Summertime!
Our family cannot wait for the weather to change so that we can do more outside activities. When we are able to shed all of the layers of under shirts, long sleeve shirts, sweaters, coats, scarves and gloves then transition into just a light jacket, we get excited because in a few short weeks we will no longer need the jackets. We are thrilled to trade the jackets for short sleeve shirts. We are appreciative of the sights and smells of the season change. The birds, the bugs, the flowers, and the trees. Everything that signals summer.
Usually around this time, the school year is winding down, most homeschooling families are finishing up their curriculum and preparing for next school year and awaiting the much needed break from a strict schedule and gliding into a slower pace filled with more outdoor activities and field trips. As our family begins to plan our summer, I began to think of 5 things that are fun that children can do this summer that is also very educational.
Reading
Reading truly is FUN-damental! Reading is a huge part of our lives and it should be fun and enjoyable. The library is a very great, free resource. The family should try to go together at least once a week during the summer. Leading by example is a good way to get children interested in reading. Find out what your children's favorite books are and delve into an adventure or two with them. Reading a good book is just as good as a mystery or adventure movie.
Writing
Your children can practice handwriting and letter writing skills by having a pen-pal. They will also learn to build long lasting friendships and communication skills. Having a pen-pal is a very fun and engaging learning experience.
Visit local historic sites
Every city in the world has some history behind it. Do an internet search and find out some secrets of your city and do some exploring with the family. Make sure to take some tools like a camera, notepad and pencil. Take lots of pictures and plenty of notes on what you discover and have the children do a report or presentation on the activity.
Plan/attend family reunion
Planning a family reunion can be very rewarding. There are many benefits of attending one as well. One can find out a lot about their family history by being around older family members. You can ask questions, hear stories and exchange information. All of this while having fun, eating good food, fellowship, playing games and so much more. Don't forget to have a camera/camcorder handy to capture memories.
Road trip
Going from one city to another or one state to another can be an excellent and fun learning experience. Reading signs and calculating distances can strengthen reading and math skills. The family can also strengthen the family bond by all being together and having conversations in the car. Diversity can be taught by being exposed to different cultures and foods in different restaurants.
The family will most definitely do all of these things this summer and more. What are 5 things that your family will be actively engaged in this summer?
The family will most definitely do all of these things this summer and more. What are 5 things that your family will be actively engaged in this summer?
As a former teacher, I love it! My kids read all the time (or have me read to them, I guess...). So often parents overlook doing these important activities with their kids over the summer.
ReplyDeleteThanks for replying to my comment in the SITS forum!
Great list! I also like to do crafts with the kids. They really get into it and it is fun to sit down and do it with them.
ReplyDeleteYour family will have lots of fun this summer.
ReplyDeleteLet see our 5: camping,road trip to amusement park and waterslides, rodeo, library reading program, many little educational trips.
I like all the 5 things you've listed and incorporate them into the summer fun.
ReplyDeleteI also like to have my son join me in doing yoga more during the summer as well as engage in more sporting events and activities.
As well, my son has taken an interest in learning new recipes and preparing foods and his all time favorite chocolate chip cookies. And he engages in Chess on mondays at the local library.
The list goes on with summer being such a wonderful time to do so many fun things like curl up in bed, watch movies together and take summer naps!!
Thanks Alvina!
What you listed are very good and interesting. I have to borrow your ideas. Thanks for sharing. Visiting you back.
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Great list! I look forward to doing all of these when my daughter is a little older.
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting Marlie and Me!