Dear Aunt B,

Here we go again. It’s summer, and my children are out of school. I’m a teacher as well, so I am fully aware of what happens over the summer. I want to rest, and I want my children to rest as well. I just don't want the summer to get away and all the learning that took place this year to disappear in the mist. I feel guilty that I am asking for your advice because as a teacher I should

Unschooled

Dear Unschooled,

First of all, thank you for all you do. I realize that as an educator you seldom get the recognition that you deserve. So rest, my friend. We all know you deserve it.

How to balance all that this summer has to offer is a delicate question. I believe that the fact that you are trying to balance it puts you in a class all your own.

Are you an organized person? Do you have your days all planned even when you are on summer break? If you do and it is what makes you happy, then continue with the planning. I would suggest a break for a couple of weeks and let you all get settled into the summer. If you force yourself to plan all school year just to get everything done, I would say pull back a good amount. You may find that you can accomplish every bit as much with a little less pedal to the metal.

Look closely at your goals for the summer. Do you want new learning or just to maintain the learning and not start next year behind?

As I am answering your question, I wonder if you really need my advice or if you are looking for validation of all that you already know? I have so much respect for teachers that I am honored that you would even ask me.

So much depends on the ages of your children. I would suggest reading books. Maybe reading the same book and discussing them as a family. Read them together and take turns with who is doing the reading. Pick books or even comic books that the children want to read. Never too late to broaden your horizons.

What about posing and answering interesting questions? Questions or discussions on different topics that make you all think. Let's look at some examples:

•What was your favorite thing that happened last year and why?

•What do you hope happens in the next school year?

•If you were a parent, what would you do as a family this summer?

•What historical figure would you like to know more about and why?

•Discuss current events.

•Debate current topics. Play games. There are some great educational games out there. I have never been much of a game player, but I have found that I really do enjoy them. And the thing I like best is they do make you think, which is one of my favorite things.

When you are coming up with your own ideas, remember to plan activities that you enjoy as well. It is summer, and it should be fun for you all. There is no reason why education and fun can’t go hand in hand. Isn’t that what we wish would happen for all of us and our children's education? Fun, interesting, captivating, and growth is what I like. What about crafts and cooking? The cooking needs to be done anyway, right? How can you make it a fun learning experience? Crafts are always fun. Spend some time outside. I know it is hot here, but during the school year the outside time is so limited. It really does a body good to get fresh air.

Love,

Aunt B

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