Schools recognize more and more that every child has different needs, interests and rates of learning. Appreciate your child’s progress
By Pam Proctor
Dear parents: Here are a few ways you can support your child who may be in pre-school or elementary school. Encourage free play, inside and outside, in the natural environment, and with natural and found materials. For water or sand play, provide shallow tubs, like a baby’s bath, for water and/or sand on a table and containers such as bottles, cups and cartons.
Set aside table space with glue, paper, scissors and junk materials for creative activity and provide a box of dress-up clothes for dramatic play. Read to your child regularly. Learning to read is complex and interest can be greatly enhanced through the sharing of books and stories. Take trips to the library where your child may choose books and take part in programs.
Play board games with your child, limit screen time to avoid obsession with video games, and pay attention to providing nutritious options for snacks and lunch. If possible become involved in school activities by visiting or volunteering, and encourage your child to acknowledge and respect differences.
In the past, children were taught basic skills in groups and many had difficulties. Now schools recognize that every child has different needs, interests, styles and rates of learning. Appreciate your child’s progress, whether fast or slow, and be encouraging – just as you were when she or he learned to walk and talk.
Pam Proctor is the author of Honouring the Child, Changing Ways of Teaching, and Honouring the Child II, a Guide to Ways of Learning for Teachers and Parents.
The books can be obtained at a substantial discount by phone: 604-886-0540.
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