I read a lot–everywhere I go I either bring reading material with me, or read the material that is available. So just recently, I came across two bits of rather interesting information.

One was that hot cocoa can be used to help your child concentrate during challenging tasks especially cocoa having a high cacao content as cacao contains flavonols which increase blood flow to the brain. Now, I do enjoy cocoa, however in my case, it does the complete opposite–rather than increasing alertness and concentration, it calms me–makes me feel drowsy and comforted–even with a high cacao content it just relaxed me.

The other interesting tidbit, was that we all have a time of the day that is our best–I call it our “prime time”. That is when we are mentally and physically at our peak, so can tackle our challenging projects and complete them faster and easier. So far I agree with everything. Then, however, the brief article goes on to give specific times of peak performance, labelling them–”early bird” which apparently is around 9:00 a.m., and “night owl” which is 9:00 p.m….and I don’t seem to fit in either. I am an “early to mid day bird”, somewhere from 10:00 a.m.to 3:00 p.m.

Both articles use research by very qualified and knowledgable experts, however no one knows you or child better than you–and you are the expert that counts, so read critically and always—personalize..personalize..personalize all suggestions and strategies!!