This Summer, Avoid Loss of Learning

The final bell has rung in Polk County private schools in the Diocese of Orlando, and the students finally have the freedom and time to do what they want. The pleasure of nothingness lasts a few days or weeks at most before the average child announces, “I’m bored.” Pump up the summer with these activities that will enhance learning and keep young minds sharp.

• Read: Reading takes practice, but once a child masters the skills of reading, the entire world opens up. Immersing yourself in a great book is entertaining as well as a fantastic teaching tool. The content of a book can teach readers about the Amazon Rain Forest, the human body, oceans, or space. If your child is learning to read, practice daily reading to or with him or her. Once the skill of reading is met, dedicate 30-60 minutes every day to a non-electronic reading session. When you spend time reading, your child will recognize its importance.
• Games: You would be amazed at the sheer number of learning games on the market. Learn to count money, tell time, add and subtract, use prefixes and suffixes on root words, et cetera. Big box stores and educational stores online or in a shopping mall will surely stock these games. The basic premise of the games is generally straightforward with the focus on the learning. Your children will enjoy sharpening their skills with these games.
• Have a Bee: Invite neighbors over for a bee-themed party with honey, striped prizes, and spelling or math bees. Match one team against another or have each child participate individually to spell words or add, subtract, multiply, or divide numbers. The winner can be rewarded with a bee-you-tiful prize!
• Watch Videos: Go online or visit your local library for learning videos including Clifford, Schoolhouse Rock!, The Magic School Bus, Bill Nye the Science Guy, American Girl, or any other short films. Many of these iconic cartoons have online materials to enhance learning as well as stickers, certificates, and more.
• Life Skills: Have your child fully participate when you go to the grocery store by planning meals, choosing ingredients, looking for the best price, budgeting, and calculating. At home, prepare the meal together measuring ingredients and mixing them together. These math and critical thinking skills will definitely help keep your child on track this summer.
• Volunteer: Education should include a spiritual aspect as well. Volunteer at a food pantry, animal shelter, or nursing home with your child to spread the Gospel message of caring and compassion.

Prepare your child for the 2017-2018 school year at a Polk County private school by incorporating these activities into your daily routine. Learning can extend beyond the walls of a Diocese of Orlando classroom; make the most of the summer by helping your child remain physically and mentally active. Read our blogs for other summer activities and contact the Diocese at 407-246-4800.