Parents

====__**You**__ are key in your child's emotional, physical, and academic development. You've already shown your commitment to their education by choosing a private, Catholic school and sending them prepared every day. Here are some additional tips in helping your child's academic development:====

__//In Literacy//__
====Reading to your child, talking about books you've read, and modeling writing and reading by writing lists/emails/letters and reading books/magazines/emails/news in front of your child are all helpful ways to show the importance of literacy in daily life. Whatever language is most comfortable for you - English, Spanish, or another - is the best language to use with your child. It is not necessary to speak English at home, in fact, I believe it is very valuable to pass on your first language to your child.====

====Each week your child will come home with a brightly colored READ backpack. These backpacks have an English and a Spanish copy of the same book, along with activities for you and your child to do. It is important to read these books multiple times throughout the week and to do the activities. Rereading helps children become familiar with word patterns and helps them to recognize words that are repeated. The activities build literacy skills and create an interest in reading. Read the books and do the activities in whichever language is easiest for you. These backpacks provide an excellent opportunity for you to spend lots of quality time with your child!====

__//Helpful Websites//__
====Oxford Owl is a website loaded with tips for parents and a library of e-books for children. The tips are even broken down by age, so you can find specific ideas and activities to do with your child to promote literacy.====