- Inspire creativity over the holidays
- Going against the people will come back to haunt Republicans
- COVID is no excuse
Going against the people will come back to haunt Republicans
I am conservative and disagree with justifying abortion as birth control claiming that is necessary to keep the tiny percentage of abortions because of rape legal and I also disagree with marijuana being sanctioned, what could possibly go wrong?
But Ohio Republicans trying to dramatically circumvent these decisions will only come back to haunt Republicans in elections and conservative initiatives in the future.
Dennis Singleton, Dayton
COVID is no excuse
I read the Dec. 19 article “Will lowered reading goals hurt third graders in area?” with my mouth open and my jaw on the floor.
As far as I’m concerned, the only acceptable third grade reading goal is 100%!
And the audacity to blame it on COVID by implying that “many families were confined to their homes without access to books”?
Has no one heard of the library?
Even during the pandemic our local libraries were a wonderful resource of free materials – with drive-up services.
No family, especially those with young children, has any excuse in my opinion, not to have reading materials of some kind in their home.
I know I’m preaching to the choir as most people who read the newspaper probably value reading in general; but please parents, take your responsibilities seriously.
Make the time to read to your young children and provide your older children with age-appropriate reading materials in your homes. It makes a difference!
Ann MacDonald, Dublin
Inspire creativity
As children spend more time at home during winter breaks, I ask parents to consider encouraging a mindful environment in the family home.
With more freedom outside work and school during the holidays, it will likely be second nature to scroll through our devices and resort to excess screen time.
Instead, reinforcing quality time may have a positive, long-lasting impact on your kids.
Research highlights a link between children who spend a large amount of time on digital technology with increased rates of later developing depression and anxiety.
Navigating parenting in an increasingly technology-dependent world is challenging, but the holidays are the ideal time to emphasize family togetherness.
Engaging in family meals can help children build confidence and resilience, while cultivating improved communication skills.
Whether you inspire creativity with trying themed meals, engage in fun cultural and spiritual activities, or just spend one-on-one quality time with your children, it can all contribute to laying a mindful framework in the home during this special time of year.
Dr. Evelyn Gartstein, Columbus