Alice Cooper may have coined the phrase, “school’s out for summer,” but that doesn’t mean learning should take a back burner. In fact, it’s an important time to encourage good habits and get school-sponsored summer programs completed.

Do you know what your child’s summer projects consist of? Has he or she even started yet?

Your school’s website will give you a rundown of what summer projects must be completed for each grade level. Search the Patch directory for “schools” and then click on the link for your child’s school.

If your school or grade level doesn’t have a summer reading or math project, consider enrolling your child in the summer reading program at the Perry Hall Library. Many schools, like Gunpowder Elementary, are striving for 100 percent of students to participate in the summer reading program.

You should also encourage your children to complete their summer reading or math packets in advance, before it becomes a mad rush the day before school begins. Have your child spend a few days each week doing their summer homework. They should try to do it at the same time and in the same location they always do their homework. This will create routines that will be easy to continue once school begins.

There are plenty of other ways to incorporate learning experiences into your summer fun. Baltimore City and the surrounding areas have plenty of activities to encourage learning.

Consider touring one of the many museums downtown or embark on a nature walk or hike. You could plan a trip to the Maryland Zoo or take a boat cruise. Even a fishing trip could be educational if you set it up properly.

Not only can these activities be educational, they can promote family bonding and open the lines of communication. Don't forget to do some research before you go, so you have specific age-appropriate learning opportunities lined up for your child.

While some of you may be having a hard time thinking about returning to school, this is the perfect time to begin structuring your child’s learning to help make the transition back to school easy. Enjoy the remainder of your summer and encourage your children to continue learning year round.