• Learning is Taking Place All Around Us!

       We have now completed our first semester grading period.  The third nine weeks grading period began on January 16th.  The first quarter is often one of transition for students and as time goes on, the work will become more difficult and the teachers will begin to expect more from them each day.

       Because of the work increase that is required for our children, regular communication with teachers is VERY important.  The student planner that is sent home everyday is an excellent way to remain in contact with your teacher.  You are always welcome to schedule a parent-teacher conference with your child’s teacher by calling the school at 630-6592. Ms. Middleton, our front office assistant, will assist you with scheduling a conference as soon as possible.  If you would like to speck with your child’s teacher by phone, please call the school number and enter your teacher’s extension or press “0”  to be connected to the teacher’s voicemail.

       Do you know how much time you and your child read each week?  Keep track of your activities for a week, then talk about what you’ve charted.  Are you watching more television than you’d like?  Does reading seem to be a lower priority than other activities?

       Many families have reading time every day.  Sometimes, everyone can read silently.  Other times, you can read aloud with your child or he/she can read aloud to you.  YOU SET THE EXAMPLE!  Children who see their parents reading usually grow up to be readers themselves.  This is one of those times when actions really do speak louder than words.  Talk with your child about why you are reading - for information, to check out something you think you know - of just for fun.

       Reading aloud to children of all ages is one of the best ways to help him develop a love of books.  It can also be a special way to spend time with your child.  There are, however, five things that you shouldn’t do:

    1.  Don’t read stories that you don’t enjoy yourself.  (Your dislike will show in the reading)

    2.  Don’t get too comfortable.  (If you lie down, you’re likely to get drowsy.  If you slouch, your voice will lose its energy)

    3.  Don’t be surprised if your child interrupts with a lot of questions.  (Answer those right away. “There is no time limit for reading a book.”  But there is a time limit on a child’s curiosity.  Answer the question and move on.)

    4.  Don’t confuse quantity with quality.  (Your child will remember 10 minutes of reading far longer than he will remember two hours of television).

    5.  Don’t try to compete with TV.  (Tell your child the TV will be turned off at a certain time every evening - whether you have read-aloud time or not.)  Ask if he/she wants to hear you read.  If he doesn’t, that’s fine - but the television DOESN’T come  back on.

     

    Michele Floyd-Hatcher

    Principal