How Students Can Stay Sharp Over Summer Vacation

While students deserve a summer vacation for all their hard work, they may also experience learning loss during those months. Yet parents and mentors can use plenty of fun and engaging ways to keep teenagers’ minds active over the summer. From diving into a new book, joining a summer program for high schoolers, or simply setting a daily routine, students can still incorporate a summer learning activity they enjoy! 

Massanutten Military Academy in Woodstock, VA, has offered such structures for success over its 125-year history. A premier military school for boys and girls, our institution offers the advantages of consistency, discipline, and an engaging STEM-based curriculum. As high school cadets progress through their education, they develop leadership, social, and academic skills that will last a lifetime. Call our Admissions Office at (540) 459-2167 today to learn more about our school’s educational and extracurricular opportunities. 

Below, we offer tips to stay engaged over summer vacation: 

Although summer is best known as a time for relaxation, establishing a loose routine can benefit students immensely. Dedicating even a short amount of time each day to reading, practicing a skill, or completing schoolwork will help keep their brains engaged and reinforce crucial habits. 

Cadets who attend a military school for kids will profit from a summer routine that mimics their school schedule. Waking up at the same time every day, eating during specific windows, and planning time for activities provide a sense of predictability and reduce the stress of re-adjusting to school come fall. 

Reading is a powerful tool to combat summer boredom and learning loss! Just like any skill, reading fluency and comprehension weaken with disuse. Yet dedicating time to reading challenging books over the summer sharpens these crucial areas. Students encounter new vocabulary, different writing styles, and lifestyles from around the world in the pages of books. All these features will benefit them greatly in the classroom.

Volunteering over summer vacation offers students a practical way to keep their minds active while making a positive impact. Many volunteer opportunities involve applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as volunteers often encounter novel situations to which they must adapt. 

Additionally, volunteering exposes students to diverse perspectives and broadens their understanding of the world. This outlet keeps them mentally engaged and fosters a sense of social responsibility. Such activities also look great on college applications. 

Summer studying doesn’t have to be all textbooks and worksheets! Whether making music, creating art, or playing video games, hobbies often involve a surprising amount of learning. They encourage creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills in a fun and engaging way. 

As students delve into their hobbies over long periods, they may find themselves researching new techniques, experimenting with different approaches, or even teaching others—all of which reinforce valuable academic skills and keep their minds active.

Physical health goes hand in hand with mental wellbeing. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, enhancing focus, memory, and concentration. Physical activity also reduces stress and improves mood, both of which positively impact learning. Whether they decide to hit the pool, take a bike ride, or join a recreational sports team, students who stay active can keep their minds focused and ready for the new school year.