How Can I Help My Child at Home?

Parents often rely on teachers to guide them towards resources that will be effective skill-building tools.  Some suggestions I often make to parents are listed below along with online resources.   

1. Model reading at home.  Your child needs to see you reading for fun and for information.  When children see adults read for these purposes, they learn that reading is used for a purpose and can also be used for enjoyment.
2. Read to your child every night.  Young children need to see how you hold the book, where to find the front and back covers, and how you turn the pages.
3. Ask your child to locate words they know.  Younger children can locate letters on the page.  
4. Ask questions about the story.  Use words such as beginning, middle, and end.  Have them tell you as much about the story as they can.  
5. Let your child pick books to read that interest them.  Visit your public library and get them involved in activities for children.  
6. Keep it fun!  Reading doesn't always require questioning, so make sure they read silly books, too.  

Here are a few resources to use at home with your child.

• pbskids.org   Visit the Public Broadcasting site for educational games and shows
• starfall.com  This website is a favorite amongst both parents and teachers.  Children can follow along as they site reads stories to them as well as play educational reading and math games.  (A personal favorite of mine.)  
• abcmouse.com   More educational games, but you may need a subscription.
• funbrain.com   Find ebooks, games, and videos about all kinds of topics!  

Visit your local public library for lots more ideas and available resources!  

Happy Reading!

Mrs. Lang