Quick thought on new school year

As another school year is approaching, I am thinking about my great-niece entering first grade. Being bossy, or maybe it's nosey, I've asked her parents to make sure they engage her in recognizing words as often as possible.

This does not have to come from a book. Teachable moments can come from a cereal box, magazine, TV commercial, anywhere!!!

Always be on the lookout for something to share with your child that will aid in their learning. The unplanned is sometimes the best.

Parents, even though your child will read and be read to at school, please read to or with your child everyday! This is a greater gift that can be purchased for any amount of money...the love of reading.

Wikkistix fun.........twist 'em, bend 'em

I was introduced to Wikkistix while taking an SC Reads course. The name sure does give away what the class entailed. It was suggested that the stix could be used to have children underline words they did not know, found interesting, answers to certain questions, underline items on a chart, etc.

The stix are bendable and reusable. Just keep in a plastic bag. They are down right fun to mess with. (Click pic/url)
So, I know lots of parents and homeschooling moms may not know about them. They have varied educational uses, and they can be used in arts/crafts, math, science....you name it and they can probably be used.

Some restaurants use them instead of the crayons to go with pictures. Kids can make the shapes, etc. show on the papers or menus while waiting as entertainment. I would think they'd be great for traveling children, also.

Tomorrow I will be spending time with my 6 year old niece, and we will play/work with the Wikkistix. I promise to take pics and share. I may even try my hand at a slide show so I can share more pics with you. That is one of my goals....more real pics on my blog. I just think it's more personal. Well, once again, I digress.

The Wikkistix are great fun. Try them with your children and let me know what you think!!!!!!!

Reading is Fundamental RIF

HTML code:

Click and view the many activities that the Reading is Fundamental website has for your children. It includes books, contests, information for parents, kids section, school information for
RIF book distribution.

It's a quick source for fun and information!!!