Numeracy and Literacy
The central goal of the Primary School years is to help children develop basic skills in numeracy and literacy so that they are able to read, write, and compute. The development of numeracy and literacy depends on a close interaction of the teacher and student. This is best accomplished in a home setting, whenever possible. This home setting could involve more than one child and be located in any place that can provide a home-like, loving, and caring atmosphere. We cannot provide such a setting online, but can help you provide one at home.
For the early years (up to about age seven), I have developed an on-line tutorial, which provides suggestions and guidance for working with your child to develop the basic skills he will need before entering the Preparatory Program. You can begin the tutorial by following the first link. Once you have studied the tutorial materials, you will find it convenient to browse the book lists and to follow those links as you teach your child the basic skills. Do not neglect to read good books to your children!
The telling and reading of stories to children in early years, before they have mastered the art of reading, is of such importance as to awaken the serious thought of parents and teachers.
The Mother Goose, the fables, the fairy tales, the Arabian Nights, Eugene Field's and Stevenson's poems of child life, the Bible stories, the myths, and some of the old ballads have untold treasures for children.
If the things which the children learn in early years have been well selected from the real treasures of the past (of which there is a goodly store), the seeds of true culture have been deeply sown in their affections.
You will find the following books most instructive in your teaching. Charlotte Mason needs little introduction. She was a primary force in improving the quality of the early education provided at home by mothers. The public kindergarten as a place where children would be able to learn in a pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere was largely developed by Friedrich Wilhelm Froebel, of whom the two sisters below are faithful students; Kate Wiggin clearly explains his method of "gifts."
- Home Education by Charlotte M. Mason
- Kindergarten Teaching at Home by Sister Charlotte and Sister Ethel Isabella
- Froebel's Gifts by Kate Douglas Wiggin and Nora Archibald Smith
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