This month we will focus on the powerful word; “trustworthiness.”

Trustworthiness can be defined as “being worthy of someone’s trust” or confidence. While straightforward, trustworthiness is achieved by choosing to take (and not take) certain actions. In particular; trustworthiness is achieved by (1) consistently telling the truth, (2) keeping promises and commitments, (3) maintaining confidentiality, (4) refraining from stealing or cheating, (5) following
the rules, (6) choosing to do the right thing even when nobody’s looking and (7) being accountable for one’s mistakes.

From an early age, children understand that not everyone is a reliable source of information. Some people are more worthy of trust than others. A recent study shows that children as young as age 4 are able to discern who is and who is not trustworthy (Association of Psychological Science, 2011). According to the researchers; the children are able to “distinguish someone who’s truly knowledgeable from someone who’s given them a right answer but doesn’t necessarily deserve long-term trust.”

Unfortunately, we’re up against a great deal of challenges. Public figures in sports, government, and media have been caught lying, cheating, stealing, breaking laws, and reneging on their promises.
Yet, they’re often excused for their wrongdoings by an adoring public.

Whether we like it or not, many of these public figures serve as role models and many of them aren’t doing a great job of showing the importance of trustworthiness. They are, in fact, “anti-role models.”

This month, please talk with your family about the importance of trust as it is the backbone of our choices, our relationships, and how we are perceived by others. Ask them how they know who to trust and share stories of the lessons you learned around this important Powerful Word.

Thank you for your support. You are pivotal in helping to make our school one of the best personal development centers in the world.

You Can Count on Me to do the right thing! Trustworthiness – May’s Powerful Word is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

You Can Count on Me to do the right thing! Trustworthiness – May’s Powerful Word is a post from: Expressions Napa

Legacy is what you leave behind. It’s what people remember about you, a team you were on or a school or class you were part of– even after the season or year is over. You can leave a legacy of hard
work and commitment when you graduate. A doctor can leave a legacy of a certain level of care after s/he retires. A grandparent can leave a legacy of love and tradition after s/he passes away.

The type of legacy people leave is dependant upon the type of impact they make on others. Were they kind and thoughtful? Trustworthy and true? Respectful and dependable? Character certainly plays a big part in legacy.

Thinking back, we can all remember certain people that made a big impact on us. People often speak of teachers that had a big effect on us when we were children or on our children when they were younger.

In July of this past year, a study that was published in the Teachers College Record showed that teachers can affect student achievement over time (July, 2011). Especially those teachers who work with our children early on in life seem to have a profound effect on student achievement years later.
Findings suggest that “teacher effects do not fade” and strong teachers leave a legacy of learning in their students.

Even when our children are young we can ask them, “How do you want people to remember you?” or  “What 3 words would you want to come to mind if someone were to describe you?” We can talk in
terms of legacy about teachers who are no longer teaching or family members who are no longer with us– “what do you remember about ______?”

This month, please share with your children about the people who made a profound impact
on your life. Famous or not, who do you feel leaves an important legacy?

Thank you for your support. You are pivotal in helping to make our school one of the best personal development centers in the world.

Being Mindful of What We Leave Behind. Legacy: April’s Powerful Word is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

Being Mindful of What We Leave Behind. Legacy: April’s Powerful Word is a post from: Expressions Napa

Try the following:

(1) Check yourself:

Make sure that you aren’t inadvertently reinforcing your child’s role as the “scared one” by labeling or
comparing him/her with your other child. Children tend to live up to the expectation we set for them.

(2) Start small:

Try taking baby steps. If your child, for example, won’t go out for the team, maybe s/he would be open to being the score-keeper or assistant. If s/he won’t try a new meal, try incorporating one new item into something s/he already loves. A bunch of baby steps can lead to one big one.

(3) Praise initiative:

If your child tries something on his/her own, even if it seems small, notice it and praise it. Encouragement can go a long way when a child is typically fearful.

(4) Don’t buy into it:

When your child keeps saying s/he can’t do something, it can be hard not to believe that it’s true. The truth is, your child will never know what s/he is capable of until s/he tries it. Keep reinforcing that message no matter what s/he says.

(5) Use past experiences:

Did s/he try something new and like it? Remind your child of those experiences in which courage served him or her well. What helped? What could s/he use now? Learning from past experiences can help encourage new ones.

