There's no bad decision right now when it comes to what to do this fall, but parents should still take steps to make sure they are in contact with the right education leaders.
We talked with Kim Fischer, National Spokesperson for Waterford.org. They are a non-profit organization dedicated to literacy.
Fischer says if you have a 4-year-old, register them for Waterford Upstart. This at-home early education option is something families can do with their children throughout the year to get them academically prepared for that first day of school. The average Waterford Upstart graduate will enter kindergarten reading at a nearly first-grade level.
This program is state-funded so it costs you nothing. Waterford Upstart even provides a computer and internet service to families that qualify.
Waterford Upstart provides parents the educational tools they need to become their child's first teacher. Right now, parents have been forced into that role... but don't exactly know what to do.
Waterford Upstart makes it easy. They provide an adaptive, personalized program for your child that they use 15 minutes a day, 5 days a week that works on literacy.
If you want to do math and science... there's an additional 15-minute program they can use daily as well.
Parents have a coach and push notifications that let them know how their child is doing, what they are learning, and ways they can continue engaging their child throughout the day.
Waterford programs are also used in the classroom in schools across the state. Your school district will let you know if it is available.
Fischer says, "We are also a part of the Promise Partnership which strives to give Utah children a better start at life. We've seen a significant drop off in registrations for pre-kindergarten and kindergarten... as well as vaccinations. Parents... no matter what you decide to do this fall, you should still register and with your district and get those vaccinations."
We have all of that information on the back to school page on Fox13now.com.
