4 Fun Ways to Keep Children's School Skills Sharp in the Summer

children's school skills sharp summer school skills Summer slide summer learning loss rigorous learning schedule public library local landmarks local library lemonade stand Science experiment

By Lili Scott , Parent Herald Jul 23, 11:21 am

Photo: (Photo : Mary Bettini Blank/Pixabay)

While school is out for the summer, the learning continues! The summer is a great time for the kids to explore and learn outside the classroom so that their school skills remain sharp.

According to the experts, the kids are prone to a summer slide, also called summer learning loss, because they are not exposed to a rigorous learning schedule. While summer vacations are supposed to be a break from school, the nearly three months of scaled-down activities from June to August in the U.S. may put the children at a disadvantage when they are back in the classroom.

Here are some fun ways to ensure that there is no learning gap and that the children's school skills remain sharp even in the summer.

1. Visit the local library.

Most local libraries have a children's section where the kids can freely browse books they can read in comfortable nooks or seats. They will surely enjoy the independence of picking books to read in their favorite place at the library.

If kids' programs are offered in the library for the summer, consider signing them up. According to a study published on T&F Online, joining library reading programs can significantly improve a child's reading skills in the summertime.

Make visits to the public library a regular habit even when the children return to school. This way, they can cultivate their love for reading books.

2. Check out local landmarks.

Conduct a fun history lesson by visiting landmarks in your city. Before you go, encourage the kids to research these places on the internet. Or find and share with them some quirky and interesting links to read about its historical stories to ignite their interest.

Granted, the kids may also visit these landmarks when they return to school, but it will be pretty special if they have been to these places with their families. According to Bragging Mommy, these trips will help the kids understand complex concepts like war and oppression, which are usually the themes of places.

Don't forget to document the trip with photos or videos as a keepsake or remembrance to post and share with family and friends.

3. Open a lemonade stand.

According to PBS, children can learn the power of money by managing and running a lemonade stand this summer. They could also develop their social and entrepreneurial skills with this popular summer activity.

As the temperatures rise, people in the neighborhood are likely looking for refreshing ways to relieve themselves in the scorching heat. But make sure to let the kids set up the lemonade stand in the late afternoon when the temperature is more bearable. While at it, throw in homemade cookies that the kids can sell to the neighbors and passersby.

4. Do a science experiment.

One viral science activity that's very easy to do with the kids is to make slushies using just a Ziplock bag and three ingredients: a flavored drink, ice, and salt. While combining these ingredients, take the opportunity to discuss the science behind this chemical reaction and then enjoy the slushies with the kids after 10 minutes!