Fun Indoor and Outdoor Summer Learning Activities to Help Avoid the Summer Slide

A portion of this post first appeared in conjunction with GreatSchools.org.

With creative thinking, Mami of Multiples faces the three-month challenge of keeping her four boys,
from toddler to teen, active and learning.

It seems like the year just started, yet summer vacation is already here. As a parent, I try to balance the summer months between fun and learning for my children. It’s important to experience quality time together as a family, take a vacation, and relax. It’s equally important to participate in educational activities and programs to help prevent the loss of learning.

Also known as the summer slide, learning loss happens when children and adolescents don’t engage in educational activities over the summer. According to the U.S. Department of Education, studies have shown a notable trend of learning loss when young people aren’t involved in anything educational during summer break. We may hear more about it on National Summer Learning Day. The nationally recognized day is meant to spread awareness about the importance of summer learning to help close the achievement gap. It might need more than a single day to build awareness of something so crucial.

I have four boys to plan for each summer: a teen, elementary-aged identical twins, plus a baby. With such big age differences, I’m always searching for summer activities and programs that are educational, affordable, and fun. I check local libraries, school districts, and even local chambers of commerce for summer programs. In preparing for summer activities, I consider my kids’ interests and our family’s “must-dos” for the summer. And I’ve learned not to wait too long to make our summer plans!

Besides soaking up some sun on a pool or beach day, my boys enjoy day outings. Here are some summer learning ideas that I have found work for everyone in my family and may appeal to your kids, too.

[bctt tweet=”Creative ways to get kids learning during the summer to avoid the summer slide!” username=”JoscelynRC”]

Libraries

Nationwide, libraries have summer programs that are either free or low cost. Everything from summer reading lists to LEGO building contests, library summer programs are suitable for all age groups. For example, my teen can partake in a college prep online course, the twins can have fun with a storybook contest, and even the baby can be part of a “mommy and me” read-aloud playgroup – all under the same roof.

Summer Educational Resources

U.S Dept. of Education, Scholastic, Scholastic Summer Reading, FamilyEducation.com, Barnes & Nobles (Free Summer Reading Books), Sylvan Learning Center, Lifeway Summer Reading, Book Adventure.

[bctt tweet=”Don’t tell the kids…they can have fun & learn! Experience great programs this summer!” username=”JoscelynRC”]

Digital Library

Epic! is a digital library includes many of the best kids books, popular ebooks, and videos such as Fancy Nancy, Big Nate, Warriors, Sesame Street, and National Geographic Kids. You can download on any device and instantly access 25,000 of the best books and videos for kids. Click HERE for a one free month trial and Epic! is free for elementary school teachers and librarians.

AudioBooks

With long summer road trips and travel, having access to audiobooks is very helpful (especially when traveling with kids) and can assist with eliminating one more thing to pack. Tales2go is a great audiobook resource. For a free 30 day trial register: HERE and for a list of audiobooks click: HERE.

Museums

The unique exhibits, special interactive programs, and longer admission hours put museums and children’s museums high on the list for the summer. With interactive displays, especially at children’s museums, kids of all ages have the opportunity to be hands-on and learn on about science, history, art, technology, and various subjects. Many museums offer affordable day camps that focus on a particular theme like dinosaurs, space, or the rain forest. A few summers ago, our family visited the American Police Hall of Fame and Museum. The museum had historical law enforcement artifacts, many types of different police cars, a touch-and-feel kid’s corner, and a theater. The twins loved getting to climb into historical police cars, watching funny Sheriff the Dog cartoons in the children’s movie theaters, and dressing up as law enforcement officers and firemen in the kids’ corner. My teen was impressed with the historical law enforcement stories and real-life paraphernalia from notorious cases such as indicting Al Capone.

If you are looking for family fun while learning about history in the nation’s oldest city, see our list of 10 must see attractions in St. Augustine, Florida.

Children’s Theaters

In theaters across the country, award-winning plays and scripts are being performed not only by adults but by a cast of talented children, too. The twins recently saw The Adventure of Treasure Island and loved the play. It was fascinating for them to see characters they had read about perform scenes from the book in front of them. Theaters for young audiences often offer discounted or free performances during the summer where children can see their favorite books brought to life.

National, State, and Regional Parks

The vast open space is the perfect setting for a wide range of learning opportunities, from forestry to camping. Families can learn about trees, animals, wilderness, native plants, and geographic elements on guided nature walks or during summer camping specials. National parks also have free admission and entrance days throughout the year that you may want to take advantage of. Use Every Kid in a Park Pass, kids get into national parks for free!

[bctt tweet=”Find a local petting zoo or pick-your-own farm to visit together this summer with our list.” username=”JoscelynRC”]

Petting Zoos and Pick-Your-Own Farms

As an urban family, an outing to a petting zoo is a great learning experience. The boys get to approach and touch various farm animals they don’t see on a daily basis. Also, lots of teaching opportunities present themselves when kids get to pick their own fruits and vegetables. Visit a pick-your-own farm and learn about agriculture and vegetation while having fun – and then bake a pie together that night with your pickings!

