Summer Learning for Kids!

The sun is shining, the days are longer, and summer adventures are calling! While this season brings plenty of excitement for families, it can also stir up a familiar concern for many parents: the “summer slide.” You’ve probably heard the term—it refers to the learning loss that can happen over the extended school break. But what if we looked at it from a different angle? Instead of viewing summer as a setback, we can embrace it as a valuable opportunity—a chance to spark curiosity, encourage growth, and nurture a love of learning, all while still soaking up the joy and freedom that summer brings.

The key is to shift our perspective from academic drills to engaging, experiential learning. Summer is a time for exploration, and learning can be seamlessly woven into almost any activity.

Embrace the Great Outdoors

Nature offers an incredible playground for learning. A trip to the local park isn’t just about swinging; it’s a chance to observe insects, identify trees, or even calculate the trajectory of a frisbee. A hike can become a lesson in local plants and animals, navigation, or simply the joy of discovery.

• Become Backyard Biologists: Invest in a magnifying glass and a simple bug identification book. Encourage your child to observe the creatures in your garden or a nearby park.
• Stargazing Scientists: On a clear night, spread a blanket and look up! Download a stargazing app to identify constellations and planets. Talk about the vastness of space and the wonders of the universe.
• Nature Journaling: Encourage your child to draw or write about what they see and experience in nature. This fosters observation skills and creative expression.

Turn Everyday Activities into Learning Adventures

Learning doesn’t have to be done during the school year. Many daily routines provide opportunities to build skills that children need throughout life.

• Kitchen Chemistry: Cooking and baking are fantastic ways to practice math (measuring, fractions), reading (recipes), and even science (chemical reactions!). Let your child help plan a meal, follow the recipe, and discuss the changes they observe.
• Financial Literacy Fun: Give your child a small allowance for chores and encourage them to save for a desired item. Take them grocery shopping and let them help compare prices and calculate the best deals.
• Board Game Brain Boosts: Many classic board games are stealthily educational. Chess and checkers enhance strategic thinking, while Scrabble boosts vocabulary and spelling. Even simple card games can improve number recognition and basic math skills.

Nourish a Love for Reading (Without Making It a Chore)

The summer slide often impacts reading skills. The goal isn’t to force reading, but to make it an enjoyable and natural part of their day.

• Library Explorers: Regular trips to the library are a must! Let your child choose books that genuinely interest them, regardless of genre or perceived academic level. Many libraries have summer reading programs with fun incentives.
• Audiobook Adventures: For reluctant readers or during long car rides, audiobooks are a fantastic option. They expose children to new vocabulary and storytelling, keeping their minds engaged.
• Reading Nooks: Create a cozy and inviting reading space at home or outside, complete with blankets, pillows, and a stack of appealing books.

Remember Fun Is Key

Summer is a precious time for children to relax, recharge, and make lasting memories. By thoughtfully integrating learning into their joyful experiences, we can turn the “summer slide” into a launching pad for new interests, stronger skills, and a deeper appreciation for the world around them. So, embrace the sunshine, unleash your creativity, and make this summer an unforgettable season of growth and laughter!

Celebrating Our Child’s Learning

It’s funny once you hit Spring Break blink and it is summer break. Where did the year go? How was the year? Before rushing into vacation mode, here are a couple of things you can do to make sure the year ends on a good note and set up our children for success next year.

Celebrate Growth—Big and Small

One of the best ways to wrap up the school year is by celebrating your child’s growth. This doesn’t mean just focusing on report cards—progress is about so much more than grades! Think about all the ways your child has grown, whether it’s mastering new sight words, improving their social skills, becoming more independent, or developing a better attitude toward learning.

How You Can Celebrate:

• Make a “Proud of You” List: Sit down together and list five things your child accomplished this year, big or small.
• Create a Memory Box: Save special schoolwork, drawings, or projects in a box to look back on.
• Write a Letter to Your Child: Tell them what you’ve noticed about their hard work and growth this year.

Taking time to acknowledge progress boosts your child’s confidence and helps them see that learning is about the journey, not just the destination.

Keep Communication Open with the Teacher

If you have any lingering concerns about your child’s progress, now is the time to connect with their teacher. Most teachers are happy to offer insights and suggestions to help your child continue growing over the summer.

What to Ask:

• What progress has my child made this year?
• What areas should we focus on over the summer?
• Do you have any recommendations for summer learning activities?

If your child has an IEP or receives special education services, ask about any progress toward their goals and what skills they’ll be working on next year.

If Your Child Struggled Academically: Be Proactive

If your child had a tough time this year, don’t panic! The end of the school year is a great time to put together a plan so they don’t feel overwhelmed when school starts again.

