Summer break can be a great time for students to relax and unwind after a busy school year. However, as a parent, you may also want to use this time to help your child continue learning and growing. Fortunately, there are many ways to creatively further your child’s education over the summer break. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Encourage Reading: Reading is one of the most effective ways to improve academic performance. Encourage your child to read books that interest them, both fiction and non-fiction. Set aside a time each day for reading, and consider discussing the books together.

2. Review Core Concepts: Over the summer, it’s important to review core concepts that your child learned during the school year. You can use online resources, textbooks, or workbooks to review math, science, history, and other core subjects. This will help your child retain information and prepare for the next school year.

3. Focus on Writing Skills: Writing is an essential skill that can benefit your child in many academic and professional contexts. Encourage your child to write regularly over the summer, whether creative writing, journaling, or writing about current events. Consider providing feedback and guidance to help your child improve their writing skills.

4. Incorporate Learning into Everyday Activities: For example, if you’re cooking dinner, have your child help you measure ingredients and explain the math behind it. If you’re hiking, have your child identify plants and animals along the way.

5. Pursue Enrichment Activities: The summer is a great time to pursue enrichment activities your child is passionate about. This might include attending summer camps or programs focusing on areas like STEM, the arts, or language learning. Encourage your child to pursue their interests and explore new topics.

6. Engage in Critical Thinking: Critical thinking is a crucial skill that can benefit your child in many areas of their academic and personal life. Encourage your child to engage in activities that require critical thinking, such as solving puzzles, playing strategy games, or debating issues.

7. Try Hands-On Learning: Hands-on learning can be a great way to keep your child engaged over the summer break. Consider trying activities such as building a birdhouse, conducting science experiments, or creating a garden.

8. Take Field Trips: Field trips can be a fun way to learn about new topics and explore the world around you. Take your child to a museum, zoo, or historical site. Encourage them to ask questions and explore on their own.

9. Embrace Technology: Technology can also help further your child’s education over the summer break. Consider using educational apps or online learning programs. You can also use technology to research topics that interest your child or watch educational videos together.

10. Set Goals: Setting goals is an effective way to help your child stay motivated and focused over the summer. Encourage your child to set academic goals, such as mastering a new math concept or reading a certain number of books. Make sure to celebrate your child’s achievements when they meet their goals.

11. Encourage Creativity: Encourage your child’s creativity over the summer break. Provide them with materials such as paints, clay, or craft supplies, and let them create their own projects. For example, encourage them to write stories or create their own games.

Julie Proud
Superintendent – Awaken Christian Academy