A Summer of Fun

This summer, keep kids learning, even if it is just a few minutes or an hour a day.

When I raised my kids, I made sure that part of their day or part of their summer break involved some learning activity. I can only imagine how difficult it must be for parents today to keep their kids off the computer, tablets, phones, and electronic games. Here are some ideas that might help you, help them, and be fun at the same time.

Try something new and different, like creating a simple piece of art or participating in a musical activity at home. Encourage them to make magic or build something outside. Nothing too extravagant, a birdhouse, fort, birdbath, or a garden. They will also learn the value of responsibility by taking care of a garden. Perhaps they can pitch a tent and study the stars. Taking part in science projects outdoors is also a lot of fun.

These activities will keep them sharp and thinking throughout the summer. These days, most children have a phone, so consider organizing a photo contest or a scavenger hunt that includes a selfie or picture of an item on the list. Encourage them to make teams and invite their friends along.

Another great idea is allowing them time in the kitchen to bake or to follow a simple recipe to prepare dinner for the family.

Play board games that will make them think about their next move, such as Monopoly, Scrabble, The Game of Life, Money Bags, a coin counting game, or Ice Cream Empire, a game to develop their business and entrepreneurial skills. Even parents can get in on the fun.

Outings – why not plan a field trip! Let them decide which activities they would like to do by giving them suggestions of places you know that are fun and educational. Zoos and science centres are both excellent choices. A trip to Pioneer Village might be appropriate to show them what it was like to live during the pioneer days.

Buy them a new journal and ask them to write about their day just before bedtime. Have them describe who they met, what they did, saw, and experienced. Encourage them to write in detail and tell them they can exaggerate by including imaginary scenes to add even more excitement to their day. By the end of summer, they may have a book.

Following their journaling, this would be an excellent time for them to read a book or be read to. A visit to your local bookstore or library would also be a great outing, and they could pick out a book or two to read.

There are endless possibilities for educational fun. I hope you all have a great and safe summer, and never forget that Que Sera, Sera, whatever will be, will be.