I love to take the summer off from homeschooling(or at least part of it) but I dislike losing the momentum and also the summer learning loss that happens with extended breaks. I try to find ways to “sneak” in some learning through the summer to keep us all on our toes and make the transition back into school days less traumatic-but still fun! Whether you have a year round homeschool schedule or not there are plenty of ways to keep learning all through the summer! Here are 7 things we like to do…
Learning Through Summer
Apps/Computer Games- While computer and other forms of technology are cut way back during times when we have full school days during the summer I give them freer reign…within reason. I also require that at least part of that time be used for educational apps and games.
Nature Walks- Head out into the backyard, a local, or state park for some nature study. Bring a field guide and a nature journal. The kids will pretty much lead their own learning with little prodding from you.
Workbooks- I normally steer clear of workbooks, my kids just don’t like them for daily work, but they are great for review and practice while on road trips, at dr.’s offices, and at restaurants. They don’t mind them in small doses, especially if you can find them with their favorite characters or themes.
Field Trips- While these may just look like fun days out I can cleverly disguise the learning portion- aquariums, zoos, factory tours, working farms, u pick fields, and local landmarks all offer educational opportunities for your whole family.
Summer Reading- No stuffy textbooks here, break out beautiful living books on their favorite topics. Scatter them about the house, tuck them in baskets, leave them on your childs bedside table with their booklight. Encourage reading in the backyard hammock or camped out in a tent
Cooking- Get them in the kitchen with you where they can practice reading, following steps, math, science, and more with even simple recipes. Then you have the added bonus of enjoying their creation together. Think pancakes, smoothies, popsicles, muffins, salads, and english muffin pizzas.
Summer camps- There are lots of summer science camps that offer classes on many interests like coding, zoology, and music- you are sure to find one that peaks your child’s interest. Look for classes at the library, zoo, aquarium, and hobby shops.
What are your favorite way to learn through the summer? I would love to hear your ideas in the comments below!