eTips: Daily Parent Engagement Messages

Friday, May 31, 2024

Have you seen these signs of reading struggle?

When children encounter unfamiliar words while reading, many squirm, get sleepy, look anxious or act up. If you see any of these signs, ask if there's a word your child doesn't understand. Help your child look it up in the dictionary. Then, check for understanding by asking your elementary schooler to use the word in a sentence. If your child claims to know all the words, do some spot checks. Ask, "What does this word mean?"

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Help your child learn a lot in a few minutes

What can you do promote learning in a few spare minutes? Teachers recommend several things: Teach values by reading a story that has moral dilemmas and discuss why actions are right or wrong. Or, you could tell your child a story filled with information about the real world. Another option is to ask to hear about something your child finds interesting and look for ways to relate the topic to things your child is learning.

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Be a model of patience for your child

Children aren't born with a lot of patience and self-control. They need to learn these qualities. But if you are always fussing about slow drivers or saying "Hurry up!" to your child, it will be hard for your child to learn patience from you. Model the behavior you want your elementary schooler to show. Remember, your child may try your patience, but losing your cool only teaches impatience.

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Help your child feel accepted, confident and purposeful

Feeling confident and capable helps children cope with challenges. To nurture this kind of self-esteem in your child, say "I love you" all the time, not just when your student is successful. Emphasize your child's strengths and point out progress. Instill a sense of purpose by helping your child set attainable goals. Then, help your child see that difficulties can be overcome. Say often that you believe in your child's ability to succeed.

Monday, May 27, 2024

Help your child put gratitude in writing

Thank-you notes are more than just good writing practice. Expressing gratitude can also boost your child's spirits and appreciation for other people. Set an example for your child. When you thank someone, talk about how good gratitude feels. Then, help your child brainstorm reasons to thank people. Your student could write notes to thank a teacher for help, or to a classmate for being a good friend.

Sunday, May 26, 2024

Plan to give summer days some structure

Kids love to relax in the summer. But they still need some structure to their day. Otherwise, they may spend hour after hour passively watching screens and never get around to activities that help them learn. Draw up a basic summer schedule for your child. Include large blocks of time for creative play. Build in time for reading and chores. And although you may relax rules on bedtime, don't give them up altogether.

Saturday, May 25, 2024

Correct behavior in a loving way

How you say things to your child is just as important as what you say. Children thrive on their families' positive attitudes toward them. So, the next time you have to correct your child's behavior, take a minute to think before you talk. Phrase your comment in a way that makes it clear you think your child is great, but that the rules still apply.

Friday, May 24, 2024

Encourage your child to wonder and observe

Children are natural scientists. Every time they ask "Why?" or wonder how things work, they're asking a scientific question. Encourage your child to observe, ask questions and look for answers. Together, you could see how long it takes for a rosebud to burst into bloom. Or, record the changes in the moon's shape over a month's time. Can your child figure out how the spin cycle removes wash water from your clothes?

Thursday, May 23, 2024

Create a space that makes your child want to read

Children get more excited about reading when they have their own books and a special place to read them. Help your child create a personal book nook by providing a bookcase, or a shelf of your child’s own in a family bookcase. Put pillows or a comfortable chair in a cozy corner nearby. One inexpensive way to provide reading material is to make scrapbooks of articles on topics that interest your child. Encourage your elementary schooler to sort and arrange books in the book nook.

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Children usually live up to families' expectations

Families communicate expectations to children in many ways: by what they say, how they act and how they react to others. Think about what you expect of your child in terms of effort on schoolwork, time spent reading, behavior in class, and how far your student should go in school. Set your expectations high, and express them to your child clearly and consistently.

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Apply the lessons of music to schoolwork

Kids who study a musical instrument learn more than how to play a tune. They also learn lessons like the value of practice and persistence. No one is born knowing how to play an instrument. But by sticking with it and practicing regularly, kids soon make music. This experience carries over to other subjects. Students who work hard and study every day can master material. And that makes teachers and families sing!

Monday, May 20, 2024

Change the course of repetitive play

Many adults have a common complaint: "My child always wants to play the same thing!" To introduce new elements into pretend play, change the story. For example, if your child always buys cereal when playing store, introduce a challenge. Say, "Sorry, all out of cereal." If your child needs help solving the problem, offer two suggestions to choose from, "How about bagels or muffins instead?"

Sunday, May 19, 2024

What says 'love' to your child?

Parents and caregivers have innumerable ways of showing children they love them. But those ways are generally ones the adults think are important to their kids. To find out what your child really treasures, ask: "How did I show you I love you today?" You might be surprised at the answers!

Saturday, May 18, 2024

Role-play ways to push back against peer pressure

Kids need to fit in. But they also need to know that there are times when they can't go along with the crowd. With your child, role-play ways to say "no" to things that are unsafe, illegal or against your family’s rules. These include making an excuse, "I can't. My mom needs me at home" and offering a better idea, "Why don't we ride bikes instead?" Your child could even blame you. "My folks would ground me forever!"

Friday, May 17, 2024

Build priceless skills with a word-value game

Here's a fun game that uses language and math skills. Assign each letter of the alphabet a monetary value: A is one cent, B is two cents, etc. Next, ask your child to figure out the value of each family member's name. Whose name is worth the most? Have fun figuring out the values of other words, too. Which is worth more, gold or silver? What is the shortest word your child can think of that is worth the most?

Thursday, May 16, 2024

Discuss things that are going right

One way to help children become more self-assured is to shift attention from their shortcomings to their strengths. To direct your child's focus to things that are going well, ask questions such as, "What is something you like about yourself?" "What is something you did that you felt good about today?" "What is something that you enjoyed learning today?"

Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Help your child see things from a different angle

Elementary schoolers are learning to analyze and see things from different points of view. To reinforce this skill, ask your child questions, such as: "What do you think land looks like to a dolphin in the water? How about to a bird flying in the air?" Recognizing that there can be more than one way to look at something is an essential reading and writing skill.

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Avoid arguments that aren't worth it

Every day, adults and children have many differences of opinion, some big, some small. Children are more likely to listen to you when it counts if they aren’t constantly being corrected over tiny matters. To avoid overcorrecting, take a few minutes at the end of a typical day to recall the disagreements you had with your child. Decide which were worth the fight, such as enforcing safety rules, and which you can ignore if they crop up again.

Monday, May 13, 2024

Play a game that is the opposite of boring

"Simon Says" is a great game for teaching children to follow directions. Here's a twist that will help build your child's vocabulary and thinking skills, too: Players should do the opposite of what Simon says. When Simon says, "Whisper your mother's name," for example, your child should shout the name. Grasping the concept of opposite helps children understand antonyms (words that have opposite meanings).

Sunday, May 12, 2024

Kids who miss class are missing out

At the end of the year, it may be tempting to let your child miss school for other activities for a few days. But kids who miss class miss learning, and repeated absences can lead to problems later on. One research study found that sixth graders who missed about one day of school a week had a 75 percent chance of never making it to graduation. Help your child learn that attendance matters by making it a priority.

