For our family, we teach 180 lessons each school year. And throughout the summer we go to the library once a week and the kids take a few books they would like to read during that week. In the summer they have a little extra time to watch television, but they don't sit all day in front of it.

I also use some vacation time to teach the girls new skills. This summer we learned about gardening, cooking, and they took on new chores. Each of these things was introduced gradually so that all summer they were learning.

There are some homeschoolers I know who still teach one or two lessons each week throughout the summer. I don't necessarily think there's anything wrong with that. In fact, that's what I do with the library books. While I'm not sitting down formally teaching a class, the girls are learning. But the teacher, me, takes the summer off from active teaching to finish projects of my own.

The one danger in taking a large summer break, like the public schools, is losing the habit of learning. Again, that is why I feel it is so important to make learning a part of life in your homeschool rather than something you do in a textbook.

Consider family vacations, whether near or far, as learning opportunities as well. If you go to the same place every year for vacation, consider taking time during your year to learn about the history of that place. Even if it is simply going to grandma's house for a week, find out what your children can learn about the area. Explore new places in town. Make vacation part of learning.

But don't forget to take time to rest.

Please see our extensive list of resources .   
Homeschool On The Seas are Group Cruises where homeschooling families can travel together. We provide a great vacationing experience coupled with an educational experience all for one great price. Visit our website for more information at  .
The American Discovery Trail (ADT) is a new breed of national trail, part city, part small town, part forest, part mountains, part desert — all in one trail. Its 6,800+ miles of continuous, multi-use trail stretches from Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware, to Pt. Reyes National Seashore, California. It reaches across America, linking community to community in the first coast to coast, non-motorized trail. The ADT provides trail users the opportunity to journey into the heart of all that is uniquely American — its culture, heritage, landscape and spirit.
Little House Site Tours Little House on the Prairie Tours and Resources to learn everything you need to know about Laura Ingalls Wilder and the real Little House on the Prairie.
Biltmore Estate  George Vanderbilt's quest for knowledge was a lifelong passion, and his legacy of learning continues today at Biltmore. Professionals will find accredited training through Biltmore's Center for Professional Development. We also offer programs for students, including experiential educational programs, a homeschool festival, and customized Biltmore House tours.
Bird In Hand where homemade recipes, clean rooms and warm hospitality are Smucker Family traditions. Our quaint town is located along a two-lane country road that winds through the Amish farmland of Lancaster County's picturesque Pennsylvania Dutch Country.
Camp Lebanon A beautiful home away from home, Camp Lebanon, located on Cedar Lake near Upsala, Minnesota, is the ideal getaway for you, your family, your church, or your organization. With a warm and welcoming staff as well as extensive accommodations, Camp Lebanon is poised to meet your needs for your retreat or conference. Or, if you prefer, just join us for any of our many programmed camps, retreats and events. Once you're here, you'll never want to leave!
Caravan Tours quality tours feature complete sightseeing, professional Tour Directors and great itineraries, operated by one of the country‘s oldest and most respected tour companies.
Grays Harbor Historical Seaport is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) public development authority based in Aberdeen, Wash. that owns and operates the tall ships Lady Washington, the Official Ship of the State of Washington, and the Hawaiian Chieftain. Take an unforgettable family vacation on the high seas.
Greenfield Village offering of exhibits, demonstrations, programs and reenactments, The Henry Ford celebrates yesterday’s traditions as well as today’s innovations. Five distinct attractions at The Henry Ford captivate and inspire visitors of all ages.
Kids Love Publications  This adventure of writing and publishing family travel books has taken them on a journey of experiences that they never could have imagined! They have appeared as guests on hundreds of radio and television shows, had featured articles in state-wide newspapers and magazines, spoken to thousands of people at schools and conventions, and write monthly columns in many publications about "family-friendly" places to travel. It is their belief and mission statement that if the families who purchase the books will study and use the contained information that they too will ... "create family memories". These memories will grow stronger as the years go by...and hopefully it will lead to another generation of family travelers
Life Action Camp    is a family camp which offers anything from camps to banquets—all with your family in mind. Our 170 acres provide the setting for growth, bonding, recreation, and healthy competition.
 

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