First grade has got to be one of the most exciting times in both the parent's and the child's life. Typically, by the end of this grade, most kids can read pretty well. The ability to read, of course, has the potential to open up the world to them. Now, they no longer have to rely on brief question and answer sessions to gain little tidbits of knowledge - they can read about whatever subject they are interested in!
Rachel, my youngest, just completed first grade and while she is not an excellent reader, she is VERY good at sounding things out when she is inspired. In fact, she can read very difficult words about the same as many more common and shorter words!
As I've mentioned in previous posts about her, she loves making things and has a mind that can think in three-dimensions. This results in elaborate (and messy) projects erupting around the house on a nearly daily basis. Now that she can read, she can also read the instructions on many craft-type items, which I'm sure will contribute to the artwork we have in a big way.
One additional area where reading is paying off for her, is in another activity she loves - COOKING.
Here's what I found when I came up from my office the other day:
That's right, Rachel was making blueberry muffins all by herself. When I asked her how she learned to do this (thinking someone had taught her), she said she just got the package out of the pantry and read the directions. Oh, and could I turn the oven on for her because she's not supposed to use the oven without help!
Unfortunately, I had to leave before the muffins were done, but I heard that they were delicious!
my daughter is that same age, but hasn't figured out that she could (in theory) cook almost on her own yet. Lord save us when she does ...
Posted by: LisaS | June 22, 2009 at 05:06 PM