Summer is a wonderful opportunity for children to explore new interests and develop skills outside the traditional classroom setting. However, without planning, the “summer slide” – a decline in academic skills – can occur. Summer is also a crucial time for families to reconnect, recharge, and refresh. Engaging in meaningful activities during the summer is essential for the well-being of students, fostering both emotional and physical health.

Here are some fun and engaging ways to keep your kids active and learning during the summer, particularly in Beijing.

1. Outdoor Adventures

Encouraging kids to explore nature is a fantastic way to build observational and critical thinking skills. Activities like family nature walks, scavenger hunts, or bike rides in parks like Beijing Botanical Garden or Chaoyang Park promote physical fitness while allowing families to bond over shared experiences. Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood, contributing to overall well-being.

2. Creative Arts

Art projects not only foster creativity but also help improve fine motor skills. Look for local workshops or classes in Beijing. Alternatively, online platforms like Skillshare provide art and craft classes that families can do together at home. Engaging in creative activities can enhance emotional expression and boost self-esteem.

3. Science Experiments

Make learning fun with simple science experiments that can be done as a family. Websites like Science Buddies offer a variety of projects that require minimal materials. Engaging in these activities together enhances teamwork and curiosity and can also stimulate cognitive development.

4. Language Learning

Summer is a great time to explore new languages together. Look for schools that offer summer camps using drama, public speaking, or other fun activities to develop language skills. Additionally, apps like Duolingo can be excellent resources for at-home learning. Learning a new language can improve cognitive function and cultural awareness.

5. Sports and Team Activities

Engaging in sports not only builds physical skills but also teaches teamwork and discipline. Look for local youth sports leagues or family-friendly activities available in your community. Websites like Meetup can help connect you with sports groups in Beijing.

Jingkids also has plenty of WeChat groups with like-minded parents where you can get ideas and information and set up playdates for your kids. Add TBJButler on WeChat to be added.

6. Household Chores

Involve your kids in household chores to teach them valuable life skills. Assign age-appropriate tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or gardening. This not only helps in developing responsibility but also fosters teamwork and family bonding. Engaging in chores can instill a sense of accomplishment and contribute to overall family well-being.

7. Reading Challenges

Consider setting up a family reading challenge. Encourage each family member to select books that interest them, and perhaps join a local library’s summer program. Online platforms like Epic! offer a vast library of books and audiobooks for everyone to enjoy together. Reading can enhance empathy and improve cognitive skills, which are vital for emotional health.

8. Travel as a Learning Experience

Whether traveling within China or abroad, use the opportunity to enhance learning. Encourage kids to research destinations, learn about local customs and practice language skills. For example, visiting historical sites like the Great Wall or museums can provide context for what they’ve learned in school. Encourage them to keep a travel journal to document their experiences and reflections, making the trip both educational and memorable.

By integrating fun and educational activities into your summer plans, you can help your children develop valuable skills while enjoying quality family time. Emphasizing exploration, creativity, and learning without stress is not only beneficial for academic growth but also essential for the overall well-being of students. Allow your family to thrive during these sunny months!

Images: SENIA, Freepik, Pexels

The International Forums of Inclusion Practitioners (IFIP) stands as a beacon of collaboration and progress, comprising dedicated inclusion practitioners from around the globe. United by a shared vision, its members envision a future where every educator is empowered with inclusive teaching practices, ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, thrives in the classroom.

This diverse community includes educators from various backgrounds, from those working in schools to university professors and policy advocates at national and international levels. Together, they strive to foster inclusive environments where every learner is valued and supported.

Marking a significant milestone, the Global Inclusive Schools’ Forum, hosted by IFIP, held a special event on March 13 that commemorated the 30th anniversary of the Salamanca Statement of Principals, a pivotal moment in the history of inclusive education.

The Salamanca Statement, endorsed at an international conference organized by UNESCO and the Ministry of Education and Science of Spain in 1994, laid the groundwork for inclusive schooling. Its fundamental principle emphasizes that all children should learn together, irrespective of any difficulties or differences they may have. Over the years, the concept of inclusion has evolved, underscoring the importance of reaching every learner and providing equitable educational opportunities.

IFIP aims to develop, pilot, and communicate inclusive teaching practices, generate learning and knowledge on inclusive education, contribute to the establishment of standards for inclusive teaching, foster a vibrant learning community dedicated to inclusive education, and bridge the gap between policy and practice in inclusive education.

Educators and advocates around the world are invited to join this transformative journey toward a more inclusive and equitable education system for all. Together, they can make a difference in the lives of learners worldwide.

The organizers are pleased to announce the recipients of the IFIP Global Inclusion Award 2024, chosen from a pool of applicants worldwide. “This was a conference where the left hand was truly able to, “know what the right hand was doing.” Specialists and parents were able to meet with policymakers to develop a framework of action. I am excited about the direction that the global community is headed after attending,” says Dr. Gerald Anthony,  Wellness Coordinator at Tsinghua International School and Chairman of SENIA-Beijing.

Dr. Anthony was one of two award recipients from Beijing. “I am humbled to receive such an award. It encourages me to continue my work with SENIA to find gaps locally and internationally. Filling in the gaps is where the impact happens. I am just a person that looks for ways to make a positive impact in all I do.”

Along with Dr. Anthony, Dr. Christin Topper, SENIA-Beijing member and Head of Student Support Services at Western Academy of Beijing was also one of the proud recipients. “Attending the UNESCO Global Inclusive Forum is an affirmation that WAB is part of a global movement advocating to make inclusion visible in policy, practice, and culture. We know students feel capable, valued, and belong when they have a voice, choice, and agency in their learning.” she shares. “My biggest takeaway is the rich discussion and collaboration between inclusive educators, parents of neurodivergent children, and policymakers that are emerging from this conference. It is a privilege to listen to and learn from so many people committed to collaborative inclusive education where #AllmeansAll and #EveryStudentMatters”.

“In attending the Global Inclusive School’s Forum at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France, I have been profoundly inspired by the diverse array of individuals who are fervently advocating for diversity and inclusion worldwide. This experience has ignited a fire within me, driving me to redouble my efforts in championing inclusive education and making a tangible difference in the lives of learners around the globe.” shares Janice Bareng-Pineda, Learning Support Teacher, SEND Coordinator at the Lower School at Harrow Beijing.

Images: Dr. Gerald Anthony