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31 | Thursday, June 9, 2016 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Top summer activities to keep kids learning Just because classes are out, doesn't mean your child's learning has to stop during the warmer months. Use the hot weather for fun new educational opportunities and make the most out of summer learning by having a chat with your child's educator before school lets out. Alana Powell, a registered early childhood educator (RECE) recommends that families talk with their child's instructors about their skills and interests. "If you notice an emerging skill at home, ask your child's educator if they have shown that skill development in child care. If they haven't, that information can help the educator to support that skill in the child care setting. In the same way, the educator may see an interest or skill developing that the child has not shown at home," Powell said. As a member of the College of Early Childhood Educators, Powell is one of more than 48,000 RECEs in Ontario whose professional expertise includes the planning and delivery of play-based, developmentally-appropriate programs for children from birth to age six and beyond. The latest policy work in Ontario underscores the tremendous role families play in the well-being of children, and how important it is for RECEs to work with families to support children's development. When you're planning activities with your little ones this summer, Powell recommends looking for opportunities to get outside and get messy. "The key is that the things you choose to do are interesting to your child, play-based and, sometimes, the messier the better." This summer, try one of these activities that Powell says are guaranteed to get your child learning, and both of you having fun. Chill out. "In the hot weather, a great learning experience can involve ice," she suggests. "Freeze paint in ice cube trays and your child can paint outside with melting ice cubes." Low-tech 3D. "Another favourite outdoor activity is painting 3D objects. A toddler will be thrilled to sit inside a cardboard box and draw or paint all over it -- while practicing some important fine motor skills," explains Powell. "Your older children will enjoy planning and plotting what to make: is it a house or a race car? Once the box is finished it can lead to great opportunities for pretend play." Learn more about the profession of early childhood education and the licensing requirements for RECEs at college-ece.ca. (NC) Advertorial Camp 2016 25+ Sports & Activities Multimedia, Arts & Science REGISTER NOW! Summer Spots Still Available in All Sessions ! marauders.ca/camps 905-525-9140 ext. 24464 APPLEBY COLLEGE CAMPS June 27 to September 2, 2016 DISCOVERY CAMPS (AGES 4-7) SPORTS & ADVENTURE CAMPS (AGES 7-15) ARTS & MEDIA CAMPS (AGES 7-15) SCIENCE & SUCCESS CAMPS (AGES 7-15) LEADERSHIP CAMP NEW! (AGES 12-15) Appleby College Camps offers campers ages 4-15 a summer of fun with more than 50 programs and over 220 weekly sessions! Led by highly qualified Appleby Camps staff, we offer low camper to instructor ratios, daily swims, nutritious lunches, family events, and shows all located on our beautiful 60-acre lakeside campus. Before and after care is available ­ and new for 2016 ­ weekly busing. Make us your choice for friendship, learning and fun! To learn more call 905-845-4681 ext. 113 or visit www.appleby.on.ca/camps