The school year is just about half over now.
How are you feeling?
Are you rushed…
Fatigued?
Basically out of breath and gasping?
Are you running on fumes?
Do you sometimes find yourself fantasizing about getting Covid because at least you’d be forced to rest?
I know that sounds terrible…but I have felt this way, and I know some of my girlfriends have also.
If you can’t relate to any of the above and you have your life together and are keeping all plates spinning - then you are SUPERHUMAN and probably an alien.
If on the other hand, you relate to the picture I painted above, then you are in the right place.
If you’re here because you’re looking for the number one way to get your child reading (as I promised I would tell you), then I’ve got something for you.
Don’t be upset if it’s not the detailed instructions that you were hoping for - yes, I can give you that - I have 30 years of experience teaching reading. I’ve got you covered.
But I’m not going to give you detailed ‘instructions’.
Are you ready for it? You better sit down.
Here it is:
Slow Down.
That’s it.
Just slow down, Mama. If you are stressed you better believe EVERYONE in your family feels it.
Your kids feel it. But unfortunately they are most likely unable to name it.
So Mama, if you slow down, breathe and practice being present with your children then they will slow down as well. If you put away the tablet, phone, game or TV and pull out a book instead, I promise your child will slowly start to melt into you while you read.
You will help regulate your child’s sensitive nervous system simply by enjoying a book together
….and cuddling.
Both of you will be releasing dopamine.
Win win.
This is the first step.
Phonemic awareness, phonics and fluency can come later.
For now:
Slow down, be present….and share a book with your child.
If you’re looking for ways to get your child reading after you’ve been slowing down and cuddling with a read-aloud. I can help you.
And of course I’m ALWAYS going to suggest that you get outside together. But more on that in another post.
So for today’s homework: JUST STOP. JUST BE. BREATHE….and let your child snuggle up next to you as you read to them.
Peace.
Xo Steph
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