The following text may have been generated by Optical Character Recognition, with varying degrees of accuracy. Reader beware!

Keep kids active to help improve academics (NC) ­ With the end of summer looming, parents may consider decreasing the number of activities their child participates in to ensure their child can focus on academics. However, a survey conducted by Ipsos-Reid on behalf of Kumon Math and Reading Centres has found that children that are engaged in extra-curricular activities experience academic benefits beyond their less-active counterparts. According to responses from more than 1,200 Canadian parents, the number of nights a student participates in extra-curricular activities does not negatively impact academic performance. Of those parents surveyed whose child participates in extra-curricular activities on two or more school nights, 84 percent were identified by their parents as academically at or above average grade level. Extra curricular activities are important. They challenge children to explore their talents and interests, develop responsibility, and encourage time management skills as students learn to balance schoolwork, extracurricular activities, social life, health, and for many older students, a job. The survey findings point out that the majority of students who perform well in school have achieved a balance between homework demands and extra curricular activities. This is key to their achievement. Continued on page 26 25 · OAKVILLE BEAVER Wednesday, August 26, 2009 FREE Adult English Classes - LINC (with computers) Language Assessment & Instruction for Newcomers! · · · · Ages 18+, landed immigrants Classes from literacy to level 7 Full-time, part-time, evenings, weekends FREE bus tickets & child-care Call today & get started: Language Assessment Centres are operated by the Centre for Education &TrainingTM 905-875-3851 x1369 Visit our website @ www.lincpeelhalton.com For Peel program information @ 905-279-0024 x1369 Toll Free @ 1-866-277-5462 x1369 Funded by Citizenship & Immigration Canada PIANO & in the Bronte Area LESSONS THEORY A winner of various competitions and scholarships such as "The Young Artist's Competition" in Oakville and "The Reginald Bedford Award" (McMaster University) · Private Piano and Theory Lessons. Lessons are taught by a highly qualified (Bachelor of Music, Honours) and experienced (over 15 yrs) instructor. · Lessons are for all ages and abilities. · Individualized programs make learning interesting and fun! · Coaching for RCM exams, University or College preparation, recitals and music festivals. DANCEWEAR INSTEP MILTON Visit Your Local Authorized Dance Retailer For The Ultimate In Selection And Service Of INSTEP OAKVILLE C ALL 905.465.9162 885 Main St. E., Milton 905-876-0320 www.instepactivewear.com Hours: Mon: 10-7, Tues-Fri: 10-6 Sat: 10-4, Sun: Closed. Extended hours available in September. Call For Details. 635 Fourth Line, Unit #12 & 13, Oakville 905-844-4415 www.instepactivewear.com Hours: Mon: 10-7, Tues-Fri: 10-6 Sat: 10-4, Sun: Closed. Extended hours available in September. Call For Details. Please call about our Introductory Course Specials! Come see our new facility! 905.825.8025