Reform the perception of education and start all over again from the beginning. Children don't need to perform like wind-up toys. They need to understand, and understanding comes from a perceptive knowledge of a subject and a desire to ask real questions about real stuff. It comes from constant exploration through the senses.
Simple math goes along with reading.
Understanding numbers and number concepts and being able to play with math concepts by applying them to site projects and games strengthen skills because children learn to use concepts. Finding the concept that allows a real brain connection that lasts is the focus of teaching. Historically or scientifically conveyed knowledge might mean acting out a drama, visiting a museum, having a speaker who shows the children through things they can touch, or seeing a movie that artistically demonstrates the subject. It's a holistic approach that doesn9t have to be repeated year after year for the non-listeners. A reformed early-childhood program might mean no more classrooms, desks or teacher assignments.