This activity is structured for children who are at a pre-reading age, generally between the ages of 3 and 6. If a child is having difficulty learning or reading English, picture books are an excellent way to unlock his imagination without forcing him to read. You can go over each page of the book with him, analyzing the pictures and creating your own story in English. This will help reinforce the language without binding the student to a rigid text.
This reading exercise is designed for children who have just started reading. After picking out a book at a suitable reading level, instruct the kids in your Head Start class to turn to the first page. Start by reading several sentences. At random, point to a child in the class, indicating that he should begin reading where you left off. Every few sentences, switch to a different child in class. This keeps the students focused on the book as well as reinforcing the English language through sight and sound.
Letter tracing will get your students familiar with writing out the letters of the alphabet. Start by handing out 26 sheets of paper to each student, each with a large letter from the alphabet. Give each student a large piece of tracing paper. Have them trace over each letter several times, making sure to follow the exact curves and shapes that are made on the papers. When they are finished, have them read out each letter in the alphabet.
While the Head Start program manifests itself in specific classes, these classes also teach parents how to get involved with their child's education. As a result, home activities with respect to English are critical to the program. Reading with your child before bedtime, discussing books you both have read or even reading the newspaper in the morning with your kids will help improve their English, writing and reading comprehension skills. If your child has a favorite book, read it to her as many times as she wants. Whatever portion of the English language captures your child's attention is what you should focus on.