Have fun with your child this summer, but don't let learning take a vacation.  Here are some fun activities that you can do with your child to keep his/her mind active and give him/her a good start in fourth grade.

     1.  Read together.  Research shows that the most important way parents can help their children become better readers is by encouraging them to read at home.  Remember to pick up and read your Bible too.

     2.  Visit the library.  Many libraries plan special summer activities.  Kids need to learn that adults read for fun, too---so take them, don't send them.

     3. Write letters.  If you are planning a vacation this summer, have your children write to the departments of tourism in states you intend to visit.  And, or course, friends and relatives will enjoy hearing from your children at any time.  This will also reinforce their cursive writing skills.

     4.  Road maps.  As you travel across the country of a state, have your children help read road directions.  Talk about what you see as you travel.

     5.  Teach children to cook.  Using simple, easy-to-read recipes, children can practice reading, following directions, and math skills.  If you are lucky, the results will be edible.

    6.  Study the weather.  Keep a notebook to record temperature, humidity, etc.  Make a rain gauge from a tin can and measure the precipitation.

Finally, a word to working parents---joint projects with your children, even if you spend only 15-20 minutes a day on them, will pay big dividends.

Have a happy, educational summer vacation!

Mrs. Kelly