At this time of year, parents of my students starting kindergarten or first grade always ask me,
“What should my child practice over the summer?”
“Practice handwriting!” is my answer.
Kindergarten and first grade teachers emphasize handwriting. If your child grasps how to form letters, handwriting will come much easier. Schedule a set time each day to practice writing letters.
To help motivate your child, you might say something like, “We can go swimming after you trace and then write your letters for 15 minutes.” Then set a timer for the allotted time.
Given the teaching pace in kindergarten and first grade these days, your child will have a great advantage with a strong foundation for forming letters.
For strategies to help your child master handwriting, please click here to read my previous blog about handwriting. Link to Your Child: Letter Writing Master.
How do you motivate your child to practice academic skills over the summer? What strategies do you use to keep the practice going?
