are ideal for working parents who need to pick up their child after regular work hours. The longer hours will also provide a sense of stability since it models a regular school day. In addition to being immersed in a fun summertime activity, the duration of camp also lends itself to creating friendships and solid bonds with other children that could last a lifetime. Whatever the situation might be, choose a camp and length that will fit your families’ needs and lifestyle. There are a variety of different camps to choose from including traditional, foreign language, skateboarding or other types of sports. With so many options, your child will have the freedom to choose a camp centered on an existing hobby, or dabble in a new activity that sounds intriguing. Consider including your child’s friends in on the fun. Your child will have a familiar face when faced with a new experience, which otherwise might be scary and intimidating at first. LEARNING, LESSONS OR LEISURE? Childhood summer is the rare moment where we have the time and freedom to develop our interests or improve a certain ability. Young children might not be able to understand the benefits of a particular activity, so that’s where mom and dad step in. If your child is struggling in an academic subject, or even if he is at the proper level, but you want him to get ahead, consider summer school or tutoring. Many schools offer individual subjects, so your child has the ability to focus on that one problem area instead of having to juggle six or seven academic subjects like during the regular school year. Also, the change of environment and teaching technique could have a profound impact on your child’s ability to understand new concepts. Many locations offer a fun spin on traditional school subjects. Get your child interested in science by enrolling them in an insect or marine science exploration course. He or she may become more interested in reading and analyzing works of literature through theatre lessons. March/April 2025 HAWAII PARENT 33
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