It is often difficult to tell if a child is being challenged enough by educational games. Here are some more suggestions about finding that balance between a little challenge and a Herculean task.

• Electronic toys were mentioned earlier. Another trick to employ if the child is a game player is to change the options of game play. Find the menu option for “game saving.” Some games have the option to save at a particular level, but in many of these games this option is not the default.

The problem here is that your child may be playing the same skill level over and over, rather than bumping up to the harder levels. This added challenge will make the game more interesting, again protecting against the “it’s boring” rap.

• If your children are already in school, it’s even harder to tell if they are engaged or not. Many parents are happy if their children just complete what is expected of them, but it is important to understand that this is the road to boredom. If your child seems to have perfected all the homework skills, discuss with the teacher what some more advanced work options are.

Time after time, advanced students who are not challenged enough become behavior problems and often act up in class… and at home. Nip boredom in the bud by taking an interest in your children’s passions.

• Consider tutoring – this is a great way to cater to your child’s interests and keep them challenged. Many parent...