Keeping Jr. High School Kids Busy During the Summer

Keeping Jr. High School kids busy during the summer can be a fun challenge. Here are some ideas to help keep them engaged and entertained:

1. Summer Camps: Enroll them in summer camps that align with their interests, whether it’s sports, arts and crafts, science, or outdoor adventures. Many communities offer a variety of camps for different age groups.
2. Sports and Recreation: Encourage them to participate in sports or recreational activities like swimming, soccer, basketball, or hiking. This not only keeps them active but also teaches them valuable skills and promotes teamwork.
3. Educational Programs: Look for educational programs or workshops that can keep their minds engaged during the summer. This could include STEM camps, language classes, or art workshops.
4. Volunteer Work: Encourage them to get involved in volunteering opportunities in your community. This could be helping out at a local animal shelter, assisting with community clean-up projects, or volunteering at a food bank.
5. Summer Reading: Create a summer reading list and encourage them to spend time reading books that interest them. Consider joining a summer reading program at your local library to incentivize reading and earn rewards.
6. Family Activities: Plan regular family outings and activities, such as picnics, bike rides, hiking trips, or visits to museums and zoos. Spending quality time together as a family can create lasting memories.
7. Arts and Crafts: Set up a designated space for arts and crafts where they can unleash their creativity. Provide them with art supplies and encourage them to explore different mediums like painting, drawing, or sculpting.
8. Cooking and Baking: Get them involved in the kitchen by teaching them how to cook simple meals and bake treats. Cooking together not only teaches them valuable life skills but also provides an opportunity for quality time together.
9. Outdoor Adventures: Explore the great outdoors by going on nature walks, camping trips, or visits to local parks and botanical gardens. Encourage them to observe and appreciate the natural world around them.
10. Screen Time Balance: While it’s tempting to let them spend hours in front of screens, encourage a healthy balance between screen time and other activities. Set limits on screen time and encourage them to engage in physical, creative, and social activities.