Saturday, May 11, 2024

Leave some decisions up to your child

To learn how to make responsible decisions about important things, your child needs to practice making choices about everyday things. You might let a young child choose between wearing blue jeans or athletic pants. Let an older child choose which vegetable the family will eat for dinner. Before you make a decision for your child, consider whether your child could safely make that decision independently. If so, say, "You decide."

Friday, May 10, 2024

Help make study conditions match testing conditions

Does your child have a big test coming up? To boost recall, help your child match study conditions to the testing conditions. Chances are, there won't be music playing or a TV on during the test. So don't allow your child to study with them on, either. If your student will be taking the test at a desk, encourage studying at a desk or table instead of on a bed. If the test will be timed, have your child try setting a kitchen timer while taking a practice test.

Thursday, May 09, 2024

There are lots of 'right' books for your child

What makes a book "right" for your child? It should be well-written and designed. Most importantly, it needs to appeal to your elementary schooler. When choosing books, look for well-developed characters and strong plots on topics of interest. While most of the words should be familiar, it's OK to pick a book that is a little beyond your child's ability. You can read it aloud now, and your child can read it alone later.

Wednesday, May 08, 2024

Talk with your child about living up to promises

Responsible students can be counted on by their families, teachers and classmates. But promises are often easier for children to make than to keep. Talk to your child about the importance of being trustworthy. Ask your child to think about what happens when people don't do things they've said they would: Plants that don't get watered wilt, garbage that isn't taken out smells and animals who don't get fed get hungry!

Tuesday, May 07, 2024

Ask the teacher about progress, problems and preparing for the future

As this school year comes to a close, you may be wondering about your child's readiness for next year. Consider scheduling an end-of-the-year parent-teacher conference. You can ask the teacher whether your child has made the progress expected, and about strengths and weaknesses. Ask how you can work together to overcome any issues, and what you can do over the summer to prepare your child for next year.

Monday, May 06, 2024

Bicycle safety is no accident

Children need exercise to stay healthy and fit to learn. But they also need to know how to exercise safely. Each year thousands of children are injured while riding bicycles. Many of these injuries are preventable. Teach your child about bike safety and make sure all family members always wear a properly-fitting helmet when riding. Then, supervise when your child rides. Until kids reach age 10, they should not ride bikes in the street.

Sunday, May 05, 2024

Help your child picture positive possibilities

Does your elementary schooler think that success is something that just happens to others? One way to change that mindset is to talk about all the good things that could possibly happen to your child. Be creative. Show that you see a bright future for child. Chances are, you'll start your child thinking about positive possibilities, too. And that's an important step toward success.

Saturday, May 04, 2024

Boost your child’s motivation to learn

To spark your child's desire to learn, be a learner yourself. Show curiosity and tackle new projects. Then, share what you learn with your child. Show an interest in what your elementary schooler is learning, too. Above all, express your confidence in your child's ability to learn, and make it clear that problems can be solved.

Friday, May 03, 2024

Strengthen skills with time outdoors

Being out in nature sharpens children's observation skills and builds creativity. Go outside with your child and allow time to quietly watch the environment. Then, ask some questions: "Can you feel where the wind is coming from?" "What's the ant doing?" To stimulate creativity, suggest making up poems, songs and stories about what your child is seeing and doing.

Thursday, May 02, 2024

There's value in putting numbers into words

Writing numbers out in word form can help your child to understand the mathematical concept of "place value." Give your child a list of four or five numbers, such as 562, 73, 184, 16 and 43. Have your elementary schooler write them in words: five hundred sixty-two, seventy-three and so on. Talk about how the words go from the highest place value to the lowest. Then, provide the words and ask your child to write the numbers.

Wednesday, May 01, 2024

Celebrate May holidays with learning

Memorial Day (May 27) is only one of the holidays you and your child can celebrate this month. Practice kindness to a pet during Be Kind to Animals Week (May 5-11). Write limericks on Limerick Day (May 12). Discuss cooperation, understanding and solidarity on the International Day of Living Together in Peace (May 16). Read about aviation on the anniversary of Charles Lindbergh's historic flight (May 21).

Sunday, March 31, 2024

Enlarge your child's vocabulary with a few big words

Your elementary schooler’s vocabulary may be filled with short, simple words. But you don't have to speak to your child in small words. Expand vocabulary by using some "big" words occasionally. Children naturally mimic the adults around them, so to teach your child a new word, use it often. Define it. Use it in another sentence. Relate it to words your child already knows ("This book is so interesting; it's captivating!").

Saturday, March 30, 2024

Give your child a chance to be a news expert

For some students, learning about current events is a challenge. It isn't easy to read and remember so many different topics. You can help by asking each member of your family to choose a different news story to follow for three or four days. Your child can become the family expert on a topic by reading articles and watching news items. Then, at dinner, take turns sharing what you've each learned.

Friday, March 29, 2024

Take time to demonstrate character

It takes time to help your child develop an internal sense of right and wrong, but it is time well-spent. Help your elementary schooler learn to make good choices by taking advantage of teachable moments in your lives. For example, if your car door scratches another car, tell your child, "Since no one saw that, I could just drive away. But I'm going to leave a note for the car's owner. Taking responsibility is the right thing to do."

Thursday, March 28, 2024

Disagreement is no excuse for disrespect

Disagreement and division have led to violence in recent times. To teach your child that it is possible and preferable to address disagreements with respect, make it a rule at your house: "When we discuss an issue with different sides to it, we will hear all sides and, if necessary, we'll agree to disagree." In that case, your child will have to accept your authority, but children shouldn't have to change their viewpoints.

Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Do your part to break the bullying cycle

It's critical that families help their children deal with bullies. Children who are bullied often end up being bullies themselves. To stop the cycle: Ask the school staff what you can do to combat bullying. Discuss solutions with other families. Talk to your child, too. Boost your student’s self-confidence with a reminder of all the things you like about your child. Say that you take bullying seriously, and insist that your child tell an adult when experiencing or seeing it.

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Stop the self-criticism cycle from derailing your child

Some children can be very hard on themselves. They feel like failures if they aren't the "best." This can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. To ward off perfectionism, set reasonable goals for your child and relax about normal mistakes. And don't brush off self-criticism. Instead, discuss it. Remind your child that no one can be perfect. Point out your elementary schooler’s strengths, and encourage the use of affirmative self-talk, such as "I'm proud of how hard I tried."

Monday, March 25, 2024

Help your child turn words into pictures

Many students struggle with a common reading problem. They can recognize the individual words in a passage, but they have trouble understanding the overall meaning. Help your elementary schooler learn to visualize. When your child reads to you, describe the images that occur in your mind. Or, help your child draw pictures or diagrams of the story's action. You could even act out the story, and have your child describe what you are doing.

