Some ideas for gifts

Sometimes we are so confused when we have to buy a gift for a little girl or boy or girlfriend.

I wanted to throw in some ideas that impressed me, my husband and my daughter, so that if you are in total confusion then you have this list to chose from. Check it out.....

For young girls: Toys, jewelry, make-up kit, teady bears, activity kits (to sow a bear, make jewelry at home, painting pots, making art and decorating them) and trinkets.
Books and puzzels would be their least favorite, this is out of my experience, trust me.

 For Boys: Legos, games, sports related gifts like baseball set, badminton, or a globe.

 For ladies: Flowers and jewelry would be the best choices but it always depends on the individual. Romantic or beautiful art.
Purses, perfumes, make-up, cute and delicate jewelry,  brand name watches and purses, dresses which would make them look beautiful (something body hugging and made of Chiffon).

For men: Brand name T-shirts, watches, cologne, sports sets, cufflings, tie, books, pens, an alarm clock which is easy to operate; new electronic items like Ipad, Iphone or electric shaver, grooming kit

 General:  If you are totally confused and if nothing seems right then pick the best store in the mall and buy a gift card. But, this should be the last resort if you are trying to impress someone and keep a long-lasting relation with them.

After school reading and math help

 Kumon, Aloha, Russian math or Personal Tutor

These are the after school options, the parents  in USA have for helping their kids excel in education.

Kumon: http://www.kumon.com/ or call 800-ABC-MATH

Russian Math: http://russianschool.com/  or call (617) 332-8243

Aloha (Abacus): http://www.aloha-usa.com/ locations.aspx or call  877 ALOHA 03

Personal tutor: You will have to ask around for the available tutor or personal trainer in your area. Try asking someone in your social network.

 What is Aloha?

ALOHA Mind Math uses Abacus to do math easily and quickly.  Learning math this way helps in brain development so that grasping other subjects in the school will become easy for the kids. The reason being,  abacus exercises stimulate brain and makes them sharp and smart.

 My opinion: Aloha is the best way to help our kids because it not only teaches math but also helps in the whole brain development.

http://aloha-usa.com/videos.html

Abacus

What is Russian Math? 

After school mathematics enrichment program started in 1997. They emphasize on problem solving skills and critical thinking by using Russian teaching methodology. They provide weekly classes and assign homework.

  What is Kumon?

After school math and reading programs that nurture skills required for child's success mainly by repeated practice of all the concepts. Their methodology involves the worksheets and one-on-one help from the instructor. 

My opinion: The main emphasis is on mastering the content by practicing several times. This works really well if a student is disciplined and obedient. For kids who are hyperactive and would not like the repetition, Kumon is not suitable. 
They have levels in math starting from addition, subtraction , multiplication and so on. I attached the pictures below which describe very clearly the goals of each level in both math and reading.