We encourage first graders to read at home daily.
We also encourage first graders to practice math facts daily.
Why read?
Read for improved reading fluency--kids who read often and widely get better at it; practice makes progress in almost everything we do, and reading is no different.
Reading exercises our brains and is a much more complex task than watching TV. Reading strengthens brain connections and actually builds new connections.
Reading improves concentration. Children have to sit still and quietly to focus on the story when they’re reading. The more they read, the longer their concentration grows.
Reading teaches children about the world around them. Through reading, they learn about people, places, and events outside of their own experiences.
Reading improves a child’s vocabulary, leads to more highly-developed language skills, and improves their ability to write well. Children can learn how to structure sentences and how to use words and language effectively.
Books contain many words that children are unlikely to encounter frequently in spoken language. Books actually contain 50% more words that children are unlikely to encounter frequently than regular conversation, TV or radio.
Ideas for Reading:
Designate one night a week when you drop everything and read--a “DEAR Night.”
Listen to audiobooks in the car.
Play board games that require you to spell.
Browse through cookbooks and try a recipe together.
Listen to your child read or tell a story.
Math Fact Practice Ideas:
Flash Cards
Math APPS: XtraMath, Math Bingo (ABCYa), Khan Academy
Answer First: parent gives answer (6), and child responds with 5+1 or 3+3, etc.
Missing Addend: if your child has mastered basic facts, have them find the missing addend 8+?=12.
Use Dice: throw two or more dice on the table and heave them add or subtract them.
Play Teacher: have your child quiz you and check your answers for accuracy.
Deck of Cards: remove face cards (Ace is 1)...draw two cards and add them up. Make it competitive and see who answers first. The quickest keeps the cards. Whoever has the most cards at the end, wins!