Spelling

A good spelling curriculum includes a systematic approach to spelling using phonics and sight words. But you might be wondering why a child needs to focus on a formal spelling program when we use word processors with spell check.

According to Susan Jones, M. Ed., learning to spell helps to cement the connection between the letters and their sounds, and learning high-frequency “sight words” to mastery level improves both reading and writing.

Let your child play fun online spelling games for practice. My daughter is a visual learner, so I have her write her spelling word on a blank 3X5 index card and draw a picture of the word on the reverse. She is also dyslexic, so this works great for her.

Winter Animals

What happens to animals during the winter season? Some animals head underground to stay warm and take a nap. This is called hibernating. Some head for warmer weather and better food choices. They are migrating. Those that stay where they are might begin to put on a heavy coat of fur to keep warm.

It’s always fun to try hands-on activates to reinforce what you are learning about. How about reading a book about animal tracks in snow, then try to make animal tracks in Crayola model magic. The white of the clay looks like snow. Animals have to work harder to find food in the winter. You can simulate this by hiding food in a large pan of rice (or something similar to act as the snow). Your child has to dig just like the animals do to find the food.

Have fun learning about hibernation in the following song.

Time For Hibernation

(Frere Jacques tune)

Are you sleeping, are you sleeping,

Big black bear, big black bear?

Time for hibernation.

What is your location?

In a log, in a lair.

Are you sleeping, are you sleeping, Hanging bat, hanging bat?

Time for hibernation.

What is your location?

In a cave is where I'm at.

Are you sleeping, are you sleeping,

Garter snake, garter snake?

Time for hibernation.

What is your location?

In the mud, in a lake.

Are you sleeping, are you sleeping,

Toad and frog, toad and frog?

Time for hibernation.

What is your location?

In a pond, near a log.

Are you sleeping, are you sleeping,

Meadow mouse, meadow mouse?

Time for hibernation.

What is your location?

in a field, near a house.

Are you sleeping, are you sleeping,

Turtle friend, turtle friend?

Time for hibernation.

What is your location?

In the stream, till winter's end!