by Andy Chasse

Created on: June 05, 2009   Last Updated: July 20, 2009

As if the duration of the regular school year wasn't enough already...you now have the summer to think about. If it was that difficult to keep your child focused on his schoolwork and constantly learning from august to may, how in the world are you going to manage it during the summer when your little one is consistently beckoned by his neighborhood friends?

Take a step back and breathe. It's not as tough as you think. While it may seem like an impossible task, you most certainly do have the power to make this happen. Follow me through these few, but very powerful, steps and your child is sure to make some serious progress throughout the beautiful summer months.

Tip #1 - Think creatively. Honestly, what do you think is going to be more interesting for you child: romping around outside in the gorgeous summer weather with his best buddies, or slumped over a never ending pile of reading material and worksheets? If you truly want your child to extend his focus into the highly coveted mid-year break, you're going to have to dig deep. You have two options here - the inside route and the outside route. The inside route appeals to what they love to do inside the house. If you guessed video games, you are spot on! Fortunately, there are a number of fun and educational products that will surely hold your child's attention. The Oregon Trail series provides a spectacular journey through the wild west, as well as a much needed lesson in resource management. I played this one way back in the day and I can't say I didn't learn a thing or two from it. Another of the greats out there is Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? This game features a high stakes chase around the world in search of the infamous thief, Carmen Sandiego. If this doesn't extend a child's geography knowledge, I don't know what will.

The outside route will genuinely test your creativity levels. Have you ever met a kid who didn't like to run around and get dirty? I didn't think so. Here's my challenge to you - come up with an outdoor movement-based educational game. It may involve flash cards and a football, or nothing more than yourself and a slip-n-slide. There's only one catch here - You have to get dirty and sweaty right along with him!

Tip #2 - Provide incentive. If you child isn't too into the summer education idea, give him a reason to be. I'm not going to tell you to bribe him; that wouldn't be politically correct. Just throw in a reward here and there. Maybe a special meal or a visit to his favorite amusement park.

Tip #3 - Be involved. This seems like a moot point, but too many parents out there just don't hold up to their end of the bargain. As a parent, you are definitely going to be responsible for a little pushing. At first, it may be slightly difficult opening your child up to the thought of "school" in the summer. This may be easily fixed. Offer to play a game or two with with him and he just might jump at it.

Armed with these important tips, you won't have any problem sparking a little educational excitement in your child over the summer.

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