Keeping Young Minds Active
Summer break vacation is a time for relaxed schedules and a break from classroom learning. But did you know that some of the best learning occurs outside the classroom? Learning doesn't have to fall by the wayside when school is out.
Sports and recreational activities, creative STEAM projects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math), and field trip adventures stimulate imaginations and inspire youth for academic and life success. Experts agree that children who read during summer gain skills, while those who do not often "slide back." Students in low-income families experience an average summer learning loss in reading achievement of more than two months.
Summer break vacation is a time for relaxed schedules and a break from classroom learning. But did you know that some of the best learning occurs outside the classroom? Learning doesn't have to fall by the wayside when school is out.
Sports and recreational activities, creative STEAM projects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math), and field trip adventures stimulate imaginations and inspire youth for academic and life success. Experts agree that children who read during summer gain skills, while those who do not often "slide back." Students in low-income families experience an average summer learning loss in reading achievement of more than two months.
"We got to make our own space crafts to travel in. I made a unicorn rocket, to match my shirt!" This summer more than 60 youth are benefiting from the structured learning environment at UCM's two community centers, thanks to our generous community partners and volunteers. Our SPARK program -- Success through Purpose, Achievement, Respect & Knowledge -- is designed to "spark" learning opportunities and interest in new subjects to keep young minds active. Each week has a different theme, with topics including space, journalism, and music.
Especially popular are the spelling and math relay competitions, art activities, and many special field trips including National Geographic Society, Wolf Trap Theater in the Woods, Udvar Nazy Air and Space Museum, Grist Mill Park, and UniverSoul Circus at National Harbor. All their happy smiles say it all!
Especially popular are the spelling and math relay competitions, art activities, and many special field trips including National Geographic Society, Wolf Trap Theater in the Woods, Udvar Nazy Air and Space Museum, Grist Mill Park, and UniverSoul Circus at National Harbor. All their happy smiles say it all!
"My favorite trip was the space museum," said a rising 5th grade girl. "Because they had so many things there that I had never seen before. It was super cool!" The water park trips have been the most popular overall, because going to a pool is a special treat. A rising 6th grader excitedly shared that her favorite was the Queens of Egypt exhibit at National Geographic Society: "I got to learn about the ancient Egyptians. I'm half Egyptian and enjoyed learning about my heritage."
We are especially grateful to the Mount Vernon Kiwanis Club which continues to be a generous supporter of our youth, including a $4,500 gift to underwrite expenses for field trips, as well as additional funding for Back to School supplies.
We are especially grateful to the Mount Vernon Kiwanis Club which continues to be a generous supporter of our youth, including a $4,500 gift to underwrite expenses for field trips, as well as additional funding for Back to School supplies.
"The educational activities at the community center help my family and my neighbors to raise healthy and smart kids," one mother of three tells us. "We are so grateful for the center and staff at United Community. They make learning fun for everyone."
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We invite you to be part of the success of our children and youth. SPARK summer activities continue through August 16, weekdays from 10am - 6pm. We continue to need and welcome volunteers to work with our youth and assist on field trips. If interested, email our volunteer coordinator at volunteer@ucmagency.org.
We have many opportunities to volunteer all year round, including to tutor or mentor youth. To learn how you can volunteer or help, visit our Volunteer Opportunities webpage. Together, we stabilize, empower, and engage kids and families to inspire their success!
(United Community E-news, July 2019)
We invite you to be part of the success of our children and youth. SPARK summer activities continue through August 16, weekdays from 10am - 6pm. We continue to need and welcome volunteers to work with our youth and assist on field trips. If interested, email our volunteer coordinator at volunteer@ucmagency.org.
We have many opportunities to volunteer all year round, including to tutor or mentor youth. To learn how you can volunteer or help, visit our Volunteer Opportunities webpage. Together, we stabilize, empower, and engage kids and families to inspire their success!
(United Community E-news, July 2019)
