OK, let’s put a few facts together.

First, evidence shows that older adults who engage in daily brain activity retain their mental agility far into old age.

Second, the most recent census shows more children living in single-parent homes, as well as more grandparents living in the same home with grandchildren.

Finally, Lewiston School Superintendent Bill Webster says students slowly lose what they learn during their summer vacation. Tests show them forgetting 38 days of math instruction on average and 42 days of reading.

What we see here is a golden opportunity for older Americans to become involved in the lives of their grandchildren.

We often hear about how grandparents “spoil their grandchildren” with gifts and attention. For older Americans fortunate enough to live with or even near their grandchildren, here’s an opportunity to give them a lifelong inheritance worth more than money.

Local experts tell the Sun Journal that children exposed to even half an hour of reading and math each day will have a big head start when school resumes in the fall.

A grandparent can tackle an age-appropriate book with a grandchild or work math into everyday experiences.

We regularly hear older folks complain that children rely so much on calculators and computers that they can no longer count back change.

Well, how about spending time with a young person teaching them that practical math skill?

Retired grandparents may also have the time to take kids on the kinds of summertime adventures parents may not have the time for.

“Take them places. Show them the river,” advises Edward Little Principal Jim Miller. “There’s all kinds of stuff you can do around nature.

“A trip to the beach or lake could be enhanced by looking up the tides, loons, fish and tidal pools online,” says Miller.

Children also value hearing the memories of older adults. What was life like for a child 50 or 60 years ago? A lot different from what it is now.

The benefits of working with young people run in both directions.

Having to do a little research for a trip or revisiting old math skills can provide a great brain workout for retired folks.

Or, you can ask a young person to teach you how to access the Internet or send a text message.

Plus, being around young people helps an older adult stay connected with trends, expressions and ways of viewing the world.

Don’t let this summer pass without making a real difference in the life of a child. It’s easy to do and a lot more rewarding than daytime TV.

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The opinions expressed in this column reflect the views of the ownership and editorial board.