(6) Be a courageous example:

Be a little adventurous yourself. Show your children that trying new things is a fun and interesting
part of life.

(7) Allow mistakes & retries:

Yes, mistakes happen. We need to teach our children that they aren’t the end of the world. Allow
your child to see that we all make mistakes and we can make them right. This may take the fear our
of trying.

Here’s to Your Success!

- Dr. Robyn Silverman

How to help your child deal with fears and get over your frustration at the same time. 7 Helpful Tips. is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

How to help your child deal with fears and get over your frustration at the same time. 7 Helpful Tips. is a post from: Expressions Napa

This month we will focus on the powerful word; “courage.”

Courage is not the absence of fear, as many children might think. Rather, courage is how we cope with fears in the face of challenge. In fact, as parents and mentors, it’s important that we let children know that everyone (even heroes!) gets scared sometimes. It’s how we cope with those fears that dictates our level of courage.

Of course there are reasons why we get scared. Some of those reasons are protective. In other words, we’re scared because fear can keep us safe. Perhaps we had a bad experience in the past and we don’t want a repeat performance. Or, maybe our gut is telling us something isn’t quite right.

Other times fears emerge from our imagination. We worry about what might happen—even if it’s unlikely. These are the times that courage lends a hand.

Courage comes in handy in many circumstances. We need courage to try new things and meet new people. We need courage to stand up for our values and what we believe is right. We also need courage to move forward towards realizing our goals. All we need to do is calm ourselves down so we can make good choices!

It turns out that taking healthy risks is an important part of courage. One study published in the Journal of Child and Family Studies a few years ago showed that those children who are more courageous and who take more healthy risks have lower levels of anxiety (Muris, 2009). A Cornell University study out in the beginning of this year tells us though that sometimes we have an “illusion of courage” before we are actually faced with the challenge. So it’s not surprising that at the moment of truth, we sometimes back away in fear (January, 2012). At those moments, extra support is often needed.

This month, please share with your children all the ways you have shown courage. Demonstrate to them what courage looks like by trying new things and taking healthy risks. You are their role model!
Thank you for your support.

You are pivotal in helping to make our school one of the best personal development centers in the world.

Developing the Willingness to face fears and challenges with determination – Courage: March’s Powerful Word is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

Developing the Willingness to face fears and challenges with determination – Courage: March’s Powerful Word is a post from: Expressions Napa

This month we will focus on the powerful word; “generosity.”

Generosity does not just refer to the act of giving. That would be too easy. Generosity is when we give of things that are particularly meaningful and valuable to us. It marks when we give beyond what
is required of us, without anticipating anything in return– especially when the act of giving is unexpected.

Watch as Dr. Robyn Silverman, developer of the Powerful Words Program and our personal development specialist shares with us some of what’s in store this month.

Time. Talent. Treasures. It’s widely accepted that generous people give these “3 Ts” to others. The 3 Ts refer to:

Time: Our most precious commodity– the hours we can devote to helping, giving, and sharing with others.

Talent: Our abilities and skills that can help, entertain, or make the lives of others better.

Treasure: Our money, gifts, or things that are valuable to us that can help others thrive and survive.

This month, we’d like to add a fourth “T” to our discussion as, I think you would agree, it’s important!

Thanks: Showing gratitude for what we have and who we have in our lives.

Research shows that even when there is no known return on “investment,” most people tend to be generous. A 2010 study published last March in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, reiterates that it is possible to “pay it forward”—spreading generosity because they themselves have
been on the receiving end of kindness and generosity. A brand new study (09/2011) published in the same journal actually demonstrates that generosity is human nature. Even when nothing is expected
in return, more people are likely to be generous than not.

As always, one of the best ways to teach and reinforce Powerful Words is by modeling strength of character ourselves. Share with your children how you show generosity by giving of your time, talents, treasures, and your thanks every day.

Thank you for your support. You are pivotal in helping to make our school one of the best personal development centers in the world.

Generosity: Giving Freely of your time, talents, and treasures without expecting anything in return—November’s Powerful Word is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

Generosity: Giving Freely of your time, talents, and treasures without expecting anything in return—November’s Powerful Word is a post from: Expressions Napa

This month we will focus on the powerful word; “acceptance.” The concept of acceptance has to do with the willingness to be understanding of ourselves, tolerant of others and open-minded to the different ways that people live. It also relates to our abilities to appreciate of new experiences and different ways to do things.

