Dear Parents,

     I know how much you care about your child's success in school, and I'd like to offer some simple suggestions that can make a big difference.

• Please ask your child every day what he has learned at school.  Don't accept the traditional response, "Nothing".  I can assure you that there will never be a day in our classroom this year when children learn nothing!
• Make time each day to read together for at least 20-30 minutes.
• Have books in your home for your child.
• Point out and discuss print in your daily environment - breakfast cereal boxes, grocery stores, post office, etc.
• Take a weekly visit to the public library together.
• Provide your child with a variety of writing materials, including pencils, crayons, markers, paper and stationary.
• Encourage your child's academic efforts by supporting and praising him.  Children are motivated if they believe you value their efforts. 

     These are just a few things you can do to get your child off to a good start this year.

      Sincerely,

      Mrs. Christ