1. Section VII The Math and Science Environment Unit 41 Math and Science in the Home ©2013 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved.

2. Home The first educational setting A place where children learn as they –cook –set the table –sort laundry –observe ants –watch birds –take a walk in the backyard ©2013 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved.

3. Family Involvement in Math and Science Encourage family members to find math and science in their homes Family entertainment does not have to be passive Has been expanded to include all family members and caregivers Focuses on opening lines of communication Home learning tasks Home visits ©2013 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved.

4. Suggestions for Getting Families Involved Publish a newsletter Hold meetings that provide information and involve active experiences –involve students in the planning Extend fun days over several hours, so more families can be involved Have family members volunteer in the classroom Hold one-on-one conferences Homework assignments to bring in things from home Put together small kits for children to take home ©2013 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved.

5. Guidelines for Families as Teachers Naturalistic and informal experiences are at the heart of home learning Adults should be positive role models Be patient and allow children the opportunity to explore, reflect, and construct concepts Children learn through repetition Children learn through concrete experiences Use simple household items and waste materials for learning Examples: naturalistic, informal, and adult guided home learning experiences ©2013 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved.

6. Math and Science Activities for Families Can happen –during daily routines –during cooking opportunities –reading the newspaper –traveling –shopping –on a picnic –on a walk –on vacation ©2013 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved.