MSI Press Blog

Today's tip for parents from two talented teachers comes from  365 Teacher Secrets for Parents  by Cindy McKinley Alder and Patti Trombly. #248 Hidden Treasure   Education is learning what you didn't even know you didn't know. ~Daniel Boorstin               As you read about in Idea #20, the game “Hidden Treasure” is an easy and fun way to practice just about anything! Social studies is no exception. If you aren’t sure how to play, go back and read the directions. Basically, you are placing cards in a special box and taking turns pulling out a card. Questions/terms on the cards are read to each other, and points are earned for correct answers. For what to write on the cards, try: ●       states and their capitals; ●       dates and their significance; ●       presidents and their terms or major accomplishments; ●  ...

  Today's tip for parents from two talented teachers comes from  365 Teacher Secrets for Parents  by Cindy McKinley Alder and Patti Trombly. #227 Seed Experiments   To see things in the seed, that is genius. ~ Lao-Tzu   Planting seeds and then observing and recording the growth of plants is always fascinating for young children and another good way to bring science into your home. If it’s possible, consider helping your child plant a real garden in which he can truly enjoy the “fruits” of his labor. Here are some easy and rewarding foods to grow: ●       pumpkins; ●       tomatoes; ●       carrots; ●       potatoes; ●       green beans; ●       peas; or ●       anything he shows an interest in!   If it is not possible for your child to grow his own garden, he might enjoy the following...

  Today's tip for parents from two talented teachers comes from  365 Teacher Secrets for Parents  by Cindy McKinley Alder and Patti Trombly. #226 Plant Parts A weed is no more than a flower in disguise. ~James Lowell               Children can easily recognize plants. Your child can probably identify a variety of them, but can she identify all of the basic parts? Here are ten fun activities to try with your child (and whole family!) that will help make a plant’s structure understandable in hands-on ways:   1.      Discuss the function of each part. The best way to do this is by observing a plant your child is familiar with either in or around your home. Don’t forget that trees are plants, too, just on a larger scale. Begin by asking your child what she thinks each part would do by observing it. Here’s a guide: a.      Leaf: makes food with help from t...