6 Ideas To Keep Kids Learning While On School Break

With spring break coming up, many kids, especially those with special needs, will miss the routine of school every day. It also may be helpful for them to have some time that they are learning while at home, in order to keep some of that routine happening.

Here are 6 simple ideas to incorporate into your time off. Some can be done even if traveling and away. Others may be easier if you're home.

1. Play games. Puzzles, card games, tic-tac-toe, etc. All of these will allow practice in taking turns, colors, numbers, and more.
2. Have a cooking class at home. You will have the fun of cooking, which involves measuring and fractions. There can be some sensory fun as well when mixing. You may not even eat what you make, but I guarantee some smiles!
3. Use apps and websites.There are so many sites that incorporate learning and make it fun. Ask your child’s teacher for suggestions or if they have any they would like you to use. We love the quizlets made for our son and he enjoys mastering them!
4. Take a walk and incorporate nature into science & fitness. Walking will add some exercise to your day, the fresh air will feel good, and along the way, you may see some leaves, insects, birds, and more that your child will enjoy. Grab a few of the leaves and make an art project with them for another idea.
5. Go to a museum. Check out your local museum for any fun interactive exhibits. Many are even offering sensory-friendly days now.
6. Go to your local library and see if any craft projects are set up, or just grab a few books and sit together. The library will also teach using quiet voices. You can also rent a movie while there and watch it together then talk about what you learned from it. Drawing the lesson that was learned is another option.

These are some great ways to keep the learning fun and may be a bit more creative. I hope you find them helpful.

Carissa Garabedian is the publisher of knowdifferent.net and mother to a special needs child in Richmond, Virginia. Carissa also publishes the award-winning Macaroni Kid of Richmond, VA.