Clean Desk, Clear Mindset

Children achieve more with organized room

By Priscilla Greear

Is your child's desk drawer a knickknack abyss crammed with mementos from pre-K 3 through middle school? Does pulling out the art box from the closet create an avalanche of falling notebooks? As the new year unfolds, it's time for the kids to wipe the desk clean, get organized and learn the scholastic art (and science) of tidying up--starting with their bedroom. And let the future high achievers do their chores themselves to take pride in their organized space, develop a work ethic and better focus on academics.

Don’t Parent in Isolation: Build a Support System

Look to loved ones, government assistance and The Trust to support your family

You’ve probably heard that ‘it takes a village to raise a child. However, for many parents, there is no built-in village at their fingertips to rely on for guidance and assistance with day-to-day parent life. In fact, recent studies show that around one-third of parents experience feelings of isolation—and that lack of a support network may be a major barrier to the well-being of their families. 

If you find yourself village-less, don’t panic. While building a healthy support system for your family may seem daunting, it’s well worth the effort, as long as you keep in mind everyone's tribe will look different. For some, it may be made up of mostly extended family and close friends. Others will include family-friendly programs and agencies. Whatever the make-up, it’s sure to be one of the most valuable treasures you can have to ensure your family thrives.

Silvio Plata: Losing Sight But Finding Your Calling

As part of The Children’s Trust’s 20th Anniversary celebration, children and youth whose lives have been impacted by The Trust are being highlighted for their achievements attained with the help of Trust-funded programs or initiatives.

Silvio Plata moved to the United States with his family soon after he was born in Nicaragua in the early 2000s. Before he turned 2, he was diagnosed with cancer and lost his sight in both eyes, casting his future and that of his parents into considerable doubt. “My parents were very lost, very confused as to how I was going to get an education, how I was going to grow up and just do simple daily tasks like mobility, walking, getting from one place to another,” said Silvio.

In the midst of all the insecurity appeared The Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Funded by The Children’s Trust since 2004, Miami Lighthouse provided the support and guidance that Silvio and his family would need when the journey ahead seemed most challenging.

Sonny Rollins Plays the Bridge by Gary Golio, Illustrated by James Ransome

The Children’s Trust Book Club offers age-appropriate free, monthly books by mail for children from 0-5 living in Miami-Dade.