Kids need a break. The have the rest of their adult lives to go without a summer vacation (unless they become teachers). However, you don’t want them spending two whole months watching television, playing video games, and sleeping until the afternoon hours.
It’s better to make the most of your child’s vacation.
Sports and Exercise
Kids need outlets. It’s why some are misdiagnosed as being hyper or inattentive. Imagine if you did not have an outlet for built-up energy? You would probably start acting irregular. However, kids need a bit of guidance when it comes to sports. They may do things because other kids are into it or it’s the cool thing to do. However, exercise is for all kids, so help them choose an appropriate yet challenging sport or active hobby.
Interests and Knowledge
As mentioned, there’s no need for classrooms and textbooks yet learning should never stop. Basically, learning as an adult means pursuing topics of interest. Perhaps that’s a kid-friendly way to propose they learn about something over the summer. It could be about Saturn or the history of baseball. Basically, you want them actively interested in a topic over the summer months.
Peace and Happiness
What makes your child happy? Is it time with friends, enjoying a certain dessert, or playing with the family pet? Be sure that your child has time to do the things that make them truly happy. More importantly, be sure to point out to them the need for ‘happy time,’ as it’s something adults tend to forget.
Travel and Adventure
It’s difficult to travel at times during the school year. The kids may have too much work and obligations over the weekend to take a long vacation. Moreover, seasons dictate the expenses related to travel. However, devote at least one week toward exploring an area outside of your zip code. It could be going as far as another continent or just over the state line.
Work and Money
You don’t have to make your child do hard labor, but they have time to do a bit of work over the summer. Have them choose an age appropriate job or devote time to performing tasks in and around the home. It’s never too early to learn to appreciate the value of the dollar. Have your child set a monetary goal for themselves. Perhaps you could provide incentive by telling them you will match a certain percentage if they work all summer, etc. It could be a paper route. Just teach them to check the local weather before heading out. They can download a free app on Google Play.
Arts and Culture
It’s important for children to learn how people of other ethnicities and cultures live. Have them attend a museum, play, or other arts event with you. Play upon their preferences. For example, if they are a visual learner, take them to an art museum. If they like to learn by sound, have them go to an opera or orchestra concert.
