Experts: Fight 'Summer Brain Drain' By Making Learning Fun For Your Kids

NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) -- The lazy, hazy days of summer have arrived, and experts warn that the dreaded 'summer brain drain' could affect your kids.

As CBS 2's Emily Smith reported, psychologists say the solution is simple, but it needs to be handled in a specific way.

While it may seem easy to make summer vacation all about day dreaming, playing, and giving in to your child's every whim it's also possible to turn the summer months into a creative learning experience.

The majority of kids lose a month's worth of math and reading skills during the summer, which makes it crucial for parents to keep things flowing from the classroom into summer break, according to Child Psychologist Dr. Kate Eshleman.

"Playing outside, going on trips, make those things educational," Dr. Eshleman said.

Experts say keep it simple and combine learning with everyday activities.

"As a thunderstorm is rolling in you can teach them all the types of clouds, and how the sky changes, and what rain is," explained Marnie Nathanson, Parenting Expert and Director at Mommies 24/7.

Parents can also use meal time to teach.

"Teach them science and part of a healthy diet," Nathanson said.

Third grade teacher and mother of two Mandie Perle says it is imperative that parents fight 'summer brain drain' in kids of all ages.

"When they are off for summer if you make it fun they'll want to continue learning," Perle said.

Experts also suggested visiting a nature center or a zoo, and using field guides and books to explain the experience and the history behind it.

By mixing learning with fun you can still tell the kids that school's out for summer.

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