Summer may be a break from the school-year routine, but for young children, learning never stops. In fact, summer is the perfect time to encourage new experiences and learning. At Kiwanis Daycare, we try to turn every sunny (or rainy) day into an opportunity to grow.
Learn Through Playing
Children learn best while playing, and summer is full of opportunities. Sandcastles teach engineering. Splashing in water tables builds motor skills. Exploring the backyard helps toddlers learn about nature and weather.
Encourage Reading
Reading is one of the best ways to keep your child’s brain active over the summer. Make time each day for reading new and favorite books. Whether it’s at nap time, bedtime, or during a quiet moment in the afternoon, encourage reading.
Make Everyday Moments Educational (and FUN!)
Summer routines like snack time, grocery trips, and neighborhood walks are filled with chances to discover new things, and sharpen skills. For example, try some of these easy ideas:
- Count grapes or crackers for snack time
- Identify shapes and colors while packing a picnic
- Talk about nature, bugs, and clouds on a walk. Look for large birds flying overhead.
- Sort laundry by colors or size together
Encourage Creativity
Summer is perfect for messy, expressive, imaginative art. No need for fancy supplies — toddlers love using their hands, feet, sponges, or even sticks to paint and create. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Nature collages with leaves, twigs, and flowers
- Make your own puppet out of paper bags. Then put on a puppet show.
- Open-ended crafts (give materials and let them decide what to make)
These are just a few ways you can keep your toddler learning this summer. What are your favorite fun activities?