The summer means, among many things, that the kids are now home much of the day.  Keeping them occupied can be a challenge, but there are ways to incorporate fun activities that make use of skills learned in school, increase their personal development, and take advantage of what makes the season unique. 

Much of what kids do during the summer, like even reading a book, can be taken outside.  Valerie Belusko, Community and Economic Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, says being outside helps kids become accustomed to the experience. 

But what if the weather doesn’t allow for being outside?  Activities indoors allow for kids to put what they’ve learned in school to use, perhaps without knowing it. 

Play-time outdoors is good for kids not only to keep them physically active but also as part of personal development. 

Belusko also encourages parents to consider what they did as kids during the summer and to use it as inspiration for kids of today. 

More information on the University of Illinois Extension is available at www.extension.illinois.edu or by calling (217) 532-3941.

Valerie Belusko appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.