Monday, September 10, 2007

In case you wanted to know . . .

I am continually amazed at the range of articles that the Reading Rockets people put together regularly. They are truly excellent at condensing articles about preparing kids to read and encouraging them to read. This week they have a review of some of the most popular reading programs used in preschools and elementary school. I am happy to report that Reading Recovery (a very popular program) overall got great marks. So if you are thinking about homeschooling, concerned about the approach your preschool or elementary school is taking - this might be worth reading. They also reviewed early childhood programs in six domains related to reading and math. These are just a few of the areas it appears they review curriculum. I can't comment on their educational bent or politics - but it seems that they take their assessments from studies that meet certain requirements.
Additionally, Reading Rockets links to a website that provides a checklist for parents as they consider their child's preschool options. Overall this checklist looks good - although a Montessori school might not meet some of the standards because of their different approach to teaching. But if you are looking at a Montessori school I hope that you realize the reasons for the differences between this school and the typical preschool. These are pretty stringent guidelines - but you do want the best for your child!

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