Hey there! Today, we’re going to talk about how to keep young kids learning and having fun at home, especially when schools are closed. This is a big topic for parents who are juggling work, childcare, and everything else going on in the world right now. Let’s dive in!
Caroline Hu Flexer, the CEO and Co-founder of Khan Academy Kids, and Renee Scott, an early education expert from Stanford University, are here to share some great tips. They both have lots of experience in teaching and are also parents themselves.
Renee shares that kids are always learning, even when they’re just playing or doing everyday activities. For example, during bath time, you can talk about how bubbles feel and use words like “fluffy” and “slippery.” This helps build their vocabulary. You can also make up stories with them, which is great for their imagination and language skills.
Another fun activity is baking. Kids can count blueberries for muffins or sort ingredients, which helps with math skills. Even brushing teeth can be a learning moment by counting down with a timer or singing the ABCs.
It’s okay if you can’t always play with your kids. Sometimes, they need to entertain themselves. But when you can, try to make learning feel like it’s their idea. Give them choices, like picking between a puzzle or coloring, to make them feel more independent.
Also, make sure to connect with them. Ask them about their day with questions like “What was the best part of your day?” or “What are you looking forward to?” This helps them feel heard and supported.
Having a routine is important for kids because it makes them feel safe and know what to expect. You don’t need a strict schedule, but having a general plan can help. For example, you can set a time for meals, play, and learning activities.
Khan Academy Kids offers weekly planners to help parents create a routine. These planners include tips for literacy, math, and social-emotional development, making it easier to fill the day with learning opportunities.
During these times, it’s okay to have some screen time, but focus on quality. Choose educational apps or programs where kids actively learn and engage. Also, try to balance screen time with offline activities like drawing or playing outside.
Remember, you’re doing a great job! Give yourself and your kids some grace. Learning can happen in many ways, and it’s all about making it fun and engaging. If you have any questions or need more resources, check out Khan Academy Kids for helpful tips and activities.
Bubble Exploration: Next time you’re giving your child a bath, encourage them to explore bubbles more deeply. Ask them to describe how the bubbles feel and look. Use words like “fluffy,” “slippery,” and “shiny.” Then, challenge them to count how many bubbles they can catch on their hand before they pop. This activity not only enhances vocabulary but also introduces basic counting skills.
Baking Math Fun: Involve your child in a simple baking activity, like making muffins. Ask them to count the blueberries as they add them to the batter. You can also sort ingredients by size or color. After baking, have them divide the muffins among family members, discussing concepts like halves and wholes. This hands-on activity reinforces math skills in a fun and tasty way.
Daily Routine Chart: Create a colorful daily routine chart together. Let your child draw or use stickers to represent different parts of their day, such as meals, playtime, and learning activities. Discuss why routines are important and how they help us know what to expect. This activity helps children understand the concept of time management and the importance of routines.
