Do you worry about your children getting a little “rusty” over the summer and having a hard time getting back in the swing of things once school starts again? It’s a concern most parents give some thought, but what can you do about it? Many parents take their kids to the library or to story time or simply encourage them to read throughout the summer, but there are some other alternatives.
If we make learning and keeping sharp more fun, our kids are much more likely to show some enthusiasm. Having contests is a great way to keep kids motivated. You can even offer little prizes if you desire.
Reading
Instead of just having your child read a book, create some lists of words. Some should be simple, then intermediate, and then create a challenge page. Each page should be filled with columns of words. If you need inspiration, pick up a spelling or “sight words” workbook at your favorite store.
Have your child (or each child in turn) read through the list of words, starting at the top left and reading the first column, then moving through following columns top to bottom. Set a timer or use a stopwatch and give your child one minute.
Make a copy so you can read along, and mark off words that are skipped or not pronounced correctly. When time is up and you say stop, have your child make a line under the last word read. Count up the number of words read correctly during the allotted time, and have your child try to beat his or her record from time to time. When your child can easily read an entire page before time runs out, switch to a more challenging page.
Spelling
Give your children a spelling list each week and have a spelling bee at the end of the week. The child who wins should be given a prize or allowed to stay up late, or whatever you deem appropriate.
Math
Go to homework sites and print off math pages with grade level appropriate problems. Have children work the problems while timing them, much like the reading exercise above.