Summer break seems like the last time we would be thinking about academics. After all, it is a break from school. But, your Summer break can be useful for learning some new things and improving yourself for the upcoming school year. Here are some tips on how to keep your mind going so that you can stay ready to go back to school in the Fall.
Make a Summer To-Do List!
Think about it. What are the things that you wish you had time to do during the regular school year? Have you been meaning to start journaling? Do you want to go check out a new museum or exhibit with your friends? Or maybe you’ve been wanting to learn a new skill or language! Whatever they may be, there are always things we wish we had time to get done. Summer break is the time!
Give in to your curiosity!
This is a great time to explore the interests that you don’t get the time to look into during the school year! Whether it be reading, films, or podcasts, there is a world of informational media out there for you to explore. If you like books and movies, check out the public library. Or, many universities offer free access to Kanopy. This is your time to choose what you want to learn about. Using your Summer break to learn new things will be both personally rewarding and keep you sharp and ready to go back to school.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to contribute to your community in your free time. Plus, it can also help you find your passion. If you think you may be interested in the medical field, you can volunteer at a local hospital or nursing home. Or, if you are interested in literature, you can try volunteering at your local library. You’ll leave this experience with new skills, positive energy, and insights on what you like to do!
Learn a new skill!
Summer break is the perfect opportunity to build new positive habits. If you start working on a new skill everyday, you’ll be a pro by the end of the Summer! Here are some ways you can build a new habit for learning a new skill!
- Learn languages with free apps like DuoLingo and Babbel
- Practice making art each day: go outside and take photos, draw something in your room, learn a new song, or make a new design with a free PhotoShop alternative!
- Learn a new word everyday with apps like Daily Dictionary or Word of the Day
- Make something cool using the p5 coding library! It’s a great way for beginners to dip their toes into coding. It even has its own online code editor so you can see what you’ve made in real time!
Relax, and enjoy some well deserved time off.
Summer is also a time to take care of yourself. As much as you should have fun with your friends and take advantage of your free time, you should also remember to take time for yourself, relax, and get enough sleep. It is okay if you aren’t spending every moment of your Summer break doing something productive. If you are looking for some ways to relax try these self care techniques:
- Take a break from technology. It’s always a good idea to put your screen down and take in your surroundings. It will help you stop comparing yourself to others and start spending more time with yourself.
- Enjoy nature. Take a walk in the park or just sit in a shady spot and appreciate the ambience.
- Try meditating. Meditating can help you get more in tune with your body and help you understand your needs better.
- Start a gratitude journal. This is a great way to get to know yourself and build your confidence.
At the end of the day, don’t forget to enjoy a nice break. It’s important to come back to school refreshed, energized, and ready to conquer a new school year!
