How to help your child learn year-round

Helping young minds get back into the swing of things after a holiday break can sometimes be a challenge. Yet, studies show that children who remain active learners outside the classroom are more prepared to return to their academic studies.

Reading, writing, math and science activities as well as problem-solving issues, take on a new perspective outside of class. Here are some activities that may be helpful in stimulating the minds of children.

* Encourage reading - Find books or magazines that are geared toward your child's 
   interests. Also, ask your child what his or her career interests are. Chances are there is a 
   magazine or book on the subject, whether it's computers, sports, entertainment, science 
   or business. 
* Design a scavenger hunt for your child - Have them look for items such as acorns, twigs, 
   small rocks, feathers or flowers. Help them find items they cannot locate, then read or 
   talk about the items and their uses.

Sometimes, families may travel out of town or take vacations during different holiday periods. But just because you are going away does not mean learning has to stay home. Try some of these activities when traveling away from home:

* Sharpen math skills - For example, at the gas station, ask your child how much gas you 
   needed and the cost per gallon. On the highway, ask your children to read the signs and 
   check the different speed limits. Then ask them to read the speedometer readings and 
   notice how fast or slow the car is going. Have your children estimate distances between 
   cities and check the estimates on a road map. 
* Play the alphabet game on road trips - Start at "A" and look for that letter on road signs, 
   billboards, license plates or buildings. When you find that letter, move on to the next one. 
   As an added challenge, you can look for only upper or lower-case letters.

Of course, the most important thing you can give your child is your time and showing them how proud you are of their accomplishments. Combine this with activities that stimulate the mind and you will teach your child to appreciate life and lifelong learning.

Excerpts of this column were reprinted with permission from the National School Public Relations Association's newsletter, "It Starts on the Frontline"


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