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.
✅ 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.
"I was working in the lab late one night..." The Monster Mash by Bobby "Boris" Pickett & The Crypt Kickers Hello hello Reader, It's parent teacher conference season. This may be the longest one on one time you get with your child's teacher this year- so make the most of it! 3 Ways to Have a Productive Conference 1️⃣ Ask: What's the biggest challenge for students in this grade / subject? The problem with conferences is they tend to take place during a very "vanilla" time of year. The teacher...
"Here I am baby, signed, sealed, delivered, I'm yours" Signed, Sealed, Delivered by Stevie Wonder Quick Links: 📚 Double Story time! Fri 10/9 at Betty's and Sat 10/10 Story Time Costume Party at Batch House! 🍎 Early Bird Ending! Workshop Early bird discount ends TODAY. Save $10 with code: early10 Hello hello Reader, I remember when I was in 5th grade and I got my first C. Progress reports were sent home, and after years of being an A / B student, my math grade had slipped. When I got home, I...
"It's my party, and I'll cry if I want to" It's My Party by Lesley Gore Hey Reader! This weekend is my birthday! I'm so honored to turn 36 this weekend. I experienced a lot of joy, pain, and life lessons at age 35. I'm ready to take that wisdom on to my next age. The Joy: Anytime I got to swim, I had some really really good laughs this year, traveling far and wide to see my friends & family, sweet moments with my husband, and I got to meet so many of you this year! The Pain: I tore my calf on...