Detroit Parents: Start Planning Today For Learning This Summer

*Content provided by our sponsor Michigan Education Savings Plan.

By Sharlonda Buckman, CEO, Detroit Parent Network

We've just had our first 80 degree day in Detroit. Summer, and all the things we associate with it, is around the corner. Even though school is still in session, it's time to think about how your children will be spending their summers.

These days we know that keeping students engaged in learning throughout the summer months is incredibly important. Unfortunately, it can be challenging for families to keep their children engaged, healthy and active in the summer months. In fact, many parents tell us that keeping their children active is hard for them.

We asked a Detroit Parent Network parent, Tanisha Hall, for her perspective. Tanisha is the mother of two boys.

Detroit Parent Network: What were some things you did in your family growing up that you've chosen to instill in your children?

Tanisha: Our family focus is always on the kids. I'm giving my kids structure. I spend time seeking out opportunities for them to be a part of cultures that even I haven't been exposed to. I parent very purposely and intentionally; I want my kids to grow up and say they had a fun childhood with good memories.

Detroit Parent Network: We often hear about summer learning loss, what do you do to keep your boys academically engaged throughout those months?

Tanisha: We do activities like tennis, swimming, and trips to the aquatic centers in Sterling Heights, or Kalahari. We have a basketball hoop in the yard, a rock wall, swings, slides and a pool, but it was all acquired over time. It doesn't cause a big financial concern because I'm strategic about how we acquire things. For example, I found a brand new bounce house on craigslist (which they love). I'm always looking for ways to provide my kids with quality activities for fun and for their education, but take the inexpensive route to do so.

Detroit Parent Network: What are you doing for your kids and why is it important?

Tanisha: My oldest son, Brian, was diagnosed with autism at age 3 and surpassed the doctor's prognosis by age 5; his doctor told us he would remain non-verbal and at 5 years-old he began speaking. Brian (now age, 13) continues his education in a short summer program to ensure he understands an overview of that year's material and is equipped with the academic skills to advance to the next grade level. My younger son, Joshua registered for a program at a community center to keep him reading. He loves reading and this program was short and structured—I always know exactly what my kids are doing when I enroll them in a program. This program offered a mix of academic components with fun community exposure on Fridays. He went on a boat trip and to the museum while learning math and reading materials during the week.

Detroit Parent Network: What are your hopes for your children this summer?

Tanisha: I want them to continue to progress so I keep them involved in activities that are stimulating. During the summer, we will do more hands on learning outside. I especially enjoy introducing them to science or food experiments where they don't feel like they're doing work and are learning more effectively because they enjoy what they're doing.