Hang up a picture or painting for a few days – be proud of it!
Give them duties around the house, which require one or two simple directions. This will add to their confidence.
Select good stories and books to read to them daily.
Be selective with television programmes, and use of computers. Many television and computer programmes are great, but some are not suitable and may lead to inappropriate behaviour.
When reading or talking to them make sure they are listening. We find many children who can talk, but not listen.
Keep in close contact with the teachers about their progress.
Make sure they get to bed at a reasonable hour. A 7.00pm bedtime is reasonable for a 5-year-old. We have children falling asleep because they watch TV until a late hour.
For those messy art lessons, an old shirt is very useful to keep paint off clothes.