ONLINE FUN

Did you know that many optometrists don't test for problems with childhood vision that can dramatically affect their learning ability, such as convergence insufficiency and ocular pursuit disorder? It is recommended that children have a complete eye exam (by an optometrist or ophthalmologist) at age three, and again before beginning kindergarten. There are only four behavioral optometrists in the Valley (certified by the College of Optometry in Vision Development) who test and treat children with these disorders, using proven vision therapy techniques. For more information visit www.covd.org

For some fun eye exercises and cool pictures to strengthen vision, visit www.eyecanlearn.com and be on your way to better visual health!

At www.mypyramid.gov, kids can learn all about the new and improved food pyramid, and play a cool rocket game. The MyPyramid Blast Off Game is an interactive computer game where kids can reach Planet Power by fueling their rocket with food and physical activity. "Fuel" tanks for each food group help students keep track of how their choices fit into MyPyramid. The game also encourages kids to have 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Healthy fun!

A family friendly website where your child can have fun while learning to read! Free online resources including books and games for learning letter sounds, ABC printouts, writing charts, awards, and more. They focus on simple, fun interactivity and the sounding out of almost every word. All your child has to do is click on the screen, watch and listen! Visit: www.Starfall.com

If you're looking for the lyrics to a favorite children's song, you can find it at www.kididdles.com.

The site includes a list of available song titles in alphabetical order and also by subject. There are song lyrics for fingerplays, jump rope rhymes, circle games and other musical activities, and dozens of songs about food, animals, nature, holidays, nature, learning and many more.

Some songs titles also include the music as a MIDI file you can play on your computer. Musical fun for everyone!!

Have you heard about a great website called www.StoryLineOnline.net

It is a program of The Screen Actors Guild Foundation at which you can play videos of famous actors reading children's books aloud. There currently are 17 books to choose from and each book includes activities and lesson ideas.

Note: Because this site uses online streaming video, it is only recommended for those with a high-speed internet connection.