Let me first direct you to Myra Turner’s blog, written this morning about Sending Your Kids to College for the Summer. This is definitely an excellent idea.
When I read Morning by Morning, How We Home_Schooled Our African American Sons to the Ivy League, the author, Paula Penn-Nabrit I found the same recommendation for homeschoolers. Mrs. Penn-Nabrit talks about how important summer programs were for her children. She sent her children to NASA space camp, to Art schools, to computer camps and more. She did this regardless of the expense. She was glad to spend the money to add enrichment classes to her children. I have been looking at summer programs lately and am frankly put off by the price. I will still do one or more weeks of educational camp this summer.
But what is a parent to do when $100-$250 or more a week is just too much. Another thing Mrs. Penn-Nabrit did was have the kids take jobs at the local science museum where they could learn as they teach other kids. She also used the local boys club to make sure her kids spent time with children who went to school. You can also check the local parks recreation programs for less expensive options than summer college programs. A friend of mine sends her kids to a different vacation bible school each week, as different churches hold week the week long, and often free programs at different times during the summer. This however is the least academic of options.
If this still sounds too expensive or complicated, consider imposing on older relatives who have something valuable to share. Your kids can spend a week or two with them, and learn something new. Regardless of what you do, do something different for them, and keep them learning.
*Have a question about homeschooling? Just ask.
*Want to know more about homeschooling? Start here!