Frankenmuth

How to Chat with a 1st Grader By Adele Martin Early in my educational career, I taught first grade. I would argue that this is the biggest year of growth for a child. Not only are they maturing physically, but they are also stretching emotionally and academically. It's no wonder they come home from school tired. I came home tired! These little people worked hard, played hard and had much to talk about during the day. And they were curious – with lots and lots of questions and interesting conversations. I came to know that first graders are experts in two areas – first, they begin to get a handle on reading. Much time is spent understanding the correlation between letters, sounds, and chunking as they decode words. They can talk about "sight" words (those words you can't sound out, but just need to know). They enjoy both the discovery and the power of vocabulary. Outside of the classroom, they begin to not only read books, but notice all of the environmental print in their world – signs, billboards, and displays help them navigate what is happening in their world. But, I was most excited watching the real joy they experienced in unlocking the meaning around them. Our teachers and administrators often ask families to nurture this love of literacy, engage in rich discussions of their day, and celebrate each new milestone in their learning. The second area of specialty for all first graders (which their teachers have absolutely zero control over) – teeth. While it may sound strange to an adult, I can stop a line of first graders and get their complete attention with just one innocent question… "Does anyone have a missing tooth?" Immediately, students close around me, they lift their chins, their mouths open and fingers start to point to the shiny white enamel. I'll see baby teeth wiggle, tongues visit empty spaces and beautiful "big" teeth that initially look too large for the space that they are inhabiting. (Disclaimer – by the way, this question with adults will not deliver the same fun results.) I've learned first-hand that a wiggly tooth completely surpasses importance in any lesson that I'm trying to present – but that's ok – it's part of being in first grade where they celebrate little steps in literacy and the hoy of lost teeth. Bavarian Comfort Care is the long-time trusted Assisted Living and Memory Care Community in the area, to care for your aging loved-one's needs. • Featuring 51 apartments; 37 Assisted Living and 14 Memory Care. • Providing 24-hour care, with physician and nursing services available • Nestled along the Cass River, in a peaceful and serene setting right outside of Frankenmuth, just minutes from I-75. • All-inclusive pricing starting at $3500 Call Jenny Sanders at 989-777-7776 to ask about our winter specials and to get your tour scheduled. Helping your loved one live out the best of their lives! 5366 W Rolling Hills Dr | Bridgeport, MI 48722 www.comfortcaresl.com The New Standard of Care 21

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