Every year before the last day of school, I obtain a copy of the coming year curriculum. I evaluate it and note any summer activities that will help my kids gain a healthy headstart.
Last year, we discovered that my upcoming first grader would be studying George Washington and the Revolutionary War. Over that summer, we checked out books and age appropriate videotapes on our first President. We also visited a historical home in Maryland which conducted Revolutionary War reenacting and participated in hands-on activities such as firing a musket and starting a fire using flint and steel. He got to see first hand the types of tents and clothes and conditions our nation's patriots fought under.
Matching the curriculum to museum exhibits and community activities is a fun and easy way to incorporate learning during the long summer months.
Many school districts post their curriculum by grade on their website. I've also asked the principal to allow us to borrow next year's textbook which also helps in planning activities.
By Pearl from Gaithersburg, MD
Add your voice! Click below to comment. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
Absolutely a wonderful idea! What fun. It will give the kids a great headstart on the next school year. My kids are grown but I'll pass this on to my daughter for our grandchildren. So many people are visual learners. Bringing subjects alive like this really can get these people fired up for learning!
I'm a teacher. I wish all parents were like you!
You are a home schooler, and you don't know it! What you are doing is "permanently" great. I began homeschooling, because I wanted my kids to understand that learning is a life long, 365 days a year adventure, not just September to June, in a classroom.
Thanks everyone. I don't know who has more fun with these activities...me or the kids. Since most school districts have summer reading requirements why not select books with topics being covered in the fall. Also if you have kids involved in scouting, chances are many of your summer activities are requirements for advancement or badge work. Take a quick look at their handbook...you never know.
This is a great idea! My sister was a history teacher by training and would plan educational historic trips about twice a year for her family. Be sure to take pics and label them which is really easy to do now with the digital pics and laptops etc.
Add your voice! Click below to comment. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
