This column will give you some useful information for a preschool child starting at a very young age and up through elementary school.

1st grade reading

At school students will:

Retell stories, including key details and demonstrate understanding of the central message.

At home you can:

Ask your child questions about stories he/she is reading; have him/her use parts of the story to explain his/her thinking. Read different stories together and discuss the similarities and differences of the adventures of the characters.

To develop confidence, independence, motivation, curiosity, persistence, cooperation, here are things you can try.

* Show your child that you care about her or him. Those who feel loved are more likely to be confident. Your child must believe that, no matter what, someone will look out for him or her. Give your baby or toddler plenty of attention, encouragement, hugs and lap time.

* Set a good example. Children imitate what they see others do and what they hear others say. When you exercise and eat nourishing food, your child is more likely to do so as well. When you treat others with respect, your child probably will, too. If you share things with others, your child also will learn to be thoughtful of others' feelings.

Fifth grade math

At school students will:

Understand what a fraction is and how a fraction is another representation for division.

At home you can:

Have your child relate fractions to recipes and measuring cups and tablespoons. "Double" or "cut in half" a recipe to demonstrate multiplying or dividing fractions.

Develop routines

Children in school cooperate because they know the routine. There is a pattern, so they know what they are supposed to be doing and they get used to this over a short period of time. At home, the more consistent you are, the more cooperative your children will be. Simple things like when homework is done, when you can watch TV, get dressed before breakfast, etc.

The source of the information is from the Coeur d'Alene School District and the U.S. Department of Education.

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