Summer is here, and kids are ready to put away their schoolwork and play. Learning doesn't have to stop because school is out. Summer kid activities promote learning outside of the classroom and keep kids' minds active over summer break. Here are some ideas to enjoy with your children this summer.
Plan a Staycation
Kids can learn about history and practice researching by reading about a local tourist spots. Kids can look for nearby historical monuments, parks, native heritage sites, and more that they would like to visit and present the options to you as possible family day trips. They get to learn local history and explore something they are interested in. Some examples in Colorado include Garden of the Gods, Mesa Verde National Park, Four Corners Monument, and more.
Cook a Meal 
Helping cook a meal is a great learning opportunity for kids. They can practice measurements, basic math skills, and build character, all while making a favorite recipe. Or they can research new recipes to try all while building creativity, collaboration, and decision-making skills.
Learn Important Money Management Skills
Having a strong understanding of money in the real world from a young age helps set children up for success later in life. Lay the foundation that they need with It’s a Money Thing, with topics for children from preschool to college. Our online library is full of effective and engaging financial education videos covering topics like saving, budgeting, and spending. All the learning videos are animated to make information fun and digestable. Encourage your kiddos to learn important money topics by linking courses to their weekly allowance or suggest watching a video or two together when coming back from playing outside.
Visit Local Museums
Museums are a great way for children to have hands-on learning experience where they can explore history and science, often with kid friendly activities and demonstrations. The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is a great option with many different subjects to discover. Other museums include the Colorado Railroad Museum, Children's Museum, Denver Art Museum, Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, Wings over the Rockies, and more!
Have a Family Game Night 
Playing board games is a great way for kids to use skills they learn in school. Board games challenge kids to use math and spelling. It also fosters critical social skills and self-regulation skills. Board games are also great for quality family time that is fun.
Visit Your Local Library
A summertime trip to the library gives kids free access to books. Reading is a skill that sparks imagination. Kids can choose books they are interested in reading, compete in book reading contests, and socialize in book clubs.
We hope you and your children have a great summer making memories together. A fun summer doesn’t mean there aren’t great learning opportunities to take advantage of. So give these suggestions a try this summer and watch your child reap the benefits.
Bonus: keep an eye out for travel adventures of Cash & Coin on Social Media!