This memo was originally prepared in November 2002. The materials to be distributed were not available at that time. Subsequently, this memo is now being issued using the same number and a new date.
After chronicling the changing landscape brought forth under the No Child Left Behind Act, the U.S. Department of Education has reissued its popular “Helping Your Child” series. These colorful booklets offer practical activities to stimulate children’s learning and a list of resources, such as books, computer programs, and web sites that adults and children can enjoy together. Moreover, they have been updated with new information, including the latest research-based practices for helping children learn.
The “Helping Your Child” publication series aims to provide parents with the tools and information necessary to help their children succeed in school and life. These booklets feature practical lessons and activities to help school aged and preschool children master reading, understand the value of homework, and develop the skills necessary to achieve.
An abstract of the “Helping Your Child” publication series include the following booklets ready for use:
1) “Helping Your Child Become a Reader”–This booklet offers pointers on how to build the language skills of young children, and includes a list of typical language accomplishments for different age groups, suggestions for books, and resources for children with reading problems or learning disabilities.
2) “Helping Your Child With Homework”–Homework can help children to develop positive study skills and habits, improve their thinking and memory abilities, and encourage them to use time well, learn independently, and take responsibility for their work. This booklet helps parents of elementary and junior high school students understand why homework is important and makes suggestions for helping children complete assignments successfully.
3) “Helping Your Preschool Child”–How well children will learn and develop and how well they will do in school depends on a number of things, including their health and physical well-being, social and emotional preparation, language skills, and general knowledge of the world. This booklet highlights techniques parents can use to encourage their children to develop the skills necessary for success in school and life by focusing on activities that make learning fun.
Each publication can be ordered in English or Spanish. To order additional copies of the “Helping Your Child” series, contact EDPubs, the U.S. Department of Education’s publications distribution center, at http://www.ed.gov/pubs/edpubs.html or by telephone at 1-877-433-7827.