The Next Best Thing

Elli hates that she can't see her Grandma and Grandpa Waller whenever she would like. But, the next best thing is to chat with them via Skype. Elli loves to see them and get to chit chat. Today Grandma Waller read her a book about bunnies via Skype and Elli talked about that bunny book all night - long after the phone conversation was over. Skype is nice, but we are really looking forward to Thanksgiving when we can see everyone in person!!!

And a side note...at the conference last week there was a huge focus on incorporating technology in the classroom. Speakers really talked a lot about the way our children are growing up. Did you know that 2/3 of kids ages 4-7 use an I phone or Touch? How about 19% of kids ages 2-5 can operate a Smartphone while only 9% can actually tie their shoes? That statistic is funny...but I also think its true. Look at what I found tonight. While I was cooking dinner I noticed it was quiet - too quiet. This is where I find Elli.

Earlier in the afternoon Jacob let her watch some Elmo on the computer (her latest obsession). I guess she was trying to find it again (and yes she crawled up in that chair herself). It seems what I heard all last week is true...its time to truly change our classrooms. One speaker said, "the 21st Century is 10% over; lets stop talking about 21st Century learning and start doing it!"

I think Elli would agree!