“Research has found that early didactic instruction might actually worsen academic performance,” states David Kohn in his New York Times article, “Let the Kids Learn Through Play.” He goes on to say that, “Rebecca A. Marcon, a psychology professor at the University of North Florida, studied 343 children who had attended a preschool class that was ‘academically oriented,’ one that encouraged ‘child initiated’ learning, or one in between. Children’s progress ‘may have been slowed by overly academic preschool experiences that introduced formalized learning experiences too early for most children’s developmental status,’ Dr. Marcon wrote.
Thanks to The Gottman Institute for sharing this post by Jessica Stillman: “While there are some classic principles of parenting that never change–more love is always better, default to honesty, avoid general labels that will almost surely outlast their usefulness–science is continually uncovering fresh insights on raising kids. Keeping up with this research will arm you with the best information to evaluate the latest parenting trends and decide what’s best for your family…”
Read the full article here.
Hoosier parents now have a new tool to help their children learn and grow, thanks to a newly launched free texting service, Bloom Bright. Created by Early Learning Indiana and supported by PNC Bank,
Bloom Bright sends biweekly text messages to parents and other caretakers who sign up for the program. The messages offer easy ways to
boost development in children from birth through five More information here.
Why is a large vocabulary important for children? Because it’s linked to their reading and school success. Families can foster children’s vocabulary through conversations, reading aloud, and singing. Try these vocabulary-building ideas at home. > Describe what you are doing >Talk about what your child is doing >Narrate your adventures in the car, at the grocery store, or on a walk > Read aloud to your child every day >Sing with children to introduce and reinforce new vocabulary >Talk, talk, talk More information here
