How to Keep Kids’ Brains Busy During Summer Break
Summer break is finally here! The kids couldn’t be happier with no e-learning to worry about, but you’re already dreading hearing that first, “I’m bored!” Just because it’s summer, doesn’t mean your kids can’t still stay active both mentally and physically! Whether you’re looking for fun things to do in your town or brainstorming how to keep your kids learning while on summer vacation, check out these fun and creative ways to keep your kids’ brains engaged and active all summer long.
What to Do with Kids in Summer
1. Make a sweet treat.
Is there anything better than a refreshing treat on a hot day? Help your kids make popsicles or ice cream and teach them valuable kitchen skills along the way. Want to take it to the next level? Have your kids find a recipe for their treat of choice, then ask them to make a grocery list with what they’ll need and give them a shopping budget to follow. They’ll learn how to use a recipe and prep food safely, and you’ll get dessert out of the activity. A win-win for all involved!
2. Plant a garden.
Do your kids know where their vegetables come from — beyond the grocery store, that is? Make a trip to a local nursery or home improvement store to pick out a few veggies that you can grow in your backyard.
If you don’t have a green thumb, start with a few herbs that are easy to grow, like cilantro, basil, or parsley. Let your kids get messy with potting soil and a container or the dirt in your yard to plant your new finds. Then, ask your kids to come up with a system or schedule to remember to water and care for the plants. You’re not only creating an opportunity for them to learn about agriculture — you’re also teaching them a few lessons in patience and responsibility!
3. Get in touch with your artsy side.
Art class may not be in session at your kids’ school, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get crafty on your own! Create cherished memories together with a family paint night or encourage your youngsters to meet new friends with exclusive art camps and painting events for kids. Painting can improve your kids’ concentration and focus, help them sharpen their motor skills, and give them the confidence to think creatively in their everyday lives.
4. Take a trip to local historical sites.
For some kids, history can seem pretty dull. But sometimes, it comes alive as soon as they walk in the footsteps of those who came before them. Look for historical sites in your area, like war battlefields or old homes. Guided tours are a great way to keep kids engaged and interested, and many of these places offer free or low-cost admission. Plus, you’ll all get to learn more about the heritage of your hometown!
5. Look for local summer camps for kids.
Are your kids interested in sports? Find a sports camp where your little athletes can step up their game! What about other hobbies? Check with local businesses and organizations to see if they offer workshops or activity camps for kids during the summer, like carpentry classes at the local hardware store, acting workshops with a theater company, or art camps for kids at a nearby painting studio. Encouraging your children to find a hobby or activity that they love can boost their mood and support their growing imaginations this summer.
6. Host a reading contest.
There’s one way to make almost any activity more fun: turn it into a game! Set a summer reading goal for each child, make a poster to track everyone’s progress, and offer rewards for reaching new milestones (like an outing to a favorite restaurant or getting to pick the movie for your next family movie night). If you have an only child, ask friends or neighbors if their kids want to participate in a friendly competition.
Find Art Camps for Kids This Summer
Making sure your kids’ minds and bodies stay active can feel like a full-time summer job. Keep their gears turning in a creative, productive way with painting events for kids at Painting With a Twist! Their brains stay engaged, and you get some time to take your own summer break. Contact your local Painting With a Twist studio for more info on painting events and summer camps for kids.