Sherry Vanderkooi, Academic Coach

08/17/2026

Reading does not just happen for most kids. It needs to be taught - explicitly and systematically.

08/07/2026

So disappointed in mlse and Toronto Argonauts for the terrible way they are handling their home opener. They offered a promotion in the 500 seats, a way for families to come to the game and possibly save a@bit of money. The only gate open for the promotion is gate 3 and the line up is beyond belief. There is no recourse and the ticket takers and security are nearing the brunt of it. As a loyal fan and frequent attendee of games, I am very angry and disappointed. Do better it’s embarrassing. .

08/06/2026

Super disappointed in Toronto Argonauts for the promotion at tonight’s game. If they did not want to honour people’s tickets, they shops not run a promotion. Not a good way to get people engaged in your team.

08/05/2026

This is true. We spend so much time trying to make our kids fit the mold. Let’s bust the mold and let them be who they are.

Yes! Embrace the wonderful weirdness! Share something quirky about your kid ❤️

08/02/2026

Happy rainy Sunday! Rainy days are made for splashing in puddles and being silly. Enjoy!

07/21/2026

A screenshot of a few books that I want to read this summer. The teachers at Avalon are constantly learning, growing and developing their professional skills. One of the best ways to do this is to engage with books. What is on your reading list?

07/13/2026

The Science of Reading is a systematic approach to reading. It builds a solid foundation for those learning to read and allows teachers/tutors/parents to recognize learning challenges so children may be supported. Feel free to reach out if you would like to learn more. I have a few spaces available in my tutoring practice.

06/25/2026

Super excited about our Kids and Family Pride Fest. See you at Avalon, 65 Glen Manor Drive. 5-8pm

06/17/2026

I found this great article from the Huff Post. It clearly articulates what many of us in education and, those of us who were raised in a bygone era. In the quest to keep kids safe, make them feel valued and avoid conflict, there is a tendency to rob children of valuable experiences.

Here is an excerpt. Just google it and you can find it.

Are we doing too much for our children?

Parenting expert Jo Frost (Supernanny) recently shared a powerful reminder: in our effort to help, protect, and make life easier for our kids, we may unintentionally be limiting their independence.
From tying shoes and brushing teeth to helping around the house and managing personal care, everyday life skills build confidence, resilience, and self-reliance. Frost argues that these skills aren't optional extras—they're essential building blocks for adulthood.
As educators, we're seeing similar trends. Children are capable of so much when given the opportunity, guidance, and time to learn. Sometimes the most supportive thing we can do is step back, allow for mistakes, and let children develop the skills they need to thrive.
Independence isn't something that appears overnight—it's built one small responsibility at a time.

06/15/2026

The more we learn about neurodevelopmental conditions, the better we are able to support our loved ones. My wish is that people become more aware of invisible conditions and treat others with grace and kindness.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions in the United States, affecting an estimated 15.5 million adults and roughly 7 million childr...