This week on our WCTE Get Ready To Learn radio show, host Cynthia Whittaker Putman will be joined by special guest, Beth Anderson, writing teacher at Algood Elementary School.
Anderson, who has taught with Putman for the last 27 years, shares important information about what teachers in the Putnam County Schools (TN) School System are doing to support students and their families for the rest of the academic year.
Anderson discusses the importance of keeping students engaged as well as following a daily schedule that is task-oriented. Both educators stress that connection, not curriculum, is most important during these uncertain times.
So, try out a new recipe (check out PBS Food). Go on a nature walk. Pull out some old family photos and talk about their history. Look for ways to incorporate learning into everyday activities!
Anderson’s son Ryan, who is also an educator and a dad of two little girls, has started a private Facebook group called the Quarantine Learning Corner. This is a place where teachers, parents, and others can share informative videos and posts to help with learning and activities for children and parents to do/watch at home during covid-19 school closings.
Posts in the group include things like:
- Children’s book readings
- Book clubs and discussions
- Easy preK-12 learning/exploration activities
- Fun (not necessarily learning) activities
- Easy cooking
You may want to search for this or other similar groups for inspiration! There are also some great resources from PBS KIDS and PBS Teachers with at-home activities you can enjoy.
And if you want to get parenting tips and resources sent directly to your phone, sign up for Bright By Text! WCTE is partnering with Bright by Text and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to provide text message tips for parents and caregivers of children under 5 (including grandparents, aunts, uncles, babysitters, and nannies). Messages are targeted to the specific age of your child and include information on child development, early literacy, health, and safety, as well as local events happening in your community.
Simply text WCTE to 274448. It is free and so easy!
