Stop summer brain drain with a camping trip
It’s the beginning of July. School is out, and the kids’ brain drain has begun. What’s a parent to do to keep those minds seeming more like sponges than Spongebob libraries? Go camping, of course.
Summer school can be in session anywhere you choose to stay, and the best part is the kids will have a tough time realizing they’re learning.
Geography 101
Before you go, get the kids in on the planning. As you look at the camp map, ask them to show you the different landmarks like lakes, mountains and streams. If you’re thinking of going farther away from home, talk to your children about why the weather may be different where you’re headed.
Nutrition 101
After you’ve figured where you’ll go, plan your meals and snacks with the kids. For the little ones, let them help you make individual trail mixes they can eat on the nature walks you’ll take. Explain how the pretzels, nuts, raisins, chocolate chips and dried fruit will help them keep their energy up while outdoors. Older ones can help plan the meals everyone will eat. Not only will you get their brains working, but they’ll also be less likely to complain about a menu they helped create.
Botany 101
Pick up some books on plants and trees before you head out on the nature trails. Curious kids will spend more time in the woods if they have something to keep them busy. A hunt for all those leaves, flowers and weeds they studied on the ride there is sure to get them excited about exploring. Make sure to pack some paper and crayons. They’ll come in handy when the kids want to make rubbings of the plants they find.
There are so many other lessons to be learned at campsites: photography, boating, fishing, stargazing, drawing, bug collecting. Each child will find something that makes the brain go into overdrive. Whatever that ends up being, you’re sure to find it at your favorite campsite.