Build Habits for the New Year!
If you have five minutes, you have time to develop some great new habits this year to help your child get ready for success in school and life. Here are 5 five-minute, fun habits to try in 2015:
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“Power Read” with your baby, toddler and preschooler. Even if you have only five minutes, get out a book and read aloud—those little minutes add up.
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Make sticky-note words. With your toddler or preschooler, write out letters for things like “sink” or “wall” and place them on the objects to build pre-reading skills. Write your child’s name and place it on him; write “Mom” or “Dad” for you!
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Sing and play “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes.” Five minutes of singing and moving teaches your child vocabulary, builds coordination and helps you be more active.
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Dance with your baby. After dinner, make dancing a family affair. She will love the closeness and rhythm of the movement and music, and you will get moving—a great stress buster.
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Roll or kick a ball back and forth. In five minutes, how many times can you roll or kick a ball to each other? This activity builds concentration and coordination important for school (and future sports stars!). Try to beat your record next time.
