April is the month that brings the showers to grow May flowers. April is also a month to celebrate quite a few other things. So while those showers may dampen spirits a bit, try celebrating these special things about April.

April is Poetry Month. You have probably introduced your children to poetry through nursery rhymes already. There are children’s poetry books out there that are different from nursery rhymes. Shel Silverstein has an amazing collection of children’s poetry books that are available at most libraries and book stores. My kids were introduced to him by an aunt and they just loved his books. You can also visit shelsilverstein.com to get a sample and play games with your kids.

April is also dedicated as Alcohol Awareness Month. Make sure you discuss the problem of drinking while underage with your children. Explain the health problems associated with dinking. If you need tips on this go to http://ncadi.samhsa.gov/govpubs/RPO991/ or read my previous article http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art39182.asp on the importance of talking to your kids.

Did you know there was such a thing as Mathematics Awareness Month? Well there is and it also takes place in April. It was instilled by former President Ronald Reagan in 1986 to raise awareness of the importance of mathematics. This year’s theme is Mathematics and Voting. Check out the website at http://www.mathaware.org/mam/08/
There are activities and contests for many age groups.

Stress Awareness Month is also observed in April. More kids are developing stress disorders now than ever before. Stress can cause illness, anger, and irritability in kids. Think back to when you were a kid and all those things that worried you like “Do I fit in?”, “Will they like me?”, “Am I going to get a bad grade?” All of those little things are big worries to your kids. The best way to handle those worries is to teach your child how to deal with stressful situations and talk to them about it. If you are seriously concerned about your child being stressed, talk to your pediatrician.

National Child Abuse Prevention Month takes place in April. To find out what the signs of child abuse and neglect are, visit http://www.childwelfare.gov/index.cfm which is a government run website with loads of information on it. If you suspect child abuse or neglect call 800-4 A CHILD (800-422-4453) to speak with a counselor.

Here’s hoping your April showers bring many May flowers!