Friday Favs- Summer Edition (kids)

Look, Ma we made it! The end of the longest school year is finally here and I am here for it. My little one will is signed up for every possible week of summer camp and I am looking forward to a few weeks of nothing on the calendar for myself.

Summer Learning

While I am all about relaxation and a much needed break for everyone, I certainly want to prevent the dreaded “summer slide” where the kids’ minds turn to mush so here is what is currently in my cart to keep the learning going.

Journals/Workbooks

Summer Journal

Phonics

Math

Reading

I often get asked about leveled readers and I am NOT a fan; however, I do appreciate needing to know what type of books to buy for your child so they can be reading independently. I really like the “I Can Read” series (wayyyyyyy better than Step Into Reading). Start with the “Shared Reading- My First” books and then move onto the “Beginning Reader- Level 1” (this is after your child is successful with the decodable BOB books). Order a bunch online or even better, take your child to a local bookstore to pick out a few.

Of course, you know I’m recommending a handwriting book!

These Phonics Dominos are in my cart.

Chapter Book Recs (all are series)

Dory Fantasmagory

Zoey and Sassafras

Ivy and Bean

Junie B. Jones (not MY fav but find me a 5/6 year old that doesn’t love these books; they are my go-to for reluctant readers)

Magic Tree House  (my own daughter is not a fan but they are a classic for a reason)

Narwhal and Jelly

Katie Woo

Owl Diaries

The Princess in Black

Amelia Bedelia

The Boxcar Children

Little House 4-Book Box Set (great for teaching about life way back when)

Best of Children’s Classics

Summer Camp Prep

These suits are perfect for camp; easy on and off and less sunscreen=a win for all

Obsessed with these water bottles

Oh, I am so borrowing this glitter sunscreen…

And this shimmer spray…

Are we doing crocs again? I’m on the fence but if I do, it’ll be these glitter ones.

OK, so that’s it for now. Wishing everyone an amazing summer; we all deserve it!

Friday Favs

Its hard to believe but it’s been almost TWO YEARS since I’ve written a post! I have been working almost full time as a literacy consultant and I’ve had to be choosey with how I spend my free time. Now that I’m working in a much more limited capacity, I thought I’d bring back one of my favorite posts- Friday Favs. These are some challenging times (to say the least) so here’s what I’ve found to be helpful and a few things that have put a smile on my face this week.

First and by far most important-

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This comprehensive ANTI-RACISM document for white people. 

Not sure where to start? Books are a great place to begin discussions with your children. If you have teens, read one together. Learn, donate, protest. Whatever you do, do not hide in your bubble of privilege as tempting as it may be.

Now for the kids-

This great kit to explore the life cycle of butterflies with your children.

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Varsity Tutors is offering free virtual camps this summer. We checked out the science one this week and my 4.5 year old was into it. It was an hour long M-F. It held her attention for about 30-45 min most days.

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Father’s Day Gift Idea

This inflatable movie screen will make for amazing summer memories.

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I’d say “enjoy your weekend” but that seems flippant during these times so instead I’ll say “find some enjoyment in whatever you do”.