Keep learning alive

Summer solutions

When classes end for the summer, your middle grader's mind doesn't have to go on vacation. Consider the following activities. Like these families, you can combine fun and learning.

Regular reading.
"My son volunteers in the library's 'Book Buddy' program. On Mondays and Wednesdays, the librarian matches him with a first-grader. Sometimes he reads aloud; sometimes the child does. My son's reading has improved, and I'm surprised at how patient he is with his younger buddies."

Backyard business.
"Every year my granddaughter and her best friend pass out flyers to family, friends, and neighbors. They offer to pet-sit, garden, and baby-sit. Business is great! The girls have to put half the money they earn in the bank. Not only are they learning to budget, they're also learning how to market a business and schedule their time."

Community central.
"The local recreation center offers lots of free or inexpensive programs. Every week we check the paper to see what's scheduled. My daughter really enjoys the art programs and slide shows about different places and animals. She and her friends also attend the sports programs, movies, and supervised teen parties."