Our son enjoys learning and loves to take part in a variety of physical activities. Often times we find there is just not enough time to get all of this in. He wants to play basketball at night but also needs to do some academics as well, here is our solution to those busy nights.

Our son has a small basketball hoop in his room. He enjoys shooting the ball over and over again and could go on for hours if you let him. He enjoys it very much when we play with him as well. Over the last couple months we have created a learning game out of basketball. Since our son loves math, we often play a game to where we will ask each other math facts. If we get it right we get to shoot and get a point if we make it. If we get it wrong the other person gets to shoot to try for a point. He enjoys the competition of the game and is practicing those math facts at the same time.

Concerned that he was getting too good at math and not focusing enough on reading, we decided to switch the game up and use flash cards with words on them. We play by the same rules. Over the last 3 weeks he has learned approximately 30 or so words while playing ball.

The best part about this is he is really having a great time doing this. He is getting the exercise he needs and preparing for school at the same time. I think this balance will help him in the future allowing him to grow up into a well rounded individual.