Whole Student Support

Six Summer Tips for Parents of Early Childhood Learners

During the summer months, parents of early childhood learners (PreK–3^rd grade) often wonder how to keep their kids engaged and learning. Below are some tips to help you make the most of the summer with your little ones, ensuring they stay busy, happy, and intellectually stimulated.

1. Understand your child’s learning level

The first step in planning a summer full of learning is to assess where your child is academically. Reflect on their skills in areas like math and literacy. Do they recognize numbers, letters, and shapes? Can they add, subtract, or read sight words? If you're unsure, consider asking their pediatrician or teachers. You can also refer to your state’s Department of Education for early childhood standards.

2. Explore their interests

Knowing what activities and themes excite your child will help you plan engaging activities. Do they love crafts, dress-up, building with LEGO®, or playing superheroes? Are they fascinated by dinosaurs, the ocean, or space? Tailoring activities to their interests makes learning enjoyable for everyone.

3. Connect with community events

Use your child’s interests to explore community events. Local museums, zoos, and parks often host educational exhibits and summer activities. A trip to a LEGO or train exhibit can inspire creative building projects at home; a trip to the aquarium might spark interest in marine biology. Introducing young learners to new experiences will help broaden their horizons.

4. Plan themed activities

Themes are a fantastic way to keep learning organized and fun. You can plan weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly themes around topics like weather, animals, or space. This approach allows you to tie together reading, movies, art, and field trips under a common topic, enhancing their understanding and retention.

5. Balance different types of activities

Try to create a mix of active and passive, group and individual activities. Active time involves engaging their brains and bodies, while passive time allows for relaxation. Similarly, balancing group activities with individual play ensures that children develop social skills and learn to entertain themselves. Spending individual time with your child strengthens bonds and builds confidence that will carry over into the school year.

6. Give yourself grace

Parenting is challenging—and juggling work, house chores, and teaching can be overwhelming. Remember to give yourself grace. Take breaks when needed, and don’t hesitate to seek help from friends and neighbors. It’s OK to adjust plans while you find what works best for your family!

To learn more about how to keep your child intellectually stimulated during the summer, check out our webinar!