College-Ready Kids Start Here: 10 Summer Ideas That Prepare Them for Life

Summer doesn't have to be a choice between fun and learning. With these activities, your kids can enjoy their break while gaining valuable experiences that set them up for future success.

Summer is here, and while school's out, the learning (and fun) doesn't have to stop! Here are 10 engaging activities that will keep your kids entertained and help them build skills for the future. Who said you can't mix business with pleasure?

1. Attend Public Lectures in the Community or at a Local College

Turn your child into a mini philosopher or scientist! Many colleges and community centers host free lectures featuring scholars or special guests. It's like TED Talks, but with the added bonus of potential free cookies.

2. Dive into Library Events or Bookstore Gatherings with Local Artists

Support your local creatives! Libraries and bookstores often host events where kids can meet authors, illustrators, and even try their hand at some art. Who knows? You might have the next Picasso or J.K. Rowling on your hands.

3. Embark on Virtual Field Trips

Why limit yourself to local attractions when the whole world awaits online? From exploring the Louvre to diving into the Great Barrier Reef, virtual field trips open up global adventures without the pesky airfare. Check out resources like The Penny Hoarder's Virtual Field Trips to get started.

4. Spice Up Family Dinners

Turn mealtime into an international culinary journey. Pick a country, research its cuisine, and prepare a meal together. Not only will your kids learn cooking skills, but they might finally eat their veggies if they're called "ratatouille."

5. Start a Family Book Club

Swap out screen time for story time. Choose a book everyone can enjoy and set aside time each week to discuss it. Bonus points if you all wear tweed jackets and monocles during discussions.

6. Explore Khan Academy

Keep those academic skills sharp with Khan Academy's free online courses. Whether it's brushing up on math or diving into computer programming, your kids can learn at their own pace. It's like summer school, but without the early mornings.

7. Volunteer Locally

Teach the value of giving back by volunteering as a family. Whether it's helping at a food bank or cleaning up a local park, it's a rewarding way to spend time together and rack up those community service hours for future college applications.

8. Discuss Budgets and Work on One with Your Child

Money talks shouldn't be taboo. Introduce your child to budgeting by planning a small project or event together. There are many ways kids of all ages can earn money. Here's how to make it engaging:

• Use the Greenlight App: Consider using the Greenlight app, a debit card for kids that parents manage. It helps kids learn about saving, spending, and even investing in a controlled environment. Plus, they can receive allowances or financial rewards directly through the app, making it the 21st-century way to say "welcome to the 2000s, Mr. Banks!"

9. Shadow a Parent or Handy Person for Hands-On Skills

From changing a tire to fixing a leaky faucet, practical skills are invaluable. Let your kids play apprentice for the day. At the very least, you'll have someone else to blame when the IKEA furniture is assembled backwards.

10. Visit Parks and Wildlife Preserves

Parks and wildlife preserves provide a wide array of experiences. You could hike a new trail, stay in a yurt, or spy exciting wildlife! Many local, state, and federal parks have discounted or even free days during the summer. Here’s a link for our Nevada friends and another to the National Parks list.

Summer doesn't have to be a choice between fun and learning. With these activities, your kids can enjoy their break while gaining valuable experiences that set them up for future success. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing they're not just turning into couch potatoes.

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