Parent's Helper: Folder Games Equal Great Learning Fun!

Take a break from worksheets and computer based learning and give the kids a folder game. They are a great form of practice and once they're familiar, kids can learn to do many of the games independently. I always do stick around in case they need help and to make sure they don't look at the answer sheet. A teacher recommended this learning tool and I've used it since my kids were toddlers. What I love is most is that the games come in different grade levels and various subject matter. 

All you need to get started is a book of the games, a game website or make them up yourself. Use one pocket folder for each game and a zip baggie for the game pieces. I like to tape the bag to the back of the folder. A laminator helps game pieces last longer but is not necessary. You can glue pieces to cereal boxes and cut them out. This makes them a bit sturdier and easier to use. So go online and google folder games for all sorts of options to get started with this new/old style of learning and see your child grow in an exciting way!

Blessings,

Polly

Parent's Helper: Products To Promote Early Literarcy and Learning

When our oldest child was one we bought her a Little Touch LeapPad by Leapfrog. The electronic and interactive story reader introduced all the fundamentals of reading, along with music and math basics. That was six years ago. Now two children and several products later, Leapfrog totally rules our home. Their educational products are the best at keeping children engaged, whether they're preschoolers or in grade school. Our kids' favorite learning tool is the Tag Reading System. I purchased this product in 2009 as Leapfrog phased out a few of their earlier systems, including our beloved Little Touch.

The Tag comes in two versions Tag Jr. for children ages 2 to 4 and Tag for ages 4 to 8. This product is great because children can do self guided learning as well as work with a parent's help. However to reap the benefits of this niffy gadget, a PC and internet connection are required. That's because the audio file for the each Tag storybook must be downloaded before the child can enjoy it. Access to a home computer makes this quick and easy to do.

The Tag's premise is an electronic pen which serves as the reader and a book that responds to a touch of the pen. So when the child touches the pen to the book pages, it will read the story aloud, read one word at a time, test reading comprehension, play fun story-based games and more. To find out exactly what your child is learning you must plug the item into your computer and log on the Leapfrog site. There you can see your child's personal learning path, collect rewards and check out even more awesome learning toys and accessories. I give the Tag reader 5 out of 5.

Questions or comments on my children's experience with this product are welcome.

Blessings,

Polly