Summer has arrived and with it the children's holidays. It is the appropriate time to consider the eternal dilemma: homework in summer, yes or no?
There are parents convinced that homework in summer is essential so that children do not lose their routine and do not forget the knowledge acquired during the course.
On the other hand, there are parents who are in favor of putting aside their children's homework during the holidays and letting the little ones enjoy the summer to the fullest.
What do education experts say?
According to experts, during the holidays, schoolchildren should not be sitting every day reviewing and studying, nor should they spend the whole summer without doing any kind of homework.
They bet on a “different” type of duty. Duties that enhance the different capacities of children. It is a more creative type of task according to the particular characteristics of each child and family. In this way, homework does not become a punishment but a way of awakening their curiosity to learn. Motivation is a key factor in the learning process.
Tips for doing homework in the summer
- If your child has homework to deliver in September, the best thing to do is to set a fixed schedule to do it. The first hours of the morning are the most indicated.
- Agree on a specific space to carry out homework.
- If necessary, help him and accompany him while he performs them.
- The time spent should not exceed half an hour a day.
- Leave the weekends free from homework and plan outdoor activities. Movement activities (running, jumping, walking, swimming, cycling, etc.) are very beneficial for children and contribute to stimulating their brain.
Alternatives to traditional duties
- Let them choose the books they want to read. Reading is a great way to learn, but when it is compulsory it loses some of its potential. You can visit a library or bookstore and choose books or stories that arouse your interest.
- Write a diary with the activities and anecdotes summer fun can be fascinating. It can include drawings, photographs, clippings, etc. Imagination to the power!
- If you plan to travel, your child can search for information on the internet about the place you are going to visit and prepare a travel guide. Places you would like to visit, restaurants, monuments in the area, fun facts, etc.
- You can watch movies or drawings in English. It is a different way of practicing this language. You can also choose a song to translate and why not sing it.
- If you fancy a little science There are a lot of very entertaining home experiments that you can put into practice. You can find them on the YouTube channels.
- To reinforce mathematics, nothing better than applying it to everyday life like reviewing the accounts when you return from shopping or counting the shells you find on the beach.
- Crafts develop fine motor skills and creativity. Ideal for rainy days or the sunniest hours.
These are just some examples. I'm sure you can find many more activities depending on the age and interests of your children. We will be delighted if you share them with us.
The best homework to do in summer
Play, laugh, hug, draw, explore, experiment, mess, listen to music, dance, invent, share, dream, imagine and enjoy.
Conclusion
During the summer holidays, all children should enjoy free time and time for boredom, which is a good opportunity to develop their capacity for invention and creativity.
It is very important to look for activities that are attractive to children and that in turn contribute to the consolidation of the knowledge they have acquired during the course. Typical “review books” are pedagogically outdated and boring and boring for most students.
The objective of the summer holidays is to recharge the batteries to be able to start the new course with enthusiasm and renewed energy.