Brain training experts warn parents to keep kid's minds active

UK brain training experts are supporting published American research urging parents to take precautions to keep their kid’s brains active during the summer holidays.

According to  American university John Hopkins, children are in danger of losing an average of two months learning and run the risk of taking more than a month to catch up to speed when they return in September.

Jenny Low from online brain training portal Canny Minds said: “As adults we find it hard to get back into work after a two-week holiday so it stands to reason that the six week school holiday will have an even greater effect on our children. This latest research from America highlights the real impact the summer brain drain has on children’s education.

“There are lots of things parents can do to help their kids keep mentally active during the summer which won’t spoil their fun.”

According to the Americans, independent reading outside of school relates to their development in vocabulary, verbal fluency, reading comprehension and general knowledge.

Top Ten Canny Minds Brain Drain Busting Tips

1. Encourage reading

2. Limit TV

3. Set puzzles

4. Play board games

5. Go on day trips

6. Play audio books

7. Follow a sports team – scores and player stats can help with maths
skills

8. Cook with your kids – following recipes and measuring quantities

9. Get your kids to plan the day themselves

10. Play family games like Monopoly