Home
Once a student starts progressing in their reading here at Craig, parents will often ask me how they can bolster reading comprehension even more at home. Many parents will ask if there are additional tutoring options available. There are, of course, but many parents are surprised when I tell them that isn’t necessarily the best way to help with reading! One of the biggest enemies to reading comprehension is low working memory. Most students at Craig have low working memory– it’s a hallmark of dyslexia!
There are a variety of activities that enhance working memory, a crucial cognitive function essential for learning and reading. Firstly, participating in regular exercise stimulates the release of neurotransmitters that support memory consolidation. Additionally, engaging in challenging cognitive tasks, like solving puzzles or playing strategy games, forces the brain to process information actively, strengthening working memory. Plus, these activities promote positive family time as well.
Establishing a consistent sleep routine is also vital, as quality sleep is linked to improved memory retention and cognitive function. Furthermore, learning a musical instrument requires the integration of multiple cognitive processes, contributing to enhanced working memory.
Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, can foster focus and attention, directly benefiting working memory. Moreover, maintaining a well-balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other brain-boosting nutrients supports overall cognitive health.
Finally, fostering social connections through activities like team sports promotes a positive mindset and provides opportunities to practice and improve working memory in collaborative settings.
So, sure, more studying may help, but so would many other activities that might be a lot more interactive and fun!
Warmly,
Susan Schmitt
Thinking the weather has finally caught up to December. You can almost feel the potential of snow in the air. Speaking of December, we are now entering our two-week pre-holiday sprint which starts with our 1st trimester exams and wraps up with our Winter Spirit Day on Friday, December 15th which is also 1st trimester Report Card Day. Here are a few things to help us get to the finish line.
This week will focus on organizing and reviewing our resources to support our student’s tri-exam study prep. Another priority for the week is what many of our students would say is our highest priority leading into exams, our Trimester Treats which will be handed out daily during exam week. Below is more info on this and the link from PACS to let you choose what treats you are able to provide.
Stay warm and enjoy your first full week of December,
Dr. Cap
CHS Alumni Guests November 2023: One of the most wonderful aspects of Thanksgiving is that we get to see family we have not seen in a while. It is no different at Craig High! Prior to Thanksgiving Break, we had a small group of alumni grace the hallways that they once walked. They met with teachers to give their thanks and met with our students to share their words of wisdom. Advice ranged from choosing a school and a major as well as a roommate.
Luke Class of 2023, Brady Class of 2023, Jeremy Class of 2021, Gianfranco Class of 2021
They also talked about using the resources of their various colleges, including the writing centers and advisor programs. One of our alum, Gianfranco, CHS Class of 2021, shared that he just spent 6-months at the Fire academy and will be taking the Firefighter 1 Certification Test next week to be a fireman in his town.
Badger Hoops Starting Up After the New Year: The CHS JV Basketball Team will be starting its winter season when we get back from Holiday Break. The team is CO-ED, open to all Craig High students, and a great opportunity to improve fitness and basic basketball skills while being a part of a dynamic and supportive team. All practices (and pick-ups) will be held at the CSHS Gym from 3-4:30 PM on the following Tuesdays:
CHS Basketball Practice Dates
We are currently checking for student interest and if we have enough interest, we will then start working on our home hoop schedule and will share that when we finalize it.
Craig School Annual Giving Campaign is in Full Swing!
Exciting news – The Craig School Annual Giving Campaign is officially underway! A huge shoutout to everyone who generously supported us on GivingTuesday. Your contributions make a world of difference!
Our goal this year is simple yet impactful: 100 % participation from our incredible Craig community. Every gift, regardless of size, contributes to the success of Craig School. You are a crucial ingredient in the recipe that makes Craig thrive!
Ready to be part of something amazing? Click the Donation Button to make your contribution.
Donate Here - Every Gift Matters!
If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to Mary Calvano, Advancement, at mcalvano@craigschool.org or call 973-334-1234 x229.
Thank you for being the key to Craig's success!
PACS Presents “Trimester Treats” Sign-Ups: PACS is excited to bring back a wonderful tradition that they began a few years back-Trimester Treats! The motivation behind Trimester Treats was to both nourish and encourage our CHS students on their upcoming exams (Dec 11-14). Our Trimester Treats will be an assortment of their favorite single-serve snacks labeled with encouraging messages to keep them upbeat and positive. Just enough to keep them from being hungry and to let them know that we believe in them!
All snacks will need to be in before exams so that gives us now through Friday, December 8th for our drop-off dates. Below is a link for parents to sign up to donate snacks including quantities requested (based on Costco-sized boxes so no worries if you are over/under the requested amounts) Trimester Treats 2023 Sign-Ups
Final Milestone in the Head of School Search Process
Parent Virtual Feedback Session via Zoom, Thursday, 12/7/2023 [9:15 – 9:45 am]
Please join Skip Kotkins, Carney Sandoe search consultant, for an important feedback session to access the current environment as part of Susan Schmitt’s, Head of School, transitions to Craig. Your input and feedback are very important for this process.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/98002820931?pwd=QnhMeG9WNmFyOStMYzNITnZ3cjEzdz09
Meeting ID: 980 0282 0931
Passcode: Badgers!
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+16465588656,,98002820931#,,,,*69265986# US (New York)
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Meeting ID: 980 0282 0931
Passcode: 69265986
Ordering CHS Lunch Delivery for January: The ordering window for January Lunches will open next FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8th, and stay open through MONDAY, DECEMBER 18th. To place orders, go to www.myfooddays.com If you have any questions, reach out to our CHS Lunch Program Chair, Amanda Jahn at AJahn@craigschool.org
For more information on ways of giving or to make a donation online you can clicking here.
