Seal | motivational tool | Deborah Stipek

For all age groups, computers can be an excellent teaching and motivational tool. “If you can afford it, make sure your child has easy access to a computer, some minimal help in using it, and some software that’s kid-friendly — fun and educational at the same time. Don’t give him lessons or tutoring unless he asks for it,” says Deborah Stipek, Ph.D. and co-author of Motivated Minds.

But clearly, everyday experiences can breathe life into school learning. Opportunities abound to show your child the relevance of learning to life. And, says Seal, “they will help him discover out-of-school interests — which in turn will increase the passion he brings to related academic subjects.”