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Oft noted is the principle that small and simple actions can lead to big outcomes.
There are countless applications of this principle when it comes to learning. For example, summer practice of reading, math, and penmanship can bring big learning gains by the start of school in the fall. Suggestions and free resources from American Heritage School's new Salt Lake City campus follow for summer practice of reading, math, and penmanship.
Reading
American Heritage School recommends the following titles for summer reading, including picture books, fiction and non-fiction chapter books, short stories, and poems. These titles engage reading skills, ignite the imagination, and illustrate good character. Please share these lists freely with family and friends:
- K–3 Elementary Recommended Readings
- 4–5 Elementary Recommended Readings
- 6–8 Middle School Recommended Readings
- 9–12 High School Recommended Readings
- Complete List of Recommended Readings
These titles can be borrowed from public or school libraries, purchased in local bookstores, or downloaded from online booksellers. Some titles (pre-1923) are available for free download from Project Gutenberg.
To help your child grow as a reader, ask your child to read for 20 minutes or more per day. Reading, especially aloud, will strengthen your child's reading fluency and comprehension and can increase your child's confidence in subjects that require reading.
Read with your child and allow your child to see you reading. Enjoy conversations together about what you read. Relate what you are reading to your family, faith, and community.
Math
In addition to reading and discussing ideas together, reviewing math flashcards for about 10 minutes per day can solidify your child's understanding and automatic recall of "math facts," including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Free math flashcard apps are available for download on Android and Apple devices. Open your app store and search "Math Flashcards." You are likely to find several free and low-cost options. Choose an app that is well-rated and affordable.
Make flashcard review a positive experience. Smile. Play games. Compliment your child's efforts. Avoid commenting, "You are good at math," or "You are not good at math." Instead, when your child tries, say "Good effort," "You're doing it!" or "This is coming along nicely; I'm proud of you. You're giving such good effort." Children can learn math well in time if they put in effort, have a supportive helper, and seek help as needed.
Local stores may sell printed flashcards. Online retailers can ship flashcards to your home. Homemade flashcards are also a possibility.
Time you spend reviewing math flashcards with your child is time well spent. Basic math facts will become recognizable and automatic with regular practice and time. Your child will improve their memory, understanding, and automatic recall of math facts, which will serve your child well.
Penmanship
Summer is a good time to practice handwriting. Children can improve their penmanship by practicing a few minutes per day. Free, printable handwriting packets from American Heritage Worldwide help students in grades K–5 practice handwriting (cursive or print) while reviewing academic concepts and scriptural principles. These packets are also available for low-cost printing.
About American Heritage School
American Heritage School offers a beautiful family culture of study and faith. With more than 50 years of experience in Utah County, American Heritage School is opening a new campus in Salt Lake City this August.
We invite you to learn how American Heritage School can support your family values.
Significant financial aid is available to help you attend. To learn more about American Heritage School in Salt Lake City or American Fork, please register an inquiry. To learn about American Heritage School's Worldwide programs, visit AHSWorldwide.org.
