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: MGA Cheer

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: MGA Cheer

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: MGA Cheer

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: MGA Cheer

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: MGA Cheer

“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: MGA Cheer

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

Loyalty is a complex word. It means being faithful, steadfast and true to someone or something, however, it doesn’t demand silence when we feel that somebody or something is in the wrong.

This concept can be confusing to children and teens who may be navigating complicated feelings and relationships for the first time. They may think to themselves; “If I don’t agree with my friend, my teacher, or my family is it OK to speak up? Or, is that being disloyal?” The same can be questioned
when they find themselves disagreeing with the general culture of their school, the policies or their community, or the leadership of their country. Of course as adults we know that speaking up and being true to one’s values does indeed show loyalty.

All relationships require loyalty to work. Whether these relationships are family-based, friendship-based, or work-based, being true and supportive is expected. The breakdown of loyalty can seriously
compromise friendships in children and adults. It is also not easily repaired.

A recent study out 3 months ago in the journal Child Development, shows that when loyalty is breached in friendships, pre-teen girls may not be any better at friendships than boys, despite previous research suggesting otherwise.

The study suggests that when more serious violations of a friendship occur, children struggle. In fact, both girls and boys claimed that they would seek revenge, verbally attack, or threaten divulging a secret if a transgression occurred. Girls also reported more sadness and anger when presented with the breach of loyalty scenarios. This may be due to high standards in friendships.

“Loyalty” should create some interesting discussions! I hope you will continue these discussions at home and while in transit, in order to help the children understand this multifaceted 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.

Being faithful and committed: Introducing “Loyalty” – February’s Powerful Word is a post from: All Star Cheer Sites

Being faithful and committed: Introducing “Loyalty” – February’s Powerful Word is a post from: MGA Cheer

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: MGA Cheer

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: MGA Cheer

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: MGA Cheer