At Crafty Cottage

Tag: parenting

  • 11 Ways to Teach Your Kids to Read

    11 Ways to Teach Your Kids to Read

    11 Ways to Teach Your Kids to Read…

    There are affiliate links in this post. If you make a purchase through my link I may make a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Teaching a child to read is a rewarding and essential milestone in their development. Reading not only opens up a world of knowledge and imagination but also lays the foundation for success in school and life. While traditional methods like story-time and picture books are valuable, technology has introduced new and engaging ways to teach kids to read. In this blog post, we’ll explore 11 effective ways to teach kids to read, with suggestions for apps, videos, books, and programs.

    11 Ways to Teach Your Kids to Read

    11 Ways to Teach Kids to Read

    1. Phonics Apps:

    Suggestions: “Phonics Ninja,” “Starfall ABCs,” “Endless Alphabet”

    Phonics is the foundation of reading, and phonics apps make learning fun and interactive. These apps help kids understand the relationship between letters and sounds, which is crucial for reading comprehension.

    2. Interactive eBooks:

    Suggestions: “Epic!” and “Bookful”

    Interactive eBooks bring stories to life by incorporating animations, sounds, and interactive elements. They engage children’s senses and enhance comprehension while making reading enjoyable.

    3. Sight Word Games:

    Suggestions: “Sight Words by Little Speller” and “Sight Words Flash Cards”

    Sight words are frequently used words that young readers should recognize instantly. Games and flashcards make learning sight words entertaining and effective.

    4. Educational Videos:

    Suggestions: “Sesame Street,” “Phonics Song 2” (by KidsTV123), and “Super Why!”

    High-quality educational videos use catchy songs and entertaining characters to reinforce reading skills. These videos are both engaging and educational.

    5. Library Visits:

    Suggestions: Visit your local library for storytime sessions and book borrowing.

    Libraries are treasure troves of reading materials and resources. Attending library storytime sessions can spark a child’s love for books and reading.

    6. Alphabet Books:

    Suggestions: “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom” and “Dr. Seuss’s ABC“

    Classic alphabet books introduce young readers to letters and their sounds in a playful and memorable way.

    7. Reading Programs:

    Suggestions: “Readability” and “Hooked on Phonics“

    Structured reading programs provide step-by-step guidance and a comprehensive curriculum to support your child’s reading journey.

    8. Audio Books:

    Suggestions: “Audible for Kids” and “LibriVox”

    Listening to audiobooks helps improve listening comprehension and exposes children to new vocabulary and stories.

    9. Word Building Games:

    Suggestions: “Build A Word Express” “AlphaTots” and “Montessori Services“

    Word-building games encourage kids to create words by manipulating letters. These games strengthen phonemic awareness.

    For Small Hands

    10. Bilingual Apps:

    **Suggestions:** “Duolingo Kids” and “Endless Spanish”

    If you’re raising a bilingual child, bilingual apps can help them develop reading skills in both languages simultaneously.

    11. Parental Involvement:

    Read aloud to your child daily, ask questions about the story, and create a cozy reading environment at home.

    No app or program can replace the importance of parental involvement. Regularly reading with your child and discussing stories together fosters a lifelong love for reading.

    11 Ways to Teach Your Kids to Read

    In conclusion, teaching kids to read is a multifaceted journey that can be enhanced by a variety of tools and resources, including apps, videos, books, and programs. The key is to make learning to read an enjoyable and interactive experience, tailored to your child’s needs and interests. So, embark on this reading adventure with your child, and watch as they discover the joy and power of words.

    Happy reading!

    Ultimate Homeschool Planner

  • Must-Have Back-to-School Supplies: A Comprehensive Guide

    Must-Have Back-to-School Supplies: A Comprehensive Guide

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    Exciting times are just around the corner as the back-to-school season approaches …

    And with it comes the highly anticipated Amazon Prime Day on July 11th and 12th. As parents and students gear up for the upcoming academic year, it’s the perfect opportunity to snag incredible deals on essential back-to-school supplies. But here’s the catch: you need to have an Amazon Prime account to take full advantage of the exclusive discounts and promotions. Don’t worry, though; we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide that not only highlights must-have school supplies but also informs you about the sales leading up to Prime Day. So, get ready to save big and make your back-to-school shopping a breeze!

    Back-to-School Supplies

    What is Prime Day?

    Prime Day is a 2-day event that includes a multi-week lead-up and lead-out period—full of incredible deals and prices across millions of products.

    Amazon Prime Membership

    Current Prime Deals

    It’s time to gather the essential supplies that will set your child up for a successful academic year. To make your shopping easier, we’ve compiled a list of must-have school supplies that cover everything from backpacks to highlighters. With the convenience of online shopping, we’ve included Amazon links to help you find the perfect items with just a click. Let’s dive in!

    Back-to-School Supplies:
    1. Backpack for School: A sturdy and comfortable backpack is crucial for carrying books and supplies. Consider the JanSport SuperBreak Backpack Amazon link, known for its durability and variety of color options.
    2. Lunchbox: Pack nutritious meals in style with the Bentgo Kids Bento-Style Lunch Box (Amazon link). This lunchbox features multiple compartments and is designed to keep food fresh and secure.
    3. Supply Pouch: Keep writing utensils organized with the ZIPIT Pencil Case (Amazon link). This fun and functional pouch have ample space for pens, pencils, erasers, and more.
    4. Colored Pencils: Bring creativity to life with the Crayola Colored Pencils Set (Amazon link). With a vibrant range of colors and smooth pigmentation, these pencils are perfect for art projects and detailed coloring.
    5. Markers: Unlock your child’s imagination with the Crayola Ultra-Clean Washable Markers (Amazon link). These markers offer bright, washable ink, ensuring mess-free creativity.
    6. Glue Sticks: For hassle-free crafting and school projects, the Elmer’s All Purpose School Glue Sticks (Amazon link) are a reliable choice. These sticks provide a secure bond without the mess.
    7. College Ruled Notebook: Promote neat and organized note-taking with the Mead Spiral Notebooks (Amazon link). These college-ruled notebooks feature durable covers and perforated pages for easy tear-outs.
    8. Scissors: Equipped with safety features and sharp stainless-steel blades, the Westcott School Scissors (Amazon link) are perfect for arts, crafts, and classroom activities.
    9. Dry-Erase Board: Enhance learning at home with the Quartet Dry Erase Board (Amazon link). This compact and double-sided board is ideal for practicing math problems, spelling words, and brainstorming.
    10. Binders: Stay organized with the Avery Heavy-Duty View Binders (Amazon link). These binders feature durable construction, multiple pockets, and clear view covers for easy customization.
    11. Highlighters: Make studying a breeze with the Sharpie Pocket Highlighters (Amazon link). These vibrant, smudge-free highlighters are perfect for emphasizing important information in textbooks and notes.
    Back-to-School Supplies

    Conclusion:

    Investing in high-quality back-to-school supplies ensures your child starts the academic year on the right foot. With this comprehensive list, you can easily find everything you need on Amazon. Whether it’s a sturdy backpack, creative tools like colored pencils and markers, or organizational essentials like binders and pouches, these supplies will help your child stay engaged and organized throughout the school year. Happy shopping and here’s to a successful academic journey!