15 to 30 minutes

Materials

Map of the local area

Directions Map skills can develop special concepts that help children understand distance and time. A good way to expose children to maps is to use one of the local area when you take a walk together, following along as you go and planning turns and routes. Extensions

Mark things on the map that are meaningful to either of you, such as where you live or go to school or where friends live. Find a favorite pizza parlor or video store.Take a ride to a new place using the map and let your child direct you about turns.Graduate to a map of the state to plan an imaginary trip.