Adults may not realize that lessons learned in college or high school can be forgotten. Research has shown that students who struggle in school score higher in June achievement tests than those who are successful at the end. These findings are even more alarming because they show how learning loss can increase with each year. Some students might experience a two-year gap in their reading ability by middle school.
Even during shorter “breaks,”Children’s minds should be stimulated by their parents through learning and reading, on holidays, after school, or on weekends. Experts found that children learn more from their parents if they include learning tools and toys into daily activities.
Tech toys began to play an important role in teaching children in the 1980s. Toys like Speak & Spell engaged kids in new, fun, interactive ways to learn spelling. Teachers have also found technology to be very effective in the classroom. LeapFrog’s Tag Reading System is one example of such a tool.www.leapfrog.com/tag99 percent of teachers recommend it to their students to help them learn to read. It is also easy for parents to get it for their children to use at home to reinforce learning. The handheld learning tool is interactive and exciting for children. The Tag Reader can be used to print books and other materials by allowing children to hear audio and pronunciations from characters. It also allows them to play games that strengthen key skills like comprehension and vocabulary development.
Parents can also help their children learn by giving them learning toys.
* Have discussions with children about what they are reading. Ask children to discuss books that they like, tell the stories, and discuss their favorite characters.
* Play board games and card games. While you are enjoying precious family time, you can help build skills for problem-solving and memory.
* Go online. You can find many websites that offer games for children to help them improve their spelling, reading, math skills, and have fun doing it.
LeapFrog’s Literacy Expert Dr. Carolyn Jaynes specializes in literacy and language development. Jaynes holds a PhD in Counseling and Educational Psychology, as well as Special Education. She has over 22 years of teaching experience.
