Language arts

I’ve had early-reading kids, who read far above their ages, but I did not try to introduce formal grammar at this age.  Reading and some understanding are a completely different thing from the abstract concepts of grammar.  Now, don’t get me wrong–I’m a fan of grammar!  But the simple truth is that even for very gifted kids, you will likely get some resistance, some poor understanding, and have to teach and reteach the same material at age 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 . . . For us, it made SO MUCH MORE SENSE to just do it ONCE when they are 12.  It really is not necessary for a 6yo to know nouns, verbs, and adjectives.  Don’t worry about “grade level” of books.  Just choose quality, age-appropriate literature and let him enjoy it.  Encourage narration.  Do copywork.  Very beginning spelling (one good use for DR material).  This is fine for a 6yo, even an advanced one.  With very very few exceptions, the mind of a six year old is just not ready for dependent clauses or algebra.  🙂  There is plenty of time.  Focus on LOVING good, very high quality reading, loving learning, getting outside a lot–one is only six once!!!!  Even if one can read 6th grade types of books.  In fact, when a book “advertises” that it is a certain grade or lexile level—I’m sorely tempted to leave it on the shelf.  A good book doesn’t need to be fit into a “grade” cubbyhole.  Good literature is good literature–is the topic age-appropriate?  (i.e., don’t give a 6yo Gogol!) Then just read it and enjoy it!