Calendar Questions

Start the school year strong with calendar questions. When children ask, "How long until basketball starts or how long until my birthday?" don't just give the answer. Instead say, "Today is January 1, and basketball starts on January 17. How many days is that (16)? How many weeks (2 weeks and 2 days)?" Encourage them to use their own strategies. Ask how they know. Once they have told you their strategy, tell them yours. Suggest skip counting by 7's or dividing by 7. Discuss what the remainder means. Have fun and let them ask you a question! (Photo courtesy of Jackson County (GA) School System.)