Sunday, March 24, 2024

Think and plan with your child before saying 'yes' to a pet

Caring for a pet can teach kids responsibility and self-discipline, but it's serious business. Before you get a pet, involve your child in thinking the decision through: What kind of pet would be best suited to your home? Your budget? Does your child have the skills and time to take care of it? What will happen to the pet when your family is at work and school? Write down what your elementary schooler will do to care for the pet and what the consequences will be if that doesn't happen.

Saturday, March 23, 2024

Share smart moves for before, during and after tests

The things your child does before, during and after tests can improve academic achievement. Before the test, have your child review frequently for short periods of time when feeling most alert. During the test, your child should read the directions carefully and save time to double-check work. When your child gets the test back, review it together and discuss strengths and weaknesses. Then, have your child save the test for future studying.

Friday, March 22, 2024

Add to your child's mental math skills

Here's a way to help your child practice doing math without using pencil and paper. Start by giving four single-digit numbers for your child to add together. Pause after you say each number to allow enough time to add. When your child can do that, give four double-digit numbers, also spaced out one at a time. Next, give four numbers all at once. When your child is a pro, you can move on to giving five, six or more numbers.

Thursday, March 21, 2024

Challenge your child to find words inside words

Here's a fun way to build your child's language skills: Write down a word, then have your child use its letters to make new words. For example, from the letters in the word "tadpole," your child can write the words "tea" and "ate." You can do this with holiday or seasonal words, or pick a word that matches your child's interests. How many words can your student find in "watermelon" or "rhinoceros"?

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Put the focus on learning with a hands-off approach

Sometimes, parents and caregivers help too much with children’s school projects. It can be really tempting. After all, you want your child to get good grades. But there is a better approach. Instead of thinking about grades, think about what your child can learn from doing the project independently. Ask the teacher about the best ways to support your child's efforts.

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Teach your child discipline with a few basic rules

Some families are afraid to discipline their children. But effective discipline isn't really about punishment. It is about teaching your child how to behave as you expect. Develop a few basic house rules and reasonable consequences for breaking them. Explain them clearly to your child. When you enforce the rules fairly and consistently, your child will learn what the limits are.

Monday, March 18, 2024

Make room at the table for a map

To have some fun teaching your child geography, get a world map and put it on your dinner table. Cover it with a sheet of clear plastic from the craft store. Now at meals your family can talk about what is happening in the world. Help your child find countries mentioned in the news. Quiz family members on countries and their capitals. You might also try a state or national map.

Sunday, March 17, 2024

Praise specific behavior you want to see again

The best praise is specific. Just saying "You're wonderful," won't always make children feel good about themselves. Instead, try talking about things your child has done especially well. You might say things like, "You really stuck with that math work. I love your persistence" or "You cleaned your room without my asking. That was very responsible."

Saturday, March 16, 2024

Encourage persistence, step by step

It takes persistence to achieve long-term goals. Learning to break those goals down into small steps can help your child keep going. To encourage persistence, help your child think of each step as an experience that adds to knowledge. When a step isn't fun, help your student plan a small reward for finishing it, such as listening to a favorite song. Then, mark your child’s progress with visual reminders, such as stickers on a chart.

Friday, March 15, 2024

Get help if schoolwork is a constant challenge

If your child is struggling day after day with schoolwork, contact the teacher. Explain what is happening and ask for suggestions. Your child might need extra help from a tutor or a schedule to make up missed assignments. Your student may need more challenging work or help with English or technological issues. Work with the teacher on a plan to address the issue, then follow up.

Thursday, March 14, 2024

Put your child's creativity on display

When you display your elementary schooler’s artwork, it encourages further creativity. Putting art on the refrigerator is great, but why not go a step beyond? Try matting and framing a piece of your child's art that is particularly creative. Let your child help you use an inexpensive ready-made mat and frame, then hang the masterpiece for all to see. Or use a copier to duplicate the art so your child can share it with family and friends.

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

D is for your child's own dictionary

To boost literacy skills, help your child make a personal dictionary. Write a letter of the alphabet on a sheet of paper. Next, ask your child to cut out pictures from ads or old magazines of items that begin with that letter, and paste them to the sheet. Help your child label the pictures. Then, pick another letter! This is a long-term project, so if it stops being fun, stop and come back to it another day.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

A few extra minutes can make a big difference

Often, children with poor study habits don't change them because they don't believe that a little extra effort can go a long way. To get the idea across, try having your child study one subject for 15 minutes longer than usual each day. Your student might use the time to rework math problems from class or make up a sample test, for example. Then, watch how this small extra effort affects progress and grades in that subject.

Monday, March 11, 2024

Talk about ways your child can handle anger

Feeling angry sometimes is normal. But children need to learn appropriate ways to express their anger. Teach your elementary schooler coping strategies to use when feeling angry, such as taking deep breaths. Also, encourage your child to think for a minute before saying anything, or to get away from the situation until calm feelings return. Discuss appropriate actions in different situations: Your student can walk away or tell an adult when being teased, for example.

Sunday, March 10, 2024

Catching words makes reading fun!

Kids who enjoy reading do more of it. Make reading fun for your young reader with a "fishing" game: Get some index cards. Write one vocabulary word on each, then attach a paper clip to each card. These are the fish. To make a rod, tie a magnet to one end of a piece of string, and tie the other end to a small stick. Now, let your child "fish" for words. Award one point for every word your child can read (or define, if your student is older).

Saturday, March 09, 2024

Point out the positive results of effort

When it comes to achieving in school, intelligence propels students only so far. It takes hard work to get the rest of the way. Let your child know you place a high value on effort. Then, reinforce your message by showing your student how effort pays off. When your elementary schooler gets a high grade on a test, for example, say, "I know how hard you studied, and this is the result. I'm proud of you."

Friday, March 08, 2024

Help your child learn to work as part of a team

Leadership is a positive trait, but students also need to know how to work with others without taking over. To encourage fairness, take turns making some family decisions, such as what toppings to put on a pizza. Discuss the need to consider everyone's tastes. Promote fairness by setting rules such as "If one person chooses the game, the other gets the first turn." Offer praise when your child shows teamwork.

Thursday, March 07, 2024

Get set for standardized tests

Standardized tests are a part of most students' school careers. Ask the teacher when your child will be taking a standardized test. Then, help your student prepare by reading, talking and playing word games together. When your child reads, boost comprehension skills by asking questions, such as "What was the main idea?" Above all, keep standardized tests in perspective. They are only one measure of your child's ability.

Wednesday, March 06, 2024

Set the timer to jumpstart writing

Here's a great way to encourage your child to write. Together, choose a topic. Then, set a timer for five to seven minutes. Until the timer rings, both of you write whatever comes into your head. Keep writing, even if it doesn't make sense. When the timer goes off, share what you each wrote. This also works to help jumpstart a writing assignment when your child says, "I can't think of anything to say."