Steps You Can Take:

• Request a Meeting or Updated Progress Report: If you’re concerned about academics, ask for an update on your child’s progress so you have a clear picture of where they stand.
• Consider Summer Tutoring or Learning Support: A little extra help over the summer can make a big difference. Look into tutoring services, online programs, or even summer school options.
• Make Learning Fun at Home: Find ways to sneak in learning through fun activities like reading together, playing math games, or exploring educational apps.

Keep a Routine Going

Summer break often means a big shift in routine, which can be challenging for some kids—especially those who thrive on structure. Keeping a loose but predictable routine can make the transition smoother and help prevent a back-to-school slump.

Simple Ways to Keep a Routine:

• Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Try to keep wake-up and bedtime within an hour of the school-year schedule.
• Set Aside Time for Learning: Even 15-30 minutes a day of reading, writing, or problem-solving can help keep skills sharp.
• Plan for Social Interaction: If your child struggles with social skills, set up playdates or group activities to keep practicing those skills.

Get Ready for Next Year

As summer winds down, start preparing for the next school year early to reduce stress for both you and your child.

Things You Can Do:

• Talk About Next Year Positively: Even if your child struggled this year, frame next year as a fresh start with new opportunities.
• Visit the School If Possible: If your child is transitioning to a new teacher, classroom, or school, see if you can visit before the year starts.
• Organize School Supplies Together: Let your child help pick out supplies and set up their backpack. This builds excitement and gives them a sense of control.

The end of the school year is a time for reflection, celebration, and planning. Whether your child had a great year or a challenging one, they’ve grown in ways you may not even realize. By keeping communication open, maintaining some structure, and being proactive about academic concerns, you can help your child finish strong and start the next year with confidence.

Most importantly, enjoy the summer together—learning happens in everyday moments, whether you’re reading a book before bed, cooking together, or exploring the outdoors.

Embracing Spring Rain: Strategies to Get Kids Outdoors

For my 40th birthday, I was surprised with a trip to Vancouver. As I packed my bags, I was told to bring rain gear—there was no way my family was going to let me stay inside just because of a little rain. I was there to explore, not to hide indoors. The same is true for kids in the spring. Just because it’s rainy or chilly doesn’t mean outdoor play has to stop!

Everyone needs outdoor time, no matter the forecast. In many schools, rainy days mean canceled recess, and that lack of movement can lead to restlessness and frustration. Getting outside, even in less-than-ideal weather, helps with attention, sensory processing, and emotional regulation.

The truth is, outdoor play is just as important in spring as in any other season. Movement helps kids regulate their bodies, develop motor skills, and improve focus. Plus, time spent in nature is proven to reduce stress and boost mood.

Why Outdoor Play Matters in the Spring

1. Supports Physical Health

Jumping in puddles, running through wet grass, and climbing damp playground equipment all help kids build strength, balance, and coordination. Exposure to natural light helps regulate sleep cycles and provides a much-needed vitamin D boost after winter.

2. Helps with Emotional Regulation

Many children, especially those with ADHD, sensory processing challenges, or anxiety, benefit from movement. Physical activity releases dopamine and serotonin, the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals, which can help kids feel calmer and more focused.

3. Reduces Screen Time

With unpredictable spring weather, it’s tempting to stay indoors with screens. While technology has its place, too much screen time can lead to increased irritability, poor sleep, and reduced physical activity. Getting outside—even in the rain—provides a much-needed break.

4. Encourages Creativity and Problem-Solving

Rain and mud offer new ways to play—from making mud pies to floating homemade boats in puddles. Outdoor play challenges kids to think creatively, explore textures, and engage in unstructured, imaginative activities.

Strategies to Get Outside and Enjoy Rainy Spring Days

1. Dress for Success: Waterproof Layers are Key

The biggest barrier to outdoor play in the rain is often being wet and cold. The right clothing makes all the difference. Use a layering strategy to stay dry and warm:

• Base layer: Moisture-wicking materials like wool or synthetic fabrics to keep skin dry
• Middle layer: Fleece or a lightweight sweater for warmth
• Outer layer: A waterproof, wind-resistant raincoat and rain pants
• Accessories: Waterproof boots, rain gloves, and a hat with a brim to keep raindrops out of eyes

2. Make Outdoor Time a Game

If kids are reluctant to go outside, turn it into an adventure. Fun spring outdoor activities:

• Puddle Jumping Contest: See who can make the biggest splash.
• Rainy Day Scavenger Hunt: Look for worms, raindrops on leaves, or reflections in puddles.
• Floating Boat Race: Make small boats from leaves, bark, or paper and race them down a stream or puddle.
• Mud Kitchen Play: Let kids mix mud, sticks, and leaves to create “recipes.”

