Sample III-4: Building Knowledge and Comprehension (3-5, K-3)

  1. Engaging parents in a short, motivating, introductory activity. "A few weeks ago we worked with the book The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle. In the story we read about a caterpillar that eats and eats and eats in preparation for becoming a butterfly. What was your favorite part of the book?" Share ideas.
  2. Presenting new information. "Now that we have shared our ideas, we are going to discuss how to support your child's language and literacy development by planning a family outing. For example, I just found out that our local library is having a special exhibit on the life of butterflies. Your child learned something about butterflies from The Very Hungry Caterpillar. This would be a perfect trip that would encourage your child to learn about something with which he is familiar."
  3. Processing the information through activities. "How do you plan a family outing?" (Give parents time to discuss and share ideas.) "Two of the most important factors to consider are cost (entrance fees and transportation) and age appropriateness. Family outings can be a great learning experience if you plan ahead. Let's use the library example to plan a future outing."

    (Create a plan through discussion with parents. Offer your ideas, and ask for theirs. The results might look something like the plan below. Write the planning steps on the board or chart paper.)

    • Before you head out, think about your child's interest in butterflies. Talk about The Very Hungry Caterpillar with your child. Talk about the TV show on butterflies. Talk about butterflies you see during a walk in the neighborhood.
    • Contact the library and find out the hours of the butterfly exhibit.
    • Before your visit share another story about butterflies with your child.
    • Decide what day you will visit and create some excitement for your child through conversation.
    • During the tour of the butterfly exhibit, remember to engage your child in rich conversation.
    • Finally, after your trip to the library, review and discuss with your child all that you saw there.

    "Above all, follow through. Do not make any promises you cannot keep. Most of all, be creative. Even a visit to a local airport can be a learning experience if your child is interested in airplanes! You now have the basic plan." (Allow parents an opportunity to write a preliminary plan for their next family outing.)

  4. Helping parents apply the new information. Encourage parents to check out a book to read at home related to a family outing they would like to plan. During the next session, ask parents about their experiences.