School might be out for the summer, but that doesn’t mean kids are without options for summer fun and enrichment. The summer months are a great time for kids to continue building important skills through hands-on activities, creativity, self-expression, and academics outside of the regular school year. It’s also a great way to prevent summer learning loss, which happens when kids lose the important knowledge and skills they learned throughout the school year.
Summer programs provide kids and teens with the opportunity to meet new friends, discover new interests and hobbies, and engage in emotional and educational enrichment. With more than 200 programs covering everything from math and science to arts and culture, there’s something for everyone, including free or low-cost enrollment options and scholarships. Indy Summer Youth Programs are available for kids and teens ages 4-22, with full and half day program options.
Here are a few things to consider when selecting a summer program for your child:
- Choose a program that fits your child’s needs and interests. It’s important to find a program where your child is not just learning, but also having fun. When a child is truly engaged in an activity that’s enjoyable to them, the entire experience becomes more meaningful, memorable, and fun.
- Consider holistic learning programs. Holistic programs are a great way to blend different disciplines—like academics and enrichment—to teach kids more about themselves and the world they live in. In addition to focusing on traditional academics, these programs can also enhance your child’s communication and relationship-building skills.
- Look for programs with professional staff. Finding a program with highly trained staff is critical to your child’s success and engagement. Programs that hire professional educators and youth development specialists are likely to create a positive learning environment for your child.