{"id":37763,"date":"2025-07-03T07:00:02","date_gmt":"2025-07-03T07:00:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/updates-www.mccdn.io\/vitals\/?p=37763"},"modified":"2026-04-23T23:44:14","modified_gmt":"2026-04-23T23:44:14","slug":"5-tips-for-keeping-kids-brains-stimulated-this-summer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/updates-www.mccdn.io\/vitals\/5-tips-for-keeping-kids-brains-stimulated-this-summer\/","title":{"rendered":"5 tips for keeping kids\u2019 brains stimulated this summer","gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"text"}]},"content":{"rendered":"

Aah, the freedom of summer for a child \u2014 no homework, no tests, no early mornings. It’s a break from the structured routine of school and a time for fun and relaxation.<\/p>\n

While taking a break from schoolwork is essential, it’s equally important to ensure that kids’ minds remain active and engaged during the summer months. This not only helps prevent the \u201csummer slide\u201d \u2014 the learning loss that can happen when kids are out of school \u2014 but also smooths the transition back to classes.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen it comes to keeping kids\u2019 brains stimulated in summer, it\u2019s important to incorporate physical activity, problem-solving and creativity,\u201d says Deandra Cloy, LICSW, an integrated mental health therapist with the\u00a0MultiCare Behavioral Health Network<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Cloy suggests integrating those ideas into non-screen-time activities and offers the five following tips on how to do just that.<\/p>\n

Creative ways to keep kids\u2019 minds active<\/strong><\/h2>\n

1. Encourage physical activity<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Physical movement boosts brain function and reduces stress. Just 15 minutes outside three times a week has been shown to lower stress hormones and anxiety. Encourage your child to ride a bike, play tag or simply explore nature.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is a tip that has gone over really well with my patients,\u201d Cloy says. \u201cIt\u2019s a stat that has stuck with them, and they have found themselves outside longer than just 15 minutes at a time.\u201d<\/p>\n

2. Have a weekly family game night<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Games are a great way to build problem-solving and social skills. Set aside one night a week for board games, card games or puzzles. It\u2019s a fun way to spend quality time with your child and challenge their mind.<\/p>\n

3. Cook or bake together<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Let your child choose a recipe, write it down and plan it out. Cooking teaches math (measurements), reading (instructions) and planning. Plus, it ends with a delicious reward!<\/p>\n

4. Start a family book club<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Choose a book to read together \u2014 either aloud or separately \u2014 and set aside time to discuss it like a real book club. Add snacks or a themed activity to make it feel special. This encourages reading comprehension and critical thinking.<\/p>\n

5. Create an \u2018I\u2019m bored\u2019 jar<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Fill a jar with slips of paper listing creative activities. When your child says \u201cI\u2019m bored,\u201d they pick one and do the activity for 15\u201320 minutes. This encourages creativity, focus and independent play.<\/p>\n

Here are some ideas:<\/p>\n