Television Teachers.... part three

Using tv to teach reinforce literature and writing skills offers a benefit I have mentioned previously. Guided television allows kids with learning disabilities to work with literature concepts without being slowed by the process of reading or of writing.  This may seem nonsensical, but it can help them understand and get comfortable with concepts without the stress and frustration of their disability.  

Television Hint Three-- Predictions [especially good with mysteries or dramas]

During the early commercial breaks talk about what has happened so far, what is the problem, what are the clues etc. [This builds on the skills learned in Television Hint One... main idea and summarizing.] Once they have a good idea of the problem and can find some clues, ask them to predict one of the things that might happen next. This helps build their ability to analyze, to use information to form conclusions, and to build creative thinking. 

Sit-Com Variation...You can also ask what situations might come up in future episodes of the series, why, and what might happen. [Note: If it is a school-based show, you may even get some insights into your child's view of what goes on in schools by what they thing could come up.]

Older Kids--

Ask them to predict two possible ideas of what happens next, why each idea is possible, and what the results of each idea might be. 

For Foster Care...

A word of caution about using mysteries or dramas.  If your child has a history of trauma or exposure to violence, focus on comedies instead to avoid triggering painful memories or anxieties.  

[For parts one and two see the April 25 and May 1 blog entries.]