In second grade, students will make great strides in reading, writing, and math. Your child will learn to read fluently, use writing to communicate ideas, and learn how to math is used in real world situations. This is a very exciting year!

Reading - In second grade, the focus in on reading for meaning-reading to understand and to remember. Second graders learn to recognize more words by sight, and they learn strategies to help them figure out new words.

Ways to help at home:

• Ask your child to read aloud, changing the tone of his/her voice for different characters.

• Help your child decode unfamiliar words and look up new words in a print or online dictionary.

• Discuss what your child is reading and ask questions such as, " what do you think will happen next?" "What would you do?" "How do you think that character felt?" "Did you like this book?"

Writing

In second grade, children start writing about different topics, experiences, and their opinions. They also practice finding and correcting their spelling and punctuation errors.

Ways to help at home:

• Ask your child to write about something that was enjoyable or fun, such as a friend's birthday party, family outing, or vacation.

• Encourage tour child to write a letter to a favorite relative, a get well message to a sick friend, and to make holiday greeting cards for family and friends.

Math

Second graders learn how to add and subtract two -digit numbers and they work on learning addition and subtraction facts. Your second grader will also study money, measurement and telling time.

Ways to help at home:

• While your child is completing routine tasks such as getting ready for school, verbally quiz him/her on addition and subtraction facts. Make sure to keep it fun! (example 9+1)

• Give your child a ruler to practice measuring objects around the house. When your cooking have your child help you read the recipe and measurement ingredients.

• Help your child practice counting money using play or real money. Encourage him/her to pay attention when you check out at the grocery store. Try using the self-checkout at the grocery store. Try using the self checkout for small items and let your child insert the cash.

Second graders are learning many new skills, and they may become frustrated at times. If your child is feeling discouraged or frustrated, provide encouragement, keep a positive attitude, and be available to help.

Shaping Social Skills

Second graders are social beings and having friends is very important. Help your child improve his/her social skills by providing opportunities for your child to interact with other children in a variety of settings.

Second graders are able to identify and express their feelings. They are also beginning to understand how others might feel. Encourage your child to talk about his/her feelings, and talk about your own feelings as well. For example, tell your child that you get frustrated when his/her clothes haven't been picked up ,and explain why.

Children who have self-confidence are better able to take on new challenges- and are generally more successful students. Provide praise for positive effort and actions. Try to make the praise specific, " I like how you shared your snack with your brother." Also provide constructive feedback and suggestions when your child could use some help or direction.

Physical - Second graders begin to increase muscle strength and stamina. This makes it a great time for your child to join a sports team or take gymnastics, ice skating, or martial arts classes.

Intellectual - Their vocabulary is increasing, making it easier for second graders to express their ideas and engage in discussions. Have conversations at dinnertime, and ask your child to tell you about his/her day, or about something specific that's happened.

Emotional - Second graders are often interested in doing everything for themselves, even when they need help. When something is difficult, don't immediately swoop in to help. Let your child try to problem solve - and celebrate when he/she is successful.