Are You Ready for Spring Break?

Spring Break is right around the corner, which is a good thing since it seems that students are letting Spring Fever get the best of them.  Spring Break is the perfect time for students to decompress, relax and re-energize for the end of the semester; mostly known as “testing period”.  So of course, go ahead, and let your children relax for a full week, but there are still many ways to encourage learning without them even realizing it.

1.       Visiting the Local Library or Book Store

Reading is a great way to tap into your child’s creative imagination, and Spring Break gives them enough time to dive into some great reads.  The best part? It’s mobile; your child can read outdoors on a sunny day, in a car or plane on the family’s Spring Break vacation, or around the house during their down time.   Let them chose what they’d like to read, and watch their imagination come to life!

2.       Visit a Museum

A trip to the museum is the perfect mix of learning and fun!  Museums especially targeted for elementary-school students are usually full of interactive activities that will keep them engaged for hours.

3.       Spend a Day in The Life

Remember take your son/daughter to work day? Whether it’s for a few hours in the morning, or all afternoon, take your child to work with you so they can see what you do for a living.  You never know, it could spark the same interest in them as well.  Afterwards, discuss what they liked and disliked about your job and ask them what they’d like to be when they grow up.

4.       Practice Math Facts

Let your child be in charge of the household finances for a day.  Take them with your to run errands like grocery shopping, or buying items at the mall.  Let them check the receipts (they’ll get to see the cost of goods before and after tax), give money to the cashier, and total up the change.  This hands-on use of math skills makes it more interesting and practical.

5.       Write About Spring Break

Find out what your child liked or disliked about their Spring Break activities.  Writing gives them a way to express themselves while sharpening written skills and penmanship.  You can use what they’ve written to add their favorites to their summer break, as well as come up with new activities!