Looking for summer learning ideas for homeschoolers? We’ve got you covered!
Summer break is here, and for homeschooling families, that means transitioning from structured learning to a more relaxed routine. However, just because it’s summer doesn’t mean the learning has to stop. In fact, summer is the perfect time to explore new topics, engage in fun activities, and create memories while still challenging your kids to keep their minds sharp.
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Whether you’re looking to prevent summer learning loss, want to introduce your children to new subjects or just need some inspiration, we’ve compiled a list of summer learning ideas for homeschoolers that are both educational and enjoyable. So, let’s dive in and make this summer a season of growth and discovery!
Life Skills Summer Learning Ideas
The summer months are a great time to focus on some life skills. What are the skills that you want your kids to have when they graduate? Many times, we’re too busy during the regular homeschool year to spend much time on practical skills like making a budget, learning how to cook, or learning how to do laundry.
So while you have a break from the core subjects, pick a skill or two to hone this summer. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Start a garden: Encourage your child to start a garden, which can help teach them about plant life and the importance of sustainability.
Learn how to cook: Teach your child how to cook, which can help develop their math and reading skills as well as teach them about nutrition and healthy eating habits.
Learn a new skill: Summer is a great time for kids to learn new skills, such as cooking, gardening, or woodworking.
Volunteer: Volunteering can help teach kids about giving back to their community and the importance of helping others. Look for local volunteer opportunities for kids.
Learn about financial literacy: Teach your child about money management, budgeting, and investing. This can help promote responsible financial habits.
Summer Trips + Outdoor Ideas for Homeschoolers
Learn how to swim: Swimming can be a fun and healthy activity for kids. Sign them up for swimming lessons or teach them how to swim yourself.
Explore architecture: Take your child on a walking tour of local architecture, pointing out interesting buildings and landmarks. This can help teach them about history and design.
Learn about marine life: Take your child to a local aquarium or beach and teach them about different marine animals and their habitats.
Visit museums and zoos: Museums and zoos are a great way to learn about history, science, and nature. Many offer special summer programs and exhibits for kids.
Study astronomy: Summer is a great time to study astronomy. Take your child stargazing or sign them up for an online astronomy course.
Explore nature: Take your child on hikes, nature walks, and camping trips. Encourage them to observe and learn about the plants and animals they see.
Classes + Camps for Summer Learning
Attend summer camps: Summer camps can provide a fun and educational experience for kids. Look for camps that focus on specific interests, such as science, art, or sports.
Learn a musical instrument: Encourage your child to learn how to play a musical instrument. There are many online resources and classes available for beginners.
Attend a theater camp: Theater camps can help kids develop their acting and public speaking skills. Look for local theater programs or camps.
Join a coding camp: Coding camps can help kids develop their coding skills and learn about technology. Look for local coding programs or camps.
Take a photography class: Photography can be a fun and creative way for kids to express themselves. Sign them up for a class or provide them with a camera to practice with.
Attend a science or technology camp: Many science and technology camps offer hands-on activities and experiments that can help kids learn about science and technology in a fun and engaging way.
Enroll in online classes: There are many online classes available for kids, covering topics such as coding, creative writing, and foreign languages.
Attend a writing workshop: Writing workshops can help kids develop their writing skills and creativity. Look for local writing programs or workshops.
Learn how to sell on Etsy or eBay: Whether you’re a crafter, designer, vintage picker, or yard sale enthusiast, opening up a storefront on Etsy or eBay is a fun way to learn new skills plus earn some money! The Selling on Etsy Masterclass for Teens and the eBay Reseller Mini Course for Teens are a great starting place.
Books + Journaling
Read books: Encourage your child to read books of their choice. You can also set reading goals and provide incentives for achieving them.
Join a book club: Join a local book club or start one with your child’s friends. This can help promote reading and critical thinking skills.
Start a journal: Encourage your child to start a journal, which can help develop their writing skills and promote self-reflection.
Start a summer project: Encourage your child to start a summer project, such as building a model or creating a scrapbook. This can help develop their creativity and problem-solving skills.
More Summer Learning Ideas for Homeschoolers
Study a foreign language: Summer is a great time to learn a new language. Sign your child up for a language course or use apps and language-learning software to practice at home.
Create a science project: Encourage your child to create a science project, such as a volcano or a solar system model. This can help develop their scientific skills and creativity.
Study art history: Summer is a great time to study art history. Take your child to local museums or art galleries to learn about famous artists and their work.
Learn about an historical figure: Encourage your child to learn about a historical figure they are interested in, such as a famous inventor or politician. They can read biographies or watch documentaries to learn more about their life and contributions.
Dive into geography: Summer is a great time to study geography. Use maps and globes to teach your child about different countries and cultures.
Hands-on history: Take your child to local historical sites or museums to learn about the history of your area. This can help teach them about local culture and traditions.
Final Thoughts on Summer Learning Activities for Homeschoolers
Remember, the key to a successful summer educational experience for kids is to make it fun and engaging.
Download a Summer Activities Checklist to use to plan your summer with your kids.
Don’t miss our Summer Strategies for Homeschool Moms. The systems you put in place in the summer season will help you be more productive, effective, and organized when you start a brand new homeschooling year in the fall. We’ll cover how you can use your summer months wisely – while still taking a much-needed break from the normal routine!
Then, check out our Education Summer Ideas for Kids & Teens, which includes a round-up of 22 more summer learning ideas from my homeschool blogging friends.
Summertime Learning Resources
This week I’ve teamed up with some of my fellow homeschool bloggers to bring you some fantastic Summer themed tips, resources, and even a few FREEBIES. You’ll find everything from bucket lists, boredom busters, craft ideas, and so much more! Be sure to check them all out below!