Tuesday, March 05, 2024

Help your child get ready to concentrate

Kids need to be able to concentrate when doing schoolwork. Here are some techniques that can help: When your child is about to tackle an assignment, offer this reminder: "Think through what you are going to do." A mental picture can make concentrating easier. You can also let your elementary schooler choose a fun activity to earn when the work is complete, such as playing a game with you. It may help your child persist through a tough task.

Monday, March 04, 2024

Show your child how to make the time for projects

You've got a big project looming. Your child has a science report due and has yet to start it. The solution to both situations is the same: Don't put things off. Together, make specific plans for doing the work for your projects. Put them on the calendar. Then, show your child how to look for "extra" time. You both can brainstorm project ideas while waiting in line, for example. Your child can read a few pages of research material on a car ride.

Sunday, March 03, 2024

To encourage reading, try tips from the kids

When the Reading is Fundamental program asked children what encouraged them to read, the kids had great responses. Here are some to try: Let your child pick out books. Set goals and offer small incentives (one mom adds a new circle to a paper "reading caterpillar" for each book her child reads). Send your child notes of praise for finishing a chapter or to say "I love you." And set an example by reading in your own free time.

Saturday, March 02, 2024

Serve up conversation at family meals

It may not be easy to get your family together for a meal, but research shows it's worth the effort. Mealtime conversation can improve your child's vocabulary and academic performance, and strengthen bonds with you. Strive to eat at least one meal as a family each day. Turn off distracting devices and talk about everyone's day. Address your child directly and encourage participation in the conversation.

Friday, March 01, 2024

Encourage your child to use time management tools

To succeed academically, your child will need to be able to plan and use time wisely. To begin building this skill, teach your child to be a clock-watcher and calendar-counter. For example, ask your student to watch the clock to make sure your family is ready on time for school, work or other activities. And have your child use a calendar to count off the days until a birthday, spring break or a special family outing.

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Learn a new word for a special occasion

2024 is a leap year, and February has an extra day. Teach your child another name for leap year: "Intercalary year." Intercalary means "inserted into a calendar," or "inserted between other things or parts." How many times today can your family use this new word in a sentence?

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Five things teachers really want from families

Teamwork between home and school can make a big difference to your child's learning. Here are five things teachers wish all families would do: 1. Build your child's confidence with praise and love. 2. Discuss the school day and the things your child is learning together. 3. Support your child's effort with schoolwork. 4. Schedule some relaxed reading time each evening. 5. Partner with the teachers to support school success.

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Experiment with fractions your child can see

Some children find fractions more intimidating than whole numbers. Hands-on activities can help your elementary schooler see and understand the concepts. Try this one: Get out some measuring cups and two identical glasses. Have your child pour one cup of water into the first glass. Then, have your child guess: How many half-cups will it take to fill the other glass to the same level? How many quarter cups? One-third cups? Experiment together to find out.

Monday, February 26, 2024

No-nag strategies help your child keep track of responsibilities

Nobody likes to be nagged. But kids need to be reminded of their responsibilities once in a while. Here are some simple solutions: Teach your child to write tasks on a to-do list in order of importance and cross them off as they are finished. You can also make a job chart that lists responsibilities, when they should be done and by whom. Then you can just point to the chart. Or, create a "daily reminder box" that family members can check.

Sunday, February 25, 2024

When kids teach, they also learn

Sometimes, the best way to remember something is by teaching it to someone else. When it’s time to study for a test, have your child make up questions for you to answer. Take the test, then let your child explain the answers to you. You'll learn what your elementary schooler knows (and where things are a little fuzzy), and your child will solidify understanding of the information.

Saturday, February 24, 2024

Be clear about the behavior you want to see

"Don't forget your jacket." "Don't run in the street." Sometimes it seems like adults fill kids' heads with all the things they're not supposed to do. The problem is that young children often tune out the word "don't." Instead, tell your child what TO DO: "Take your jacket. Stay on the sidewalk."

Friday, February 23, 2024

Encourage your child's creative side

Children can sometimes express themselves better through movement or artwork than they can in words. To encourage your child's artistic self-expression, offer a variety of materials for art projects. Provide a place to work where it's OK to make a mess. Expose your elementary schooler to creative works by others, too. Without even leaving home, you may be able to visit an art museum's website, and watch virtual plays, concerts and dance performances online.

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Footprints make learning facts fun

Here's a way to make memorizing things like math facts more engaging for your child: Cut out a lot of paper footprints. Write a math fact (5 x 7 = 35, for example) on each and place them throughout your home. Have your child follow the footprints, saying each fact out loud. Rearrange the footprints around the house each day.

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

To encourage action, play Beat the Clock

If you have trouble getting your child to do something, try transferring your authority to a neutral "boss." For example, when you want your child to finish a chore, complete schoolwork or get ready for bed, set a kitchen timer and play Beat the Clock. Your child must complete the activity before the buzzer rings. Kids love it when the kitchen timer is in charge, and you won't have to be the bad guy.

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Open the door to creative stories with five words

When children tell stories, they learn to use their imaginations, to play with words and to structure their thoughts. To have some family fun with storytelling, select at least five words with no connection to one another (for example: dragon, song, tree, happy, forgetful). Have each family member tell a story that includes all the selected words. Then, compile your tales in a book, Stories of Our Family.

Monday, February 19, 2024

Are you showing your child how to resolve differences respectfully?

The way you manage your response during a conflict sets an example for your child. When you get upset with someone, be a role model. Calm down by counting to 10, or agree to talk later when you're calm. Try to be honest about your feelings, and listen carefully to the other person's feelings. Remember to talk about the problem, rather than attack the person. Then, think of possible solutions and agree on what's fair.

Sunday, February 18, 2024

Make it easier for your child to do schoolwork

Helping with schoolwork doesn't include doing it for your child. Instead, support your child’s effort to do it. Make sure your elementary schooler has a clear place to study. Then, establish schoolwork routines so your child will develop positive study habits. Turn distractions like TVs, phones and loud music off. When subjects are challenging, help your child see how they relate to personal interests. You can also add some fun by making up games or songs to help your child learn facts.

Saturday, February 17, 2024

Family time doesn't have to be complicated

Families hear a lot about spending "quality time" with their children. But quantity time is important, too. Children who spend more time with their parents tend to do better in school. Try taking a daily walk with your child. You both need exercise, and you'll have time to talk. Eat at least one meal together each day. And look for things you can do as a family, such as having a picnic in the park or playing a game of Scrabble.

Friday, February 16, 2024

Reinforce the link between actions and consequences

It's important for your child to understand that actions have consequences. Whenever possible, establish consequences that logically flow from your child's actions. For example: If your child won't get up in the morning, bedtime will have to be set earlier, since your child obviously needs more sleep. To reinforce that all choices have consequences, sometimes have family members talk at dinner about the consequences of their choices that day.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Bring world events to your child's wall

To help your child learn about what's happening in the world, create a current events wall together. Encourage your child to look through news articles and print or cut out pictures and articles about current events. Post them on a bulletin board. Older children can sort the stories into categories, such as local, national and world articles, or topics, such as science and sports. Change the display every week or two.

