It\u2019s the dog days of summer, and between summer camp and other activities, you might be wondering what you can do to keep your children busy at home. UConn Extension can help Connecticut residents find ways to engage kids in active summer learning that also happens to be loads of fun.<\/p>\n
Numerous summer activities can be learning opportunities for youth. As you engage with your children, allow them to make predictions, engage in the activity, reflect on what\u2019s occurred, and apply this new learning to their everyday lives. As you provide positive adult support in activities, it is important to allow youth to \u201clearn by doing.\u201d This offers kids the opportunity to encounter challenges, experience successes, and even failures as they think critically, problem solve, and persevere.<\/p>\n
UConn 4-H is the youth development program of Extension, in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources. Our trained educators have developed materials and programming for all ages and interests. And we go beyond traditional agriculture, with activities related to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), healthy living, and civic engagement. Here are some ideas based on UConn 4-H program areas:<\/p>\n
Online Resources<\/strong><\/p>\n Looking for activities, but can\u2019t make it out of the house? Our team of educators have multiple online resources available.<\/p>\n 4-H Camp<\/strong><\/p>\n Maybe your youngster is ready to venture out, meet new friends, and try new things. UConn 4-H has four youth camping opportunities statewide. Camps provide day and\/or overnight programming for youth of various ages. To learn more about camp locations and programs visit UConn’s 4-H camps website<\/a>.<\/p>\n Day Trips\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n Visit any of Connecticut fairs<\/strong>, including six hosted by UConn 4-H each year. Fairs provide opportunities for youth to learn more about agriculture and animals, and to see a wide variety of arts and crafts, machinery, and lots more. Visit the Connecticut Fairs website<\/a>\u00a0for the full list and more information.<\/p>\n The 4-H Education Center at Auerfarm<\/strong> is located at 158 Auer Farm Road in Bloomfield, and is free and open to the public from dawn to dusk, year-round. This 120-acre property offers visitors of all ages the opportunity to engage with agriculture, science, and the environment. Take a hike, visit the animals, explore nature and so much more<\/a>.<\/p>\n Families and individuals can engage in healthy living by participating in the Hartford County 4-H Fair Austin Harlow Memorial 5K Race\/1K Fun Walk<\/strong> on August 20, 2023. Click here to register<\/a>.<\/p>\n Start Planning for Fall<\/strong><\/p>\n If you have a child aged 5-18 who is interested in joining UConn 4-H in the upcoming year, contact your local UConn Extension office to learn more about clubs as well as independent membership opportunities in your area and\/or how to volunteer with UConn 4-H. Contact information and additional resources are available at here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Just because school is out doesn\u2019t mean the learning and fun have to stop! Take advantage of Connecticut this summer and help your children grow with these tips from UConn Extension.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n