I much rather kids be playing and creating than sitting with some sort of device in their hands. However, I often get asked to recommend apps or websites. So here are some of my favourites.
Websites:
Math Playground has free math games by grade level. You will have to search around to help your child find games that are at the right level for them. http://www.mathplayground.com/grade_2_games.html
I use the WITS program in my classroom in order to give children strategies for solving social problems at school. This website has information for families. http://www.witsprogram.ca/families/
Ipad Apps I like:
- Line 'em Up (by Classroom focused software) *make sure to go into settings and change the number of tiles to 20 and the starting number beyond 10 - Dragon Shapes: Geometry Challenge - Motion Math: Hungry Guppy - Motion Math: Zoom - Tens Frame Snap - Montessori Crosswords - Spelling With Phonics Alphabet - EPIC (for access to hundreds of books on-line)
Interesting Articles to Read:
Does your child have their own bookshelf in their room? Sadly many children have TVs in their room instead. BOO! Here is a link to a piece about creating readers and battling technology, by the fabulous Mem Fox. (One of my favourite authors for kids!) http://memfox.com/for-parents/for-parents-flashing-screens-or-turning-pages/
Below is a link to a short article about the benefits of rough housing (rough and tumble play). Note: At school there is a hands off policy to ensure the safety of all students, and rough play is not allowed. But at home, don’t worry about your kids if they want to engage in this kind of play. Do not mistake rough play as aggression. http://psychcentral.com/lib/6-benefits-of-roughhousing-for-kids/0007973
Hopefully no one needs this one!! They have great information on how to get rid of the lice by yourself, at home, without the use of chemicals. (NOTE: I am not endorsing their services, or trying to get you to use their services) You can also visit the BC health link page for lots of information. http://greatervancouverliceclinic.ca/ http://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthfiles/hfile06.stm