School's (almost) out for summer, and that means FREEDOM! No more pencils, no more books, no more teachers' dirty looks. But, summer doesn't have to mean a vacation from thinking. Being outdoors or chilling out at home can actually inspire thinking. Summer is the perfect time to discover new interests, and to engage the heart and mind. No workbooks required!
Try these engaging activities with your kids, and let the summer adventures begin.
Good for the body and soul, and stimulates curiosity. Encourage kids to gather objects of interest, which can later be used for art projects, collections, or a little research. Bring a camera so to snap shots, and kids can scrapbook the photos. Even just going for a walk in nature can stimulate all kinds of thinking.
Sensory overload, and it's good for the body and mind. Kids can calculate total costs and change, while experiencing tastes from around the world.
Learn, make a difference, and feel great! Soup kitchens and libraries will often allow younger volunteers. You could also create your own projects by picking flowers for the elderly, baking for someone who needs a pick-me-up, or helping in a community garden.
Many cities and town have an array of music, theatre, and multicultural festivals going on. A great way to challenge the mind, discover a passion, and inspire creativity. We just bought tickets to an outdoor performance of Pirates of Penzance put on by the Calgary Opera. We wouldn't do this in the winter, but summer is full of adventure.
Kids can sign up for the TD Summer Reading Club, happening in libraries across Canada. Included are activities, stickers and a website that inspires kids to read all summer long. Most libraries also offer free events for kids, and of course free books to read during those lazy, hazy days.
I can't wait for summer to start so that the real learning can begin!
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