Are you wondering how to keep your child busy and productive over the summer? Here are some ideas that will help make time away from school enjoyable while retaining and improving skills. Children who do this are usually very prepared for the upcoming level in school and have increased self-confidence once the summer break is over. Students who don’t get this reinforcement sometimes begin the new school year a bit behind. The good news is that there are many options that can help keep their new skills fresh.
Library reading programs are usually offered in the summer, free of charge. Kids like these programs for many reasons: They make new friends, get excited about reading because the programs are very positive and upbeat, often get to watch movies based on their books, and sometimes earn incentives for the number of books read.
Another reason children get excited about summer reading programs is that students are allowed to choose books based on their interests. A successful reading program begins with student choice. For the first time, they might discover their favorite author and genre. In this relaxed setting, struggling readers will discover that reading is enjoyable, while the on- and above-level readers continue to soar.
My main focus is usually reading as it’s the key to success in school, but all subjects are important to reinforce during the summer months. For example, if your child enjoys learning about government, visit your state capitol or Washington, DC. Maybe you have a child who loves to read about history, wars, or famous Americans; take them to some US battlefields, a Naval station where you can board a ship, or visit the birthplace of a famous American. Your local natural history museum will be a big hit with most children, and there are hands-on science exhibits for exploration. Unfortunately, with a lack of public-school funds, many field trips have been cancelled, so it’s up to the parents now.
You can make math come alive by including your child in cooking to reinforce fractions. Or get out the hammer, nails, and scraps of wood to reinforce measurement, area and perimeter by building a dollhouse, birdhouse, or doghouse. The best part of all of this is the interaction between parent and child.
Enroll your child in local arts programs such as music, painting, or dance. It is research-based that children in such programs learn better. I’ve never met a child who doesn’t like one part or another of the arts. In addition, programs that promote physical activity such as swimming or basketball are good for children too.
The biggest mistake you can make with your child is to allow them to waste the summer sitting in front of the TV, computer, and video games while eating junk food and not being active. If you have reasons why you can’t get your child to a summer program, ask a neighbor or family member to help. Often, there are camps or summer schools at local places of worship that offer free shuttle services.
If you take your child to a summer daycare, ask them specifically what they do to help reinforce school subject and which outings they plan to take. Suggest options such as the free, library programs and above-mentioned activities and outings.
After being involved in a summer program that reinforces the previous school year’s curriculum, your child should be very prepared to enter the next grade when school resumes. Along with a new outfit and new supplies, there will be a sense of accomplishment and increased self-esteem that can help make the next year successful.