Parent Tips

BE AWARE OF WHAT YOUR CHILD IS LEARNING AT SCHOOL
It takes only a few minutes to listen to all the exciting things your child has to share about his/her day at school. Take time to praise your child. Look at and exhibit the work or art that they brought home. Children need that special encouragement from their parents. Let them know you love them and are proud of them. Do not expect your child to bring home mass-produced, meaningless worksheets. Not everyone will necessarily be working on the same project. The children will develop interests and skills at their individual stages throughout the year.

READ TO YOUR CHILD
Give them that personal attention. The younger you start, the better. Use Mother Goose Rhymes and songs. Try to set aside at least one special time a day to do this. Remember: Don't read too fast. Read slowly enough for the child to build a mental picture of what is being read. Allow time for some discussion after reading the story. Lead by example. Make sure your child sees you reading for pleasure. Books and storytime will cultivate within a child a thirst for knowledge through listening.

TEACH YOUR CHILD RESPONSIBILITY
Such as making their own bed each day, watching only a limited amount of television, putting away their toys and clothes, setting the table, sorting and folding clothes. A child who is taught responsibility at home will usually demonstrate the same at school.

ENCOURAGE THE PRACTICE OF WRITING
When practicing writing names, demonstrate correct formation. However, when your child is writing creatively, that is a different matter. No child started walking and talking perfectly at the same time. It is the same with the reading and writing. Encourage meaningful activities.

LEARN THE D'NEALIAN MANUSCRIPT HANDWRITING METHOD
If you need a copy of the alphabet and numbers, you may contact the Early Childhood office. This is the way the alphabet will be presented to the children. It is easier to start correctly than to have to break an incorrect habit.