Celebree School, a leading early childhood education franchise in the United States, is urging families to embrace the outdoors this summer and use the season as an opportunity to develop essential life skills in their children.
While summer is synonymous with fun for kids, it’s also a crucial time for them to learn and grow. From fostering empathy and creativity to establishing healthy habits like family bonding and an active lifestyle, these skills are further nurtured by parental involvement and quality time together.
“Ninety percent of a child’s brain development occurs before the age of five,” says Kristen Miller, Director of Education at Celebree School. “If, during this formative period, a child is exposed to healthy habits, strong family connections, and the learning opportunities that outdoor exploration offers, they’re laying the groundwork for a lifetime of positive habits and a balanced lifestyle.”
Harnessing Skills Through Outdoor Activities
Celebree School, a frontrunner in the early childhood education franchise sector, offers these engaging outdoor activities that promote skill development, family bonding, and create a fun and affordable summer experience:
- Gardening: Whether you have a dedicated vegetable patch or a few potted herbs on your balcony, the benefits of gardening with your children are undeniable. Witnessing firsthand where food originates and understanding plant care fosters a connection between the garden and its meals. Planting seeds and digging strengthens fine and gross motor skills, while getting them outdoors reduces sedentary time and promotes overall well-being.
- Water Play: Turn on the sprinklers, grab some buckets and sponges, or head to a local splash pad or pool – water play is always a hit! Children enjoy exploring the feel and texture of water, and it naturally reduces stress levels. Provide them with measuring cups and spoons to transform water play into a learning experiment, incorporating math concepts and exploring water displacement. Jumping, splashing, and swimming all contribute to gross motor skill development. Remember, water safety is paramount – ensure proper adult supervision at all times.
- Catching Fireflies: This free and magical activity can be enjoyed right in your backyard or a nearby park. Grab a mason jar, create air holes in the lid, and head outside to capture these tiny lanterns! Fireflies introduce children to the world of insects and dispel any fear they might have. Explain bioluminescence, the chemical reaction behind their light, and encourage them to be creative by inventing stories about their communication through their light displays.
Beyond the Backyard: Expanding Learning Horizons
While outdoor play is essential, Celebree School also recommends incorporating family outings and camp experiences into a child’s summer routine. Whether it’s a trip to the zoo, a park visit, exploring museums, or venturing out to local family-friendly venues, these experiences foster crucial communication and empathy skills as children interact with others outside their immediate circle.
Summer camps offer another avenue for children to develop these skills by engaging in novel activities and socializing with peers. This year, Celebree Summer Camps across the country witnessed an impressive 93% enrollment. Camp programs are packed with themed days, classic summer activities, and off-site excursions like movie outings, laser tag, and pottery painting. These diverse experiences create opportunities to meet new people, explore exciting hobbies, and discover new passions.
“Exposing children to fresh ideas, places, and activities broadens their horizons and sparks new interests,” Miller continues. “Children learn through their surroundings and the experiences they’re exposed to. By offering diverse avenues for exploration, you provide them with a foundation for future development.”
Celebree School, a well-established early childhood education franchise in the U.S., delivers on its promise to “Grow People Big and Small™”. Founded on the belief that success in early childhood education hinges on a well-rounded curriculum and connections that extend beyond the classroom environment, the brand addresses the needs of the whole child and the entire family. Their curriculum cultivates positive social skills and values, allowing children to explore the world through age-appropriate play, engaging projects, and enriching activities.
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