No doubt, we all need the break from structure that summer brings, especially after this last year. However, too much of a disconnect from learning and structure isn’t good for kids, especially if their time is filled with tv and video games. Alongside the much-needed relaxation, find ways to season their summer break with moments of wonder, adventure, and creativity.
Studies show that children who are not engaged in meaningful summer learning begin the next school year behind their peers. Students from low-income families are especially at risk of falling behind higher-income peers who have access to more enrichment opportunities. This year’s distance learning has only magnified concerns. Summer learning programs are especially important now.
We’re not talking about sweating it out in a classroom. Fun extracurricular activities are huge supports for our kids physical and social-emotional health. If we take care of our bodies by getting outdoors with friends, exercising, and eating healthy, our kids will be better prepared for their academic load. Playful learning and exploration is the most natural form of fun for young people.
Low/No-Cost Summer Learning Ideas
Here are some low-cost ideas to keep your kids’ minds and bodies engaged this summer:
In Person / Local Camps
- Novato Parks and Recreation offers all kinds of low-cost opportunities to learn things like basketball, volleyball, taekwondo, gymnastics, chess, engineering, comic book creation and more. Check out their Summer Guide for details. Registration is open online and there is still space in many programs.
- North Marin Community Services offers a low-cost Middle School Enrichment Program to provide youth in grades 6-8 a safe, supportive environment to learn about who they are and their place in their family, community, and world. Daily English and Math activities help keep their skills sharp for next school year, while exploration of topics such as self-esteem, bullying, peer relationships, emotional management, and substance abuse build a foundation for success. Contact them at [email protected] or (415) 892-1643 ext. 235.
Online / At Home
- Math Moments: Camp Khan from Khan Academy is a FREE 31-day challenge to complete 15-minutes of math each day in July. The program will focus on the exact math skills that matter the most, setting kids up for success next school year while prioritizing SUMMER. After the 15 minutes of math are over and the device is tucked away, Khan provides fun activity ideas, boredom busters, and lots of chances to win cool prizes.
- Learning Videos The Humane at Home educational video series created by Marin Humane Society introduce young people to various animals from guinea pigs to horses.
- Start a Summer Reading Habit. Especially during summer, kids should be encouraged to read something that they find interesting and enjoy. The Marin County Free Library has a Teen Program that offers free books, crafts, and virtual lessons on things like K-Pop Dance, as well as a Summer Reading Challenge that invites young people to explore the world through books with games and outdoor programs. Some of the most popular books among Marin teens are pictured below. Check out the reading lists by category, age, and interest at https://marinlibrary.org.
- Listen to an Audiobook. Sitting still to read a book can be challenging for some kids. For many, audiobooks bring stories to life and can be enjoyed anywhere, even while walking. These are especially good on road trips. Audiobooks can be found at the local library, or through services like Audiofile Sync, which offers two free audiobooks for teens every week.
