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Nature Study: Why Skunks Are Good For Gardens!

As parents, we often teach our children to avoid certain creatures in the garden, like skunks, due to their pungent odor and reputation for mischief. However, what if I told you that these striped critters are actually unsung heroes in the garden ecosystem?  In this blog, we'll explore why skunks are beneficial for your garden and why they deserve our appreciation. Skunks as Gardeners 1. Natural Pest Control Skunks have a voracious appetite for many garden pests that can wreak havoc on your plants. They are especially fond of insects like beetles, grubs, caterpillars, and even small rodents like mice and voles. By preying on these pests, skunks help keep their populations in check, reducing the need for harmful chemical pesticides. 2. Soil Aeration Believe it or not, skunks are great gardeners! Their habit of digging for food helps aerate the soil, allowing oxygen and nutrients to penetrate deeper, which promotes healthier plant growth. Additionally, their digging can help expose a
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Reading Curriculums: Choosing The Right One!

Reading is a gift & it never stops giving!

Teaching a young child to read is a gift and a key milestone in their education journey.

However, there are several roads that can lead to this single destination which leaves many parents wondering... 

How do I teach my child to read? And what curriculum or approach should I use? 

In this blog we bring you the best of the best in reading curriculums out there but at the end of the day the choice is up to you...

Here are some of the best curriculum options for teaching early reading  skills:

1. Phonics-Based Curriculum:

Hooked On Phonics - Reading System

   - Hooked on Phonics: Offers a systematic approach to phonics.

   - Explode the Code: Focuses on phonics and phonemic awareness.

   - Jolly Phonics: Uses a fun and multi-sensory approach to phonics.

 - Alpha- Phonics: Focuses on teaching the sounds of letters and letter combinations and gradually builds reading skills from there. This program emphasizes a strong phonetic foundation.

Alpha-Phonics Reading Guide

 - Teach Your Child To Read in 100 Easy Lessons: Uses a scripted approach to learning phonics where all you really need is the book and 20-30 minutes to teach each lesson.


2. Whole Language and Sight Words Curriculum:


    - Dolch Sight Words: Provides sight word lists and materials.


   - Bob Books: Offers a series of books that gradually introduce sight words.


Bob Books workbooks

Reading Bob Books


3. Balanced Literacy Curriculum:


    - Reading A-Z: Provides a comprehensive library of leveled reading materials.


   - Starfall: Offers interactive activities and stories for early readers.


4. Montessori-Based Reading Materials:

   - Montessori Pink Series: A set of materials designed to teach phonetic reading.

   - Montessori Language Materials: Include activities like the movable alphabet.


Montessori Letter work Book


5. Online Reading Programs:

   - ABCmouse: Offers a comprehensive early learning program, including reading activities.

   - Reading Eggs: Provides interactive online lessons and games for reading.

Reading Eggs: Interactive online
reading lessons for ages 2-13 yrs


6. Book-Based Approaches:

   - Memoria Press' First Start Reading: Combines phonics with classic children's literature.

   - All About Reading: Offers a multi-sensory program using stories and activities.


7. Parent-Created Resources:
   - Some parents prefer to create their own reading curriculum using a combination of resources like library books, worksheets, and educational games.

When selecting a curriculum for teaching a young child to read, consider your child's learning style, their level of readiness, and your teaching preferences. Many parents find success in blending multiple approaches to cater to their child's unique needs. It's also essential to make reading a fun and enjoyable experience to foster a love for books and learning in your child.

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