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Building Blocks for First Grade!

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Lesson Plan

Building Blocks for First Grade!

Parents will gain practical strategies and resources to effectively support their first grader's academic and social-emotional growth, fostering a positive home learning environment.

Empowering parents with accessible tools and insights significantly boosts student confidence and achievement, strengthening the home-school connection.

Audience

Parents of 1st Grade Students

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Interactive workshop with actionable tips and discussion.

Prep

Session Preparation

30 minutes

Step 1

Welcome & Warm-Up

5 minutes

Begin by warmly welcoming parents to the session.

"Hello everyone, and welcome! We're so glad you could join us today. To kick things off, I'd love for each of you to share one thing you're really excited about for your child this year in first grade."



Step 2

Overview: Why Home Support Matters

5 minutes

Transition to the first slides of the Welcome Parents Slide Deck.

"Today, we're going to explore some simple yet powerful ways you can support your child's learning right in your own home. We know you're busy, so our focus is on practical, easy-to-implement strategies that make a big difference.

Your involvement is one of the biggest factors in your child's success. Let's look at what we'll cover today!"

Step 3

Key Strategies for Success

15 minutes

Continue through the Welcome Parents Slide Deck, presenting each strategy.

"First up, let's talk about reading. Reading together doesn't have to be a chore; it can be a highlight of your day. We suggest aiming for about 15-20 minutes daily, but the most important part is to make it enjoyable. Let your child pick books they love, and don't be afraid to reread favorites! When you're done, ask them questions like 'What was your favorite part?' or 'What do you think happens next?' You'll find even more tips in your Home Learning Handbook."

Move to the next slide.

"Next, let's make math fun! Math is all around us. You can practice counting objects around the house, identify shapes in your neighborhood, or play simple board games that involve numbers. Even things like measuring ingredients when cooking are great math opportunities."

Move to the next slide.

"Establishing routines and fostering responsibility are also key. A consistent homework time, even if it's just 10-15 minutes, can make a huge difference. Encourage your child to take on small responsibilities, like packing their own backpack or helping set the table. These build independence and a positive attitude towards learning."

Move to the next slide.

"Remember, every little bit helps, and it's about building a love for learning, not just completing tasks. Now, let's open it up for any questions you might have or experiences you'd like to share. Your Home Learning Handbook also has many more ideas and resources."

Step 4

Q&A and Wrap-Up

5 minutes

Facilitate a short Q&A session. Conclude by reiterating encouragement and the availability of resources.

"Thank you for your fantastic questions and insights! Remember, the Home Learning Handbook is a great resource to take home with you, filled with all the tips we discussed today and more. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions. We're partners in your child's education!"

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Slide Deck

Building Blocks for First Grade Success!

Welcome, amazing parents! Let's work together to build a strong foundation for your child's first-grade journey. We're excited to partner with you!

Welcome parents warmly and set a positive tone for the session. Briefly introduce yourself and the purpose of the meeting.

Our Goal Today

Parents will learn practical, easy-to-use strategies to support their first grader's academic and social-emotional growth at home. Every little bit makes a big difference!

Clearly state the objective of the session. Emphasize that these are practical, easy-to-implement strategies.

Reading Adventures at Home!

  • Read Together Daily: Aim for 15-20 minutes.
    - Let Them Choose: Kids love books they pick!
    - Ask Questions: "What happened next?" "How did that character feel?"
    - Visit the Library: It's a treasure trove of stories!

(See your Home Learning Handbook for more ideas!)

Discuss the importance of reading aloud and making it an enjoyable experience. Encourage parents to use the handout for more specific tips.

Making Math Marvelous!

  • Count Everything! Stairs, toys, snacks.
    - Spot Shapes: Circles, squares, triangles are everywhere.
    - Play Games: Simple board games or card games involve numbers.
    - Bake Together: Measuring ingredients is great math practice!

(Your Home Learning Handbook has fun math game ideas!)

Provide examples of how math can be integrated into everyday activities, making it less intimidating and more fun.

Routines & Growing Responsibilities

  • Consistent Routines: Homework time, bedtime, morning routines.
    - Encourage Independence: Let them pack their backpack (with supervision!).
    - Foster a 'Can-Do' Attitude: Celebrate effort, not just perfection.
    - Talk About School: Ask open-ended questions about their day.

Explain how routines build independence and reduce stress for both children and parents. Highlight the importance of fostering a positive attitude.

Questions & Resources for You!

What questions do you have about supporting your first grader?

Your Home Learning Handbook is a fantastic resource to take home with more tips, activity ideas, and ways to stay connected!

Open the floor for questions and direct parents to the handout for additional resources and continued support.

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Reading

The First Grade Home Learning Handbook

Welcome, First Grade Families! This handbook is designed to give you practical ideas and resources to support your child's learning and growth throughout their first-grade year. Remember, you are your child's first and most important teacher!

1. Reading Adventures at Home

Reading together is one of the most powerful things you can do to help your child succeed. Make it a joyful, daily habit!

Tips for Engaging Reading:

  • Daily Read-Alouds: Aim for at least 15-20 minutes of reading aloud together every day. This could be before bed, after dinner, or any time that works for your family.
  • Let Them Choose: Allow your child to select books from the library, bookstore, or even books they already own. When they choose, they are more invested!
  • Don't Be Afraid to Re-Read: Repeated readings help build fluency and comprehension. It's okay if they want to read the same book again and again!
  • Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of just
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Slide Deck

Recess Confidence Quest!

Get ready for a super fun recess!
Let's learn how to make it awesome for everyone!

Welcome first graders! Start with an exciting tone about recess. Ask them what they love about recess.

Your Time to Shine!

  • Recess is for playing and having fun!
    - It's your time to choose what you want to do.
    - You get to be the boss of your play!

Explain that recess is their time to choose, play, and have fun. Emphasize that it's their time.

Pick Your Adventure!

  • What makes you happy at recess?
    - Do you want to run, swing, or build?
    - You get to pick! Make a plan in your mind.

Talk about making choices. Ask what kinds of games they like to play. Encourage them to think about what makes them happy.

Friends and Fun!

  • See a game you want to join? Just ask: "Can I play too?"
    - Remember to share and take turns.
    - Everyone likes a good sport!

Discuss joining games politely. Model how to ask to join. Highlight sharing and taking turns.

Oops! What If?

  • If you don't know what to do: Look around for an idea!
    - If you feel left out: Ask a friend or start your own game!
    - It's okay to try something new or ask for help!

Address feeling stuck. Provide simple solutions. Reinforce that it's okay to try different things or ask for help.

Be a Recess Explorer!

  • Try a new game!
    - Try a new friend!
    - It's fun to discover new things, even if it feels a little scary at first.

Encourage bravery in trying new activities. Focus on the effort and the fun, not just being 'the best'.

You're a Recess Superstar!

  • You have great ideas!
    - You can make good choices!
    - You can make recess fun for yourself and your friends!

Conclude with an empowering message. Remind them they have the power to make recess great. Praise their listening and potential.

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Building Blocks for First Grade! • Lenny Learning