Is there anything better than being a kid in the summer? Drinking from the hose, running around barefoot, climbing trees, and decorating the sidewalk with chalk… summer is full of fun, freedom, and play. 

And you… you’ve been working hard all year to teach your children. You did it! You all made it through! While it’s easy to fall into the trap of planning for next year, worrying about learning gaps and stressing about them falling behind… don’t do it! I challenge you to give yourself permission to let them play and let yourself relax into everything that summertime can be. Take this time to sit back, relax, and enjoy them enjoying themselves.

Kids are constantly learning. They may not be sitting down writing letters or adding numbers, but their brains are always growing. Figuring out how to navigate the backyard without burning their toes on the concrete- problem-solving. Digging in the dirt, chasing bugs, making mud pies- science experiments. Swimming, jumping rope, scaling the playground- motor skill development. Laughing with their friends as they conquer imaginary dragons and wage epic squirt gun battles- imagination at its best. 

So grab a popsicle (I always hide the red ones for myself), set up your favorite lawn chair, bring along your favorite just-for-fun book, and enjoy all the learning that’s happening under the summer sun! “Real” school will be back before you know it. 

For more information about learning through play, visit learningthroughplay.com.

By Rebeka Heath