Posted: Fri Apr 27, 2007 6:29 am
If your child who is first grade age is already reading, you can still use a first grade program. Many young children, especially boys, are simply not ready for the additional workload and length of school day that is part of the other My Father’s World programs designed for 2nd through 8th grades.
My Father’s World first grade is not just learning how to read. There is also an emphasis on learning composition, character development, handwriting skills, and more. There is also time to add fun subjects such as art and classical music appreciation (from the deluxe package) as well as allowing for the availability of time to learn life skills and to become a family of ministry.
Here are some suggestions of how to use the first grade materials with children who are ahead in their reading skills.
1. The biggest change for an early reading child will be in the use of the blue cover student workbook. Instead of a phonics instruction, it will be used for phonics review and introduction to spelling. Other student materials can be used as written in the teacher’s manual. The Bible notebook should be used for teaching composition. The Proverbs verses are both Bible time and handwriting.
2. Use as many books as possible from the suggested library lists for math and science. Some of those books have project ideas in them to enrich the lessons. For a child who is already reading, you can think of some of these books as “readers”.
3. Work on observational skills when playing outside. Some families will start a nature journal as well. Take the time to ask questions such as “why” and “how” while outside. Let your child think about their answers. You can refer to the introduction of the teacher’s manual for more information on how to do this.
4. Continue to read out loud with your child. My Father’s World recommends a parent resource book called Honey for a Child’s Heart to help you with book selections.
5. Near the last third of the academic year in First Grade program, (refer to pages 193-194 of the teacher’s manual) there is a list of additional language arts activities for creative writing and dictations.
6. Remember to use the “fun” items from the deluxe package, such as music and art appreciation, and analytical puzzles. These subjects help to round out your child’s education.
7. Here's a thread from this summer about some ideas to fill up afternoon time.
http://board.mfwbooks.com/viewtopic.php?t=1829 There may be some ideas in there as well.
--crystal
