Summer learning tips to keep children sharp

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell has offered his top 10 suggestions to help parents keep their children active and productive during summer vacation.

"This is a tough year for families because rising costs are forcing many of us to stay close to home and look for free or inexpensive things to do," said O'Connell. "But it's a perfect time to take a step back from our daily routines, bond with our kids and explore new activities that will keep children active and engaged in learning during the summer months."

Research shows the learning gap widens between middle- and low-income students during the summer and has a cumulative effect over the elementary school grades. Many of these students who are already struggling in school begin each academic year even further behind their peers.

O'Connell's tips for summer learning are:

Turn off the television and computer and play outside: Parents can encourage their children to join a city league to play team sports such as baseball or swimming. Physical activity helps prevent childhood obesity. Teamwork teaches children about helping, sharing, listening, respect and participation. Contact the local parks and recreation department for sports and summer activity schedules.

Get puzzled: Play sudoku or Scrabble as a family. These types of activities encourage children to think and solve problems.

Collect stamps, coins or other historical items: A collection may spur a child to research facts about his or her hobby. Search through antique stores or the attic for collectibles.

Start a journal, diary or scrapbook: These types of activities encourage children to write, organize their thoughts and spur creativity. Journals can begin with just a notebook and pen. For more elaborate journals, craft stores often have a selection of scrapbook materials.

Make plans: Parents can let their children help in scheduling their day, planning a meal or assigning chores. This helps children structure their activities and learn to meet deadlines.

Go grocery shopping: Adding up the grocery bill helps kids practice their math skills. Let them choose fruits and vegetables to teach them how to make healthy choices.

Plan dinner: Learning to cook will teach children to be selfsufficient and independent. Preparing meals requires math and reading skills.

Set aside time each day to read: Reading keeps minds active and engaged and ready to learn when children go back to school. The California Department of Education has age-appropriate reading suggestions at the website www.cde.ca.gov/ci/rl/ll/ap/ litsearch.asp.

Encourage children to create their own job: Children can get training baby-sit, pet-sit, house-sit or take care of the neighbors' plants while they are on vacation. These activities help children learn about responsibility and financial literacy. The American Red Cross offers training for baby sitters.

Volunteer: Parents can encourage their children to help some elderly neighbors or a charitable organization. These activities help children learn about sacrifice and good citizenship. Find volunteer opportunities at www.californiavolunteers.org/ families.asp.