Note: this article is provided by Ohio Northern University Healthwise Pharmacy.
School is out and summer vacation has started. Instead of letting your children plop down in front of the television for the next three months, keep them engaged and active this summer.
Did you know summer vacation can result in learning loss? It's estimated that, on average, children can lose about two months of math and reading skills during summer vacation. But keeping your children engaged could help combat that learning loss.
Engage
To keep your children engaged through the summer months, encourage reading. Head to your local library and help your children create a reading list. Mark their accomplishments when they complete a book — that will encourage them to complete their reading list.
There are a number of math and science activity books available for purchase. These can also help keep your children engaged. Some of these books focus on mini science experiments, which can be fun — and educational — for the whole family.
Focus on Creativity
Let your children be creative on their summer break. There are many resources, such as the Education section on USA.gov, for projects and arts and crafts. Check your community for art, music, or dance classes and let your children explore their interests.
Stay Active
During the summer, children are at risk for gaining weight. That's why encouraging your children to remain active is important.
There are countless activity opportunities you and your family can participate in this summer. Let go of the video game controllers and TV remotes and head outside. Remain active as a family and go for a bike ride or head to the park for some frisbee. Check your community for available summer league teams and get your child enrolled.
