Benefits of Family Meals

It's Worth the Effort!

A place to belong

• Home is where the heart is - and also at the refrigerator! Gathering the family for mealtimes reminds each family member that they are beloved and valuable.
• We can't wait to hear about their day - their thoughts, feelings and experiences.
• A sense of belonging is a key element of self-esteem, and the family table does a great job of building a sense of belonging and security.  It gives every child and teen "a place at the table."

from: Family Meals Challenge, Parenting Partners

15 Daily Home Activities for Prekindergarten Students

Simple Daily Schedule

Simple Daily Schedule-Spanish

TSR and Children's Learning Institute

Infant, Toddler and 3-year old Early Learning Guidelines

Activity 2

• Writing about My Nature Walk:
  • Ask your child to draw a picture of what they found on the nature walk.
  • Help your child label the picture with letters/words.
  • Write a sentence together. (Example:  Whe had fun on the nature walk.)
  • Have your child help you write a word he/she knows or a letter for a sound they hear in the words.

Activity 3

• Don't let it Fall!  Balloon Fun
  • Materials:  A few blow up balloons or a light ball such as a beach ball
    • Blow up a balloon.
    • Toss the balloon back and forth to your child.
    • The goal is to not let the balloon drop and see how long you can keep it in the air.
    • Add math by helping your child count and how many times you were able to keep it up in the air.
    • Next time try to beat that number!
  • Note: Make sure to properly throw away the plastic from popped or deflated balloons for the safety of infant, toddlers, and pets.

from: Region 4