Each morning, I write a message to my kids on a dry erase board. The purpose of the message is to greet the kids, and encourage them to read frequently used words with ease. Sometimes I use the message as a way to communicate upcoming events, the weather forecast, prayer requests or memory verses. Eventually, my first grader will fill in missing words, then write partial or complete messages himself. I'll allow him to use a word bank I've prepared if needed. I've found that this is a great way to start our day together! This strategy can be modified as an effective way to greet older children, too!

I've shared a sample "Morning Message" template with a word bank below.

Happy Home Schooling,
Mrs. Sherry


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Good morning, _______________________________________________.

Today is _______________________, September _____________, 2007.

(Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday)

Today (or Tonight) we will _______________________________________.

WORD BANK:

go
piano lessons
have
Grandma’s
play
park
Tanner’s
picnic
house
science
soccer
movie
game
field trip
dance class
school
AWANA
church
friends
work
Co-op
bank
play date
store
library
errands