By now, most children are fully into their summer breaks. While taking a vacation from the daily grind of class work and homework is important for our kids, we don’t want them to lose momentum and become complacent. It is possible to strike a balance between discipline and relaxation; and summer enrichment can play an important role in achieving this equilibrium. Today we will explore some ways parents can enhance their kids’ education during summer vacation.
Outside Programs
Probably the most common form of summer enrichment for children is classes and programs offered from outside institutions. Traditionally, colleges and local universities provide enrichment classes for elementary through high school aged students during the summer months. These institutions typically offer a variety of classes ranging from Natural Science, Writing, Genealogy, the Arts, and several others. Contact a university or college near you to find out what your child’s options are. Similarly, many private organizations such as Sylvan Learning Center provide fun, educational enrichment opportunities to children in the community during the summer months. Do a little exploring and find out what opportunities your community provides!
Online Programs
If you guys are like me, some days you can’t decide if technology is a blessing or a curse. Allow me to offer a reason to place a check mark in the “blessing column“! Our kiddos have access to summer enrichment programs that we never did thanks to the internet. A simple search of online enrichment courses for elementary school students will yield a plethora of possibilities! One in particular that I came across was e-tutor, an on-line virtual learning school that offers in-depth curriculum in Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts. This particular site has lesson modules for grades K-12. It is one of many virtual learning institutions that can help your child brush up on his studies during summer vacation. Of course, if you want to help your little one freshen up her reading skills this summer, a subscription to Red Apple Reading is just the ticket for great educational content as well as fun activities!
Parent-Developed Programs
You don’t have to have an education degree to come up with some fun educational enrichment plans! As a parent, you understand your child better than anyone else. You know his struggles and his passions. This summer why not create your own custom curriculum for your child? This has worked well for my family in the past. One summer I ordered a Latin workbook and my girls and I spent a half hour each day learning Latin root words. This summer I’m planning on doing a nature study with my kids. They will all participate, with each child doing age appropriate biology activities. Don’t be overwhelmed by the prospect of teaching your child. Lessons can be as formal or informal as you like and you don’t have to come up with your own curriculum from scratch! There are several resources you can consult to help you develop a great lesson! Jump in there and have fun learning with your little one.
As you can see, there are several avenues to choose from when it comes to summer enrichment activities. Explore your options and pick what works best for your family. And don’t forget to make it fun; after all, learning should be enjoyable!
