Community Corner
Knowledge is Power, Kids Gain It Even During the Holidays
Many children expect Christmas break to be exactly what it says-- a "break." However it doesn't have to be a break away from being educated.
During the two weeks with no classroom teacher and the repetitious learning of different concepts, some students tend to get out of the learning mode, and have a difficult time getting themselves back acclimated or fitting right back in where the teacher left off after the New Year. Because of this, it is quite helpful for students to not completely break away from learning during their holiday “break." A little reinforcement on different subjects will help keep their little brains busy, if you know what I mean. Some teachers may have sent home a holiday homework packet. If not, here are a few ideas to help while not applying too much pressure:
* If you are cooking, or assembling toys or items during the holiday break, have your child help out by following the directions. Remind him/her of the different types of writing. (Descriptive, Persuasive, Expository, and Narrative) As steps are followed, ask him/her what type of writing gives directions. Your child should tell you, “expository writing” because it explains or informs about a topic. If he/she doesn't tell you, you tell him/her :)
* There are learning activities for kids going on in and around Lawrenceville as well: , , , and more.
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* Camps are full of enrichment activities: , YMCA School Holiday Camps and more.
* Parents can also take the break as an opportunity to teach about the importance of giving by allowing children to volunteer with charities. Then later have them to write about the experience and how it made them feel: YMCA Story Book Reader, , Bring One for the Chipper Christmas Tree Recycling, Furkids Inc.
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* Elevate your child into leadership roles involving nature by having him/her learn more about the environment with the Nicodemus Wilderness Project . Have your child to Take the Apprentice Ecologist Initiative and be considered for a scholarship.
* You can even have your child keep a daily journal to enhance writing skills while describing all experiences during the holiday break, or your child can write his/her own Christmas or holiday narrative adding family humor and including those family characters in their stories.
