An age-old and effective method for practicing and strengthening academics is by using flashcards. Flashcards are available to help with letter and number recognition, letter-sound correspondence, mathematical operations and foreign language. You can virtually turn any subject or lesson into a flashcard. For example, put the state name on one side and the capital on the other to teach social studies. With younger children, you can turn the cards into a game, such as Go Fish by matching like sounds with pictures instead of similar fish. Erasable flashcards are available so you can create your own.
Computer and Internet usage is big with students. They love spending time and completing assignments online. Therefore, introducing your children to educational computer games is a great way to strengthen academics. Games are available for various subjects, including reading and mathematics. "Connect the Numbers" is a connect-the-dot game that teaches counting skills, while "Dementia 13" tests children's knowledge of science, geography and history.
Board games often have educational components that you might not even realize. Most games involve rolling dice and moving a set amount of spaces. Therefore, you are practicing counting and quantitative concepts. Yahtzee has opponents add their dice to get scores. Other games strengthen reading by having players follow instructions on cards, such as in Monopoly. Monopoly also helps with currency recognition and counting. Scramble involves spelling skills, while Clue develops deductive reasoning. Chances are the games in your family room have at least one educational aspect.
Another method to teach academics is through physical activities. Research shows physical activities, like mental stimulation, are shown to improve cognitive functioning. Therefore, combining academic lessons with movement may help achievement. Children can learn counting by playing Hopscotch or any game that involves scoring, such as soccer or baseball. Practice listening and selective attention with Simon Says. You can turn any physical activity into an academic lesson by reviewing materials while playing. For example, review spelling skills while jumping rope.