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The lazy days of summer can lead to learning loss for some children. When school is out, children are less focused on traditional academics and participate in more play-based activities. Luckily, learning doesn’t only happen in a formal setting. There are many opportunities to help your child this summer that

Earth Day is right around the corner on April 22, and now is a great time to explore earth science with your child through activities and read alouds you can enjoy at home. When children learn earth science, their understanding of how the world works improves and their appreciation and

Waterford Upstart and the What Works Clearinghouse What is the What Works Clearinghouse? Run by the US Department of Education, the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) catalog categorizes studies of learning programs, following their own educational standards and criteria. These rankings are shared with educators to provide an unbiased indication of

Reading & Writing

Keeping a journal can have many benefits for your child, whether they keep it by themselves or with your help. In addition to practicing writing, journaling can give children a way to capture their thoughts and memories. Plus, journaling can boost your child’s mood and mental well-being because it teaches

Starting kindergarten can feel overwhelming to both children and their families. You can help your child through the transition by focusing on early learning skills and helping them know what to expect before the first day of class. Here are some tips to help your child get ready for many

With all the exciting activities available during the summer, getting kids to read can be a struggle. But if you can find new ways to boost their motivation, your children will have fun reading while school’s out—and keep their literacy skills sharp. Learn more below about why it matters to

Classroom Activities

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a national holiday that celebrates the life and legacy of a man who brought hope and healing to America through greater equality for all people, regardless of race. Today, we celebrate the timeless virtues he taught by looking to his ground-breaking words that are

Latinx authors have made impactful contributions to children’s literature. September is National Hispanic Heritage Month, and now is the perfect time to highlight these contributions. Because there is so much diversity within Hispanic cultures, it is important to reflect that diversity in the books we teach and read. We’ve put

Sometimes the best classroom isn’t in a room at all—it’s the great outdoors. Nature play has many benefits for children. These include improved concentration, stress relief, and better creativity, and other benefits. September 4 is National Wildlife Day in America. There’s no better time to get outside, have some adventure,

Holidays & Observances

International Literacy Day is a worldwide celebration that takes place on September 8. It is a wonderful event created by UNESCO in 1967 to encourage literacy and promote the value of teaching children to read. Keep reading to discover fun and engaging ways to celebrate all forms of literacy with

Earth Day offers tons of opportunities to experience nature with your family—whether you’re exploring the outdoors, creating recycled crafts, or even starting a garden. Everyone can do their part to take care of and celebrate our planet. Plus, Earth Day is an important holiday to celebrate with your kids because

Earth Day is a wonderful opportunity to introduce important concepts about the world—such as recycling, weather, earth elements, and how our planet works—to young learners in your classroom. Here are a few ideas and fun activities for learning about and celebrating Earth Day with your students. What is Earth Day

Professional Development