Summer is both a wonderful time and a difficult time for children and parents. Children want to play and parents have their hands full, particularly now that we are in the thick of the season and school has been out for a while. This summer, with my own kids, I've thought kindly of past school days when I had more free time for myself. Then, I realize that I should really be taking advantage of this time with my kids to experience the world around us and to create lifelong memories together before they become too busy. And, these experiences will only build your kids' knowledge and understanding, which will help them in and out of school.
1. Go to the local museum, but instead of just walking around, get a tour with your children so that both you and your children can learn something new from you visit. And, many museums have specific exhibits and children's rooms that are dedicated to helping them become involved in the work and focus of the museum.
2. Go to the zoo. The best time to go to the zoo is in the morning or evening, not in the middle of the day. And again, the docent tour is usually a very worthwhile learning experience for both you and your children.
3. Go to a local IMAX theatre to see one of the interesting movies on nature and the environment.
4. Take a hike in a local mountain or walk in a local botanical garden to see and learn about the environment in which you live.
Have fun! The most important thing about all these activities is that you are experiencing them with your child; you are engaging with them and talking to them about what you are doing, sharing the time together. These are the times that build lasting memories and help develop your kids' minds and interests.
