This summer might feel more like an eternity than two months away from school if you have a gifted child.
Gifted children thrive on novelty and challenge. When your child’s routine consists of sitting at home all day, that’s sure to get boring fast.
You may think that it’s too late to develop new activities before the summer starts. Nevertheless, there are plenty of ways to engage your gifted child during summer vacation.
We can help with that! Here are five ways to keep your gifted child from becoming bored this summer!
1. Keep them engaged with their interests and passion
One of the biggest challenges for gifted kids is finding activities that keep them engaged and challenged. If you have a child interested in science, make it a priority to find camps, or workshops that incorporate science.
If your child enjoys writing, encourage them to write with their friends during summer break by forming an after-school writing club.
If they enjoy art and craft projects, take time each week on a specific day at a local art store. They can get hands-on crafting experience with other kids just like them.
Remember that there are thousands of potential activities for gifted kids. Take time each day or week to think about your child’s passions and find ways to incorporate them into their daily routines during summe
2. Have them teach you something they are good at
Enrol your child in a class that allows them to share their passion with others. For example, if they are interested in skateboarding, sign them up for a summer class and let them teach you how to do tricks!
You will learn something new while allowing your child to feel special. But be sure that they don’t get bored by having too many classes on certain days—that could make it harder for them to focus on all of their studies.
If your child is good at an instrument, have them show you how to play it. Not only will they be able to teach you something new, but they may discover a hidden talent in you as well!
Having gifted children at home during summer may feel like a huge task, but if you spend time with them doing fun activities and letting them explore their talents, you’ll keep their spirits high even when school’s out!
3. Cultural excursion
Check out cultural events designed for younger crowds, such as science expos or children’s theater. Try to plan these outings regularly (once a month, if possible).
These excursions can offer a window into another culture in a context your child can understand and enjoy.
After trying several different programs and cultural events, you should be able to figure out which ones are best suited for your child.
If cost is an issue, be sure to check out local libraries and museums for summer programming that’s free or low-cost. Many libraries will even offer materials related to those cultures in their children’s sections.
By finding things you both enjoy (or at least tolerate), you can get your gifted child away from screens and have some fun with them!
4. Enrolling in summer camps
If your child has communication problem or needs more hands-on experience, summer camps are great to fill in any gaps.
These programs offer kids an engaging environment and a specialized curriculum that makes it easy to keep learning over the break.
Plus, many have programs designed specifically for gifted children. If your child would rather learn at home or is bored by schoolwork, there are other ways you can spark their minds and challenge them during summer vacation.
You can ask them what they’d like to learn or set up a summer study plan together. For example, they might benefit from hiring a tutor, taking online classes, or learning a new language.
Don’t underestimate your child’s abilities. If they have some direction and love learning, you should never be afraid of pushing them beyond their comfort zone.
5. Relax and Renew
Creativity flows best when our minds are calm and relaxed. That doesn’t mean it has to be boring, though.
Learning relaxation techniques, like meditation or listening to music, will let your gifted child’s mind wander without completely shutting down, says Dr. Charles.
Your kid can also take a cue from children who live in creative-minded homes. These kids understand that learning doesn’t always have to come through books and structured activities.
Look for ways to bring creativity into your child’s daily life during summer vacation. For example, incorporate art into chores by asking your child to decorate each room of your house with an original piece of art.
Encourage your gifted child to find new outlets for their creativity during summer vacation. For example, a hobby like piano lessons or guitar can be a fun and exciting way for your child to relax and renew their mind.
Conclusion
Different children have different needs. I encourage you to work with your child and your family so everyone can have a fun and productive summer, says Dr. Swapnil Gohil.
And most importantly, take time for yourself and your kid during summer break. Sometimes it’s even better than school, so help them enjoy it while it lasts.