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Special time makes the best valentine

This Valentine's Day, show your child your love with a gift of quality time with you. Here's how: Cut out some paper hearts. On each one, put an amount of time (10, 15 or 30 minutes, an hour). Each heart is good for the specified amount of one-on-one time with you. Then, let your child trade in a voucher for your undivided attention at the soonest convenient time. And today and every day, tell your child “I love you!”

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Add some math to your child's TV time

Does your child love TV? Here's a way to add value to screen time. While watching a show, have your child keep track of the number of minutes of program before each commercial break, and then the number of minutes of commercials. Which is greater, program minutes or commercial minutes? Help your child create a bar graph with the results.

Monday, February 12, 2024

Encourage skill-building by making it fun

Your child is learning new skills in school. And providing opportunities to practice them at home in fun ways helps to solidify them. To reinforce writing skills, for example, you could have a "silent supper," where family members write notes instead of talking. You can also make practicing math facts a game by writing math problems in one column and the answers in another (in a different order) and having your child match them up.

Sunday, February 11, 2024

There are many positive reasons to talk to teachers

Have you contacted your child's teacher lately? You don't have to have a problem to talk to the teachers. You can mention how hard your child is working. Or let the teacher know about progress you think your child is making. Get in touch by email or ask the teacher for a conference appointment. The information you share about your student helps teachers be more effective.

Saturday, February 10, 2024

Give back talk the silent treatment

It can be very irritating when children have to have the last word in every argument, or mumble negatively under their breath. But instead of getting angry, experts suggest that you ignore your child's last words. Back talk won't get your elementary schooler anywhere if you've ended the conversation, stopped listening and begun to walk away. Wait until you are both calm and then return to the conversation.

Friday, February 09, 2024

Teach a respectful approach to questioning teachers

Teachers are human and can make mistakes. But there is a right way and a wrong way for students to question a teacher. It's disrespectful to speak up in the middle of the class and say, "You're wrong!" and try to prove the teacher incorrect. Instead, teach your child to respectfully ask questions that promote understanding: "Did you mean…?" "Well, what if…?" "What do you think about…?"

Thursday, February 08, 2024

Break big tasks into small pieces to help your child see them through

Many elementary schoolers have a tough time thinking ahead and following through on their plans. One reason is that they lack a realistic sense of time. Your child may really think one day is enough time to finish a big project. Help your student break large assignments down into small parts to do over several days.

Wednesday, February 07, 2024

An audience makes reading aloud more fun

Kids enjoy reading to their families, and listening to your child read is a great way to instill a love of reading. When you're not available, give your child the next best thing: a captive audience. Gather a few stuffed animals or action figures around your student. They can listen while your child reads. Later, ask your child about audience reactions. "What was Monkey's favorite part?" "Did Batman understand the main point?"

Tuesday, February 06, 2024

The smart way to learn requires effort

Effort is essential for academic success. Students who try will learn and get smarter. Remind your child that when it comes to intelligence, "It's what you do with what you have that counts." Offer encouragement by saying often that you are sure that with effort and persistence, your student can learn anything. And when your child makes progress, be sure to say "You see? Your hard work is paying off."

Monday, February 05, 2024

Play a guessing game with sound-alike words

Homophones are words that sound alike but have different spellings and meanings (heal, heel; bear, bare; weigh, way). To sharpen your child's sense of language, think of a pair of homophones and give clues to guess it. For example, "I'm thinking of a word that is a letter and a drink" (T, tea). Get started with some of these pairs: ant, aunt; board, bored; hole, whole; meet, meat; rows, rose.

Sunday, February 04, 2024

Move forward from a poor report card

How should you react to a poor report card? First, there’s no need to panic or get upset. Just talk to your child calmly about each grade. Ask, “Do you understand why you earned this grade?” Next, ask the teacher about things your child can do to improve and ways you can help. Find out what help may be available from the school, such as peer tutoring. Then, help your child set specific, achievable goals for improvement.

Saturday, February 03, 2024

Use poems to build language skills

Reading poetry together enhances your child’s awareness of language and how it can be used. Share a wide variety of poems with your elementary schooler. When you read them, speak slowly and let your child listen to each word. Your student is likely to hear new descriptive words. Talk about unfamiliar words, and help your child look them up. Your student will build vocabulary and gain ideas for use when writing.

Friday, February 02, 2024

Go 'shopping' for financial literacy

Create an imaginary cash register and give your child practice making correct change. Here's how: Sort a few dollars' worth of change into four boxes: one each for pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters. Then, put together a selection of "products" marked with prices. Take turns with your child being cashier and customer. Add to the challenge by increasing the number of items you buy at a time.

Thursday, February 01, 2024

A lot of learning can happen in just a few minutes

In as little as five minutes a day, you can help your child learn. You can ask a question to stimulate creative thinking (What if the sun came up at night?). Or ask your child to express an opinion and back it up with reasons (What is your favorite book? Why?). You can tell a story full of information about the real world, or simply say "I love you." Children need to feel loved to take the risks necessary to learn.

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Teach your child who to call in an emergency

Does your child know who to call in an emergency? Don't wait for a crisis to find out. You should have these numbers programmed in your cell phone and posted by every telephone in your home: Police, fire and emergency responders (911); family members' work phones and cell phones; a nearby neighbor. Show your child how to make calls. Talk about which number to call in different circumstances, and what to say.

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Create a family yearbook with your child

Family bonds give children a sense of security. One way to foster this important connection is to have your child help you preserve family memories in a yearbook. Throughout the year, collect photos of family events and have your child put them in an album. Add things that remind you each of special times: a recipe you all loved, a leaf found on an autumn walk. Encourage your child to write captions.

Monday, January 29, 2024

Make math tasty with an estimation game

Estimation is an important part of math. Here's a fun way for your child to practice estimating: Get two large glasses of the same size. Fill one with something small (like dry beans). Fill the other with something large (like cookies). Have your child estimate how many pieces are in each glass. Then, have your student count to check the answers. Finally, enjoy the cookies together!

Sunday, January 28, 2024

One activity will help your child every day

One of the most important things you can do to help your child succeed in school is to read aloud together. It introduces young children to the delights of books, and even older kids love to be read to. Make reading aloud together a daily priority. To keep it interesting, be sure to read books you enjoy. And sometimes, build your child's vocabulary by reading books that are a little too advanced for your child to read alone.

Saturday, January 27, 2024

Create silly sentences to make lists memorable

Studying for a test usually involves memorizing. Your child can remember lists of items by writing a sentence using words that begin with the first letter of each word in the list. For example, the first letter of each word in "My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Noodles" stands for the first letters of the planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.

Friday, January 26, 2024

Help your child give up on quitting

It's important to teach your child that failure is something that can happen, not something a person is. Here are some things you can say to encourage your elementary schooler after a setback: "That's a challenge, but I know if you stick with it you can do it." "It will get easier with more practice." "If it doesn't work that way, try another way." "You were able to do ____ when you thought you couldn't. I bet you can do this, too."

