by Mercedus Long

Created on: May 14, 2010   Last Updated: May 21, 2010

As we come to the end of the academic year many parents begin to wonder if their children are going to make it to the next grade level. For many grades the last few months usher in some form of testing to establish if they have met the requirements to advance. Parents panic as they begin routines of studying and tutoring to help[ cover any gaps previously left unchecked. We try and put faith in the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001; yet the statistics are so contradictory, we have no idea what to believe.

However as the summer draws closer our children are in danger of being "left behind" when the new school year begins. So how we as parents enhance our child's education in the summer without ruining the fun they are supposed to be having in the first place? Not to mention strengthen the underlying skills they learned the previous year?

One of the first things that should be done is to establish a little study time everyday. Whether it is reading time or practicing math or vocabulary building activities; be sure your child works on it a little everyday. You also want to be sure that any child care providers are on the same sheet of music that you are. After all you pay a mint in child care fees, the least they can do is help with their education.

The following is a short list of things that students of pretty much any age can practice. Remember, you do not need expensive or elaborate materials to help your child. School Zone Publishing Companyproduces a wide variety of flashcards and workbooks that will help students from Pre-K through 6 grade.

Phonetics - This is unfortunately something that is not covered when they teach reading in school nowadays. However, there is hope for those who do not want to spend hundreds on the Hooked On Phonetics system. Simply buy some flash cards that teach the phonetic sounds. Knowing what letter makes what sound goes a long way to helping children master reading.

Reading - One of the first basic skills a kindergartener learns, but may never master without a lot of additional help. Enhacing your child's ability to read at home is all about recognition and repetition. The Dick and Jane series is an excellent way to help teach them to read. As well as flash cards that have more than 50 popular words on them.

Writing - The ability to write and write legibly is something even adults struggle with. However, writing also ties into helping a child learn to read. Use the "sight" words or spelling words sent home and ask the

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