Helpful websites
Reading student news online is a good way for your kids to balance out their reading "diet." It builds awareness and exposes them to non-fiction, informational writing.
List of student news websites
List of student news websites
Happy Thanksgiving
A few years ago, I had the privilege of visiting the valley of Swayimane in South Africa. My memories came back as we approached Thanksgiving this year. What am I grateful for? Here is the powerpoint I shared with the class today. Enjoy!
How do I help my fourth grader without screaming at them?
Well, I wish I had the secret formula for this. I don't! I have spent many a day yelling at my own children for procrastinating, for forgetting their books, for being sloppy and for rushing through their work. Then again, there are children who almost never need us to remind them about anything. If you have a child like that, you are a lucky one!
For the rest of us, here are some things to think about:
* USE A TIMER * Rather than just telling your child to "GO STUDY", tell them that you will set a timer for x minutes. In that time, they have to focus on schoolwork and nothing else. After the timer is up, they may take a break. If there is more homework, then re-set the timer. By doing this, you give your child a light at the end of the tunnel. Rather than sitting there for 2 hours of half-concentrating, he/she can handle small chunks of productive work time.
* ASK THEM WHAT THEY HAVE TO DO * It's important that you know what your child is doing in school. Be sure to have conversations about the amount of work they have, and how long it should take to finish. Make your child tell you what each assignment is about and when it is due.
* SET UP STUDY SESSIONS * Especially for our weekly quizzes, parents can be of great help to their child. Set up a study session with your son or daughter and stick to it. You can quiz them on their Vocabulary words or their spelling words.
* YOU DO WORK WHILE THEY DO WORK * If you can find the time, you can also sit down and do some "work", right beside your child. This shows that everyone is busy, not just them.
* DISCOVER THEIR WEAKNESSES AND STRENGTHS * It is crucial that a person understands him or herself. By helping your child understand their weaknesses and strengths, you are equipping them with practical knowledge. With this knowledge, he or she can adjust how they do work, how long they need and at what time they should start homework. Go ahead and have an honest conversation with your child!
For the rest of us, here are some things to think about:
* USE A TIMER * Rather than just telling your child to "GO STUDY", tell them that you will set a timer for x minutes. In that time, they have to focus on schoolwork and nothing else. After the timer is up, they may take a break. If there is more homework, then re-set the timer. By doing this, you give your child a light at the end of the tunnel. Rather than sitting there for 2 hours of half-concentrating, he/she can handle small chunks of productive work time.
* ASK THEM WHAT THEY HAVE TO DO * It's important that you know what your child is doing in school. Be sure to have conversations about the amount of work they have, and how long it should take to finish. Make your child tell you what each assignment is about and when it is due.
* SET UP STUDY SESSIONS * Especially for our weekly quizzes, parents can be of great help to their child. Set up a study session with your son or daughter and stick to it. You can quiz them on their Vocabulary words or their spelling words.
* YOU DO WORK WHILE THEY DO WORK * If you can find the time, you can also sit down and do some "work", right beside your child. This shows that everyone is busy, not just them.
* DISCOVER THEIR WEAKNESSES AND STRENGTHS * It is crucial that a person understands him or herself. By helping your child understand their weaknesses and strengths, you are equipping them with practical knowledge. With this knowledge, he or she can adjust how they do work, how long they need and at what time they should start homework. Go ahead and have an honest conversation with your child!