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Explain how to respond to bullies

Bullying can happen in person and online. But students are less likely to be bullied if they appear confident and resourceful. Encourage your child to avoid kids who demonstrate bullying behavior. In a bullying situation, remind your child to say "no" and express feelings with words, not violence. Ask your student to tell you or a trusted adult at school about bullying behavior directed at your child or anyone else. And if you think your child is being bullied, tell the school immediately.

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Give your child time to think

Your elementary schooler is learning how to think about learning as well as facts. To nurture these skills, allow some time for your child to figure schoolwork out independently. If your student has forgotten how to do a math problem, for example, ask, "How could you find out?" And when your child finishes an assignment or project, ask questions about how the process went, such as "Did you allow enough time to finish?" and "What did you learn?"

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Reading time isn't over when you reach 'The End'

Some of the best reading times come after you've closed the book. After reading aloud together, ask your child to retell the story. Which were the good parts? Why does your child think so? Next, help make connections between the book and your child's own life. Has your child ever felt like any of the characters in the story? Thinking and talking about books enriches your child's reading experience.

Monday, January 22, 2024

Teach self-control by giving responsibility

It takes time for children to understand the value of self-control, as opposed to control that's imposed by adults. You can help by gradually giving your child more responsibility for completing schoolwork and chores. Be patient and persistent, and your elementary schooler will grow into a happy, self-disciplined adult who is ready and able to tackle life's challenges.

Sunday, January 21, 2024

Attendance is critical for your child's success

Children who miss school often fall behind and score lower on tests. They can have a hard time making and keeping friends. And frequent absences in elementary school set a pattern that increases the risk that a student will drop out of school later. Make school attendance a family priority. Don't let your child skip school for reasons other than illness or emergency. If your student regularly resists going to school, or your family is facing attendance obstacles, let the teacher or school counselor know.

Saturday, January 20, 2024

Support your child on the way to ambitious goals

People who achieve usually set their sights high. If your child has set a lofty goal, help break it down into a series of smaller, readily achievable goals. Then, provide support if the going gets rough. Say things like, "Keep your eyes on your goal. Getting on the honor roll is worth it." Be sure to recognize your child's progress. Remind your elementary schooler that progress itself is a success, even if the goal is still unmet.

Friday, January 19, 2024

Play a comparison game with your child

Comparing is a thinking skill your child will need in school. Here's a game that will sharpen this skill: Find several pictures of items that are similar but not the same. They might be things such as flowers, houses, babies or cars. Make some big, some small, some different colors. Ask your child to put similar pictures together. Then, ask why your child grouped them that way. How many different ways can your elementary schooler group them?

Thursday, January 18, 2024

Talk about how to show respect for others

Respect is the basis for other desirable behaviors in school. Discuss common courtesies with your child, like saying "Thank you" and "Excuse me" that show respect. Explain that trying to understand other people's viewpoints is another respectful courtesy, as is being honest and not deceiving, cheating or stealing from others.

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Practice scientific thinking at home

Scientists know that asking the right questions leads to learning. To practice the "scientific method" at home, have your child think of a question (What happens to plants if it stops raining?). Next, read about the topic together and have your child make a guess about the answer. Then, help your child figure out how to test if the guess is right (grow two plants, but water only one). Your student should write down what happens and report to you on the results.

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

When helping with schoolwork, think ABC

Helping your child with schoolwork can be as simple as ABC (and D and E)! A is for Attitude. Model a positive attitude toward learning for your child. B is for Breaks. Let your student take short breaks during study sessions. C is for Choice. Let your child choose what to work on first. D is for Directions. Your child should read them carefully, then restate them. E is for Encouragement. Find positive things to say about your elementary schooler's efforts.

Monday, January 15, 2024

This trick looks like magic, but it's science

Try this science experiment with your child: Place a penny on a sheet of paper. Set a clear glass of water on top of the penny. Can your child see the penny? Next, cover the top of the glass with a saucer. The penny disappears! Explain that we see objects when light rays reflect off them into our eyes. But the light reflecting off the penny has to pass through air, water and glass, which makes it bend. The saucer blocks the bent light ray from reaching your child's eye, and the penny seems to disappear.

Sunday, January 14, 2024

A failing grade is feedback for the future

Your child didn't pass a test. What should you do? Think of F as standing for "feedback." First, notice anything your child got right. Then, help your student learn from the rest by asking questions such as: What kinds of questions did you miss? Did you miss them because of something you didn't read or remember from your notes or the book? Did you make careless errors on questions you knew? What does this test tell you about how you should prepare for the next one?

Saturday, January 13, 2024

Send your child off to sleep with positive thoughts

The last words you say to your child at bedtime will be the words that will echo in your elementary schooler’s brain all night. Make a daily habit of remembering the best thing your child did that day. Talk about it right before saying goodnight.

Friday, January 12, 2024

Ask questions to encourage thinking

Not every problem your child will face will have an easy solution. So it's important to teach your student to ask questions and think things through. To promote this kind of thought, say things like, "I wonder why that happened" or "I wonder what might happen if …?" Encourage your child to ask questions about the world all around. And when your elementary schooler expresses an opinion, demonstrate how to find facts to support it.

Thursday, January 11, 2024

Share a strategy for success on matching tests

Tests in elementary school often have a matching section. To help your child score well, talk about how to answer this type of question. Remind your child to read all the directions carefully. Then your child should look to see whether one column is longer than the other. If so, some answers may not get used. Tell your child to match the easiest items first, and then cross out already used answers. That will narrow the choices for the tougher matches.

Wednesday, January 10, 2024

When you set rules and limits, explain why

Children need and want limits. But don't simply make a rule and demand obedience from your child. Once kids are old enough to reason, they should be encouraged to do so. Understanding why they should or should not do things helps them make good decisions when adults aren't around. When you make a rule or set a boundary, explain why your child should obey it (and avoid saying things like, "Because I said so!").

Tuesday, January 09, 2024

Balance screen time with activities that matter

Children learn by doing. The main problem with too many passive screen activities is that they keep kids from doing more productive things. Students are spending more time with screens to do schoolwork. So after school, make sure your child spends plenty of time reading, playing outdoors, making art, pretending or just thinking. These activities are vital for healthy development.

Monday, January 08, 2024

Chapter books make great 'installment' read alouds

Young children have short attention spans, so short books work well for read-aloud times. But as they grow older, children can enjoy longer, more challenging books. Reading books aloud on the "installment plan" is a great way to read with an older elementary schooler. Try reading a chapter each night. Then, stop and ask what your child thinks might happen next. Who is your child’s favorite character? Why?

