School is almost out for summer and most parents have lots of outdoor activities planned to keep their kids active. But what about the summer "brain drain?" Studies estimate students lose two months of math skills over the summer, and if the child is a reluctant reader, getting them back into the swing of school can be painful. However, with the latest technology and apps available on smartphones and tablets, parents can help keep their kid’s brains from melting in the summer heat.

There are hundreds of educational apps that not only keep kids sharp this summer, but also keep them occupied while running errands or taking a long road trip. Here are just a few apps from our local Verizon Wireless expert: 

• Scholastic Reading Timer (Free download/iPhone, iPad and Android) Kids can set personal reading goals, log their daily minutes and keep track of their cumulative time spent reading each day, week and month. From May 1 to August 31, kids can also register for the Scholastic Summer Challenge and use the app to log their reading minutes to help break the Scholastic world record for summer reading.
• Cut the Rope (Free download/iPhone, iPad and Android) This app combines realistic physics with simple touch controls. Kids have to think before they slice, and avoid the enemies and obstacles as they try to get Om Nom some candy.
• Monkey Preschool Lunchbox ($.99/iPhone, iPad and Android) Kids get to learn and have fun by helping monkeys pack their lunches.
• BrainPOP^® Featured Movie (Free download/iPhone and iPad) This app allows kids to watch a different animated movie every day and then tests new knowledge with an interactive quiz. All movies are close captioned, so it is easy for kids to read along.
• Brain Toot (Free download/iPhone and iPad) Brain Toot includes 16 brain training games that test memory, math, visual and thinking skills.