Highlights High Five™ September 2009 Parent/Teacher Guide
The Kittens' Mittens (pages 12 to 15)
- The first time you read this story, ask the children to describe what they see in each picture.
- The next time you read it, help the children create dialogue for the characters.
Even before they begin formal reading instruction, young children can read pictures. Reading wordless books and stories will help children develop confidence in their ability to master the printed page. Here are some wordless picture books that young children can read on their own: Changes, Changes, by Pat Hutchings; A Boy, a Dog, and a Frog, by Mercer Mayer; Jack and the Night Visitors, by Pat Schories. Your local children's librarian can suggest many more!
Build It (page 34)
- Help children count the bowling pins.
- Older children could count the number of blocks she used.
- Ask: Do you think the ball will knock down some of the pins? Why or why not?
Block play is important for young children because it offers opportunities for creative self-expression. Children can freely experiment as they build a variety of structures. Providing an assortment of building materials will further challenge young children. Although you may have a rule that says you are not to knock down anyone's structure, this bowling game is a controlled way to watch the blocks fall!
Making Silly Critters (bonus pages)
- This card game is played like "Go Fish."
- If they don't want to play a card game, children can mix and match the cards to make silly critters.
Simple card games help children learn how to play by the rules and cope with the disappointment of losing. This game also helps young children learn how to ask questions of other players.