Growing in Faith
Below are some simple activities that can help to build your child's faith at home:
Teach your child the sign of the cross (Using your right hand: touch the forehead, chest, left shoulder, then right shoulder).
Walk around outdoors and look for signs of Spring/Summer in God's creation.
If you know which Church is connected to your child's new school, attend a service so that his/her first visit is with you.
If your child's new school is named after a Saint, seek information about his/her life, then talk with your child about this new patron.
Consider teaching your child The Lord's Prayer. Before bed is a great time to practice each night!
Social & Emotional Learning
Teaching children about their emotions and helping them form relationships with others are foundations of school success. Here are some ways families can practice these important skills:
Talk about feelings by reading stories or watching videos about emotions. Remind you child that all feelings are welcome, but all behaviours are not welcome.
Sing songs to help your child learn to express feelings (e.g. If You're happy and You Know It).
Create a "kindness calendar" with your child. Write down some thoughtful ways your child can support others and put this on your calendar.
Praise your child when they use words to express their feelings.
Help your child through overwhelming moments by practicing self-regulation strategies for young children.
Healthy Choices
Learning is easier when children are healthy and well-rested. To promote healthy children:
Use Canada's Food Guide as a guide to make healthy meals or snacks.
Cook and eat together.
Make water a drink of choice.
Explore this article Cooking with Kids for some healthy recipes!
Music & Movement
Listening and moving to music is a fun, healthy family activity. Here are some resources you can enjoy with your child:
The Mother Goose Club: Singing and listening to nursery rhymes is a fun way to help your child dance and sing, while learning to hear sounds in words.
Jungle Adventure Video: Follow along to the actions in this video created by Thrive Child Development Center.
Check out Thrive's website for more ideas on how to get your child moving!