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Asalam-o-Alayqum Dear Parents,
I want to share something meaningful for the success of my 1st graders, which will help them succeed, so please at home reinforce the skills and concepts they will be learning at school throughout the year. Here are some areas where first graders can benefit from practice at home.

I believe parental involvement in education plays a crucial role in a child's academic success, overall development, and well-being. Thank you in advance for working with me towards our mutual goal of their success.

Regards,
Mrs. Ayesha Beg.

Reading:

• Read Aloud: Encourage your child to read aloud to you or listen to you read. This helps with fluency and comprehension.
• Independent Reading: Set aside time for your child to read books at their reading level. Choose a variety of genres to keep them engaged.
• Sight Words: Practice high-frequency sight words through flashcards or games.
• Phonics: Help them practice sounding out words, blending sounds, and identifying beginning and ending sounds.

Mathematics:

• Counting: Practice counting objects around the house, such as toys, utensils, or steps.
• Addition and Subtraction: Use everyday situations to introduce basic math concepts, like adding and subtracting when sharing snacks or toys.
• Number Sense: Work on recognizing numbers and understanding their value. For this, you can use dice, playing cards, or simple board games.
• Patterns: Identify and create patterns using household objects like buttons, colors, or shapes.

Writing:

• Journaling: Encourage your child to keep a simple journal where they can write about their day, draw pictures, or write short sentences.
• Writing Prompts: Provide writing prompts or questions to help them think creatively and express their thoughts through writing (later in the year).
• Letter Formation: Practice correctly forming letters using pencil, paper, or even sensory materials like sand or clay.

Fine Motor Skills:

• Drawing and Coloring: Offer opportunities for drawing and coloring to improve fine motor skills and creativity.
• Cutting: Provide child-safe scissors and paper for cutting practice.
• Puzzles: Engage in age-appropriate puzzles to enhance problem-solving skills.

Life Skills:

• Responsibility: Encourage your child to take care of their belongings and follow routines at home.
• Organizational Skills: Help them organize their school materials, backpack, and workspace.
• Daily Routines: Establish consistent routines for bedtime, chores, and homework time.

Technology Skills:

• Educational Apps and Websites: Use educational apps and websites focusing on literacy, math, and critical thinking skills (Links are available on Universal School's website).
• Keyboarding Skills: If your child uses a computer, introduce them to basic keyboarding skills.

Physical Activity:

• Outdoor Play: Encourage active play, such as riding bikes, playing catch, or going for walks.
• Stretching: Stretching exercises for relaxation and body awareness.

Social Skills:

• Cooperation: Encourage sharing, taking turns, and cooperating with siblings, cousins, or friends.
• Empathy: Discuss feelings and emotions with your child, helping them understand the perspectives of others.

Remember that the goal is to make learning at home enjoyable and stress-free. Keep activities age-appropriate and tailored to your child's interests and needs. Providing a positive and supportive environment for learning at home can have a meaningful impact on your child's academic and personal growth.

As always, I can be reached via email or ClassDojo App.

Wa'Salam