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It's unclear when we got to the stage where we thought children didn't continue to learn over the summer, or can only learn through structured activities that now, in many instances, are taking place and being funded through local school districts.
Who remembers, as a child, problem-solving how to build a lean-to in the woods? Who remembers learning to build a raft? How about learning how to start a campfire without matches? Those required young minds to have to figure things out; the wrong angle on that wall and the whole structure comes tumbling down. Not enough support on the raft? Time for a swim.
Today, though, it seems as if "learning" only happens in the summer if it involves school-sanctioned camps or events. Those camps -- Ohio County Schools just announced a summer's worth of events for youngsters to help keep their minds active -- are important, but shouldn't be the only way we keep young minds engaged when they're not in school. The challenges our younger generations face are too important for parents not to fill their roles.
Set aside a day each week to visit the library. Read a book with your child or grandchild, and then discuss the topic.
Take a camping trip, and teach youngsters how to become self-sufficient by setting up a tent, or starting the campfire.
Encourage young minds to study and interact with the world around them. Allow them to ask questions. Talk to them about how things work. Encourage them to put away their devices and understand these types of life-lessons are just as important as any summer camp.
Above all, help your children spend their summer months being kids. Adulthood will be at their doorstep before they know it, so allow them to experience the care-free days many of us knew and recall so fondly.