to make up any gaps more successfully if they sense the adults are all terribly worried about their test scores. In fact, we have long known that children learn best when they feel safe and supported at home and school. Social-emotional education in schools has been shown to raise test scores and overall academic achievement. So has recess. This summer is over, and the children are back in school, most in person, some, for various reasons, online. What to do next year? 1. Ask your child’s teacher if they have concerns and if they recommend any specific summer academic work. 2. Balance any recommendations for summer work at home, summer school, or
extended school year services with your child and family’s overall needs. 3. Read, read, read. a. Read to and with younger children. Look for letters or words in the kitchen, on walks, out the window of the car on long trips. b. E ncourage older children and teens to read a little, most days. c. For reluctant readers of fiction, keep in mind that reading also includes: i. Graphic novels ii. How-to books iii. Recipes and instructions on food packages iv. Biographies about athletes, musicians, and other famous people
v. Internet articles about Minecraft (Parents should review first for content). 4. Math is everywhere a. There is always something to count for the youngest children. b. Cooking, crafts, and home improvement projects all involve math. c. What does your tween want to own? How long will it take to save up the money? Remember, If you have any concerns about your child’s progress, please discuss with your child’s teacher. He or she will be happy to address your concerns and work with you to create a plan to keep your child on the right educational track.
AHN Pediatrics • Fall 2021 • www.ahnpediatrics.org
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