At Home with children

As an parent that happens to be an educator, I'm aware of the summer brain drain. To help combat this matter, I have set aside time each day as school time.

Parents, here are a few tips to help your child maintain what was learned to previous year.
For older children
1. Have them read a book and write a book report on the book. Try to have them read a book for each month that they are off.
2. Have them write out their multiplication facts. Give them a timed quiz and randomly call out facts and have them give you the answer.  On the quiz, have them write the facts 10 times each for the problems they  got wrong.
3. Have them practice their handwriting especially their cursive writing.
4. Visit your local library, they have wonderful, age- appropriate activities.

Younger children:
1. Have them read an level appropriate book to you at least once a week. Have them tell you what the book was about. Ask comprehension questions about the book. Example: what color was the shirt that the boy was wearing?
2. Have them practice their sight words (high frequency words). Most teachers send home a summer work packet that might contain the words.
3. Review addition and subtraction facts.
4. Have them practice their handwriting.
5. Visit your local library, they have wonderful, age- appropriate activities.

Take your children on nature walks and discuss what you see along the way. Look for free activities in your area and visit those places.
I know you might be saying but I have to work. There is always the weekend. Our children are children  for such a short period of time let's make the best of it.

If you have internet access search on-line learning activities that you can do at home. Purchase computer soft ware. I purchased Hooked on Phonics from Target and used that with my children. I will provide a list of websites in the next issue.

Please do not allow your child to spend countless hours in front of the television. Allow them to play outside and get creative. Your child's teacher will appreciate it when your child returns to school in the summer/ fall.

These are only my opinions and suggestions.