It is difficult for students to read and write about things they do not know a lot about. For example, if a child has never been to a park, it would be difficult for a child to imagine what it would be like to play in the sandbox or slide down a slide. The more a child knows about the park, the easier it is for him or her read a text about a park, understand it, and retain the information. Consequently, it is important to build your child’s background knowledge about the world around him or her by visiting new places, talking about the unique features of that place, and then perhaps even reading a book about it the next day. Here are a few activities you can do with your family to build your child’s background knowledge:
- West Hartford Library Museum Passes: Did you know that your local library has passes available to area museums, attractions, and arts venues? All you need to reserve these passes is a valid West Hartford library card! These passes provide you with free or discounted admission- there are so many options available! Click here to see the list of passes available.
The Zoo/Aquarium: Take the whole family on a trip to the local zoo. Visit each creature's exhibit and test your kids' animal knowledge. Little kids love to stop by the petting zoo to mingle with a variety of friendly, furry animals. Older kids will enjoy sitting in on a lecture by a professional zoologist, to learn about the various environments and eating habits of wild animals.
Science Museum: Satisfy your child's inquisitive side by exploring an array of exhibits, ranging from marine life to astrology and everything in between. Be sure to catch a lecture, live performance, or an IMAX showing for an in-depth look at fascinating subjects on the revolving schedule of shows.
Live Sporting Event: Take me out to the ball game! Who doesn't love a live sporting event? Don your player's jersey and support your favorite professional team with a family outing to the ballpark or stadium. Grab a hot dog and some peanuts, settle into your seat, and root your team on to a win. You can even make the game a math lesson for your kids!
Kids' Concert/Show: The next time your child's favorite band is in town, take her to a show for a special treat. If you're unable to get tickets to a popular show that's coming to town, check the local theater for old favorites such as Annie, Sesame Street, or a Disney movie on ice. Your local library often offers free performances too! Visit the West Hartford Library page for a list of programs.
Amusement Park: Whether you seek thrills from hair-raising roller coasters, or prefer to glide on an old-fashioned carousel, amusement parks have something for every member of the family. When you've had enough of the rides, don't forget to try some friendly family competition at the arcade!
Camping: Become one with nature. Grab the bug spray, pitch a tent, and tell ghost stories while sitting around the campfire roasting marshmallows. If a weekend getaway to a campground isn't possible, have your own family camping night in the backyard. Ask your children to identify the different animal and insect noises, or collect backyard materials for a special project. Although building a fire may not be recommended, you can grill hot dogs and tell spooky stories by the glow of a flashlight or portable lantern. At bedtime, hunker down in sleeping bags under the stars, or set up a tent. It's amazing how your own yard can be transformed into a nature wonderland at night!
Movies: Make this perfect rainy day activity a family affair. G-rated movies can be entertaining and enjoyable, even for adults! Your child will love seeing her favorite characters on the big screen, and you can kick back, relax, and enjoy some quiet time. Besides, who can resist the popcorn?
Park/Hiking Trail: Enjoy the great outdoors and get some exercise, with a leisurely stroll or hike along a nature trail or scenic road. Read up on the different flowers, trees, and birds native to your area, and give your children an informal nature lesson. If hiking isn't your thing, pack a picnic lunch and head to the local park to feed the birds, pick some flowers, and soak up the sunshine.
Outdoor Sports: Whether you live somewhere that stays warm all year, or in an area that is subjected to snow and ice during the winter months, there is always an outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Biking is the perfect outdoor activity for nice weather, and you don't need to own any equipment to enjoy it. Many local bike shops rent bikes and safety gear and they will even fit you with a helmet and pads to ensure you are wearing them correctly. If snow is in the forecast, bundle up and head to the closest ski area. Again, you can rent the equipment, and a lesson from a professional ski instructor will have you gliding down the slopes in no time. Look for packages that include kids' lessons, as well.
Bowling: Don't forget the local bowling alley when you're looking for something different to do on a rainy day. Throw on the goofy shoes and partake in a little competition with your kids. If your children are young, ask the bowling alley to supply bumpers for the lanes to avoid any gutter balls. And if you just don't feel like leaving the house, try an at-home version for the little ones!