Learning over summer break is key to helping kids avoid the so-called “summer slide”. Continuing their education while school’s out helps to keep children’s minds active, while they develop new skills, explore interests and build confidence. Here are some fun and educational activities to pass the time until the school bell rings in the fall.
Teach Cooking Skills. Find kid-friendly recipes with step-by-step instructions. Help your kids improve their math skills by measuring out the ingredients and then putting them together. The reward is a yummy treat!
Make Musical Instruments. Find stuff around the house to create sounds with or make them yourself. A rattle, rainstick, and maracas can all be created with simple items.
Plan a Family Activity Day. Let each child take a turn researching local events and activities. Help them create a budget and plan a fun day for the family.
Take a Nature Walk. Encourage your children to pay attention to their surroundings. Count the number of pedals on a flower, or look for shapes, patterns and symmetrical objects in nature. Take the kids on a nature scavenger hunt.
DIY Science Experiments. Conduct simple, age-appropriate science experiments at home. Make a homemade baking soda volcano or test out the buoyancy of different liquids or objects.
Visit a Museum. Check out a local science museum, or other displays and learn something new. Many museums offer interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
Get Involved. Engage kids in community or citizen science projects. Start a neighborhood book club and write book reviews; help a charity or contribute to scientific research.
Harbor Child Care prepares children in the Long Island area for life beyond academics. We opened in 1973 and have grown to six centers across Nassau County. Early learning is crucial to a child’s health, wellbeing and development. Harbor Child Care offers safe and reliable childcare, as well as summer enrichment programs and after-school activities. Contact us to learn how we can help you.
Explore Math Resources. Check out free online websites that offer interactive math games, quizzes, worksheets and educational activities.
Tell Stories. Play a storytelling game. Start a story with a sentence and have each person continue with a sentence of their own. This activity improves creativity and language skills.
Make Inventions. Provide the kids with recycled materials, craft supplies, and basic tools like scissors and glue. Let them use their imagination to concoct gadgets, build structures, or create artwork.
Music, Dance and Theater. Encourage kids to explore music, create dances, or learn the art of improvisation.
Play Word Games. Send your kids on a word hunt. Write words down on sticky notes and place them around the house. When your child finds a word, have them read it out loud and use it in a sentence.
Design a Room. Have your kids decorate their own room that best suits their individual needs. Let it showcase their personality and interests.
Go on a Field Trip. Take a day to explore a city, town or historical site near you. Learn what’s unique about it and what it’s known for. Create a list of places to visit in each area.
