Fight Summer Brain Drain

<b>Fight Summer Brain Drain</b>“></td><td><p>(<a href=NewsUSA) – The National Center for Summer Learning states, “Most students lose about two months of grade-level equivalency in mathematical computation skills over summer months.” Therefore, even the best students forget lessons they have learned during the school year.

Sylvan Learning, the leading provider of tutoring to students of all ages, grades and skill levels, offers tips to make summer learning fun:

* Writing. Encourage your child to start a diary or write letters to a friend. If you are traveling on a vacation, ask your child to keep a journal recording where you stayed and what you did. Each day, talk through the activities with your child and help with the journal. It not only improves writing skills, but also creates great family memories.

* Math. Everyday, ordinary activities are packed with opportunities to develop and sharpen math skills. Grocery shopping involves weighing fruits and vegetables, comparing prices and making change. Cooking provides practice with organization, planning and following a recipe. Help children select recipes, create an ingredients list, shop and prepare a family meal together.

* Reading. You can’t start too early. You can’t read too much. Reading to young children nurtures an interest in language, words and communication. For older kids, reading together can be fun and interesting. Librarians can recommend books appropriate for a child’s reading level and interests, and many libraries offer free children’s programs and clubs.

* Research. Through the Web site www.BookAdventure.com, children (grades K-8) create personalized book lists from more than 7,500 recommended titles, take comprehension quizzes, and earn points towards small prizes. It is designed to motivate students to read more often, for longer periods of time and with greater understanding.

* Summer Programs. There are many enrichment activities available for children when school is out of session. Sylvan Learning offers engaging programs that keep the interest and fun in learning alive through the summer and into the school year. Visit www.SylvanLearning.com for additional information.

Summer is a great time for families to work and play together using interactive activities.

Sylvan Learning offers a free “Summer Fun & Learning Guide for Parents” — fun, grade-specific activities that nurture reading,

writing and math skills. Visit the “Parent Resources” area of www.SylvanLearning.com to download a copy.

To learn more about academic opportunities for children in grades pre-K through 12, call 1-800-31-SUCCESS.

Fight Summer Brain Drain