After a long winter spent inside the house, most kids are eager to play outside and burn off extra energy once spring arrives. To ensure their minds don’t stray too far from studies, the educators at JEI Learning Center South San Jose—a learning center dedicated to helping elementary school students in California achieve academic success—recommend parents plan a few curriculum-based, at-home activities with their kids. The lessons will complement what’s learned in the classroom and ensure students won’t fall behind in their studies. 

Learning Center Educators Share 3 Spring Activities to Help Students Stay Focused 

1. Observe the Life Cycle of Local Plants

Many plants come out of hibernation during early spring—taking a walk around the yard is a fun way to introduce kids to life science. When looking at local vegetation, have the youngster pick a plant they find particularly interesting. Have them draw pictures of how the plant changes from day to day. Arrange the drawings in chronological order in a notebook to tell a story. When flipping through the pages with the child, you can discuss the biological reasons behind each phase. 

2. Incorporate Sports Tournaments Into Math Curriculum

If the student is a sports fan, incorporating big basketball tournaments—especially in March—into the curriculum is a simple way for them to learn math skills while being entertained. Have the student keep a graph with the stats of their favorite team in one column. Fill another column with the stats of the team’s biggest competitor. Let the child count the numbers and compare scores to see who’s ahead. 

3. Celebrate the Rebirth of Spring With Poetry

If you want kids to brush up on their reading and writing skills this spring, incorporate poetry into the activity list. Many poems are specifically focused on the rebirth of nature in spring—read the works outside so kids can feel truly immersed in the experience. During National Poetry Month in April, have the student try their hand at writing their own nature-themed poem.  

To help kids build upon at-home lessons and what’s learned at school, reach out to JEI Learning Center South San Jose for assistance. The educators at this local learning center will do everything possible to help your children reach their academic goals. To learn more about English and math programs for kids in San Jose, as well as common core curriculum, call (408) 270-6162. A representative is available to answer any questions. You can also visit the learning center online for program details, and don't forget to like them on Facebook for news alerts.