The children dyed curds different colors using food coloring and made their own rubbery type of play dough. They loved touching curds and feeling its texture. Some children even shaped curds into cool looking dinosaurs and flowers with our help. At end of day children were enlightened and had a great appreciation for science. They were all proud to show their parents what they had done. They were truly young scientists!

If you would like to try this with children at your childcare business we recommend experiment for children ages 3 and up. The following materials are needed:

3 cups of Skim Milk

2 tablespoons of white vinegar

Microwave-safe bowl for mixing and heating Kitchen towels for straining

Being available for and in close proximity to homework area is important. At end of homework time, a parent needs to thoroughly check to see that assignments are complete. Asking child what they were supposed to do and having them explain assignment is a very effective way to wrap up summary portion of homework routine. This can also be a good way to start session if child tends to procrastinate about getting down to assigned tasks. A parent should always be alert to teacher comments that may be on homework and other school papers. These can be red flags for parents.

Essential Element # 4 - Providing Appropriate Guidance

Supporting homework routines includes appropriate guidance in scheduling other activities. Left to their own devices, most children will choose TV or video games over homework. There is a place for television watching and game playing, but a parent and child need to formulate a limited time for these. Homework has to be priority.

Some of specific techniques in guidance can include following: encourage independence in completing homework; assist child with organization skills, such as using folders; reinforce good study skills; help with practice and drills, for example multiplication flash cards; help child learn about budgeting time to complete all tasks; talk about assignments with child; and provide praise throughout.

Essential Element # 5 - How to Communicate with Classroom Teacher

A parent should contact child’s teacher if following issues arise: directions for homework are not clear; parent can’t provide necessary materials and supplies; child is overly disorganized; assignments are too easy or difficult on a consistent basis; and child has missed several days of school and is behind on a massive amount of work.

As early as possible, contact child’s teacher when there is a problem. A parent should take some notes to meeting in order to be specific about what problem needs to be addressed. Work together to find a solution. It important that whatever is agreed upon that parent and teacher monitor results. If there no change after 3 o 4 weeks, parent should follow up with another meeting request. Don’t let things go wrong too long.

The homework environment does not have to be a battleground. However, it can easily turn into one if parent does not see big picture and take control of situation. A parent needs to seize this daily routine as an opportunity to be involved with child and to be child’s number one supporter for school success. Here’s a chance for a parent to give a meaningful gift to a child - a positive attitude toward responsibility, independence and educational accomplishments.

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