Informal Education

Informal education opportunities are just as important to children as classroom learning. Summer is an excellent time for informal learning as it is simply spending time with your child and talking to them about what you are doing.

• Go for a walk outside with your child and tell them what you know about nature. It does not need to be profound, simple little bits of information can have a big impact. If you find and interesting flower or plant ask the child to find out what it is by checking on the Internet. Take pictures of local plants animals and insects and make a slide show on the computer.
• Watch TV with your kid and talk about the shows that interest them. Personally I think TV has a bad reputation, it's actually a great educational tool if used correctly. Even silly kids shows can be a way to start a conversation and anything that gets parents and kids talking is a good thing.
• Reading of course is a great activity to share with your kid. Read to them even if they are older and they will respond.

The important thing is to keep children engaged in activities and join with them.