Being Deaf Does Not Mean We’re Broken
Webster’s dictionary defines deaf as: “lacking or deficient in the sense of hearing.” We’re not broken. What people may not know is, behind the meaning of the word “deaf,” is a beautiful and rich culture, complete with its own traditions, language and people. “Deaf” may be seen as a negative occurrence because hearing loss, or […]
The Importance of Self-Care
Sometimes managing work, family, and a multitude of daily activities can be overwhelming. Our challenge is to maintain our resilience so that we can keep doing our vital work with care, energy and compassion. Self-care is an important 10 Things To Do For Yourself Everyday (Self-Care) Get enough sleep. Get enough to eat. Do some […]
Tips to Encourage Your Child To Read
We’re celebrating Read Across America Day with a few tips to encourage your little one to read. Kids on the Block values the importance of literacy, and works closely with elementary school students to empower them to become great readers. We strongly believe reading can be enjoyable for any child on any level. Here are […]
How To: Encourage Your Children to Be Kind
We’re often asked, “How can parents encourage their children to be kind?” We’ve compiled a few tips to help! Say no to “Sticks and Stones can break my bones, but words can NEVER hurt me.” Discuss to children about the impact words can really have on others, and encourage them to say kind words, words […]
Not Enough Parents Are Learning Sign
Not enough families are learning how to communicate with their kids. According to Gallaudet research, 90% of children who are deaf are born into hearing families and of those 90% of hearing parents only 23% of them learn American Sign Language. This leaves 77% of children who are deaf in isolation within their home. Imagine […]
Reflections on Random Acts of Kindness
Reflections on Random Acts of Kindness So, what is Random Acts of Kindness, better known to me as “RAK”? A little bit about Random Acts of Kindness It is an unplanned act whose goal is to bring kindness and spread kindness to those we know and those we do not know. It’s a practice that […]
Scientists prove it, there are benefits to being kind.
At STARS, we believe it doesn’t cost anything to be kind towards our fellow human brothers and sisters. According to research, it is scientifically proven there are benefits to being kind!! What’s the benefits? Kindness Increases: The Love Hormone Energy Happiness Lifespan Pleasure Serotonin Kindness Decreases: Pain Stress Anxiety Depression Blood Pressure STARS Student […]
What You Need to Know After Treatment of Addiction
Addiction does not just disappear when treatment ends. I have had the privilege to witness many newly released clients from substance abuse treatment facilities. Usually they will step down to an intensive outpatient treatment facility. At the time of their release, many clients are excited. They sound extremely positive, with a positive outlook on life. Most […]
How Can Parents Address Name-Calling?
Two common questions we’re asked is how are we addressing name-calling and what can parents do to help? Kids on the Block is addressing the problem of Name Calling with their “Teasing and Name Calling” presentation for kindergarten and first grade students. The students are shown a scenario where the puppet kids are struggling with […]
STARS earn 4-star rating from Charity Navigator
STARS earn 4-star rating from Charity Navigator We are very pleased to announce that STARS has received the coveted 4-star rating from Charity Navigator for demonstrating strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency. This is the first time we have received this honor. In Tennessee, 43 not for profits received the 4 star-rating, of these, 17 […]