Zoos and Aquariums

Almost everyone enjoys learning and seeing wild animals and sea creatures. Zoos and aquariums have programs designed especially for families in the summer. I’ve seen day camps where kids learn about African wildlife, deep-sea animals, bird watching, dolphin feeding, and more.

Volunteering

Summer is an ideal time for children and teens to learn about giving back and do community-minded service. Helping others teaches and reinforces social and emotional learning skills and attitudes important to making thoughtful and empathetic decisions. Volunteer Match has a comprehensive list of opportunities that are age appropriate, including virtual options. My twins helped distribute food to those in need at a local food bank. My teen was an assistant sports coach at a youth summer camp for underprivileged children. Both experiences were incredible learning opportunities for the boys. They unconsciously practiced social and math skills and got physical workouts. Just as important, it made them more appreciative of what they have and made them feel good about being able to help others. They want to volunteer again this summer.

[bctt tweet=”Check out our list for age appropriate local volunteer opportunities this summer. ” username=”JoscelynRC”]

School Summer Programs

Saying the words summer and school together may strike fear and dread in children’s hearts, but actually many school districts offer various summer programs that students might find entertaining – even as they continue to learn. Math and science clubs, music and dance classes, fun day trips, and day camps where children receive one-on-one tutoring are usually free or a minimal fee for families living within the school’s zoning boundaries. Ask your child’s school or neighboring school districts for a list of summer options.

At-Home Activities

Looking for an activity to do at home? Many arts and crafts projects can be found online and created using items already found at home. Family-friendly sources for these ideas include: Scholastic, Scholastic Summer Reading, Barnes & Nobles (Free Summer Reading Books), Nick Jr. Summer Activities, PBS Kids, Disney Family , Disney Crafts, Michael’s Arts & Crafts, Backyard Exploration, Gardening with Kids, Summer Activities for Tweens and Teens.

Summer Ideas

See 10 easy healthy and fun summer activities.

Create DIY scavenger hunts or “survivor” style challenges for the kids. Hide stuff around the house and outside in the yard. Create a map that they need to follow or clues they need to figure out. If you do this once a month, the first to figure out the challenge can a reward like a “no chores for the day” card. Kids enjoy the challenge since they get out of doing chores and are off their tablets.

Garden with your kids and plant easy edible plants.

Check out Free and Low Cost Summer Fun Activities, including a list of kids eat free restaurants.

Print or Download a Summer Time Activity Pack

Print or Download a United States Presidents Printable Game Set (with Answer Key)

Print or Download a Summer Bucket List

Print or Download a Summer Random of Acts of Kindness Reminder

Print or Download a Summer Fun Scavenger Hunt

Print or Download a Beach Scavenger Hunt

15 DIY Playdough Recipes

Bathtime Play-dough
No Cook Cinnamon Play-dough
Edible Play-dough
Fruit Scented Play-dough
Easy Play-dough
Ocean Play-dough
Ultimate DIY Play-dough
Finding Dory Nemo Play-dough
Grandma’s Soft Homeade Play-Dough
Kool-Aid Play-dough
Homemade Play-dough
Super Squishy DIY Soap Dough
Green Apple Scented Play Dough
Baby Safe Cloud Dough
Homemade Cinnamon Scented Play Dough

Want your kids to be creative over the summer? Check out 25 fun summer crafts (and other summer fun learning activities) that will help keep the kiddos busy—and maybe give parents a little quiet time—all summer long!

Click on Picture Below to See 25+ Science Experiments and Projects for Kids

Click on Picture Below to See Instructions to Make Edible Gummy Bear Play Dough

50 Fun Things for Tweens to Do This Summer

Free and Low Cost Summertime Activities in Florida for Kids (Click on picture below to see a list of activities in Florida).

25 Free Camping Sites (Click on picture below to see a list of 25 free camping sites)

Print or Download a Summer Fun Scavenger Hunt

Backyard Camping Ideas (Click on picture below to get backyard camping ideas).

Click on the Links Below to See Fun Painted Rock Projects

Ladybug Rocks
Scratch Off Painted Rocks
Magical Unicorn Rocks
Painted Rock Flowers
Pet Rocks
Minion Rocks
Rock Animal Puzzles
Cat in the Hat Rocks
Summer Rocks to Share
Chakra Rocks
Incredibles 2 Rocks
Mandala Heart Rocks
Rock Turtles
Pet Rock Cactus

Click on the Links Below to See Bug Crafts to Make This Summer

Gilded Insect Plaques
Tic Tac Bugs
Climbing Love Bugs
Glittered Lid Bugs
Bug Magnets
Clothespin Dragonfly
Plastic Spoon Bugs
Insect Puzzles
Insect Sensory Bottles
Handprint Caterpillars
Giant Butterfly Wings
Avocado Pit Insects
Love Bugs
Knock Off Insect Vase

