However, this break can also present a unique set of challenges. While the initial excitement of summer is undeniable, boredom doesn't take long to set in, and the dreaded "summer slide"—where students experience learning loss over the break—becomes a real concern for educators and parents alike.
This is where summer programs step in, offering not only a cure for boredom but a chance to keep the learning going in fun and engaging ways. An excellent example of this is the incorporation of the Positive Action program into summer camps and out-of-school activities. This initiative is designed to promote positive behavior, improve social skills, and generate academic enthusiasm, all through enjoyable, action-based learning.
Let’s explore some top summer learning activities that educators, summer program facilitators, and parents can incorporate to make this summer both educational and exhilarating!
The best kind of fun during summertime is when kids expand their horizons and broaden their minds! Here are 10 enjoyable activities that kids (and parents) will love this summer break:
Dive into different worlds by visiting a local public library. Let kids pick up some cool summer reads and challenge them to finish a series before school starts! Create a reading schedule and allot time for sharing sessions to encourage kids to share their thoughts with others and reinforce what they’ve learned.
Summer is the perfect time to learn something new. Arrange different activities for kids like baking cookies, riding a bike, swimming lessons, drawing cartoons, impromptu storytelling, writing essays or poetry, and more! Let them try new things and discover cool new talents!
Who says you need to go outside to camp? No campground? No problem! If your summer class is held at activity centers, or you’re a parent at home, you can still take the kids on one of their favorite summer activities—camping!
Build a fort in your living room or in the middle of your activity center using blankets and pillows. Make some microwave s’mores and share spooky stories under the glow of a flashlight.
Roll up your sleeves, it’s time for some cool science magic! From the solar oven experiment to water bottle rockets, engage kids in hands-on activities that will grow their love for science and discovery.
Check out local community art shows or outdoor theater events. Not only do you get to see amazing creations and performances, but you also might get inspired to create some art of your own!
Visit your local pool or (if you're a parent) set up a sprinkler in the backyard. There's nothing like a splashy fun day to cool down during those hot summer afternoons. Plus, it’s a fun activity for learning and exercise. Remind them to put on their sun protection and keep their bodies healthy!
What’s more fun than going on a thrilling adventure full of clues and teamwork? Organize a scavenger hunt around your campgrounds, activity centers, or your home or backyard. Create a map, hide some treasures (like prizes or snacks), give puzzles and riddles, and let the adventure of problem-solving, decision-making, and analytical thinking begin!
A campground film showing, a classroom turned into a cinema, and a home cozy for movie time—an activity that kids, parents, and educators love! Get the kids together and host a movie marathon with family or friends. Pick a theme, like superheroes or animated adventures, and watch some classics or new releases. Don't forget to ask kids for their critique!
Start a small garden and grow your own veggies or flowers. It’s fun to watch things grow, and you can even taste the fruits of your labor!
Switch off screens and head outside daily with fun themes like 'Trailblazing Tuesdays' for hikes and 'Wheelie Wednesdays' for bike rides. Keep kids active and engaged with nature while creating lasting memories.
If you’re curious about how Positive Action can transform summer learning and keep the dreaded summer slide at bay, stay tuned. Our upcoming blog post will dive deep into how the Positive Action Program is integrated into summer camp, afterschool, and out-of-school settings, providing real benefits and lasting impacts on students' lives.
And now, the Positive Action Program is at your fingertips with the click of a button through its new web app Pasela! Guide your summer activities by exploring Pasela with a free 7-day trial.
For a limited time, enjoy a 3-month subscription to any grade-level product at just $50! Simply use the coupon code
at checkout to unlock this exclusive deal or contact a knowledgeable Program Consultant to learn more.