Summer Activities for Kids

Summer is every child's favorite time! They finally have time to spend with their parents, playing with friends, and doing new activities. However, it can be stressful for parents. Figuring out just how to spend all that time for your children is tough! There are a million activities for them to do. Here are some ideas on what you can do:

- Summer Education Programs
Many places in NYC are offering a summer education program and they are increasing in popularity. During the summer, most children do not learn at all, and even forget the material they covered in the last year. This makes going back to school difficult. However, if you do not want your child to go to school all day, find a half-day program or a program that includes classes. Most of these summer classes for kids are fun and include art, crafts, and do allow the children to play. Check out your local listing for a program near you!

- Summer Day Camp
Summer day camp is another popular activity for kids to do during the summer. There are many different camps for kids. You can go to a sports camp, which will take the kids outside and play games during the day. Other camps mix sports and learning. Kids will also go on field trips, get the opportunity to play and socialize, and make new friends. Most camps are all day, from morning until evening, so most of the child's day is accounted for.

- Sleepaway Camp
If your child is old enough, you can send them to a sleep away camp. Most sleepaway camps are great experiences for kids. They spend time outdoors, in nature, and form close friendships. They get to do many activities that they would normally not get to do, like sit in front of a bonfire or hike. They can learn about nature and plants up close.

If you are staying at home.....

All hope is not lost! You can keep busy, and here are some tips:

- Plan ahead. Make sure you have art supplies for projects, workbooks for learning, or materials for other projects.
- You can do lessons with your child, or, take them to a summer half-day program that has classes. This is usually cheaper, and still gives you most of the day with your kid! You can find lesson plans through Google, many teachers have blogs, and do them with your child. Keep up their reading and math skills during the summer and they will do well come fall!
- Take up a new hobby with your child. You can do Mommy and Me (Or Daddy and Me!), get your child to cook with you, build something in the yard, get in shape by going swimming or taking long walks in the park. Find an activity both of you like and do it! Make it a routine.

Whatever you do, know you have options! Good luck, and have fun!