Dr. Robyn Silverman, developer of the Powerful Words Character Development System used right here at our gym, had a few words she’d like to share:

While most young children are not able to grasp the philosophical dimension of acceptance, it is important for these youngsters to learn simple concepts such as “it’s OK to be different.” We will inspire all students to exercise an open mind, embrace diversity and fuel a sense of curiosity that
lacks bias or prejudice.

Acceptance helps children respect and appreciate the unique characteristics of people and their cultures—including their ideas, beliefs, and ways of life. Therefore, topics that promote discussions of
such things as family, friends, stereotypes and holiday celebrations will emphasize the importance of being accepting of ourselves, others, and the differences between people.

Studies tells us that when people feel accepted, they also feel safe and protected. The converse of that is rejection. Rejection is actually bad for people’s health; it makes them feel depressed. People who are rejected are often unhealthier, get less sleep, and are more likely to lash out than those who feel accepted (Current Directions in Psychological Science, August, 2011)

Since this month is as much about accepting ourselves as it is about accepting others, please use the lessons as an opportunity to help your children understand their own heritage and how it makes them unique. Share stories, pictures, foods, and customs that celebrate the differences in your family! Record stories that only certain people in your family know. You can even have your child write and illustrate your own special family book for your family!

We hope that this is a fun time for you. For those of you who are celebrating holidays this month, we wish you a wonderful holiday season!

Thank you for your support. You are pivotal in helping to make our school one of the best personal development centers in the world.

Acceptance: Respect for the differences between oneself, others, and the ways people do things – December’s Powerful Word is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

Acceptance: Respect for the differences between oneself, others, and the ways people do things – December’s Powerful Word is a post from: Expressions Napa

Dear Dr. Robyn,

My children are now at an age when they say that they don’t like things about themselves or pick on things about others they know. Our area is eclectic—so everyone is a little different and I like it that way! How can I help them to see that being different is a good thing?

– Kara & Chris N, Boulder, CO

Dear Kara & Chris,

What a treat to live in an area defined as “eclectic!” There are so many things to learn from one another.

To help your children embrace differences among themselves as well as in others, you can:

Celebrate differences with friends:

If there are holidays or special ways you celebrate within your family…share! Including friends and allowing them to take part in a special meal or celebration can be a way of understanding one another. And of course, spending time with friends when they are celebrating in their own special way, would
also be a wonderful way of showing that differences can be interesting and amazing.

Learn about different cultures:

Take time to respectfully ask questions of your friends and neighbors about their different cultures– and encourage your children to do the same. Investigate different cultures on the internet or in books. You can even make a special night each week devoted to trying a new food from a different culture. Make it fun!

Write down and record your stories:

What’s special about the cultures represented in your family? What stories do you remember your parents, grandparents, or other family members telling you about their past? Document those stories
as they are treasures and they highlight the amazing parts of the family history!

Connect with and compliment character:

When we recognize others for their character, we realize that people are really not that different after all. What makes friends special, interesting, amazing, and appreciated? How do you feel when you are around them? How might they inspire you? Tell them…and encourage your children to do the same!

Embrace the community:

If your community is diverse, make sure you help your children appreciate it and embrace it. How does the community support diversity? What kinds of art or theatrical performances does it provide? What kinds of interesting foods can you try? Use your amazing community to help your children embrace diversity, and the interesting people around you.

Here’s to your success!

5 Ways to Help Your Children Accept the Differences and Others and Themselves is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

5 Ways to Help Your Children Accept the Differences and Others and Themselves is a post from: Expressions Napa

We feel that our gym is much more than just a physical activity or sport. We’re a Personal Development Center! We want to develop champions on the inside not just on the outside. If you didn’t know already, we’ve teamed up with Powerful Words Character Development in order to bring the very best to our members.

Dr. Robyn Silverman, creator and developer of Powerful Words has spent more than a dozen years working with the field of child and adolescent development and is universally recognized by her peers as an expert. We’re excited every month to be working with Dr. Robyn and are very proud to have her as a member of our team.

