In order to successfully use the shows from the Wimzie's House series, or any other series, as a teaching tool, a few guidelines should be followed:

• Tape the individual programs off-air: The producers have granted unlimited off-air record rights through August 31, 2001. Record the shows off-air and view them as your schedule permits. You may, however, choose to watch the shows during the scheduled broadcast and conduct the follow-up activities soon after viewing.
• Pre-screen: Whenever time permits, pre-screen the program before presenting it to children. This enables you to anticipate the questions children might have, to identify special vocabulary words, and to select the follow-up activities which will work best for your children. Note: If you are unable to pre-tape or pre-screen, a synopsis of each show has been provided for your review.
• Co-view: Research has shown that when a television program has educational value, that value is maximized when children watch in the company of an adult. As you watch along with the children, follow these simple suggestions:
  1. Encourage the children to ask questions and explain anything that they do not understand. Before answering their questions, however, see if another child in the room can respond.
  2. Comment on the show. Look for opportunities to explain the story, the characters and their intentions, and the content.
  3. Ask the children to predict what is going to happen next.
  4. Think about what the children will find familiar. Connect your comments to the experiences of the children.
  5. If using a taped version of the program, stop the tape at key points for discussion.For more suggestions on how to use media as an education tool, see The Smart Parent's Guide to KIDS' TV, by Milton Chen, KQED Books and Tapes, San Francisco, CA.

NOTE: Caregivers may choose to watch the shows as broadcast or tape off air and use as schedule permits. Producers have provided extended off-air taping rights. Taping off-air is recommended for educational use.

1. Use Episodes Descriptions link on the left of your screen for a quick reference to each show and its theme. Click on the link which refers to the specific show you intend to use, either with the broadcast or on a tape, as the subject of the current lesson.
2. Read quickly through each lesson plan before you start. Decide which extended learning option you will carry out.
3. Assemble materials if necessary.
4. Use the pre-viewing suggestions: The purpose of this activity is to focus the child's attention and to develop the habit of viewing with a purpose. An attention focusing question is suggested for each program.
5. Watch the program with the children: Refer to the section on using media for suggestions.
6. Post-viewing suggestions: Follow-up the viewing with a discussion of the attention focusing questions. Carry out one or more of the extended learning options: The extended learning activity should be conducted soon after the viewing of the show. Choose the activity which best suits the readiness level of your child or children. Do not hesitate to adapt the activity to the needs of your group or to invent your own activity.
7. If you are unable to carry out any of the extended learning options, consider reading one of the theme related books to your child or children. Reading out loud to children is one of the richest extended learning activities!