Blog entry by Mellissa McNish
In conclusion, during these uncertain times and possibly in the better future, this innovative 'Kids on the Yard + Online Learning’ model can provide a well-rounded approach to enhance children's literacy. It doesn't pose online learning and traditional playground activities as rivals, but harmoniously blends them, acknowledging that each has its place and role in a child's development. This approach also addresses parental concerns regarding screen-time and safety while giving children a schooldays experience they missed due to the pandemic. It further presents itself as a promising model for other key areas of learning and development.
Further, teachers experimented with various teaching strategies. For instance, they incorporated phonics instructions to strengthen letter-sound relationships, and guided reading sessions to boost comprehension levels. One effective technique was 'pair reading', where each struggling student was paired with a proficient reader. The pair would take turns reading aloud, while teachers facilitated discussions about the text to strengthen comprehension and vocabulary.
This incredible blend of outdoor play and online learning not only makes reading more engaging and fun but also offers an enriched learning experience. It encourages comprehensive benefits by combining the positives of digital education and physical engagement.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting global lockdowns, digital learning platforms have become indispensable. With children spending more time at home, Phonics Games for Kids have become a boon for parents and teachers, providing a constructive alternative to the idle screen time.
Initial assessments involved determining students’ reading levels and understanding their unique challenges. Various testing methods included read-aloud sessions, one-on-one interviews, and written tests to gauge their comprehension skills and fluency. Assessments revealed a spectrum of problems including dyslexia, poor vocabulary, low comprehension, and lack of interest.
Writing is an enigmatic process that involves merging thoughts, creativity, knowledge, and skill with words to create meaningful and impressive content. It is a skill that depends largely on one's ability to think critically and articulate ideas or opinions in a structured manner.
The educators followed an evidence-based approach that relied on individual student assessments, personalized learning plans, and a variety of teaching strategies. The aim was to increase students' reading proficiency, confidence levels and enjoyment of reading.
Initiated by a group of passionate educators who strongly believe that learning should be both fun and instructive, "Kids on the Yard" presents an exceptional model of incorporating play into studying, thereby fostering effective study habits in children.
"Kids on the Yard" aims to disrupt traditional teaching methods by promoting an environment where children can learn effectively while enjoying themselves. The organization believes that by doing so, they are not only helping children to develop effective study habits but also cultivating lifelong learners.
The initiative has made significant strides since its inception, and has received endorsement from eminent educationalists. However, the real measure of its success lies in its influence on students. Parents report that their children now anticipate study times eagerly and show increased focus, clarity, and understanding of subjects.
At the heart of writing is communication - a bridge that connects minds. Whether one is writing stories, reports or persuasive essays, the central aim should always be to convey particular information to a specific audience. Hence, effective writing requires a deep understanding of the target audience. It requires knowing their interests, views, and the type of language that would resonate with them.
Moreover, in the online reading sessions, teachers creatively use digital tools to create immersive reading experiences. For instance, interactive word games stimulate children's spelling and word recognition skills, digital puzzles challenge their understanding of the narratives, best homeschool program reviews while built-in assessments help track their progress.
Nevertheless, the beauty of writing lies in its flexibility and individuality. There are no strict laws governing the act of writing. Every writer has a distinct voice and a unique style. It’s the originality that sets a writer apart. It’s what makes writing personal, compelling, and authentic.
The model also has a distinctive trait of collaborative learning. Children read a story online, and then they take it to the playground where they share it with others, discuss it, enact it, and so much more. This highlights the role of 'play' in not only physical, emotional, and social development but also cognitive and linguistic development.
Dr. Martha Sullivan, a child psychologist, says, "When children are having fun, they are more receptive to learning. 'Kids on the Yard' brilliantly integrates joy and knowledge, ensuring that children absorb information readily and enjoy the process."