By: Sally Allen, Director of Marketing & Development
School is almost over! Summer is almost here! “No more classes, no more books…” and nothing but sleep and gaming to keep students entertained after that first week of “freedom.” What’s a parent to do? There are many opportunities for kids to be busy and happy during the summer break without sacrificing the parents’ sanity.
Community Service: Students of middle and high school age can benefit from spending part of their summer involved in community service. Hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living facilities are usually delighted to have young people young people volunteer their services at any time. Teens can serve as aides in hospitals at information desks and gift shops. Students of all ages are welcomed by senior living facilities to read, play games, do hair and nails, or just hang out with the residents. Participants of both age groups benefit immensely from this interaction.
Classes: Some high school students may be eligible to take college classes during the summer term after their junior year. Most of these classes are only four to five weeks in length and offer the chance to experience the college/university scene without plunging into full time scheduling.
Camps: Nearly every student organization (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4H, churches, etc.) offers summer camps. Those camping experiences offer students the opportunity to meet new friends, pursue current or new interests, and to escape the boredom of being at home. Clarksville Academy offers a variety of summer camps for all ages. Check the CA web site for details. https://marketplace.clarksvilleacademy.com/summercamps/
Summer jobs: Whether it is babysitting, mowing yards, pet sitting, or any other task, a summer job offers teens an opportunity to learn and earn. Jobs teach respect, time management, responsibility, and interpersonal skills while providing a chance for earn their own spending money (a help to both students and parents!).
Sports: There are sports teams and camps for a variety of sports, both team and individual. If your student is not interested in an athletic team, perhaps lessons in a life-long individual sport such as golf, tennis, or swimming would spark an interest that could follow him or her throughout life.
Travel: If a long summer vacation is not on this year’s calendar, consider a day trip. There are many interesting and fun places within a day’s drive from Clarksville that offer fun, education and experience. From Civil War battlefields to historic places to museums and amusement parks, there is a destination, and a price, for every family. Find some great day trips here: https://www.thecrazytourist.com/15-best-day-trips-nashville/ or https://vacationidea.com/ideas/best-day-trips-from-nashville.html
Finding a summer activity for students may require some effort, but the benefits are great. Students must be actively engaged in some activity to help them maintain learning practices for the school year. Different activities may spark an interest that will aid students in school and beyond.
Whatever you choose, enjoy summer’s laid back season.