Summer learning doesn’t have to involve textbooks. In fact, it is well documented that experiential learning helps move concepts from the abstract to the concrete, making summer the perfect time for learning opportunities to abound.
“Summer is the perfect time to help children make connections between what they have learned in the classroom and real-world examples” says Jennifer Schellhase, owner at College Nannies and Tutors of Overland Park.
Trip to the park? Bring a field guide, and have fun identifying different types of trees and birds. Bring a journal to record your findings. Trip to the pool? Talk about water safety. Create fun water games from an imaginary world that can come alive. Rainy day? Visit local museums and take advantage of the hands-on exhibits geared towards school age children.
These examples illustrate the point that summer learning does not have to involve a lesson plan. It does involve planning, however; the good news is we provide educational resources designed to give families ideas, activities, and information. College Nannies+Tutors provides summer fun for everyone that includes “summer activities for kids” and a plethora of ideas including crafts and local activities that will be at a families fingertips. For additional learning, get the kids involved in the planning process.
At College Nannies+Tutors, learning comes alive in the summer when College Nannies and Mannies are equipped with easy-to-carry backpacks chock-full of activities selected to engage the children they are charged with caring for.
“I love bringing new activities for the children,” says Amanda, who has been a College Nanny for three years. “It gives us something to look forward to and the kids are always excited to learn what I have planned for them when I walk in the door!”
Here are a few of College Nannies and Tutors’ favorite summer learning practices:
Read 20 minutes per day.
Read for fun! Help your child select reading materials that align with their interests. If they don’t like books, try interestspecific magazines.
Get outside and explore.
Air, water, grass, birds and trees; teach children to ask questions about their environment and seek answers.
Learn by doing.
Baking, gardening, crafts and constructing; children are wired for hands-on learning.
Teach by example.
Don’t sit on the sidelines. Engage in the planned activities, express your interest and lead in the exploration.
Make connections to the classroom.
Visit local historical sites to help your child visualize a history lesson. Ask your children for their math expertise: counting change or estimating how much time a car trip will take are fun ways to incorporate math skills into everyday life.
Summer learning will translate into a lifetime desire to learn. Are you ready to take the Summer Learning Challenge? If you need assistance this summer, don’t hesitate to contact the College Nannies+Tutors Overland Park office at 913.754.3633.
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