Radio Commentary
Reading maps is an important skill
for all to master.
Help by putting your child’s
natural curiosity to work. Even small children can learn to read simple maps of
their school, neighborhood, and community.
Go on a walk and collect natural
materials like flowers or leaves to use for an art project. Map the location
where you found each item.
Create a treasure map for children
to find hidden treats in the yard or inside your home. This can even be a great
idea for birthday parties. Encourage children to play the game with one
another, hiding the treasure and drawing the map.
See if your child can find your
street on a county or city map. Point out where your relatives or your
children’s friends live.
Point out different kinds of maps,
like state highway maps, city or county maps, bus route maps. Discuss their
different uses.
Before taking a trip, show your
children a map of where you are going and how you plan to get there. Look for
other routes you could take and talk about why you chose the one you did.
Children sometimes like to follow
the map as you travel. If you are on a long trip, you can point out what town
you have just reached and ask children to find the next town on your route.
All these activities help with
geography skills year-round.
