We’ve all been counting down to it. Parents, kids, teachers alike, all looking forward to summer. And while summer is great, oftentimes it’s when parents hear two dreaded words the most, “I’m bored.” No matter how much planning a parent can do, it can sometimes feel impossible to keep your children occupied and active during the summer.

But keeping your kids active isn’t the only thing to consider during the summer – it’s also important to try to limit the “summer slide.” The summer slide is when children sometimes lose some of the achievements they gained during the school year. Previous studies have shown that children can lose about a month’s worth of learning, and some can lose more if children don’t exercise their brains in the summer.

We’ve got a few ideas for how to keep yours and your kids’ sanity this summer, all while having fun and sneaking in some learning!

One of our favorite places to go in the summer is the library! Most libraries have a free summer reading program that meets weekly. Not only does it encourage reading, it helps children maintain their academic achievements, children also get to interact with other kids, meaning social benefits!

Another great hands-on learning activity is performing science experiments. Science Bob has a collection of safe at-home science experiments that parents and children can perform. Ever wondered how to make your own rock candy? Or wanted to make your own geodes out of egg shells? This is the place for you.

For another hands-on activity, when you’re making your kids’ lunch or dinner, bring them into the kitchen and have them help prepare meals. Or, you can even make a sweet treat together! We all know cooking and baking is a science, so what better way to sneak in a little math and science than through some delicious food? Active learning is one of the best ways to continue education in general, but especially in the summer.
And don’t forget one of the most traditional summer activities, camp! Many local attractions offer some type of camp – whether it’s an overnight camp or day camp. Check out your local children’s museums and science centers, and some athletics facilities, like gymnastics, offer camps.

Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list of all the ways you and your children can enjoy summer – but it’s a start!