Summer activiites

Hi Latinos in College,
The summer is very long and I don't know how to keep my teenage kids engaged so they don't just hang out all summer with their friends instead of doing something that can impact their future education> They are 15 and 16. Any ideas of summer programs they can get involved with? Thanks?

Hi Sandra,

* Use search engines like www.google.com or www.yahoo.com and type in phrases, such as "summer programs for high school students" or "summer programs for teenagers."

* Go to their local community organizations to ask about volunteering opportunities. There are many places they can go to. It all depends on their interests. They could go to the local hospital, American Red Cross, Boys & Girls Club, Humane Society, etc.

* Check out our "Organizations" page and visit some of the websites. Certain organizations like the Hispanic Scholarship Fund may have some type of activities depending on the state you are in.

* Finally, check out our "Resources" page and scroll down to "PARENT INVOLVEMENT IN EDUCATION" where you could find other ideas.

Good luck!

-Jazmin

Jazmin gave some really great ideas; I just have a couple more:

Check out your local community college, college, or university. These schools often hold classes for high school students during the summer. When I was younger, I took a theatre class at a local community college. They often have fun, educational classes kids can take to develop skills or pursue something they are interested in like theatre, art, journalism, etc.

If you have a zoo or museum nearby, ask if they have volunteer programs available for high school kids. These cultural centers often have volunteer programs in the summer specifically for kids. This is another opportunity for kids to explore their interests in a fun way, while also learning.

Finally, see if your local community has sports activities for the summer or day camps. Many of these programs are available at a low cost or have scholarships available. Sports can teach kids responsibility, discipline, and give them self confidence. They may find a sport they love and want to continue in college. Like sports, the day camps also teach good life skills and keep kids' minds and bodies active in the summer.

Hope this helps!
-Amber George