Keep the Brain Growing: Simple Summer Learning Activities for Kids
July 8, 2025
Keep the Brain Growing: Simple Summer Learning Activities for Kids
Summer doesn't mean learning has to stop-it just shifts shape. Through fun, meaningful, and intentional summer learning activities, children can continue to build cognitive, motor, and emotional skills in ways that feel natural and engaging. At Fontainebleau Children's Academy, we encourage families to see summer as a chance to create joyful moments that also support long-term development.
Why Summer Learning Matters:
The "summer slide" is a well-documented decline in academic skills during long breaks. Children, especially in early childhood, thrive with routine and repeated exposure to concepts. When learning continues through hands-on, play-based activities, it helps reinforce neural pathways related to memory, problem-solving, and language processing.
Learning Modalities Engaged:
- Kinesthetic: Building, crafting, and moving
- Auditory: Listening to music, reading aloud
- Visual: Coloring, picture books, matching games
Activity Ideas to Try at Home:
- Create a "learning corner" with puzzles, books, sensory bins, and art materials.
- Schedule short, consistent routines-like morning storytime or afternoon math play.
- Encourage self-help skills like sorting laundry, helping cook, or organizing toys.
Brain Benefits:
- Strengthens executive function (attention, task persistence, impulse control)
- Enhances working memory through recall-based games
- Supports language acquisition via storytelling and new vocabulary
Social-Emotional Benefits:
- Builds confidence through skill mastery
- Encourages independence and responsibility
- Fosters connection through shared family learning experiences
Final Thoughts:
Everyday routines are full of teachable moments. By intentionally integrating educational summer activities, families can support their child's whole development-without sacrificing fun or freedom.
3. Balancing Technology Use in Early Childhood Technology is a part of everyday life, and when used thoughtfully, it can be a powerful tool for early learning. At Fontainebleau Children’s Academy, we embrace technology in a way that enhances—not replaces—hands-on experiences, social interactions, and creative play. How We Use Technology to Support Learning Interactive Learning Tools – We carefully select educational apps and digital resources that reinforce literacy, math, and cognitive development while keeping children actively engaged. Virtual Field Trips & Exploration – Technology allows children to "travel" to museums, nature reserves, and even outer space, expanding their curiosity and understanding of the world. Parent-School Communication – Digital platforms help parents stay connected with their child’s learning journey, providing updates, photos, and progress reports. The Importance of Balance While technology has its place in education, real-world play, movement, and social interaction remain our top priorities. Experts recommend: Limiting Passive Screen Time – At FCA, we ensure that technology is used intentionally, not as a substitute for teacher-led activities. Encouraging Hands-On Exploration – Children learn best through tactile, interactive experiences, so screen time is always balanced with physical play, art, and hands-on STEM activities. Using Technology to Support—Not Replace—Human Interaction – We believe that teachers, peers, and real-world experiences are the foundation of a child’s growth, and technology should serve as a tool, not a crutch. At Fontainebleau Children’s Academy , we focus on creating a balanced, enriched learning environment where technology complements—rather than dominates—early childhood education. Our goal is to equip children with the skills they need for the future while keeping their learning experiences engaging, interactive, and developmentally appropriate.
2. Innovative Approaches to Early Childhood Education Early childhood education is constantly evolving, with new research and teaching methods shaping the way young children learn. At Fontainebleau Children’s Academy, we embrace Frog Street’s curriculum, a research-based, intentional approach to early childhood development that fosters creativity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. How Frog Street’s Curriculum Enhances Learning Play-Based Learning – Frog Street integrates purposeful play with structured learning experiences. Activities like dramatic play, music, and movement develop problem- solving, collaboration, and critical thinking skills. Social-Emotional Development – Our program places a strong emphasis on emotional intelligence, self-regulation, and positive peer interactions, helping children build confidence and resilience. STEM for Early Learners – Through hands-on exploration, children engage with science, technology, engineering, and math concepts in an age-appropriate, engaging way. Language & Literacy – Frog Street uses storytelling, interactive read-alouds, and phonological awareness activities to build a strong foundation in literacy. Why Innovation Matters The early years shape a child’s future learning experience. By incorporating Frog Street’s curriculum and other research-backed methods, we ensure that children develop essential life skills while still having fun and feeling supported. Whether it’s through play-based learning, STEM activities, or social-emotional growth, today’s early childhood education is designed to prepare children for success in ways that go far beyond traditional learning.
