Educational Ideas for Summer
Did you know that the average student loses 17–34% of the prior year’s learning during summer break? That stat is ASTOUNDING! While summer break is a time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the sunshine, that doesn’t mean your brain has to take a vacation. Staying mentally active over the summer can help you retain what you’ve learned and even get ahead before the new school year begins. The good news? Learning during the summer can be fun, flexible, and totally on your terms. Here are ten creative ways to keep your brain sharp while still soaking up the season.
Start a Summer Reading Challenge
Reading is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to learn. Set a goal for how many books you want to read this summer. Choose a mix of fiction and nonfiction to build both imagination and knowledge. Local libraries often have summer reading programs with prizes, too!
Explore Educational Apps and Games
There are tons of free and paid apps that make learning feel like play. Duolingo (for languages), Khan Academy (for all kinds of subjects), and Prodigy (for math) are great places to start. Pick something that interests you and use it for just 15–20 minutes a day.
Take a Short Online Course
Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer short courses in everything from photography to coding to creative writing. Choose one that matches a hobby or curiosity and learn something new at your own pace.
Start a Passion Project
Use your summer to dive deep into a subject you love. Whether it’s building a robot, writing a blog, creating a YouTube channel, or designing a board game, passion projects are one of the best ways to apply what you know—and learn more along the way.
Travel with a Learning Twist
Going on a family trip? Learn about the history, geography, or culture of the places you’re visiting. Even a day trip to a local museum, historical site, or science center can be packed with learning opportunities.
Keep a Journal
Reflecting on your day helps improve writing and critical thinking skills. Use a notebook or digital diary to record what you did, what you learned, or what you’re curious about. Add sketches, doodles, or even ticket stubs from fun adventures.
Join a Summer Camp (Virtual or In-Person)
Many organizations run academic or skills-based summer camps in science, robotics, art, or even entrepreneurship. These programs can be a great way to meet new people while diving into something you love.
Volunteer or Intern
Older students can gain valuable real-world experience by volunteering or taking a summer internship. These opportunities teach responsibility, communication skills, and sometimes even offer a peek into potential career paths.
Start a Learning Club with Friends
Pick a topic—space, poetry, inventions, whatever you like—and meet weekly (online or in person) to explore it together. You can take turns leading discussions, sharing cool videos or articles, and doing mini-projects.
Watch Documentaries or Educational YouTube Channels
There’s no shame in screen time if you’re watching the right stuff! Check out documentaries on Netflix, Disney+, or YouTube channels like CrashCourse, TED-Ed, or Kurzgesagt to learn while being entertained.
Learning doesn’t have to stop just because school’s out. With a little curiosity and creativity, summer can be the perfect time to explore new interests, strengthen old skills, and have a whole lot of fun doing it. Whether you’re reading under a tree or coding at your computer, you’re building knowledge that will serve you for years to come.
Live.Laugh.Learn,
Jenn, Owner of Teacher Time To Go