One of the things kids look forward to in December is the academic downtime, but there is no reason why they can't keep their minds sharp during the holidays. And, believe it or not, they can have fun while doing it! Here are some tips for "sneaking" reading and learning into daily activities:
- Have your children read holiday cards when they are received in the mail and let them write a message in outgoing cards.
- Let children read ingredients from holiday recipes while you bake together. It's a great way for them to learn measurements and temperatures.
- Set aside time to "show off" their new reading skills to visiting relatives. Children love being the focus of attention and grandparents are excited to see their progress.
- Make special holiday readings a tradition. Find a special book for Christmas and have each member of the family read from it on a set night before Christmas.
- Find books that focus on an interest your child has. There are books out there to suit every interest under the sun.
- Help your child navigate these free websites that provide fantastic ideas for homemade crafts and projects: Family Education - All Free Crafts - Kaboose.com - FamilyFun.com
- If you are traveling during the holidays, pack a bag with a variety of reading materials. Let everyone take turns reading aloud using expression and fluency. Also, pack a bag of writing materials and each time you stop have your child write facts about your location. When you return home, you will have a personal log about every place you visited.
- Give the gift of reading to your children this holiday season. Put books in their stockings and under the Christmas tree.
