|
|
We want to ensure that all students have every opportunity to pursue their future hopes and dreams. We believe that having the ability to read is the key to all future learning and can open up opportunities for students to pursue all of their dreams. We are committed to making sure every student at Chávez receives the very best reading instruction as possible, but reading instruction at school isn't always enough. Any adult in a child's life can make a real difference in their reading outcomes by simply reading with them on a regular basis.
Please join us on Wednesday, Jan. 22 from 6:00-7:00 to learn about our Traveling Backpack Program which provides books for families to read at home.
This program is only available for K-2 families at this time, and you must attend the information session to participate in the program.
Look for a pink flyer in your child's backpack with details and an RSVP form that needs to be returned by Friday, Jan. 17.
Dinner and childcare will be provided.
Spanish interpretation will be available.
|
Caregiver involvement in play strengthens the emotional connection between the child and their parent or caregiver. When caregivers actively participate in their child's play, children feel supported, safe, and understood. This emotional connection promotes secure attachment, a foundation for self-confidence and emotional resilience. For example, through cooperative games, caregivers can model appropriate emotional responses to winning or losing, helping children regulate their emotions and handle frustrations.
Play allows children to practice and develop essential social skills such as sharing, taking turns, listening, and understanding social cues. Caregivers can guide these experiences by encouraging positive behaviors, reflecting and highlighting positives they're seeing, and creating opportunities for the child to communicate clearly. Whether it’s playing board games or role-playing activities, the interactions help children learn to negotiate, cooperate, and resolve conflicts—skills that are vital in school and later in life.
Engaging in play provides children with opportunities to develop problem-solving skills and creativity. Activities like puzzles, board games, or building projects help children think critically, plan ahead, and apply logic. These cognitive skills transfer to other areas, such as schoolwork, where problem-solving, memory, and concentration are key to academic success. Caregivers can help children by asking open-ended questions during play or guiding them through challenges in a way that "scaffolds" the child's skills.
While elementary-aged children are refining their fine and gross motor skills, active play with caregivers—like outdoor games, biking, or ball games—helps to develop physical coordination, strength, and balance. Play involving physical movement promotes overall health and well-being, teaching children the importance of physical activity for long-term wellness. It also allows children to practice body control and coordination in a playful setting, which builds confidence.
Caregiver involvement in imaginative play—whether through storytelling, pretend play, or creating art—stimulates creativity and encourages children to explore their imagination. This type of play is essential not only for fun but also for cognitive flexibility, which allows children to think in innovative ways. Engaging in activities like building with blocks or creating stories together fosters their ability to think outside the box, an important skill in problem-solving and creative expression.
Both children and caregivers experience stress in their daily lives, and play serves as a natural way to relax and de-stress. Whether it's through physical activity, laughter, or simply engaging in a fun, carefree activity, play promotes emotional well-being by releasing endorphins—natural mood-boosting chemicals. By setting aside time for playful interactions, caregivers and children alike can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and improve overall mental health.
The days are long, but the years are short is a phrase I often think of with parenting. Offering our full presence to our child is really one of the greatest gifts we can give. It helps us make the most of our time together and supports their development and well-being. Feel free to drop me a line and let me know how it's going or if I can offer any support!
Wishing you well,
|