Learning happens outside of the classroom, too...

Follow your child's curiosity...Out for a bike ride? Playing in the park? Outside on a summer evening? Wonder, look closely, listen, ask questions--then follow up to help your child discover new learning. Planning a hike? Taking a trip to a new place? In the age of technology, there's so many ways to explore and further your child's experiences. Show your child Google Maps to discover routes, distances, time for travel. Your child, and you, too, will benefit from following through on the questions and curiosity you have posed. You are modeling for your child how to go about finding out information, demonstrating that we all can be life long learners.

Every teacher says it, but the impact of reading with your child goes beyond helping them to read the words on a page. The depth of conversation you are able to share, vocabulary development, critical and inferential thinking that is developed benefits your child greatly. Picture books are excellent for young readers and families to enjoy together. They can take them to imaginative places, build empathy, share real world information, and provide background knowledge that will benefit them both in school and out. Make reading part of your family's routine and daily life and the reward will benefit both young and old in your families.