Parents of African American children HAVE to go above and beyond in providing their child with supplemental educational experiences. Studies over the last few years continue to highlight the need for students, especially Black students, to become more aggressive in their pursuit of STEM education – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Here are my seven tips so that you provide the best STEM filled summer experience for your child.

Start Early

Summer is right around the corner. Be sure to start your search for summer programs as early as January. It’s a great time to secure a spot in the summer programs that interest you most, benefit from early bird discounts and even financial aid options for early applicants. It’s always better to start early when planning for summer.

Math is Fun 

In searching for summer camps take the time to search out specific STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) summer programs in your neighborhood. A quick search on Bing is about all you need to find the bulk of your local resources. Seek out these programs. As we encourage our children to love learning we need to ensure that they receive a strong STEM foundation. Math is fun – just like art, ballet, martial arts and basketball.

Money is Not the Obstacle

My husband gets mad at me because I tell him Money Grows on Trees (because it’s paper). Clearly I’m smarter than that but I also prioritize my child’s education. There are STEM programs that are very expensive and there are STEM programs that are FREE. Don’t let a little Sticker Shock deter you from providing your child with a great STEM filled summer. If you are drawn to a summer program that is slightly outside of your price range pick up the phone and call. It never hurts to ask if there are opportunities for your family to receive financial aid or volunteer in some capacity.

COUNT 3 times a day

I was surprised to learn that early math literacy is a better predictor of future learning than early reading skills. I also learned that math literacy is as simple as incorporating numbers in our daily conversations with our children. How

Handouts!! Handouts!! Handouts!!

There are AMAZING resources available on-line. My kids love when I whip out a math worksheet. They may whine sometimes but seven times out of ten they really enjoy it. As I become more consistent in providing them with fun Math sheets they become more engaged and look forward to the process.

Play Out Doors

Major reports over the last few years have brought the need for comprehensive STEM education – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics – into clear focus for educators at all levels. President Obama has championed the cause, and many states have renewed energy in developing comprehensive plans for improving the delivery of STEM education to students. These reports all point to the need for quality STEM education.

Get Away from the Computer / Television

I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know. But turn off the television. Grab a blanket and cover the television over the summer so everyone in the family knows that it’s no longer in use. As a parent limit your personal screen time. That includes any opportunities to limit working from home, browsing your email or googling something instead of engaging with your children. Time at home is best spent talking, hugging and loving those little ones in your house.