UPDATE: As summer vacation winds down, the Van Andel Institute for Education has just announced three exciting science-based activities to keep kids engaged and learning at home. These hands-on projects are designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills just in time for the new school year.
Backyard Buffet: Feed the Birds, Fuel Curiosity! Parents can transform their backyards into mini science labs. Using simple materials like pinecones, toilet paper tubes, or even scraps of fruit, families can create bird feeders. Gather some string, peanut butter, and birdseed, then coat your base with the sticky substance and roll it in seeds. Once hung in a bird-friendly spot, children can observe daily visitors, logging species and behaviors. This activity not only feeds local wildlife but also encourages scientific observation.
Plantable Paper: Turn Old Scraps into New Life is another innovative project that promotes environmental awareness. Using old newspapers or scrap paper, families can create seed paper. Soaking, blending, and shaping the paper into fun designs allows kids to learn about recycling while preparing for planting. Once dried, these seed-filled creations can be pressed into soil, nurturing a new generation of wildflowers or herbs.
Read It and Hear It: Bring Stories to Life with Sound further enhances summer reading. By incorporating everyday household items, families can create sound effects that bring stories to life. This engaging activity encourages children to think creatively while building their listening and comprehension skills. The Novel Effect app can also be used to add interactive sounds as stories unfold.
These activities are perfect for parents looking to maximize their child’s summer learning experience. As children prepare to head back to school, these engaging projects not only entertain but also foster essential skills that will benefit them academically.
For more inspiring ideas and educational resources, visit the Van Andel Institute for Education website. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make the most of the last days of summer! Get started today and watch your child thrive!
