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March 13, 2006
Playbook and Huddle Sessions
Last week I had the pleasure of doing a workshop at Jackson Heights Elementary School in Red Bluff. A group of delightful parents showed up for an evening to find out about how they could help with their children's learning. Some parents had been at the first session we’d had a month or so before. Some were new. Some had been coming to the intervening “Huddle Sessions” for parents and some had not. Their status didn’t matter. What mattered was they came, and we could talk about kids and learning.
My first question was the question I usually ask. “What fun, learning things have you done with your child this week?” And the second question followed, “What was successful?”
One good story from a parent about learning games in the car was followed with another about Rosario’s child listening to stories about Mexico and being able to answer questions when the Mexican Consulate visited the area. Everyone was impressed with nine-year-old David’s answers.
What followed my opening questions and their stories, was a discussion about report cards. I know it may not be anyone’s favorite topic, but, like taxes, report cards happen regularly. I work hard to make sure things are fun and meaningful for any group I work with, so once we got through an overview of what report cards look like today versus what they looked like when we went to school, we moved on to activities.
What I think most parents want to know is; if my child didn’t do well in an area what can I do to help? How can we fix it? That’s where we spent most of our time.
Kids having trouble reading are encouraged to do activities with their parents to support reading such as “read the room” or word hunts. Those having trouble spelling get to play hangman or Scrabble. Those with math issues may be adding the number of silverware at dinner or playing a license plate math game in the car. Activities selected greatly depend upon the needs and grade level of the child.
Several parents said they were really grateful to have activities specifically related to their child’s needs. “This is great,” said one mom. “I wish I’d had this with my other ones.”
For me, it was a great night. Parents got ideas to help their children and kids would benefit both at home and at school. What could be better?
For possible workshops in your area contact us at www.edsuccess.com
Posted by Dr Joni at March 13, 2006 07:08 PM