Sunday, January 07, 2024

Telling a story can make it easier to write

Creative writing assignments can be challenging for students. Some children can't think of anything to write. Or they can think of a beginning, but by the time they write it down, they've forgotten where they were going next. One strategy that can help is to have your child tell the story into a recording device. Then your student can just listen to it and write it down. Your child will probably have to do some editing, but it's a great way to overcome writer’s block.

Saturday, January 06, 2024

Teach the three A's that improve school success

Grades aren’t the only A’s that matter in school. Your child can be successful in school by mastering these three A's: 1. Attendance. Attendance is a fundamental factor in academic success. You know how important it is in the working world, too. Teach your child that it’s a priority. 2. Attitude. Help your child learn the importance of effort. Explain by putting effort into school, your child will learn. 3. Achievement. Teach your child to set and work toward goals. Encourage your elementary schooler to aim high.

Friday, January 05, 2024

Show your child the positive side of mistakes

What sets successful people apart? When things don't work out the way they plan, they don't think of themselves as failures. Instead, they always try to learn from the experience. To instill this habit in your child, ask, "What would you do differently the next time?" Explain that you're always proud of your child for trying new things and new ways to solve problems, because that's how people get smarter.

Thursday, January 04, 2024

Simple ways you can make a difference every day

Families play an enormous part in their children's academic achievement. Here are some simple, effective things to do to help your student: Establish routines for schoolwork, chores, mealtimes and bedtime. Read with your child every day, and make wise use of limited recreational screen time. Supervise your child's activities. And when it comes to school, express high expectations for your child, then encourage and praise effort.

Wednesday, January 03, 2024

Help your child start the day a healthy way

Research shows that a nutritious breakfast helps children do better in school. Help your child research healthy breakfast foods. Have your student draw or cut out pictures of breakfast foods, then look up their nutritional information, such as sugar, fat, vitamins and fiber. Then your child can put the pictures and information on a poster for your kitchen. Together, use the poster to plan a week of healthy breakfasts.

Tuesday, January 02, 2024

Remember 10 rules for promoting positive behavior

Ten rules can help you maintain effective discipline and a healthy relationship with your child: 1. Set positive goals for behavior. 2. Make rules and consequences clear and enforce them consistently. 3. Involve your child in solving problems. 4. Avoid lecturing. 5. Offer praise for good behavior. 6. Ask why your child misbehaved, rather than making assumptions. 7. Use logical consequences. 8. Let your child make some choices. 9. Expect your child’s best effort. 10. Focus on your child’s strengths and show your love.

Monday, January 01, 2024

Resolve to make this a year for reading!

It's New Year's resolution time. To promote school success in 2024, make some resolutions that involve reading. Resolve to: 1. Set aside time every day when the whole family reads. 2. Keep lots of enticing reading material handy. 3. Read aloud with your child every day. Then, to stick to your resolutions, make a plan and track your progress. Don't forget to reward yourselves!

Sunday, December 31, 2023

Make new goals as clear as a bell

Ring in the New Year by helping your child improve school habits. Help your elementary schooler identify poor habits to get rid of and decide on new positive habits to adopt instead. Next, have your child cut some bell shapes out of paper. Write the habits your child wants to stop and start on the bells and hang them from some colorful streamers. Then ring out the old and ring in the new!

Saturday, December 30, 2023

Reaffirm your commitment to help your child learn

Families have supported their students in many ways this year. 2023 may be over, but the need for your involvement in your child's education continues until your student graduates. As we head into 2024, consider making this pledge: "I promise to monitor my child's schoolwork and talk about school and what my student is learning. I will expect my child's best effort in school. I will read with my child every day, and say "I love you" and "I know you can learn and do well."

Friday, December 29, 2023

Token earning can motivate learning

When learning something new, some children respond well to learning incentives. These are rewards your child receives after performing well. Give points or tokens when your child does what's expected. Take them away when your child doesn't. Let your student trade the tokens for play time or small rewards. Don't make it too difficult to earn them, or your child may end up feeling defeated.

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Prepare your child to tackle challenges

Competence leads to confidence. To give your elementary schooler the confidence to face academic and life challenges, help improve organizational skills. Having items when they are needed makes kids feel capable. Also, offer your child plenty of opportunities to express opinions and have them taken seriously. Talk together about how you handle work responsibilities and challenges, too. Your attitude will inspire similar behavior from your child.

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Whip up some enthusiasm for spelling

Here's a fun idea to help your child master the alphabet and the spelling of simple words: Spread a layer of whipped cream on a dark-colored tray or plate. Have your child use a finger to write letters and words. Mistakes are easily wiped away, and correct spelling is quickly rewarded with a lick of a finger.

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Schedule time for the things that matter

There is no doubt about it. Routines help children feel comfortable and confident. Setting up routines can also help you avoid arguments with your child and encourage positive study habits. Consider making these items part of your family's daily routine: A discussion of what happened during each person's day; regular times for schoolwork, chores and preparing for the next day; family reading time and exercise.

Monday, December 25, 2023

Cozy up for family storytelling

Are you looking for educational family entertainment? Then grab some snacks and get cozy for a family storytelling night. To prepare, read a book to yourself enough times that you can tell your own version to your family. When you tell stories, your child creates mental images, an important reading skill. Have your elementary schooler tell a story, too!

Sunday, December 24, 2023

One good book may lead your child to another

You know reading is important, but your child just isn't interested in picking up a book. To encourage reading, ask to hear about a book that your child liked (or one that at least wasn't too bad). Then, look for other books that author has written. Get one and read the beginning aloud. If you can get to the "good part," your child may be more interested in reading the rest independently.

Saturday, December 23, 2023

Teach empathy by example

Research shows that students do better academically and socially when their families emphasize kindness as much as they do grades. True kindness involves understanding how others feel. Model empathy for your child. Ask questions like, "How did that make you feel?" Then, show that you listened: "It sounds like you were really relieved." Imagine together how other people might be feeling, too. Make it a point to reward your child's thoughtfulness with praise.

Friday, December 22, 2023

Build your child's cooperation skills

To succeed in school, students need to be able to work well with others. Take time to teach your elementary schooler about cooperation. Make it clear that you expect your child to take turns and share, and offer praise when you see this behavior. Encourage your child to be honest by demonstrating honesty yourself. And explain that it makes you proud when your child admits mistakes and takes responsibility for them.

Thursday, December 21, 2023

Pull out a puzzle for family thinking fun

Jigsaw puzzles are a great family winter activity. And they help develop your child's thinking skills and ability to recognize patterns. Pick a spot where you can leave the puzzle out while family members work on it. To add to the game, leave a scorecard out to keep track of how many pieces each person adds. Or put a star on the back of a piece and offer a reward to the person who fits it into its proper place.

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Provide some memory building practice

How do children boost their memory skills? By memorizing. Here's a fun way to help your elementary schooler practice: Cut out five items from a grocery store ad. Ask your child to remember the items and their prices. Then remove the pictures. Can your child remember the items and what they cost? When remembering five is easy, try six, then seven and so on. Challenge your child to achieve a personal best.

