Five things your kids should be doing this summer

In only a few weeks, school will be out and your children will suddenly have endless hours of free time at their disposal. Without proper planning, summer vacation can be a wasted opportunity for learning and growth in children of any age. Teachers and parents alike worry that during this time off, children will lose everything they've learned over the school year. Studies show that the average child loses between one and three months of school learning over the summer, making this a valid concern. Below, you'll find five helpful suggestions for things your children should be engaging in this summer. These activities and experiences will keep your kids sharp and interested, and in turn make them better students come fall.

1. Your kids should be reading.

By far the most important item on this list, your children should spend as much time as possible this summer reading new material. One of the easiest ways for them to stay sharp and expand their knowledge, reading can be a fun activity. Don't limit your children to books alone - explore other options like educational magazines, workbooks and even online articles. Check with your child's school or a local library to see if they offer a suggested summer reading list.

2. Your kids should be moving.

On average, children and adolescents need about one hour of physical activity a day. During the busy school year, most kids don't get nearly this much exercise. Find ways during the summer to encourage your children to play outdoors, whether swimming, biking or engaging in team sports. Allowing your kids to develop healthy habits now will not only improve their physical well-being, but keep them sharp and focused when it's time to learn.

3. Your kids should be watching.

Many parents find their children watching endless hours of TV during the summer, so why not choose to make this time a learning opportunity? Satellite TV offers a wide array of educational programming, specifically in the realms of science and geography. Spend some time watching these programs with your kids, then discuss pertinent issues and topics you've seen. Leading satellite TV providers also offer original, award-winning channels with engaging content approved by leading childhood experts. This is a great way to get more value out of the time your kids spend in front of the television.

4. Your kids should be traveling.

While most people can't afford or accommodate a week off of work to take their family on exotic vacations, summer travel is always an option. Invaluable to young children, travel expands horizons and increases tolerance, making for minds that are more open to learning. If you can't manage a traditional vacation, take one or two weekend trips to landmarks or unusual places near your home. Unique experiences, whether near or far, undoubtedly have a positive impact on developing minds.

5. Your kids should be interacting.

Used to spending five days a week surrounded by peers, many children have a hard time adjusting to the isolation summer vacation brings. Make a conscious effort to maintain your children's relationships with other kids, and try to plan regular group activities. Keeping your children socialized over the summer is a surefire way to ensure their transition into the learning environment of school is a smooth one.

Courtesy of ARAcontent