Useful ideas.

I have found the most useful tools for teaching are the old fashioned games that I used to play. I started playing these with Isabella when she was only three.

Hangman
Noughts and Crosses
The square game ( this is where you draw an even number of dots ............
............
............

almost like I have shown you. Then you take it in turns to draw one line at a time to make squares. Whoever draws the last line to make the square wins it and puts there name in it, the winner is the person with the most squares at the end.)

As soon as possible create a diary, use pictures if they can't write and then add simple words later on. Or collect things from your adventures. This starts to teach them the basics of time and language.

The other thing which I did with Isabella as soon as I could was take her to theatre performances. Any sort is good. Musicals to local Am Drams or even concerts. This allows them to build an interest in performing. Which results in confidence being built up. LAMDA exams and local drama festivals are my first choice. See http://www.lamda.org.uk/

I also have tips on how to teach reading and maths at a young age. I have followed these ideas with Isabella even though they are quite different to the way school did it. I do think sometimes the old ways are the best. I cannot stress enough though that if these ideas do not suit your child then try other ways. Also if your child seems unhappy at any stage then stop. My ideas are supposed to be fun without them feeling that they are working.

See my blogs over the next week for reading tips and maths tips.