Worried that your kids are suffering from a case of summer brain drain? I personally had to put together a schedule similar to the one my son had in his classroom this past year so both my kids weren't constantly sneaking off with their video games or the iPad. I included activities like handwriting, reading, Study Island and Xtra Math (programs they use at their school), art, piano practice, outdoor play and free choice. Sometimes it gets a little hard to keep them on track, but it's worked out pretty well for all of us so far and I feel like they have a good mix of enrichment and summer fun each day.
Right now, Discovery Place is running a fun essay contest featuring the theme of Animal Grossology. Say what? Here are the details from their website:
Essay Topic: Leeches are sometimes used after surgeries to assist in the healing process and scientists are studying the slime produced by slugs and snails for clues in treating cystic fibrosis. The seemingly "gross" characteristics of animals can be fascinating and even beneficial to humans. Write about a "gross" animal or animal behavior. How have you benefited or learned from this animal?
Eligibility: Rising Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8Deadline: All entries must be received by July 15, 2013.One winner will be chosen from each grade range. Winning essays will be featured on the Discovery Place blog. Each winner also will receive a Family Membership to Discovery Place ($100 value) and a chance to meet 'n' greet some of our "gross" animal residents.
The essay contest ends soon so get your kids working on their essays!
My kids are participating in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Summer Reading Program, but we also recently discovered that Barnes and Noble is running a free program this year. If your children want to earn a free book, they can read eight books at their reading level and complete a book journal with short reviews of each book. You can find more details here.
What are your kids doing for fun this summer?
-Renee
Eligibility: Rising Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8Deadline: All entries must be received by July 15, 2013.One winner will be chosen from each grade range. Winning essays will be featured on the Discovery Place blog. Each winner also will receive a Family Membership to Discovery Place ($100 value) and a chance to meet 'n' greet some of our "gross" animal residents.
The essay contest ends soon so get your kids working on their essays!
My kids are participating in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Summer Reading Program, but we also recently discovered that Barnes and Noble is running a free program this year. If your children want to earn a free book, they can read eight books at their reading level and complete a book journal with short reviews of each book. You can find more details here.
What are your kids doing for fun this summer?
-Renee
