View as Webpage

March 2025

Giving MECK Pre-K families the tools to succeed!

Leer en Español

At MECK Pre-K we understand the importance of developing strong listening skills in young children, as they are essential for effective communication and learning. To foster these skills at home, model active listening by giving your child your full attention when they speak, showing them the value of listening. Reading stories aloud and discussing them can improve attention and listening comprehension. Engage in fun activities like “Simon Says” or “I Spy” to make listening practice enjoyable. Use simple and clear language when giving directions and encourage your child to repeat them back to ensure understanding. Practice taking turns in conversations to teach your child to listen and wait for their turn to speak. By fostering listening skills, we help our children become better communicators and learners.

March 18th-Parent Cafe: Screen Time: Good or Bad? (English)

March 26th-Parent Advisory Committee

Rhyming is more than just a fun activity—it is a vital tool for early childhood development. For preschoolers, rhyming plays a key role in language development, literacy skills, and even social interactions so try adding rhyming songs, books, and games into your daily routines!



Enhances Phonemic Awareness

Rhyming helps children develop phonemic awareness, the ability to recognize and manipulate sounds in words. This skill is crucial for reading and writing, as children learn to identify patterns and sounds in language.

Builds Vocabulary and Word Recognition

Through rhymes, children expand their vocabulary and recognize word patterns. Hearing and repeating rhyming words help them remember and understand new words in context, making reading easier as they grow.

Improves Listening and Memory Skills

Rhyming sharpens listening skills and strengthens memory. Preschoolers anticipate word patterns, which boosts their focus and attention, improving their ability to follow and retain language.

Fosters Creativity

Rhyming encourages creativity as children experiment with sounds and words. This play fosters imaginative thinking and boosts confidence as they explore language through stories and games.

Supports Social Skills

Rhymes in group activities promote cooperation and communication, helping children connect with peers and navigate social situations. Rhymes also offer comfort and structure, aiding emotional development and building confidence.

Helping preschoolers express their emotions is key to their social-emotional development. Since they are still learning self-regulation and expanding their vocabulary, these strategies can be effective in guiding them:



1.    Model Emotional Expression

• Use simple words to describe your own feelings: “I feel happy when you share your toys.”
• Show empathy: “I see you are feeling frustrated. It is okay to take deep breaths.”

2.    Teach Emotional/Words

• Introduce words beyond “happy” and “sad,” such as frustrated, excited. worried, proud.
• Use picture books or flashcards with facial expressions to reinforce vocabulary.

3.    Create a Feelings Chart

• Have a daily check-in where children point to or name how they feel.
• Offer choices like, “Are you feeling sleepy or energetic?” to help them recognize emotions.

MECK Pre-K students engage in SEL (social-emotional learning) daily. Ask your child’s teacher for some techniques to assist with teaching emotions.

Help Spread the Word

About MECK Pre-K!

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and LinkedIn and share our posts! You can find even more ways to talk about MECK Pre-K on our Partner Toolkit Page.