Learn about the latest news in education and tips to help your kids thrive in elementary school. Delivered to your inbox every Tuesday. Primary Focus was founded by Natalie Parmenter, a former kindergarten teacher to guide parents through elementary school. We provide information that is often common knowledge to teachers but is not widely known among parents. Primary Focus is dedicated to enlightening parents on all things elementary school so their children can thrive.
âś… Winter Break Learning Hacks
"In the lane, snow is glistening"Winter Wonderland by Richard B. Smith & Felix Bernard Hey Reader, I'm smiling ear to ear today, because my viral video was featured on Unilad :) In case you were wondering, no these publications rarely reach out when making articles like this, so it was a total surprise. Have you heard of Winter Break BRAIN FREEZE? Learning loss happens to all children during long breaks from school. While summer break is the famous one, we also see it during winter breaks (or really anything 2+ weeks long). The good news? It's surprisingly easy to prevent. Here's how: MemorizationFocus on anything your child needs to memorize, like sight words, multiplication facts, counting, or spelling words. Reviewing these for just a few minutes every day can make a huge difference. Try making it fun with flashcards, apps, or games that incorporate these skills. Ask visitors to practice with your kids as a fun way to bond. ReadingEncourage your child to read for 20 minutes daily—bedtime stories absolutely count! Consistent reading, whether it’s a picture book, chapter book, or comic strip, helps maintain literacy skills and fosters a love for books. Tools like OK Ready can also support comprehension and track progress for younger readers and make it simple for parents. Critical ThinkingPlan activities that naturally encourage problem-solving and reflection. Museums, nature walks, and historical sites are perfect options. While you're there, have meaningful conversations. Many places offer brochures with pre-made questions or facts to guide discussions and spark curiosity. Cheat Code: The WorkbookThis was my secret weapon when I was teaching! Think Stretch offers fantastic winter break packets for K-5 students that keep kids engaged. If your child needs extra motivation, consider offering a small prize for completing the workbook. Bonus: These packets often include a mix of math, reading, and writing activities, so it’s an all-in-one solution. Remember, even a small effort over the break can help your child return to school ready to succeed! What's New?🎥 Gift Guides!: Check out my annual Holiday Teacher Gift Guide. This year I rounded up the top 5 gifts $0-25 for teachers. Stay tuned for my last video of the year coming out later this week...the Banned Book Gift Guide ❤️‍🩹 A tragedy: Yesterday a school shooting occurred in Madison, WI. We are still learning the details of what happened, but my heart goes out to all impacted. There are so many systems broken that would allow a child to bring a gun to school, and we are stuck in a pattern with this nightmare happening again and again. Once again I'll be donating to Every Town, a group that advocates for gun safety in the United States, and I'll be checking records of those I vote for. May this nightmare stay in 2024. Things I Love🎄 Stocking Stuffers for Tweens!
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Primary Focus Newsletter
Learn about the latest news in education and tips to help your kids thrive in elementary school. Delivered to your inbox every Tuesday. Primary Focus was founded by Natalie Parmenter, a former kindergarten teacher to guide parents through elementary school. We provide information that is often common knowledge to teachers but is not widely known among parents. Primary Focus is dedicated to enlightening parents on all things elementary school so their children can thrive.
"Mama said there’d be days like this." Mama Said by The Shirelles Hi Reader, When your child gets in trouble at school, it can feel overwhelming. You hear about it secondhand and try to balance your child’s version with the teacher’s. You’re managing their feelings, questioning the consequence, and juggling dinner and evening activities—all at once. This Newsletter is sponsored by OK Ready, by Scholastic - the monthly book box for kindergarten readiness. Use this link for up to 20% off and...
"I saw your face, and I knew it was a signAnd I still think about that moment all of the time" Love You for a Long Time by Maggie Rogers Hi Reader, We are more than halfway through American Indian Heritage month! I want to share some inspiration to talk with your kiddos! Quick tip: if you know the name of a person's tribe, it is always preferred to use the name. If you're speaking generally, then it's often preferred to say American Indians, Native Peoples, or Indigenous Americans. The term...
"Make it up as we go along" This Must be the Place by Talking Heads Hi Reader, 💕 A note to my wonderful readers: The goal of this newsletter is to provide educational tips and news to help your children thrive in school and to keep you informed about educational policies that may affect your family. I’ll often share my insights alongside the news, based on thorough research and my experience as an educator. I’ll always aim to make clear what’s opinion versus fact, and I’ll cite sources for...