For kids, education doesn’t really take a break in the summer. For kids in special education programs, education can’t really take a break in the summer. But it is good to have a break from the demands of the school year and its schedule. So, what should parents and caregivers do to ensure their kids’ education continues while still enjoying the summer break? The answer, naturally, is to trick them into learning while still having fun.
Continue the progress your kids made in their special education programs by tricking them into learning this summer with these activities!
Hold your own at-home Olympics.
The Paris Olympics start in less than two weeks, so there’s no better time to hold your own at-home Olympics. Make your own Olympic Rings and set up some events. They can be versions of actual Olympic events like running or gymnastics, or you can invent your own. But how is this educational? It’s important to remember that staying active is just as important as practicing reading, writing, and math. Plus, you can include those things by learning timekeeping or by reading about past Olympians or the history of the Olympic Games.
Create outdoor artwork.
Arts and crafts have always been important to special education because you can disguise other lessons within the art project. You can also practice fine motor skills and spatial awareness. Summer provides excellent opportunities for creating artwork because the weather is nice, and you can do it outside, so you don’t have to worry about making a mess. You can also go on a nature walk so kids can collect items to use in their artwork.
Perform fun and easy science experiments.
Science experiments are the peak of fun, hands-on education. Your kids will probably see through your educational ruse on this one, but if the experiments are cool and fun, they won’t care. National Geographic Kids has lots of ideas for simple science experiments you can easily do with things you already have at home. From making your own ice cream in a zip-lock bag to making rain clouds in a soda bottle, there’s no shortage of fun experiments to try.
Special Education in Bangor, ME | Watch Me Shine
Our team at Watch Me Shine is dedicated to giving every child the support and care they need. Our special education programs are designed to give all children the tools they need to succeed in school, at home, and in the future. Give us a call at (207) 990-0162 to learn more about all our programs and services.