Though summer means a break from classrooms and teachers, it doesn’t have to be a break from learning altogether. For many kids, there’s a tendency to do nothing more than sit in front of the TV watching cartoons and sitcoms. Others spend hours upon hours playing video games. While there’s nothing wrong with either activity in moderation, too much of it isn’t a good thing.
Warmer days don’t have to mean the end of learning. Encourage your children to continue their education out of classroom with some of the following summer time activities.
1.Library reading program – Many local libraries offer a reading program for kids. Taking place once or twice a week, these programs offer fun activities for the kids, contests to see who can read the most books, special speakers and author visits, and other fun things. These programs are usually themed, teaching children about new cultures, other areas of the world, and famous people. Not only will they have fun with the program, it will keep them reading through the whole summer.
2.Letter writing campaign – There are many issues out there that affect schools and extracurricular activities. If your children are of an age to where they are affected by this, take some time to discuss these issues. Find out what they think about them. Once they realize what certain issues could mean for their schooling, encourage them to write letters to their state legislators. While not yet getting them deep into political thought, you’ll be encouraging them to put their own views into words and showing them how important it is to take a stand in something they believe in.
3.Photography and scrapbooking – The hobby of scrapbooking has become big among adults. What better way to spark a child’s creative side than to let them try their hand at it? The great thing about youth is that they don’t have to have the best quality or high cost supplies. A cheap disposable camera can keep them busy for hours as they look for fun things to take pictures of. Materials can be purchased in the form of construction paper, markers, glitter, and crayons. Have them keep their work in a cheap photo album as an ongoing project. It will keep them busy and they’ll have a nice souvenir of the summer.
4.Visit local “learning” spots – There’s likely a wealth of untapped learning resources in your own hometown and the surrounding areas. Museums and zoos are a great starting point for outings with your children. Let them have fun, but encourage them to ask questions as well. Point out interesting things. Get their opinions on certain displays. In smaller towns, base your child’s learning on certain historical aspects of the city. Visit old downtown buildings, or go to the library and help your child learn about the city’s past. Take them to enjoy any local festivals in the area. Find businesses that have withstood the test of time against invading corporations and ask the business owners if they have any stories from the old days. Not only will your child get something out of these things, you’re likely to learn something as well.
Learning doesn’t have to involve tests or essays. It can consist of a lot of fun and still keep your child’s mind sharp. Use some of these ideas or create your own. The point is to give your young ones a memorable summer that will expand their mind until the days of classes start once again.
