Learning opportunities are everywhere. Are you making the most of everyday experiences that can build school success? Answer yes or no to each statement below to find out:
____1. We have a regular place for homework, such as the kitchen table. Nearby, we keep pens, pencils, paper and a dictionary.
____2. I let my child cook with me to practice basic math skills. If the recipe calls for ¼ cup of sugar and we are making a double recipe, I ask my child to figure out much sugar we need to add.
____3. We learn about geography when reading the newspaper. We try to find the countries we read about on a globe or in an atlas.
____4. We practice fractions in the kitchen—by folding napkins, slicing apples and dividing a pizza.
____5. We read every night before bed. Sometimes, I stop the story and let my child guess how it might end.
How well are you doing?
If you answered mostly yes, you have created a learning environment for your child. Mostly nos? Try those ideas in the quiz to make the most of learning opportunities at home.
Reprinted with permission from the March 2008 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Elementary School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2008 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc.