What educational activities, if any, should I plan for my children this summer? They are doing well in elementary and middle school. -- Making Summer Plans
Answer: A break from classroom routine is most welcome for all children. However, it should only be a break from structured learning. Summer is a great time to help children learn all they can about things that interest them. For example, if they love music, art, a sport or a hobby, provide reading materials and/or lessons to help them become more expert. Then when they return to school, the topic can be an endless source of information for reports and projects. Also, expose them to new activities that may become passions.
To keep your children intellectually active, build into your family's schedule a weekly library trip and at least one visit to a unique place in your community, from a factory to a farm to a museum. Such activities will enhance their learning by broadening their experiences. And finally, not all children are avid readers, so set aside a 30-minute period each day in which the family reads in the same room. A family game night is another good idea.