There are so many resources out there to make this easy for us now. Here are a few that I have used.
1. Starfall.com I know technology isn't the best choice for everything... but this one is AWESOME! I still remember trying to do flashcards and posters to have my oldest memorize the alphabet. It took forever! I have literally spent no time reviewing this with my younger children, and just yesterday at the Eye Doctor, my 4 year old impressed everyone with all of the letters she was able to read. I give all credit to Starfall.com. We have it on our ipad, as well as the free version on the computer. Every day she has "preschool on the computer" time, and this is what she is learning. Every morning, and sometimes every afternoon, when they're bored and want a movie, I suggest Pre-school, and we do that first. Sometimes the movie idea even disappears!
2. Speaking of aps, ABCmouse.com also has some really great ABC videos on the ipad. We did the free version, and after you watch some, you earn credits to download more videos. We have paid nothing, and have a ton of ABC videos.
3. Dry Erase markers and writing board. I have a huge Dry Erase board on my kitchen wall. That gets used by my pre-schooler more than anyone else. Pictures, learning to write, etc. all happen there every day, and we can compliment her on how great they are, because we see them.
4. Minutes with Me
http://www.minuteswithme.com/
This curriculum she now has is very different from the first prototypes that I got with my oldest. However, I love them, and refer to them often. As this is her new and improved curriculum that she is now selling, it's all I can recommend. She has a free downloads page that is great too.
5. 5 in a Row, and Before 5 in a Row
This is one of my favorite curriculums. It is all based around literature. I only have one of these books, but it has been well used. I would recommend 5 in a Row if you only want to get one... because the kids grow up and you can keep using it. I ended up purchasing many of the books that the lessons are about. It was quite an investment, but has made a lasting impression on my kids and my home. My kids feel that those books are their friends.
6. Math Manipulatives
Saxon Math has a box of math manipulatives that you can order. That was one of the best investments I ever made. Also, there are teacher stores where you can buy more stuff like this. Tangram puzzles, Cuisinaire rods, Shapes puzzles, etc. I have 3 drawers of math and learning manipulatives that we use constantly.
7. Poetry and Skip Counting CD's.
Institute for Excellence in Writing has a poetry CD. Or Shel Silverstein is awesome.
Classical Conversations has awesome Skip Counting Songs. Or you can get 100 Counting Sheep.
Find my post on Teaching with the ipod. http://candilandflorida.blogspot.com/2011/03/my-daily-ipod-playlist.html
1 comment:
This is really helpful! Thanks!
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