Opportunity Guide I Summer, Enrichment & Activities Guide

If your child is drawn to the laboratory sciences (biology, chemistry, physics), there exists a wide variety of school-based programs, online classes, onsite programs and summer enrichment camps, both day and overnight, to inspire a lifelong interest in science. A child who enjoys competing will find plenty of opportunities to test their abilities from regional level events to national science contests that culminate in the science Olympiads, which offer young scientists the chance to present their discoveries and win awards/scholarships. Alternatively, a child who is more interested in conducting original science research should consider school-based or formal summer research programs that will support and prepare him to present his work at competitive events. At the highest levels, a child pursuing original research will need solid writing experience in order to produce scientific research papers.

Many high schools administer the first-round exams for the well-known national science competitions. Your child will need to study for these competitions, and there are online programs, books and summer camps that offer intensive study opportunities and practice. If your child doesn’t have access to science extracurriculars, encourage him to start his own club or join a community-sponsored program.

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.