Now that your child is in kindergarten, there are new ways you can help them learn. Try these activities, then visit your library to check out a book about it. Click here to print this list.

Cut an apple horizontally through the middle. Talk about the shape you find. Can your kindergartner find the star? Pick out the seeds. Plant them in a cup. Talk about what seeds need to grow, such as water, sunlight and dirt. Allow your kindergartner to hold, smell and examine the whole and halves of the apple. Trace the star shape with their finger. Identify other items with the same shapes. Adapt this activity by using two apples, cut one horizontally and the second vertically. Encourage them to look at the difference in each shape they find.

How a Seed Grows by Helene J. Jordan. Johnny Appleseed: The Legend and the Truth by Jane Yolen.

Discuss the word pairs and what things come in pairs. Talk about what would happen if one was missing, such as shoes, earrings or socks. Provide opportunities for your kindergartner to hold and feel sets of pairs. Try a game to find objects that have a pair and ones that do not. You can encourage them to find the missing pair around the home.

One Mitten by Kristine O'Connell George. Two of Everything by Lily Toy Hong.

Help your kindergartner feel how cold it is in Antarctica. Put ice cubes in a sandwich size bag and have your kindergartner hold it in their hands. How does it feel? For children with sensory issues, demonstrate the effects on yourself by shivering and saying, "Brrrrr, that's cold." Talk about the feeling of cold and show them other things that are cold. Encourage them to observe what happens when the ice melts. Talk to them about the different stages seen as the ice melts and how it feels. Is it cold or warm?

Penguins! by Gail Gibbons. If You Were a Penguin by Wendell and Florence Minor.

We are learning Social-Emotional Development

Practice counting things by twos with your kindergartner by counting socks, shoes or body parts (such as two arms, two eyes, etc.) By providing hands-on opportunities for them to hold and feel the two objects, they can learn to recognize the shape, texture and weight of the object. Having them match clean socks and count by their pair is another way to count by twos.

Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook by Barbara Park. The Doorbell Rang by Pat Hutchins.

Read more!

Then join the Family Leadership Learning Community! The Family Leadership Community will support family leaders to feel confident as an advocate for their own children and family as well as other families. Participants may expect to attend Pennsylvania’s prenatal-to-age-three collaborative subgroup virtual meetings as part of the experience, and may be offered the opportunity to continue involvement. Participants will receive a stipend payment for specific work and may receive assistance with technology necessary for active involvement. Find out how you can participate!

Studies have shown screen time use in young children may have negative impacts on the brain’s white matter — an area key to the development of language, literacy and cognitive skills. In addition, the use of screen time can limit a child’s time and attention in learning other skills they need for healthy development.

With so many people owning a phone, tablet or television, and screens in doctor’s offices, malls and restaurants, it can be difficult—or seem impossible–to limit the exposure to screen time with young children. Read more.

The PA Community Inclusion for All web page and public Facebook group can help increase opportunities of meaningful interaction between families and children with and without disabilities. It also provide professionals the resources for Community Inclusion to share with the families they serve and use the resources when practicing coaching in the community with families. 

Visit, then share the resources with families and friends to inspire them to create and provide for a more inclusive environment. Read families stories of why and how they are doing it. You can even share your story, highlighting the struggles/challenges, professional support, effective strategies and outcomes of Community Inclusion.

PA’s Promise for Children has a list of fun books to read related to Groundhog Day.

February 3 is World Read Aloud Day. It's the perfect excuse to pick up a book and read to your child! Revisit an old favorite or find a new one.

February 6 is the Annual Take Your Child To The Library Day. It is a great time to build upon your child's love of reading and learning. Contact your library to see what books they have for your child. Find a library near you.  

Share a photo of you and your preschooler reading a favorite book and tag PA's Promise for Children! Find us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram!

Don't underestimate the importance of choosing that first healthcare professional. They will shape the feelings your child has of healthcare visits. If your child is in need of specialty care or if there are a lack of health care professionals in your area, this could be challenging. However, a little homework prior to deciding on a healthcare professional may make for a more positive experience you and your child.

Get tips on how to find the right Healthcare Professional for your child and read about Angie who addresses a concern about her son with his healthcare professional in Be Your Child's Champion.

This year's theme is “Water, Nature's Drink!” This month-long national health observance brings together thousands of dedicated dental professionals, health care providers and others to promote the benefits of good oral health to children and adults, caregivers, teachers and many others. 

The NCDHM Program Planning Guide offers program coordinators resources to promote the benefits of good oral health to children. The guide includes easy-to-do activities, program planning timetable tips, a sample NCDHM proclamation and much more.

Watch the video below for tips on how to encourage your child to brush their teeth. Visit PA's Promise for Children to find out how you can start a healthy smile early.

Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children in the United States. The good news is it can be prevented with the help of CHIP! CHIP coverage includes teeth cleanings, check-ups, x-rays, fluoride, dental sealants, fillings, orthodontia services when medically necessary and much more. Get more info at CHIPcoversPAKids.com .

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