FOUR EASY WAYS TO MAKE SUMMER BREAK FUN AND EDUCATIONAL

Playgrounds may not be the only place your child experiences a “slide” this summer. While a break over the summer is well-deserved, research shows that most students can lose up to two and a half months of their critical math and reading skills by the start of the new school year. The good news is there is plenty of time in the summer for fun and educational activities.

Here are four easy educational activities to prevent learning loss and keep skills sharp throughout the summer.

1. Encourage your child to read books

Encourage your child to read every day! Books can make our imaginations soar – whether it’s by whisking us off to faraway lands or transporting us back into history. They can also spark new interests. Try to incorporate reading into your child’s daily routine. If you have an early riser, this is a great activity first thing in the morning. Reading each day goes a long way toward developing valuable vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.

Set up a cozy nook for your children where they can relax and get lost in a book. Try a hammock in the backyard or build your own reading fort with blankets and pillows. You can also read the same books as your child to form a book club! Have engaging discussions and activities focused on elements of the book to add an element of fun as you further develop their insight and critical thinking.

2. Enroll in a learning program

If you want even more enrichment, the best method is to find an individualized learning program. The Kumon Math and Reading Program provides customized lesson plans year-round for preschool through high school-aged children. The worksheet-based program is designed for students to get 30 minutes of daily practice per subject so they can build or advance their skills.

3. Take a walking or biking tour

Whether you explore your own neighborhood or a new one on vacation, educational walking or bicycle tours are a great way to learn about history while getting some exercise. It could also add to the appreciation for a location by gaining a deeper understanding of its background and the events that took place there.

4. Visit a museum

Visiting a museum is a great activity for kids to be immersed in a topic and learn more about it. Start by exploring your local museum’s website to discover if there are any upcoming events for kids. Search for interactive exhibits and periods of history that your child has studied in school to make it even more engaging.

Summer may be a time to take a break from school, but it doesn’t have to be a break from learning. Plan to incorporate fun activities and turn them into learning opportunities. Without even realizing it, your kids will enjoy themselves while keeping their brains stimulated and engaged.

Discover even more study tips and resources that can help advance your child’s skills in math and reading.