#mombassadorchat

Moms,
Today's chat is with @erinflaherty818 

Here's her Bio:

Erin Flaherty has her BS in Elementary Education from the University of Pittsburgh, her M.Ed. in School Leadership and Administration, a M.Ed. Certificate in Reading and Literacy, and a M.Ed. Certificate in Professional Development.  She has been working in education for 18 years and has taught at a variety of grade levels, settings, and states across the country.  Erin has also held positions outside of the classroom to support families and students with academic, behavioral, and financial concerns that impact learning while also serving as a 504 Coordinator and Teacher Mentor for other teachers and at-risk students.  Erin lives in Dover, DE with her husband, 4 children, and puppy.  She works full-time for her school district and is an Adjunct Faculty member at a local college.

Want to help your kids stay learning-focused this summer and help them prepare for the next school year?  Regardless of the grade-level, Erin shares some tips for a productive summer.

1.  Read, read, READ!  This will look different depending on how old your child is, but take an active role.  It is not enough to say, “Go read for 20 minutes in your room,” and expect them to do so.  Take turns reading aloud, work on decoding, ask questions, etc.  Do allow your child to choose the book.
2.  Play, play, PLAY!  Board games, card games, dramatic play, outdoor play—It ALL matters!  Playtime is an amazing opportunity to bond with your child and to teach them necessary skills like cooperation, sportsmanship, and creativity.
3.  Create, create, CREATE!  As a mom of 4, I know that sparking creativity in kids is a messy job, but the rewards are incredibly worth it.  Bubbles, play doh, sidewalk chalk, painting, coloring, music, dancing, these all help to create a healthy, happy, well-rounded child.  If you get into a slump, Pinterest is awesome! 

Remember, moms, YOU are your child’s first teacher.  They need you and want to learn from you.  Your active involvement will teach them more than any free worksheet online.  Final tip:  Online games and books are innovative and engaging, but keep it as a tool rather than a stand-in parent. 

Have specific questions?  Be sure to tag @Erinflaherty818 in the comments!

A huge thanks to @erinflaherty818 for hosting this chat ❤

Don't forget! Participants are entered in a drawing for a Mom.life bumper sticker 💞

Let's get chatting!

✨mom.life_usa🎉