Learning guidelines needed for my great nephew and niece.?

Question

I think they are in trouble. One parent (my niece) and the oldest is 8 and does not know the months of the year, not even the difference between what a day is or a month is. She is in 2nd grade. I want to help her now that I am in her life. Her attentions span is VERY SHORT.

I am afraid her mother (whom I love dearly) is a bit slow herself and her grandmother is even more challenged. Thank you.

Answer 1

Bless you, Auntie, for wanting to be a positive influence in these children's lives.  There is a cute song based on the Macarena for learning the months of the year.  A lot of children can learn things by using songs, so you might want to learn it and teach it to her.  You could also teach her the Barney, Days of the Week song to help her learn the days of the week.  How much time do you get to spend with these children?  When they are with you, use your calendar.  Mark off each day as it passes and point it out to them to help them visualize the passing of time and understand the differences between day/week/month/year.  Maybe you could get them each their own calendar to keep at home so they can mark off the passing days and track time for themselves.

I wonder if mom would allow you to speak with their teachers to better understand what their individual needs are and how to help them do the best they can in life.  You would probably need to visit the school with mom and have her give the school her permission for you to be involved in their lives in this way, but if she is willing, you may be able to give them a lot of support and assistance this way.

I am wishing you the very best of luck, and as a teacher, I am grateful for your concern for the needs of these children.

Answer 2

Oh I do hope you can help and that the mom will allow you to make suggestions. If you show her how much you care and can talk to her about finding extra help through the school that would give you a way of letting others see the need too. Let her know how much you know she wants the children to have successful experiences as they grow older. Good luck, you are a very caring person!