With school out for summer, it’s easy for kids to become glued to their screens. While digital entertainment can be fun and educational in moderation, too much screen time can cause a decline in academic skills and physical health. Here are several strategies parents can use to help their children maintain their skills during the summer break while still having fun.
- Encourage Reading
Reading is one of the best ways to keep kids’ minds active during the summer. Encourage your children to read by:
- Setting a daily reading time
- Creating a summer reading list together
- Visiting the local library for new books
According to the National Summer Learning Association, children who do not read over the summer can lose up to two months of reading achievement. Keeping kids engaged with books helps prevent this “summer slide.”
- Promote Educational Screen Time
Not all screen time is created equal. Direct your children towards educational apps and websites that help them continue learning. Some excellent resources include:
- Khan Academy for a variety of subjects
- Duolingo for language learning
- ABCmouse for younger children
- Incorporate Learning into Everyday Activities
Learning does not need to be targeted only to books and screens. Everyday activities can be great learning opportunities:
- Cooking can teach math and science concepts
- Gardening can introduce biology and ecology
- Shopping can help with budgeting and arithmetic skills
Image-Tinyland
- Enroll in Summer Camps and Workshops
Many communities offer educational summer camps and workshops focusing on various interests, such as science, art, and technology. These programs provide structured learning and social interaction.
Research by the American Camp Association shows that camp experiences can significantly improve children’s social skills and personal development.
- Encourage Creative Projects with Tinyland Trendy Play Kitchen Black Style
Encourage your kids to engage in creative projects that stimulate their minds:
- Arts and crafts to enhance creativity and fine motor skills
- Science experiments to foster curiosity and problem-solving abilities
- Writing stories or keeping a journal to improve writing skills
- Set Goals and Rewards
Setting academic or skill-related goals can motivate children to continue learning over the summer. Rewards for achieving these goals can be simple, like extra playtime or a special treat.
- Physical Activity and Outdoor Play
Physical activity is crucial for overall health and can also enhance cognitive function. Encourage your children to play outside, join a sports team, or participate in family hikes and bike rides.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity can help improve kids’ concentration and academic performance.
- Balance Screen Time
While some screen time is inevitable, it’s crucial to balance screen time with other activities. Establish screen time limits and encourage breaks to prevent sedentary behavior.
Conclusion
In addition to camping and outdoor activities to motivate kids to learn during the summertime, also focusing on different engaging and educational activities, parents can help their children enjoy a balanced, enriching summer that supports their ongoing development.
Summer break is an excellent opportunity for kids to relax and have fun. However, it’s also necessary to keep their skills sharp. By incorporating educational activities, promoting physical activity, and setting goals, parents can help their children maintain their skills during the break and ensure they are ready for the new school year.
References
- National Summer Learning Association. (n.d.). Preventing the Summer Slide.
- American Camp Association. (n.d.). The Benefits of Camp.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.)Physical Activity Facts
Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Beautiful Inside Out 