The children are definitely ready for bigger and better things in First Grade. To help them stay sharp over the summer, here are a few tips:
-Write! Fill up your empty journal pages. Stuck inside on a rainy day? Write about something you did or want to do this summer. Did you go on a trip? Write about your favorite part when you get back. Make up a story. You can write about anything.
(Parents- Have your child draw a picture and then tell you about it. After coming up with a sentence, children write the sounds and words they know. Just remind them of their sentence so they don't leave any words out or mix them up. When they are finished, you can write it the correct, adult way. See previous entries.)
-Read! An adult can read to you. You can read to someone else. Still have your Superkids workbooks? Read the stories inside. Read together. Listen for rhymes or look for words you know.
-Fill up your Science notebooks. See a pretty flower? Draw it, snap a pic, or press it. Label it. Do the same with cool bugs ( not the pressing), leaves, anything! Did you help cook dinner? Draw a before and after picture of the ingredients. Build something awesome? Draw or photograph it. Write a step-by -step list of how you did it. Watching Shark Week on TV? Write an interesting shark fact you learned. The possibilities are endless.
-Practice your math skills. Sort and count a rock collection. Sort and count snacks. Count steps on staircases as you climb. Make tally marks with sticks. Playing video games? Write down your score each day for some number printing practice. Say the numbers you see on street signs. Count anywhere, anytime!
-Write your name. If you have trouble writing letters nicely, writing on paper is best. If you forget how to spell your last name write it on paper, in sand, with chalk or wet paintbrushes on a sidewalk,... You'll be writing your first and last name a lot in first grade. If your name is easy, practice some sight words, color words, anything!
-Work on independence. Do chores. Practice tying your shoes. Say your address and phone number.
These activities can help keep Kindergarten basic skills fresh but remember, play and hands-on experiences are very
important for learning too so, have fun this summer and enjoy!!!