There might be times when parents and caregivers wonder if maybe it would be easier to take a dragon to the store than kids. But shopping can also be an opportune time for different kinds of learning. In earlier posts this week, I talked about colors, shapes, sizes, numbers and all the words for different items at the supermarket. Making a list is an authentic reading and writing activity. Plus, the grocery store can help with social skills that are important for kindergarten readiness.
At the store, children and grown-ups practice waiting in line and taking turns. These are readiness for kindergarten skills, too. Quite likely on the very first day at school, children will need to take turns and be able to cope with waiting. Adults have strategies such as checking phone messages or lists. Children need some strategies, too. Some possibilities are playing I Spy for colors or shapes, singing favorite songs, or naming different fruits or vegetables. Like other skills, practice and repetition are needed for learning. Can you add this to your grocery list?