Teachers encourage parents to schedule a regular time each day for children to engage in regular "learning activities."

Children can do assigned homework during this time. But if homework doesn't take up all the time, other activities should be planned.

Children might:

• Practice penmanship.
• Solve word search, crossword and jigsaw puzzles.
• Illustrate or write a story.
• Practice spelling words.
• Take a nature walk.
• Listen to a book on tape.
• Make flashcards for vocabulary, math, history and geography.
• Practice math facts.
• Look at books and magazines.
• Keep a journal.
• Build with LEGOS.
• Work on a hobby.
• Read a book.
• Plan a meal.
• Help cook something.
• Use "junk" to create toys.
• Play educational computer games.
• Write a letter or poem.
• Stage a play about a book.
• Listen to music.

Source: "Answers for Parents: Creating an Atmosphere for Learning at Home," Vermont National Education Association.