But this head-turning new model of early childhood often leaves parents confused about what's best for their very young child. The good news is you don't need expensive toys, videos, flashcards, or CDS to build your baby's brain. And summer offers the perfect time to begin. By learning through play, young children gain skills that help them get ready for school. Here are 8 simple steps for a super smart summer.
Summer is a great time to start a daily reading ritual.
These experiences motivate young children to become independent readers. Studies show that the best readers come from homes with lots of books. Refrigerator magnets can help teach the shapes of the alphabet. Most preschoolers enjoy learning to write their own names. Develop pre-math skills by sorting laundry, counting toys, or baking brownies.