“We need to keep doing school lessons during the summer break, or our children could regress, forget information, or fall behind.” I’ve heard this many times, and I’ve often shared this concern myself. But after trying to do school assignments over summer break, I found that they were rushed and done poorly. We must remember that a child’s mind is strong and resilient. They won’t forget everything in just a few weeks. In fact, they might forget the superficial lessons they didn’t internalize, but they won’t lose the most important, foundational ideas.
Summer break isn’t just about a pause from formal schooling—it’s a time for maturing, developing new interests, and letting concepts grow in the mind. Sometimes when a child isn’t grasping something, it’s not a lack of effort—it’s just that their brain needs more time to develop to fully understand that concept. Summer break can be the perfect opportunity for that growth and rest to happen.
Many homeschooling moms ask, “What should I do with my children over the summer? Should we keep doing lessons or just let them have free time?” And many moms who follow a traditional school schedule wonder how Charlotte Mason would approach this. While Charlotte Mason didn’t write extensively on this subject, my experience with her methods has provided helpful guidance for making the most of the summer break.
Here are my suggestions for a Charlotte Mason-inspired summer:
1) Get Outside!
Summer is the perfect time to explore the wonders of nature. Many children today spend too much time indoors on electronic devices, losing curiosity about the natural world. By showing interest in nature, we can inspire our children to step outside and engage with the world around them. For example, if you’re heading to the beach, research different shells, birds, or plants native to the area. Or, if you’re visiting the countryside, observe the trees and wildlife unique to that environment. Use these trips as opportunities to study God’s creation and deepen your child’s understanding of the world.
2) Do Some Handicrafts
Summer is a great time to catch up on the Charlotte Mason-inspired handicrafts you didn’t have time for during the school year. Whether it’s knitting, sewing, or pottery, these creative activities help reinforce skills learned throughout the year. They also foster family bonding as you work on projects together. Handicrafts are a perfect way to encourage creativity and mindfulness, allowing your child to make lasting memories while honing valuable skills.
3) Spend Quality Family Time
One of the greatest gifts summer offers is time to be together as a family. Use this break to make memories and deepen your family connections. Summer holidays are essential for building a strong family bond. What special moments can you create together this summer? Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, game night, or a weekend getaway, make time to cherish each other and create traditions your children will remember for years to come.
4) Volunteer
Summer is also a wonderful time to teach your children the importance of giving back. Whether it’s making handicrafts like blankets or learning how to bake to help others in need, volunteering can be a meaningful summer activity. Serving others teaches empathy and instills a sense of community. For older children, volunteering can even provide opportunities for college applications, while younger children can draw pictures or make cards for hospital patients. These activities will not only benefit others but help your children grow into compassionate individuals.
5) Rest and Recharge
Often, we overlook the importance of rest, especially during the school year. Resting is crucial for both physical and mental health, and summer provides an excellent opportunity to recharge. A break from structured lessons allows children’s minds to heal and develop, and it’s in these moments of rest that the knowledge and ideas they’ve absorbed throughout the year can take root. Rest helps to strengthen the connections in their brain, enabling them to process everything they’ve learned. Summer break should be a time to rest, relax, and let their minds grow at their own pace.
Conclusion: Embrace the Beauty of a Charlotte Mason Summer
A Charlotte Mason-inspired summer is about recognizing the value of rest, nature, creativity, and family connection. Instead of pushing through lessons during the summer months, embrace the opportunities to bond, explore, and rest. These experiences not only enrich your children’s lives but also lay a strong foundation for continued growth and learning when school resumes.
“Some absorbing interest which shall keep our minds and sense healthily occupied and leads us to ever-growing knowledge of God’s universe, are to the healthfulness of a holiday.” — J.S. Mills, “Holiday Tests,” (1893)
