People often ask me what we do over the summer at our house. Well, I actually begin thinking about summer in May. I invest a couple evenings of my time considering what camps and activities would best fit the girl's needs and interests over the summer. Dance is a fact of life--my girls both spend time at the dance studio to avoid getting rusty. I'm also concerned about getting rusty academically. to avoid this we do the following:
We have set up an "At Home" schedule that includes 30 minutes of daily reading, plus math fact practice, and chores. Next week we will begin doing "A Page a Day" from a grade level math workbook--something that will keep the girls sharp and prevent the summer knowledge slide.
Limited TV viewing is just a fact of life at our house. When the TV is off I do not entertain my daughters. Instead I have provided for my girls colored pencils, paper, clay, Legos, toy cars, dolls, and much, much more. Telling my girls to learn to use their OWN imagination is the best gift I can give my children. Of course, we play outside everyday! And yes, I do play with my children, too!
The website, Kids Reads, is a great reading website full of book recommendations, kid's activities, and book trivia. It's a great place to visit to find new reading ideas!
Both Evelyn and Abby go to camps. Evelyn spends a week up north at horsemanship camp. Abby does day camps close to home. If cost is a factor there are many great free or low cost options including summer reading clubs at the library and Barnes and Noble. Herrick District Library offers many guest speakers and activities designed to engage kids.
Whatever you do with your kids throughout the summer please make sure they are doing more than just watching TV and playing video games! One final thought, go to the beach! We are lucky in Holland to have great entertainment just a couple miles down the road. Building sand castles is so fun! If you go to the beach, please be sure to discuss water safety with your children.
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