Let the countdown begin! June is an exciting time for kids and many teachers have already started marking down the days until that last school bell rings. The anticipation of the last day of school followed by weeks of a more relaxed and less demanding schedule is enticing to most. However, school being out does not mean learning quits happening.

Summer programs and educational opportunities are an integral part of your child’s development. In fact, studies show that kids who continue learning over the summer can be two grade levels ahead of ones whose learning is limited to a classroom by the summer after fifth grade. Summer camp experiences offer a rewarding and unforgettable experiential education.

Summer programs expose kids to new opportunities. This allows kids to get out of their comfort zone and learn how to overcome challenges while in a safe and nurturing environment. Many schools do not have archery, horseback riding, sewing, and cooking classes that are found in many summer programs. Activities like these teach kids new skills and allows them to build a unique interest in something that they may otherwise have not even been exposed to.

Summer opportunities also build character and many focus on life skills. Surveys completed by parents of children that attended an overnight 4-H camp show that kids were better communicators and had improved social skills than before they went to camp. Opportunities for kids to make new friends and meet new people are important and contribute to a child’s self-confidence and prepares them for their future. Children also learn independence and how to make their own decisions. This allows them to overcome a need for parental dependency. I’m not suggesting that kids don’t need their parents. However, as a parent, I appreciate when my children can take initiative to do things for themselves.

At camp or other 4-H summer learning experiences, kids are both mentally and physically stimulated. This interaction with counselors and peers is fun and entertaining but most importantly, it’s healthy. Whether it’s just a day or possibly a week, consider signing your child up for some type of summer program that allows learning to take place. Whether the summer is full of thrills and adventure or spent quietly sitting behind a sewing machine, kids and parents will both reap the benefits. The memories they make and the smiles and stories they come home and share will remind you that you gave them the time of their lives.

Richmond County has several summer activities planned for your children. Consider asking your local library, parks and recreation, community college, scouts, and others for ways to keep your child engaged this summer. 4-H, a part of North Carolina Cooperative Extension, offers several summer activities that involve sewing, cooking, hiking, camping, and more. Check out our summer fun classes and camping schedule by visiting our website at www.richmond.ces.ncsu.edu or liking us on Facebook/RichmondCounty4h. For more information related to summer learning, call Catherine Shelley, 4-H and Youth Development Agent at 910-997-8255.

https://www.yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_Shelley.jpg

https://www.yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_N1502P60002C.jpg

https://www.yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_N1602P58001C.jpg

https://www.yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_N1806P44001C.jpg

https://www.yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_N1906P45012C.jpg

https://www.yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web1_N1806P18004C.jpg

Catherine Shelley

Extension at Your Service

Catherine Shelley is 4-H and Youth Development Agent.