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Well, we’ve made it. The end of the school year is just around the corner. It’s been a long journey and I think everyone has felt the strain at some point during the year. Teachers were challenged with making up for lost time thanks to COVID, and students had to adapt the shifting environment within their schools. Overall, though, I think we can all be proud of the things we were able to accomplish.

With summer now picking up steam, I’m sure many of your students are itching to get outside and jump headfirst into their vacation. But just because they’re not in school doesn’t mean your students should stop learning. Summer is an ideal time for students to explore the amazing outdoors or foster their curiosity through homegrown science experiments. Not only will this keep their minds sharp over the break, but it will also allow them to continue fostering their curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. So, before your students step out that classroom door for the last time, take a moment to share these exciting activities they can use to keep curiosity alive!

Summertime STEAM
  • DIY Sprinkler (VAI) I K-12
    The weather is warming up, so that calls for some cool down science. Design your own sprinkler with this warm weather challenge, keeping an eye out for a surprise in the sky!
  • Moldy Bread Experiment (VAI) I K-12
    Ever wonder if washing your hands actually makes a difference? Test it out with slices of bread! Learn how mold grows from bacteria from your hands or household objects, right on some bread!
  • Squirrel Feeder (VAI) I 2-12
    Everybody loves bird feeders; they see squirrels as nuisances. But squirrels are intelligent and amazing creatures! Try this engineering challenge to foster love and appreciation for sensational squirrels!
  • Microwave Lightning (VAI) I K-12
    When you microwave a grape something unexpected occurs. Try it out and see for yourself! Learn about a type of matter that doesn’t often show up here on earth!
  • Wine Cork Rafts: Engineering Design (VAI) I K-6
    Engineering design using wine corks (or other cork materials) to make rafts/boats that will float on water. Learn about what makes objects float with this fun design activity!
Until Next Year

One final thing. Before your students leave, remember to congratulate them on a year of tough learning. For that matter, remember to congratulate yourself as well! You faced a lot of difficult obstacles, but you all made it. Be proud of the accomplishments you made and take some time to treat yourself to tasty treat or a small reward.

Another big year of learning is on the horizon, but for now, let yourself enjoy the summer. Just remember to be like your students and never stop learning!

*Image courtesy of Magnus Johansson via Wikimedia Commons.

We hope you are all staying healthy and safe during this difficult time. For more free educational resources, or ideas on how to promote healthy SEL, simply follow this link!