Opportunity Guide I Summer, Enrichment & Activities Guide

For a child interested in discovering more about the STEM subject areas - science, technology, engineering and math - there are numerous school-based, out-of-school and summer enrichment programs where she can build skills and have fun. From joining a math circle to competing in math competitions, there are many math-based extracurricular activities to discover and enjoy. If your child is tech-minded and loves figuring out how things work, look for engineering, robotics, and computer classes to engage her imagination. If her interest is in the laboratory sciences, there are many unique, hands-on after school science programs themed around particular areas of science that often include hands-on lab experiences. A child who is passionate about and excels in any of the STEM subject areas will find increasingly rigorous and selective opportunities available to her.

Developing as a writer requires writing a lot. There are opportunities available to encourage and motivate young writers and help them develop their craft.  If writing poems, plays and stories excites your child, encourage her submit her writing for publication in a school or special interest magazine. There are more than a few online literary and writing magazines that publish writing by and for children and teens.

For a child that likes competitions, many historical organizations and various nonprofits (e.g., environmental groups) sponsor annual themed writing contests for children in various age/grade categories. For an older child who wants to improve and enhance her skills, there are specialized summer writing workshops and intensives that offer focused concentrations (e.g., science fiction, screenwriting, novel writing) and provide an opportunity for peer review.