♦ READ, READ, READ with your child at least 15 minutes each day

♦ talk about what you read together

♦ encourage your child to answer/talk in complete sentences

♦ give your child simple chores/responsibilities

♦ play with playdough to improve fine motor skills

♦ practice cutting with scissors

♦ label things in your house to help your child make a connection between letters and words

♦ read signs when you are out and about together

♦ practice counting items

♦ use a deck of cards to compare numbers or sort by suit and number

♦ ensure your child gets plenty of rest

♦ make sure your child is prepared for school (this can be stressful to young children)