Click on the Links Below to See Summer Fun Activities for Kids

Outdoor Mud Sensory Play

Ice Painting with Frozen Paint

Flower Sensory Soup

Shaving Cream Rainbows

Watermelon Oobleck

Paper Plate Beach Ball Craft

Cardboard Tube Binoculars

Paper Plate Sun Sewing Activity

Fine Motor Sun Number Craft

Boredom Buster Summer Bingo

Outdoor Soap and Water Play

Frozen Water Beads Play

Lemon Sensory Bin

Pool Noodle Balance

Rock Stacking

Ice Rocks Sensory Bin

Gardening Sensory Bin

Summer Gross Motor Movement Game

Summer Dot Activity Printables

Popsicle Fine Motor Craft

Click on the Links Below to See Ice Cream Activities for Kids

Play Dough Ice Cream

Cupcake Liner Ice Cream Cone Craft

Ice Cream Themed Math Activity

Ice Cream Themed Sharing Activity

Ice Cream Sprinkles Writing Tray

Ice Cream Vowel Sounds Busy Bag

Matching Numbers Ice Cream Activity

iSpay Ice Cream Printable

Paper Mosaic Ice Cream Cone

Ice Cream Shape Matching

Splat Ice Cream Cones Craft

Printmaking Ice Cream with Kids

Ice Cream Sensory Bin

Gross Motor Activity – Catch the Scoops

5 Senses Ice Cream Taste Test

Dramatic Play Ice Cream Shop

Egg Carton Ice Cream Cones

Ice Cream Goo

Ice Cream Handprint Craft

Ice Cream Do-a-Dot Printables

Print or Download Alice in Wonderland Printable Color and Counting Pages

25 Boy Approved Movies For Family Movie Night (Click on picture below to get movie list).

15 Swimming Pool Hacks (Click on picture below to see the pool hacks).

Print or Download Lemonade Stand Activity

Print or Download Summer Activities Set

Click on the Links Below to See Summer Sensory Play Activities

Summer Sensory Bin

Frozen Flowers Sensory Ice Play

Lemon Sensory Water Play

Ocean Small World Play

Garden Sensory Bin

Squirt Gun Painting

Fairy Dust Play Dough

19 Super Glow Stick Activities for Kids

Solar System Sensory Bin

Rainbow Jell-O Sensory Bin Activity

When it comes to summer sensory play, there are tons of ideas for children of all ages. Not only do kids have fun participating in these activities, they learn new things at the same time. Here are 10 examples of hot-weather sensory play options, including the use LEGO’s and moon dough and gardening.

Summer LEGO Ice Rescue

DIY Kiddie Car Wash

Watermelon Fizzy Sensory Science Play

Moon Dough Recipe

Seaside Sensory Bin

Icy Ocean Sensory Play Ice Melt

Snakes and Frogs Sensory Bin Ideas

Gardening Sensory Bin

Beach Party Sensory Activity

Flower Sensory Play for Preschoolers

Print or Download Noah’s Ark Printable Activity Mats

(Noah’s Ark printables can easily be converted into a play dough mat printing out the mats and laminating them).

See List Below of Free Printable Flash Cards

Check Out 17 Bear Crafts and Recipes

1. Pom Pom Bear Craft
2. Newspaper Polar Bear Craft
3. Paper Plate Bear Mask Craft
4. Paddington Bear Craft
5. DIY Polar Bear Cups
6. Polar Bear Craft For Kids
7. Teddy Bear Pancakes
8. Lions Tigers Bears Oh My! Paper Craft
9. Polar Bear Craft Paper Plate
10. Winter Bear Kids Snack
11. Letter B Bear Craft
12. Puffy Paint Polar Bear Craft
13. Bear Paw Names
14. Polar Bear Oreos
15. Polar Bear Pudding Treats
16. Teddy Bear Cootie Catcher
17. Teddy Bear Bread

Try 17 Homemade Ice Cream Recipes

1. Homemade Galaxy Ice Cream
2. 3 Ingredient Ice Cream Recipe
3. No Churn Funfetti Cake Batter Ice Cream
4. Homemade Ice Cream with Twix and Milky Way Bites
5. Homemade Chocolate Ice Cream Truffles
6. Homemade Rocky Road Ice Cream
7. Homemade Coconut Ice Cream
8. Homemade Cookie Monster Ice Cream
9. Homemade Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
10. Homemade Ice Cream In A Can
11. Chunky Monkey Homemade Ice Cream
12. Homemade Snickers Ice Cream
13. Homemade Ice Cream In A Bag
14. Butter Pecan Ice Cream
15. Homemade S’mores Ice Cream
16. Vanilla No Churn Ice Cream
17. Double Chocolate Brownie Ice Cream

[bctt tweet=”Encourage learning but still have fun with a list of indoor & outdoor summer activities.” username=”JoscelynRC”]

Even if your children don’t remember the exact lessons learned in the months before vacation, a summer that keeps kids’ minds active will mean they are primed to learn and will likely be quicker to recall last year’s lessons when they return to school.

Looking for more summer ideas? Check out our summer guide available: HERE