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Banish boredom with a creative board game

If your family has been playing the same board forever, have your child invent a new one! Cover an old or worn-out game board with white self-stick paper, then get out some colored markers and ask your child to draw a new game. Next, have your student write a set of rules for the new game. Then play! If you want to preserve the game, cover it with clear self-stick paper. It will last until your child is ready to invent another.

Monday, December 18, 2023

Send a strong message about substance abuse

Here are some facts all families should know: Kids who begin drinking before age 15 are six times more likely to develop alcohol dependence during their lifetimes than those who start after age 21. The median age for first alcohol abuse among teens is 14, and the most commonly abused drugs among 12- to 13-year-olds are alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and prescription medicines. Unintentional consumption of edible cannabis products by children is on the rise, and it often results in hospitalization. It's also true that kids who learn a lot about the risks of drugs and alcohol from their families from elementary school age on are 50 percent less likely to use them.

Sunday, December 17, 2023

Unwrap holiday meanings for your child

Holidays offer lots of fun activities and chances for families to create bonds and learn together. This season, set aside some quiet moments to talk with your child about the meanings of the holidays your family celebrates, and why you do what you do. Spend some time reading books together about December holidays such as Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Can your child think of a new holiday tradition your family can start?

Saturday, December 16, 2023

Engage your child in active thinking

Here are four ways to help your elementary schooler be an active thinker: 1. Encourage your child to ask questions. Then listen and take the questions seriously. 2. Ask your child to find facts to support opinions. 3. As you and your student go about daily activities, encourage guessing about how things work, and then try to find the answers together. 4. Challenge your child to make estimates: "How long do you think it will take to do this math?"

Friday, December 15, 2023

Listen to your child…and to the teacher

It's important for children to feel heard and believed. If your child tells you something a teacher did that seems unkind or unfair, you should listen. But don't assume the incident is as bad as it sounds. If you are concerned by what your child says, contact the teacher. Calmly express your concern and ask for the teacher's point of view. If there's a problem, work together to solve it.

Thursday, December 14, 2023

Create a checklist for a smoother morning

Even children who wake up early may have trouble getting ready for school on time. But a little bit of planning can make your morning routine less hectic. Make a list with your child of things that must be done each morning before anything else. Post the list and a pencil in a handy spot, and let your child check off tasks after completing them. Your elementary schooler will start the day with a sense of accomplishment.

Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Encourage responsible behavior three ways

Families want children to learn to make responsible choices about school and life. But constant direction and criticism can wear kids down. To encourage positive behavior, say thank you when your child behaves responsibly without being told. Praise efforts, not just outcomes. And encourage involvement in hobbies that keep your child busy. Busy kids need less external control than those with too much time on their hands.

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Use the news as a teaching tool

Newspapers (in print or online) are a great source of learning activities for your child. Take turns at dinner having each family member report on something (even the comics) they read in today's paper. Or you can take turns reading a brief article aloud with your child and discussing what each of you thinks is the most important fact. To build geography skills, help your child find states and nations mentioned in the news on a world map.

Monday, December 11, 2023

Every child needs these priceless gifts

As you think about holiday gifts, remember there are some gifts that last a lifetime that only you can give your child: The gift of your time: reading together, helping with learning and just enjoying each other. The gift of understanding: that your child will make mistakes, and that you can help your student learn from them. The gift of confidence: Believing in your child's abilities helps your child believe, too.

Sunday, December 10, 2023

Preserve school-year memories your child can be proud of

Show that you think your child is special by making a school memory book. Collect school-related mementos like photos of your child reading, the super-hard math problem your student finally solved, etc. In the spring, lay them on the floor in chronological order and let your child choose what to include to remember this school year. Put the items in a scrapbook. If you do it each year, your child will have a visual reminder of many things to be proud of.

Saturday, December 09, 2023

Get a jump-start on good behavior

A large part of discipline should happen before your child misbehaves. Creating a loving, respectful relationship with your child can motivate good behavior. Then, be sure to praise what your child does right. To prevent repeated misbehavior, make some changes. A child who is always cranky and slow in the morning, for example, may need an earlier bedtime.

Friday, December 08, 2023

Turn words into action to improve writing

Writers carefully choose verbs that paint a picture of the action they want to convey. To help your child practice, play the Name That Action game. On slips of paper, write verbs that describe a precise action, like skip, hop, stomp, tiptoe, limp and crawl. Take turns drawing a slip and acting out the word. Whoever guesses the word goes next. Encourage your child to remember this game when writing. Choosing the right descriptive verb will make your child's writing come alive.

Thursday, December 07, 2023

Siblings are great for encouraging reading

Studies show that children who see an older brother or sister reading for fun are more likely to seek out books themselves. Read together often as a family. And when it's time for new books, take your children to the library together. Let your younger child watch the big kids browsing and reading.

Wednesday, December 06, 2023

Write and fold the way to spelling success

Here's a tip that can help your child study spelling words: Divide a piece of paper into four columns, labeled Cover, Look, Write and Check. Your child should write a word in the Look column and say the letters aloud. Next, fold the Cover column over the Look column. Have your child write the word from memory in the Write column. Your student can verify accuracy by uncovering the Look column, and then write the word correctly in the Check column.

Tuesday, December 05, 2023

Encourage your child to jot down reading summaries

By the time your child has finished reading the last chapter of a book, are the details of the beginning long forgotten? It will be easier to write or do projects about books if your child stops to write a short summary (one or two paragraphs) after reading each chapter. Then, after finishing the book, your child will be ready to edit the notes into a final report, or to choose key events to highlight in a project.

Monday, December 04, 2023

Focus on planning and persistence, not perfection

Successful students don't quit when schoolwork gets difficult. To encourage an "I can finish this" attitude, never offer to complete a project for your elementary schooler. Instead, help your child develop step-by-step plans for completing assignments on time. Then, offer praise for effort on each step of the process, not just for the final result. Help your student keep in mind that persistence is more important for learning than perfection.

Sunday, December 03, 2023

Spark imagination with picture books

Picture books are not just for preschoolers. They are great tools for stretching any child's creative thinking. Look at a picture book with your child and ask questions such as: "Can you tell me a story about what you see?" "Can you imagine what happened before this?" "What do you think will happen next?" "What do you think the artist was trying to say?" See how many stories and ideas your child can think of.

Saturday, December 02, 2023

Routines make children feel safe

A feeling of security gives children the courage to face changes and challenges. For most kids, that sense of security comes from feeling loved. It also comes from knowing that some things don't change. Establishing routines and following them will build your child's sense of security. Set regular times for bed, meals, reading and studying. When schedules must change, let your child know how and why.

Friday, December 01, 2023

Highlight the rewards of acting responsibly

Sometimes, children need to be reminded to fulfill their responsibilities. To remind your child without nagging, try using "When…then." For example, "When you have finished your schoolwork, then you may build with Legos." This helps your child remember the good things that can happen only after the task is done. This technique is most effective when you use it consistently.