Summertime means the kids are home from school and hearing “I’m bored!” may be a common occurrence. Be inspired with some online resources and inspiration to help foster their interests and keep them engaged!
1.) Wide Open School
Need to add a little structure to the summer day? The free daily schedule tool from Wide Open School takes the guesswork out of planning. You can also tap into their library of lessons, activities and ideas for kids of all ages. Looking for more free learning tools? Try one of these:
- Choose from a variety of interactive lessons in STEM, music and literacy at Camp Wonderopolis, an online learning destination that plays into children’s natural intrigue and curiosity.
- Explore games and activities in a range of topics with this science website for kids from the American Museum of Natural History.
- It’s never too early to learn a language. Duolingo for Kids and Gus on the Go use storytelling and games to make it fun.
2.) Trade Screen Time for Listening Time
Your kids might be getting way more screen time than they did before, and that’s okay. Things are different, so your rules can be different, too.
However, if you want to switch things up, it’s easy to work in some screen-free storytelling. If you don’t already have some in rotation, try out a new podcast, like these kid-approved options from National Public Radio. Check to make sure the length and the subject matter is appropriate for the right age group, and you’re good to go.
3.) Create a Teen Bucket List
In between the late morning wake-ups and discussions over laundry, find time for a summer bucket list. Teens can offer thoughts and ideas to make a well-rounded list for the family. Don’t let summer sneak away without a few intentional activities, outings and moments that will fill your memory bank: