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Show case for the rest of the letters/' said Perkins. Thorn agrees. "It's great if kids know all their capital letters, but can acknowledge the lowercase letters and recognize that they're 'partners/" she said. Thorn adds that students should also write correctly. "If kids are going to do any writing, make sure the letters are top to bottom and left to right," she says. Using a small golf pencil can help kids practice writing, as well as improve their motor and dexterity skills. "Golf pencils are great practice. They're not as top heavy," said Thorn. Other activities can help kids with their motor skills. "Have your kids do a simple maze without touching the sides, using a marker," said Thorn. As for numbers, Thorn says kids should be able to count and recognize the symbol for each number one to 10, and even up to 15. While academics are important, Perkins says parents shouldn't force their children to concentrate on them. "We don't encourage parents to focus on workbooks unless their kids ask for them," she said. Thorn agrees. "Some kids won't have all the concepts down, but the learning curve happens quickly," she said. Don't forget the Basics A few other things parents can do to prepare their kids for kindergarten is to make sure they have all their immunizations, get them used to their new schedule by going to bed early enough so they wake up in time and writing the child's name on his/her backpack, lunchbox, coat, etc. "Anything they remove should have a name on it," said Thorn. Above all else, parents shouldn't be worried about sending their "babies" out into the real world of school. "If parents are nervous, kids will sense that and be fearful," said Perkins. Thorn agrees. 'The transition is harder on the parents than the kids. The sooner they can cut the apron strings, the better. Trust the professionals," she said. Continued from page 7 vomiting. If your child is diagnosed with strep throat, keep him home from school until he has been treated with antibiotics for 24 hours. Pink Eye: Do not send your child to school until the condition clears up completely. Pink eye can be successfully treated within a few days using prescription eye drops. Teach children not to rub eyes to avoid germs. Upset Stomach: If your child has diarrhea or has been throwing up keep them home from school until symptoms clear up. Ear Infection: Ear infections are not contagious, so children with ear infections can be sent to school. Dr. Terry suggests asking your child about their about symptoms when they feel ill. Generally, unless your child has a fever or looks like he is sick, it is O.K. to send to him to school. Practicing good hygiene habits will keep many germs away, according to Dr. Terry. "It's a good idea for parents teach kids to wash their hands, especially before lunch. Washing hands is the most important thing we can do to prevent spreading germs." A good nights sleep is another way to keep kids healthy. "Make sure kids go to bed on time. Kids that are well rested have a stronger immune system," she adds. Stay home Symptoms However, if your child is susceptible to strep throat, or you see that your child has a red throat, have it checked by a doctor on the first day of symptoms. Strep throat can present itself with or without a fever, and often with a headache, stomachache, body aches, nausea and "I IT TIME YOU TAKE YOUR TALENT t ^ THE SHOWER AND ONTO THE "STAGM? David Scnitiidt, author lor • tn^L*; Gottasing DVD series is now availabl for private voice lessons in Park City! avid has helped thousands or people around the world reach their vocal 'tehtial... 435-602^9874 or visit www.gottasing.coni f s credentials include' . Vocal,Performance and M.M. Vocal Pedagogy Park city Parent Back to School / 08.2004 |