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...Spring has arrived! But you can still see a
little snow off in the distance.

by Renee Kirchner, teaching tips contributing editor

Learning doesn’t have to stop just because it’s summer. Not all learning occurs by reading books and solving math problems. Kids need adventures and new experiences to expand their view of the world. There are many great activities you can try that will bring your whole family together and teach your children something at the same time. Here are a few suggestions:

Take A Trip to the Zoo

Do your children like animals? Encourage their interest in animals with a trip to the zoo. Read a few books about zoos before you go. Go online and check out the latest attractions at your local zoo and decide which animals your kids want to see the most. Even if you went last summer and the summer before it doesn’t matter. Zoos animals have new babies, zoos add new attractions, and your kids are older and will notice different things. So, if you haven’t made it to the zoo this summer, you still have time.

Start a Garden

A family garden is a hobby that the whole family can enjoy. Go to the nursery together and let everyone choose what they want to plant. You could plant a flower garden or a vegetable garden. Even the smallest hands can help by watering seeds or plants. This is a great way for children to learn about nature. Gardening will also help nurture a love of the outdoors and keep kids off their electronic games and computers for an hour or more each day.

Plan Your Summer Vacation and Create a Travel Scrapbook

Is your family taking a trip this summer? Involve your kids in the planning process. Let them help you research hotels and restaurants on the internet. Get out a map and plan your route together. Travel is a great way to learn about geography in a relaxed, fun way.

When you come home with lots of pictures that need to be organized, spend an evening together creating a family scrapbook. Everyone in the family can add designs and special mementos from their trip. The scrapbook will become a treasured keepsake.

Go On a Weekend Camping Trip

If your family hasn’t taken a summer vacation, maybe you would have time for a short weekend camping trip. You could even do a daytime camping trip if mom and dad have to work in the summer. Load up the car with fishing poles, bathing suits, hiking gear, and great food to grill. Camping will also help nurture a love of the outdoors and keep kids off their electronic games and computers for an entire weekend. Don’t forget the marshmallows!

Try Stargazing

Summer evenings are perfect for gazing at the stars. Your family could lie out in the backyard on a blanket and point out the various constellations. You could also purchase a reasonably priced telescope and a book about the stars. It’s a nice way to reconnect with each other and have a chance to talk.

I hope your family enjoys one or more of these activities. Have a great summer!