3. Create a Routine for Outdoor Play

When outdoor time becomes a daily habit, kids adjust to it—even in the rain. Ways to build a routine:

• Morning Movement: A short walk before school can help wake up the brain.
• After-School Play: Instead of heading straight for screens, spend 20–30 minutes outside first.
• Weekend Adventures: Plan a family outing to a park, even if the weather is damp.

4. Find Rain-Friendly Destinations

Sometimes a change of scenery makes all the difference. Great places to visit in the rain:

• Nature trails: Many parks remain accessible and offer beautiful rainy-day scenery.
• Creeks and streams: Spring rain fills creeks and is perfect for floating sticks and boats.
• Botanical gardens: Some have covered areas for rainy-day exploring.
• Outdoor markets: Farmers’ markets still run in light rain, and kids can help pick out seasonal produce.

5. Get Involved in Spring Sports

If your child struggles with free play, structured activities may help. Popular rainy-day outdoor activities:

• Soccer: Wet grass makes for fun sliding kicks.
• Hiking: Trails are peaceful after a rain shower, and the smells of wet earth and blooming flowers can be soothing.
• Cycling: A light drizzle won’t stop the fun, and kids love riding through puddles.
• Fishing: Rainy days often mean better fishing conditions.

6. Use Sensory-Friendly Strategies

Some kids, especially those with sensory sensitivities, find rain overwhelming. The feel of wet clothes, the sound of raindrops, and the smell of damp earth can lead to sensory overload. Ways to help include:

• Let kids play with water indoors first (e.g., with a water table or sink play) before venturing outside.
• Choose soft, tagless clothing to prevent irritation.
• Offer waterproof gloves for kids who dislike the feel of wet hands.
• Use noise-canceling headphones for kids sensitive to the sound of rain.

7. Incorporate Warm-Up Breaks

Cold, wet play doesn’t have to mean staying outside for hours. Make sure kids stay comfortable. Ideas for warm-up breaks:

• Drink hot cocoa or warm tea inside after playing.
• Set a timer for 20-30 minutes outside, then take a short indoor break.
• Create a “warm-up station” with blankets and cozy socks.

8. Make It a Family Activity

Kids are more likely to embrace rainy-day play if parents participate. Ways to make it fun for the whole family:

• Plan a rainy-day nature walk and listen for different sounds of water.
• Take turns choosing outdoor activities for each outing.
• Start a spring tradition, like an annual “Puddle Walk.”

Bringing the Outdoors Inside. On days when it’s just too stormy to go out, bring nature inside. Indoor nature activities include:

• Rain Painting: Let raindrops mix with watercolor paints on paper.
• Indoor Planting: Start a small herb garden in pots near a window.
• Sensory Bins: Fill a bin with damp soil, rocks, or pinecones for a nature-inspired sensory experience.

Spring rain doesn’t have to mean staying inside! With the right gear, creative activities, and a bit of planning, kids can enjoy fresh air, movement, and outdoor fun—even on drizzly days. By embracing outdoor play, you can set an example, help kids build resilience, burn energy, and develop a love for nature in all seasons.

What Should Parents Know About AI?

As a product of the 80s and 90s, I grew up with a bit of uneasiness with the idea of AI.  It seems like a cool idea, to have robots and machines do all of our undesirable tasks.  But movies like Terminator drop a bit of fear of a robot takeover into the back of my mind.  The list doesn’t stop with Arnold, the killer robot: The Matrix, I, Robot, Bicentennial Man, Short Circuit, Wall-E.  They are all movies about how robots take over in some way, shape, or form.  It always seemed far-fetched or like a fantasy from a world too far in the future to become my reality.

Should We Limit the Use of AI for Kids?

But here we are.  AI is quickly becoming a pivotal part of the work we do and how we interact with the world every day.  AI in education is a hot topic of conversation.  Many educators fear the use of AI and want to determine how we can stop students from utilizing the technology to cheat on their assignments.  Of course, we want to make sure students can read, write, and think critically on their own; but is halting the use of AI all together the answer?

I would say no.  As a rapidly expanding technology, AI will continue to become more and more a part of our everyday lives and it is already a tool people use to help ease their workload and to make themselves more productive.  As a school principal, I use AI to generate draft emails, write letters to my school community, generate social media campaign ideas for my staff, and to generate feedback that I can use as seed ideas to share with my staff when I observe their classes.  Of course, I have the knowledge and experience to review the content AI creates for me, so I can use it as an effective tool instead of a way to cheat my way out of responsibilities.  And yes, students will inevitably use this technology to cheat.  However, it is important for parents and educators to embrace this new technology, so we can teach our students powerful, useful, helpful, and ethical ways to use it.

