How many times have parents heard the retort, "There's nothing to do." Often, this is heard the first week after the close of classes. Kids are accustomed to a fast pace, loads of activities, sports and events with friends, then all of a sudden, the merry-go-round seems to come to a halt. Here are some ideas that should appeal to the gifted kids in the family.
Nature Camps and Museum Trips for the Gifted Child
An overnight camp for kids, which entails lots of physical activities intermingled with crafts and fun events is ideal for any child. The gifted child can further benefit by de-emphasizing on the intellectual activities he is involved in much of the time.
Getting the opportunity to connect with the natural world is exciting and the friendships formed at these camping trips can turn into lifelong relationships. Even a day time arts and crafts camp or a museum campership program represent less expensive alternatives worth considering. Let the child's interests dictate the direction taken in choosing a camp environment or specialty.
College Visits and Tours for Gifted Teens
Even for students who are not yet seriously looking at college programs for a while, college touring is a great way to introduce her to what is available. Also, many schools are rich in historical information and interesting folklore. Schools on the east coast, some of which are the oldest schools in the country, are particularly appealing to visit.
Depending on the child's age, she may be eligible for an overnight visit if she is potentially within a year or two of college enrollment. Since so many gifted students enroll in college early, schools often make special accommodations available for kids and families to stay in a dorm room during the summer break. Try a history rich school like Gettysburg or an Ivy League university like Harvard or Yale. The beauty, architecture and historical elements of the environment are fascinating to most visitors.
Consider Part Time Employment for the Gifted Child
Summer is a great time for the child to earn some money. This may involve babysitting neighborhood children or conducting math tutoring to younger students. A gifted child can get involved in volunteer work at a theater or museum and when she reaches the age, become eligible to get paid.
Kids who enjoy a specific activity like playing a musical instrument or dance may be able to offer lessons or work as a teacher's helper to earn some money. Teach the child how to save at least part of his earnings by opening a bank account and investing in stocks, bonds or other financial strategies.
Give the child a break from his usual routine and focus on fun activities during the summer. Camps and arts programs are a great place to start. Visiting and touring colleges during the summer months is another valuable and interesting activity that does not involve great expense. Further, help the gifted child find ways to earn his own money and teach him about saving and investments.
Therese Haberman - With a MS degree and 25 years in HR mgmt, in 2005, Ms.Therese began a writing career specializing in children and HR.
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