Math:

You may have noticed your child is able to count to 10. Perhaps even to 100 or counting by 10s. But have you ever wondered if they have a deeper understanding of what numbers and quantities represent? One way to play with numbers is to represent them in different ways. Instead of holding up 5 fingers with one hand, try holding up two on one and three on another and asking, “How many fingers do I have up?” This helps children start manipulating numbers and recognizing that numbers can appear in many different ways. Then ask them to do the same, “Can you show me another way to make 5 with your hands?”

Reading:

Make Story Predictions

Experts recommend that parents and caregivers ask kids to predict what will happen next when reading a book together. This builds key literacy skills such as understanding sequencing, plot structure, character motivation, and cause and effect. It's as simple as stopping periodically and asking questions like:

• What do you think is going to happen next? 

• Oh no! What is she going to do now?

• What would you do if you were him?

• How are they going to solve this problem?

After they share their idea, respond with "Let's keep reading and find out what happens."

Writing:

Make a Shopping List

Make a shopping list as your child sits with you. Name each item you need out loud and let her watch as you write it down. When she is ready, let her write down some of the items. As you say the name of the item out loud, say each sound slowly, for example "M-I-L-K." Ask your child, "What letter do you think starts the word 'milk'?" "What letter do you think comes next?" It is not important for your child to spell the word exactly right. The idea is to help them make a connection between the letter and the sound it makes. "Yes, MMM, the letter M makes that sound."