In the video below, Dr. Robyn shares a few tips on how to teach your child Acceptance of others, be it the physical differences, cultural, or just the many quirks that make everyone unique and special. We hope you enjoy the video, feel free to respond in the comments section with your own thoughts and ideas on how to help teach kids to be accepting of themselves and others. Enjoy!

As a bonus, here’s Dr. Robyn’s latest television appearance with Anderson Cooper on his syndicated talk-show “Anderson.” It kind of goes right along with this month’s Powerful Word.

Teaching Acceptance to our Kids: Ask Dr. Robyn is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

Teaching Acceptance to our Kids: Ask Dr. Robyn is a post from: Expressions Napa

This month we will focus on the powerful word; “health.”

Being healthy is more than just feeling good. It’s total wellbeing and freedom from disease. As it’s the start of 2012, it’s only natural for us to take inventory of our health and the health of our family. But just as important, we need to help our children to understand and take responsibility of their own health as well.

When children are young, parents choose what their children are going to do and eat. As children get older, the responsibility of the physical and nutritional choices shifts to them. Of course, we can still
buy nutritious groceries for our homes and encourage the best physical activity here in class, but children aren’t always under the watchful eye of a parent, teacher, or coach! We must encourage them to make positive choices.

Interestingly, in a study published last month in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Dec 2011),
researchers showed that when parents used stickers to reward their children each time they sampled a disliked vegetable for 12 days, children gave higher ratings to the vegetables—and were willing to eat more of them. Previous studies (July 2011) also showed that children rated meals unknowingly fortified with pureed vegetables as either OK or yummy.

Children can improve or maintain good health through balanced nutrition, daily physical exercise, a good night’s sleep, good hygiene, and steering clear of drugs and smoking. Having powerful character may also contribute to wellness since a clear conscience and a giving spirit always makes us feel good!

We hope that 2012 is a wonderful, healthy year for all of you. Perhaps you can encourage your children to set some “healthy” goals for eating nutritious foods, physical activity, sleep, and healthy stress relievers for this year. This is the perfect time to make important enhancements that can positively influence the health of your family.

Thank you for your support. You are pivotal in helping to make our school one of the best personal development centers in the world.

Developing Wellbeing in Body, Mind, and Spirit: Health – January’s Powerful Word is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

Developing Wellbeing in Body, Mind, and Spirit: Health – January’s Powerful Word is a post from: Expressions Napa

“Weight” can be a hot button for many children as they get older. For one thing, while it’s normal and natural for children to put on weight as they go through puberty, their bodies change greatly and some can become uncomfortable. In addition, as children become adolescents, they may become
more aware of media messages that glorify “body perfection” and can become more prone to comparing themselves to others.

In my book, Good Girls Don’t Get Fat: How Weight Obsession is Messing Up Our Girls & How We Can Help Them Thrive Despite It, I talk about the importance of health over weight. There are
actions that everyone can take, regardless of weight, that help to keep us healthy.

(1) Eat foods that nourish the body:

Everyone needs to eat a balanced diet that provides such things as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low fat dairy items. We can explain to our children that they should eat a variety of natural foods that represent every color in the rainbow. When we eat nutritious foods, we feel energized.

(2) Move your body:

Children and teens should be getting at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. This activity should be fun and rewarding! It also should be performed at moderate to vigorous intensity to get the heart pumping and the muscles engaged.

(3) Get enough sleep:

For many, this is a tall order! Some will claim that homework, stress, extracurriculars, or a social life is
keeping them from getting a full night’s rest. Still, sleep is vital for a healthy body. Children typically
need 10-12 hours of sleep per day and teens typically need 8-9 hours per day. A good night’s sleep
means greater health and better performance in school!

(4) Manage stress:

Children and teens need to learn how to manage their stress in positive ways. While some will turn to risky behavior like drug use or extreme dieting, there are many ways that our children can reduce stress to keep themselves healthy. Suggest and model different methods of stress reduction for your child such as talking to an adult or trusted friend, to playing sports or music, to simply taking some time for himself.

Here’s to your success!

Four Ways to Help Your Child Become Healthier without Destroying Self-Esteem is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

Four Ways to Help Your Child Become Healthier without Destroying Self-Esteem is a post from: Expressions Napa