Time to register for summer learning.

Taking a couple of hours per week to refresh the brain and engage it in new learning, too, can make all the difference when going back to school in September.

Avoiding the summer slide is not difficult, painful, or time-consuming.

My most common tutoring program takes only 16 hours of the available 1464 hours in July and August.

That is really not a lot especially considering the astonishing benefits.

Also, learning is enjoyable. It’s true. Waking up those brain cells and making them dance will make you feel better. The human mind is naturally curious and needs to be nourished just like the rest of the body.

Use it or lose it.

I would love to set up a program for you or your child, but even if you don’t come to my tutoring programs, spend time learning over the summer, please. You will be so much better for it.

Read, write, and maybe even try some math games, crosswords, or riddles to keep the brain active.

It is so helpful and healthful.

E-mail to register or to set up a FREE information meeting.

tutoringcentral@inbox.com

Fun Summer Learning and Indoor Games

Choices

There are thousands of games to play - far too many to discuss here, although I will mention a few. Don't limit yourself! All games have at least a few teachable moments.

Note: I used the name "indoor games" simply to contrast with "sports" which I am not writing about today. Of course, you can play these games almost anywhere. Also, most of the card games and board games are available as video versions, too.

Try to choose games your children will enjoy and then find ways to incorporate learning without limiting the "fun" element. There is no need for "drills" (unless your children tend to like drills!).

Not all games have the same intellectual challenge, of course. Games should be determined, in part at least, by your children's age and/or current skill level. Introduce new, different, or more challenging games as they mature. There is no need to start with something complicated. In fact, there are always times when they (and you) might enjoy playing something less challenging.

Social

There are very useful lessons to learn around the actual playing of games. For example, learning how to lose graciously. This is not to be outdone by learning how to wingraciously. Take the time to teach your children that game playing is not a personal judgment of value. The real value is in connecting with others, having fun, and learning a few new things. Having learned this with game playing, they might begin to understand how this works in the academic world. Your "results" are not "you." (Ironically, taking that pressure off usually results in much higher marks.)

Patience and taking turns are obvious game-playing lessons. Don't underestimate the value of the social part of game playing.

Allow your children to teach you a few tricks. One of the best ways to learn is to teach others. Not only do we retain a lot by teaching others, but we must engage more and this sparks renewed interest in progressing for ourselves. Hey, and you will be the cool parent who knows the "Easter egg"," method, or shortcut.

Spending time together, talking, recounting stories, and networking to other activities that may or may not be related to the game - all of these are important developmental and learning points.

Math

Games such as Cribbage or Monopoly are great choices.

Many card games have a math component - especially adding or patterning: Crazy Eights, Go Fish, Euchre, Uno, etc.

Board games involve counting (sometimes adding), patterns, making logical decisions or choices, and even spelling! Scrabble, Snakes & Ladders, Trains, Chess, Checkers, Equate, Bingo, and lots more.

Math Games PBS KIDS

Cool Math Games

Reading

Reading directions to any game can be helpful. You might even be surprised when your children read the directions to you. I know many people who have been playing a game for years without realizing that they are not following the directions! (Of course, it is up to you whether or not you prefer your version of the game.)

Look for reading opportunities on blogs or sites that provide commentary, reviews, or approaches to playing. These can be very interesting - not to mention helpful.

For younger children, there are lots of online games as well. Here are some reading games from PBS.

Reading games PBS KIDS

Writing

Have your children start their own blog, and/or writing reviews of games, telling stories of particularly great (or not so great) instances while playing. They can create rating lists, include graphics, or look for links or other material to incorporate. In other words, they can practise a lot of the same academic skills required in school without feeling like they are in school!

Video Games

Video games have plenty of learning opportunities. Many have storylines or the opportunity to create things like entire cities, farms, civilizations, etc. You can create your own characters, too! Take some time to discuss all of the interesting artifacts, methods, and potential goals.

Many of the same learning opportunities mentioned earlier relate to video game playing, too. Reading about the game, writing about the game, practising math skills, and so on.

I am definitely not a video games expert by any stretch of the imagination. I have provided a link to some kids’ games that should do the trick, however.

Best Games for Kids

Above all, have fun!

Remember that learning is all about fun. It will enlarge your world.

If you want some help in this regard, please get in touch.