A great read that invalidates the current parenting and educational zeitgeist of rushing children into academics. As the article describes, play, and the life and cognitive skills it teaches, is the best predictor later educational attainment.

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/08/23/simon-says-dont-use-flashcards/

The lessons to be learned: Put away the iPads and flashcards, fire the tutors, choose preschools and kindergartens that downplay academics, and, most importantly, lighten up and play with your children.