How Can Children Use AI Safely?

As parents, you are your child’s guide to navigating the world. Take the opportunity early on to think about how your child can use AI in a meaningful way.  Without you, they are likely to find all the negative ways to use AI on their own.  With you by their side, they will learn to use a cutting-edge technology to help them on their pathway to productivity and success.

Where Do We Get Started?

As parents, you are your child’s guide to navigating the world. Take the opportunity early on to think about how your child can use AI in a meaningful way.  Without you, they are likely to find all the negative ways to use AI on their own.  With you by their side, they will learn to use a cutting-edge tool to help them learn, grow, and succeed.  Here are some ways to get started using AI at home to show your child that it is nothing to be feared and how to use it effectively:

• Use ChatGPT to suggest a weekend itinerary, help generate ideas for a holiday celebration, and create a family meal plan for the week.
• Use AI tools to generate ideas for fun videos you can post on social media with your kids (you can also use this as an opportunity to teach your kids about Internet safety).
• Take a course together from an online platform like Coursiv. This way you can discuss what you are learning about AI together.
• Try learning some skills together using AI, including graphic design with Canva, or essay revision with Gemini.

No matter how you get started, just be sure to bring your kids along with you.  Don’t be afraid to learn together, and you’ll be amazed how far they go!

Overcoming Reading Barriers

Every January, I set a goal for the number of books I will read over the course of the next 12 months. I try to compete with my friend from college, Nick. His stats increase each year and I typically find myself hopelessly behind within a matter of a few months. While I enjoy the competition and I do enjoy the relaxing gift of reading a book, this wasn’t always the case. I distinctly remember only wanting to read Garfield or Calvin and Hobbes cartoon books when I was a kid. My parents never waivered in their efforts to find some books I would enjoy. One summer in late elementary school, my mom brought home Drummer Boy at Bull Run by Gilbert Morris. Something about the historical context and the relatable teen drama and issues had me enthralled. I proceeded to read the entire series. From that point forward, I am always looking for the next book that will captivate me the same way I was captivated that summer.

The point is that the joy of reading doesn’t typically come from an innate joy of books or love with text. It usually comes from routines and procedures that are set by parents. These routines and expectations provide the opportunity for kids to learn to love reading, usually from finding that one book or series that helps them catch the bug. But this environment does not come about accidentally or without some barriers. Let’s look at some of the challenges parents face in building a love of reading in their children, along with some ideas to help address those challenges.

Barrier 1: Your child’s belief that they don’t like to read

The challenge here is that reading is perceived to be relatively boring compared to other forms of entertainment available in your child’s life: phones, iPads, TV, video games, and social media, just to name a few. To combat this challenge, you need to create a setting in which reading can be enjoyable as well. For younger children, creating a routine where you read together as a family brings a significant amount of joy and purpose to reading. For older children, you may need to find books about topics connected to their media-obsessed lives, including graphic novels, comics, and anime. These can serve as a bridge between modern media and books.

Barrier 2: It’s not a normal part of their lives

Kids who do not see their parents read and have not ever experienced reading as a family may not see the emphasis on literacy they need to believe that reading is actually important. Sure, parents tell their children they should be reading more because the teacher and society say they should. Without a model in their children’s lives or an expectation for them to read, it doesn’t really seem all that important. To address this issue, set time for family reading. Perhaps this could be the last 30 minutes before bed time, an enjoyable family activity after dinner, or a Saturday morning time to relax. Whatever you choose, setting an example for your children will make a big difference. They mimic what we do much more than they do what we say. Give them a positive reading example to imitate!

Barrier 3: Just Life

Parents and kids are all busy: work, chores, sports, music, plays, school activities, church, martial arts…the list goes on. Whatever it is you and your children are busy with, most things tend to take a front seat to reading. We prioritize all of our scheduled events, leaving little time for leisure and relaxation. If reading is not already part of your routine, it may seem like a chore to add it into the mix. There’s no simple solution here. Sometimes as parents we have to make a sacrifice and do things that will benefit our children, even if we don’t feel like it. Our goal here is to help kids learn to love reading and to help them see that reading can be a relaxing pastime.

Prioritize reading, even if you only start with 20-30 minutes a couple of times per week. Make sure kids know that reading is a priority for you and for them.

As with most things, there is no magic cure or instantaneous fix. We have to make intentional choices and steps that will build a literacy-focused environment at home. Taking these steps will help. Comment if you have more ideas for helping kids learn to love reading!