Parents play a powerful role in helping their children prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for the upcoming school year. Here are some ways you can give your child a healthy and active summer through activities that help them be safe, healthy, engaged, supported, and challenged.
Keep your children safe this summer
Physical activity
- Water activities, like swimming and canoeing, are a fun way to stay cool. Check out these tips to enjoy the water safely.
Nutrition
- Want to try a new recipe? Be safe while doing so! Teach your child the basics of food safety and handwashing.
Social emotional learning
- Social and emotional learning starts at home. Check out a video and other resources to learn more.
Keep your children healthy this summer
Physical activity
- Help your kids and teens get 60 minutes of physical activity every day! Check for free or low-cost sports camps at their school or local rec center - or get active by walking, biking, or rolling skating as a family during your summer vacation.
Nutrition
- Getting enough water every day is important for your child's health. Help your child choose water over sugary drinks.
Social emotional learning
- Dancing to music from other countries and languages can strengthen the ability to empathize with others from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Try dancing, for example, to hits from around the world or other multicultural music options.
Keep your children engaged this summer
Physical activity
- Try using this Family Nature Club Toolkit to help you plan and share outdoor experiences with like-minded friends and families who are yearning for "more green, less screen."
Nutrition
- Download the Dining Decisions mobile app on your phone or tablet to help your kids make healthy food choices at home or on the go.
Social emotional learning
- Try planting a garden or volunteering at a community garden as a family. This can help foster teamwork and strengthen relationships.
Keep your children supported this summer
Physical activity
- Are the kids stuck in the house on a rainy day? Watch this video for tips to help your kids get physical activity when they can't go outside.
Nutrition
- Try making a new recipe together with a fruit or veggie your child likes. It's a great way to bond and encourage cooking habits in the home.
Social emotional learning
- Strengthen your family relationships and support kids and teens in making responsible choices with these positive parenting tips.
Keep your children challenged this summer
Physical activity
- Learn a new dance move or try a new sport with friends - trying something new can be fun and rewarding.
Nutrition
- Try a new fruit or vegetable. Ask for your child's opinion or simply introduce a new fruit or vegetable in the kitchen. Try this Kids Food Critic activity to make exploring new foods more exciting.
Social emotional learning
- Camps provide opportunities for children to try new activities, develop relationship and social skills, and be physically active. Visit your county's parks and recreations website or stop by a local center for information on free summer sessions near you.