SUMMER LEARNING IDEAS AT HOME

Thank you National Summer Learning Association for these resources!

All kids need to keep learning over the summer. If they don't, they lose what they've learned during the school year, and those losses add up year after year. Check out these tips on ways you can help your child during the summer months and send them back ready for the new school year.

1. Read at Home Every Day

Help your child pick books that interests them, set reading goals, and reward their efforts. You can even start a family book club.

Need some book suggestions? Check out some lists provided by National Summer Learning Association here.

2. Imagine your Story

Create your own adventure. Try writing a storybook, poetry, or shot play together. Have a family reading or open mice night for everyone to perform and enjoy what you've created. 

3. Keep a Summer Journal

Have your child keep a journal about the books they enjoy, their favorite summer events or activities, and the new friends they've made.

4. Look for Virtual Activities Near You

Some local museums, aquarium, zoo, park, or nature center may be closed for now, but many are offering virtual tours and activities. Check the websites of your favorite spots for up-to-date information on visiting. 

The Dallas World Aquarium has virtual explorations you can visit to learn more about each of their exhibits. 

5. Plant a Garden

Start simple with a tomato container garden or fresh herbs grown on your kitchen window sill. It's a great way to encourage healthy eating with your child.

6. Use Counting Skills in Daily Activities or Errands

Baking a cake? Let your child help count out the ingredients or minutes to mix the batter. Turn a grocery trip into a math lesson. Use coupons and help your child determine the discount.

7. Build a Fort or Castle

Build your architectural skills! Let our imagination run wild as your use pillows or cardboard boxes to make an amazing structure for your family to enjoy.

8. Be Active

Get outside with your child. Visit a park for a nature walk, ride bikes, or check out your community's parks and recreation programs that may offer many fun options.

Looking for parks near you? Check out some Texas State Parks near Dallas here.

9. Get Creative

Let your child's imagination soar. Turn everyday household items like cardboard tubes into rockets or old socks into hand puppets.

Has your family tried any of these tips? Do you have more ideas on how to keep kids learning over the summer? Let use know!

Source: summerlearning.org