Summer time is designed to give kids a much-needed break from the intense school schedule, but research suggests that taking a total break from learning can have a negative impact on how well the child does in school the following year.

So, what can you do to make sure your kids are still learning while having fun this summer? Here are several ways you can keep your kids learning all summer long:

1. Swimming Lessons for Kids

If your kids are like most, they love playing in the water. Enrolling your child in kids swimming lessons achieves a few things all at once.

• It’s loads of fun

• It continues him education, and

• It gives him a valuable life skill

Swimming comes naturally to most youngsters, so your child won’t even know he’s learning. He’ll just think he’s having fun and will look forward to the weekly sessions. Check with your local community pool or the YMCA to find out if they offer swimming lessons for children.

2. Get Outside

Getting outside is what summer’s all about, especially if you live in an area that experiences cold, snowy winters. You can help your child continue learning by encouraging her to get outside to play and explore.

For example, plan a picnic lunch in your yard or at a local park. Take books along to read aloud as you enjoy the great outdoors and eat lunch. If your child is curious about the plants and wildlife that thrive in your area, find books that educate her on these things.

Alternately, you can also download and print fun worksheets on various subjects for your kids to complete at home.

3. Make Math Fun

Math may not be one of your child’s favorite subjects in school, but you can make it fun by bringing it into the kitchen. If your child loves to help you in the kitchen, show him a recipe of something you’d like to make and ask him to divide all the ingredients in half. Get him to assist you in measuring everything out and following a simple recipe.

4. Encourage Your Child to be Social

Learning isn’t just about schoolwork. Learning to be social is also important, and summer’s a great time to encourage your child to socialize.

Talk to other parents and coordinate a playdate schedule that works with your busy schedule. Consider registering your child for day camps or overnight camps that will encourage her to interact with other kids. If you hire a babysitter or nanny to watch your child while you work over the summer, make sure he or she knows the importance of continuing your child’s education through fun activities.

5. Plan Field Trips

Most children look forward to field trips throughout the school year, so continue that tradition during the summer months. Some fun and educational recommendations include:

• Going to museums

• Visiting historical sites

• Go to the beach

• Visiting a local farm

Many opportunities exist to have fun and continue educating your child throughout the summer. Think of things you’d enjoy doing and then consider how they can help your child to learn something new. Every community has a history and various attractions just waiting to be discovered.

Before you know it, the kids will be out of school for another summer. Help your child continue learning as he enjoys his time off by trying some of the fun activities listed above.