Blog Archives

S.M.A.R.T. Tips for Parents - Jumping and Hopping

4/27/2020

This week we’re talking about all things jumping and hopping! Jumping engages the lymphatic system and helps the body get rid of toxins.

There are many ways your child can add Jumping and Hopping into their day. Try Jumping Jacks, a Hippity Hop, a Pogo Stick, or even Moon Shoes!

Try Hopscotch!
We start Hopscotch by hopping on 2 feet (feet together, feet apart). When we master that we move to hopping on 1 foot (1 foot, 2 feet apart)

You can create a Hopscotch for your child by using foam squares, chalk on a sidewalk, or even SOCKS!! Share your inventive Hopscotch grids with us!

Variety is the spice of life so we’re sharing Hopscotch variations from Parents.com and Housing A Forest for you to try!

0 Comments

S.M.A.R.T. Tips For Parents - Learning Ladders

4/20/2020

0 Comments

In this week's S.M.A.R.T. Tips for Parents, we take a look at Learning Ladders, a great activity that provides a fun way for children to get the extra “inputs” needed to master a skill or concept.

Remember to include a type of movement when saying each item. Have your child practice the ladder 5 times and then check to see if they know the items. If they need more practice (they likely will) have them repeat. Explore different kinds of movements throughout the week!

Check out this demo that pairs dribbling and spelling words for a quick easy learning ladder.

Household Learning Ladders
Use what you have around the house to make a Learning Ladder. Post-it notes and flashcards work well when creating ladders. You could also try taping an index card to a magnet.

Learning Ladders are a great way to address information your child is learning.

Learning Ladders can be created by using dry erase markers on the sliding glass door! Your child can get outside and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine while learning. (If the weather isn't cooperating you can do this activity from inside the house too.)

0 Comments

S.M.A.R.T. Tips for Parents - Alligator Crawl

4/13/2020

0 Comments

In this week's S.M.A.R.T. Tips for Parents, we explore fun ways to the Alligator Crawl!

Alligator Crawling helps develop the core strength needed to sit upright in a chair.

Tip: Avoid Alligator Crawling on the carpet with shorts!

If you don’t have a lot of space, finding places to Alligator Crawl can seem overwhelming. In smaller classrooms, teachers have students crawl under tables or desks. Crawling under or through things naturally encourages children to stay low.

Having a simple S.M.A.R.T. course at home helps “get the wiggles out” and improves focus.

Take the course outside! Include many fun SMART activities you have learned thus far!

0 Comments

S.M.A.R.T. Tips for Parents - Spinning and Rolling

4/5/2020

0 Comments

In this week's S.M.A.R.T. Tips for Parents, we take a look at spinning and rolling activities, like the pencil roll, that helps develop ourvestibular system so children can feel comfortable sitting in a chair and staying there for as long as the activity is required.

Kids can roll in any open floor space! Check out these rolling activities and be sure to share your own in the comments section below, on Facebook, or email us at mlrc@actg.org!