Research has shown that children lose much of what was learned in the previous year of school during the summer months. Learning does not have to stop during summer. You just have to approach it differently. Children need a break from the typical 7 hour school day, but you should continue to exercise their brains. Brain exercise will help them retain more of what they have learned and will learn.

Here are a few ideas to help you through the summer.

1.Check with your local library. Our library has a summer reading program that is for all ages. At the end of the summer, if you meet your reading goal, you get a prize and recognition. Try getting the whole family involved for a little inter-family competition. Who can read the most books? Maybe you can even offer a special prize at home for the family member that reads the most books. Some libraries even offer arts and crafts and other special activities for all ages. The best part about utilizing the library is that most of the activities are free (but may require registration).

2. Call the museum. Does your museum have a section that caters to children? If so, they may have summer activities scheduled. The museum is a great way to learn about things that probably were not learned in school, but are fun and educational.

3. If your city has an arts and theatre community, they will probably offer a variety of summer camps for children of all ages. Drawing, clay sculpting, and theatre are probably offered. These are great for learning and socialization. Usually these classes are designed to get the community involved, and therefore, are generally very affordable.

4. Find your area nature trails. While walking collect leaves of the different trees, talk about the sounds you hear, notice the colors and smells, and point out any animals you may see along the way. When you get home, try to find out the names of the trees that the leaves came from. Have you child write a story about the things they saw, heard, and smelled.

5. Talk to your child. Engage them in conversations discussing local and national news (that would be interesting and age appropriate). Let them tell you what they are thinking about, reading about, and curious about. If there is something they are particularly interested in, encourage them to find information about it and maybe plan a field trip or activities that are related to their interests.

Just like our bodies need exercise, so do our brains. Keep your child's brain in shape this summer by providing fun learning activities. Summer is the perfect time to be creative and learn in a different way. Your child will enjoy it and be more prepared when the new school year begins.

Learn more about this author, Anne Graham.
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