Don't just turn off the TV--turn on the fun!

Today, most kids already spend hours staring at a TV screen, a computer screen or their cell phones. During the summer, those hours can really expand.

That's why it's even more important for parents to set limits on screen time. Experts say the easiest way to do that is by replacing screen time with other fun activities.

Here are some ideas:

• Get a hula hoop. Even indoors, a hula hoop is an easy way to get exercise. Besides twirling it, your child can use it as a jump rope.
• Explore local playgrounds. There are lots of ways for your child to let off steam--and build muscles.
• Draw a hopscotch game on a sidewalk or driveway. Take turns playing.
• Learn to juggle. Check out a book on juggling from the library. This is a great way to teach fine motor skills.

Reprinted with permission from the May 2010 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Elementary School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2010 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc. Source: Nancy Hellmich, "In Summer, Kids Need Real Play Time," USA Today, www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-06-24-play-exercise_N.htm.

Reading With Your Child

Prevent summer reading loss by getting involved

Your child has worked on reading skills all year long. You don't want him to lose them over the summer! Yet research shows that summer reading loss is a real problem. Thankfully, there are countless ways you can encourage your child to maintain--and even improve--reading skills during vacation.

Here are a few ideas:

• Read together daily. In addition to reading books, ask for your child's help with following recipes, using the phone book and making lists.
• Keep reading materials handy. Leave comics, magazines, books, newspapers and other materials around the house so your child is likely to pick them up.
• Choose irresistible materials. Look for books and articles about your child's interests, such as sports, art, fashion or even a favorite TV show.
• Talk with experts. Ask your child's teacher or a librarian for summer reading suggestions.
• Visit the library. Give your child frequent opportunities to find materials that appeal to him.
• Take books with you. Bring them on trips, into waiting rooms and anywhere else your child might complain, "I'm bored!"
• Be creative. Listen to audio books. Play word games. Visit a museum and read about displays. Start a book club. Have fun!

Reprinted with permission from the May 2010 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Elementary School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2010 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc. Source: Maryann Mraz and Timothy V. Rasinski, "Summer Reading Loss," Reading Rockets, www.readingrockets.org/articles/15218.

Building Math Skills

Find ways to connect math to your elementary schooler's life

Your child needs to practice math this summer, but like many parents, you may dread it. Instead of telling your child, "I can't stand math! I'm terrible at it," take a positive approach. Show your child (and remind yourself) that math is a helpful, fun part of life.

Start with basics, including:

• Addition and subtraction. How many hours a week is the pool open? How much do two ice cream cones cost? How many days of summer are left?
• Multiplication and division. If your car gets 30 miles per gallon of gas, where could you go on a full tank? Two tanks? How far would half a tank go?
• Estimation. How many pitchers of lemonade will it take to serve neighborhood friends on a hot day? Guess, and then check your answers!

Reprinted with permission from the May 2010 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Elementary School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2010 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc. Source: Evelyn Porreca Vuko, Teacher Says, ISBN: 0-399-52997-7 (The Berkley Publishing Group, www.penguin.com).