I am firmly in the learning through play camp when it comes to preschoolers and early academics. Done in a good way, this doesn’t mean just let them play and they’ll be ready. It means thoughtfully providing academic experiences in fun, engaging and play based ways. Early Literacy Skills to Keep in Mind – Early … Continue reading Providing a Foundation for Academic Success in Preschool Friendly Ways
Pincer Grasp Pennies in a piggy bank Tweezers to move cotton balls between bowls Eye droppers to move water between bowls (or painting with colored water) Moving toothpicks between bowls or play Pick Up Sticks Golf tee games Small pieces of food for snack Original Colorforms and stickers Sand art (spread glue and then add … Continue reading Fine Motor Play Ideas with Preschoolers
Before they are writing There are lots of ways to encourage the skills that support writing from long before they are writing letters and words. Fine motor activities – Starting in the first year, you can give activities that practice the pincer grasp and exercize the fingers. This is picking up small food like Cheerios or … Continue reading Ways to Encourage Early Writing
The Common Core State Standards, which help to guide what education is provided by our public school system, has left teaching cursive off the list. There are SO MANY REASONS to teach children cursive, and each is as compelling as the next. Cursive…. Helps children with spelling – Because the letters are connected, cursive helps children … Continue reading Reasons to Teach Your Children Cursive
Parenting by Dr. Rene 