Keeping your child's brain active over the summer can help them be better prepared when school starts in September.  Laura Dillon with Oregon Connections Academy says she's seen a difference in kids that stay engaged in learning.  "I know from being a teacher for over 15 years and having my own kids; that if there isn't some active learning going on and some purposeful activities going on over the summer, even just a couple of time a week, then there is loss of those skills and concepts that have been taught over the school year."

Dillion says even just reading together a few times a week is helpful.  Or take advantage of current events,  such as the election this yea0,r and make a game of researching how elections work.  The Oregon Connections Academy website has more tips and ideas.  We have a link on our "Links" page.