By Alyson Trager
May 31, 2017


Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, but that doesn’t mean the learning has to stop. On average, an equivalent of about one month of overall learning is lost over the summer break. But don't worry. Auntie to the rescue. Here are 13 day trips that will have your nieces and nephews learning something new.

1. Halls of Fame
There are so many types of halls of fame around the country including ones you may not have known existed. They can range from the Blues Halls of Fame in Memphis, TN to the National Aviation Hall of Fame in Dayton, OH, to sports halls of fame throughout the country. Check out this extensive list of halls of fame (although some are virtual only) to find the perfect one.

2. Historical Sites
If you’re a bit of a history buff, this may be the way to get your nieces or nephews to share your love of all things past. Whether it be a genuine historic location, like Ellis Island in New York, or a reenactment attraction, like Colonial Williamsburg, you’re bound to find something that sparks the kids’ interest. Check out this link for historical sites throughout the United States to get inspiration.

3. Hiking
Depending on the child and his or her stamina, even a walk in the park or by a stream is a good idea. For older kids, a more adventurous hike is in order. Here are some tips on how to have safe fun - family style. Activities can include bird watching, collecting insects or looking at plants and flowers. Do some research beforehand so you can answer any questions your niece or nephew may have about what they see. Not sure yourself? Check out apps like Leafsnap, which helps identify plant species, or iBird, which has images and other identifying tools for bird watching.

4. Nature Reserves
Going to a nature preserve can give you and your nieces and nephews a more in-depth look at the world around us. There may be classes where an instructor can help identify the wildlife. Nothing will be as rewarding as hearing your little nieces or nephews ramble on weeks later about the flower and fauna they discovered with you. 

5. Library Activities
Most local libraries will have summer activities, free for children. These can range from arts and crafts to learning interactively and doing hands-on projects to develop creativity and innovative thinking. Some libraries offer a summer series with different activities on a weekly basis. This could become a regular play date with your niece or nephew throughout the summer.

6. Fire Stations
A  trip to the fire station may not only teach your young nieces and nephews about fire safety, but also about the lives of the firefighters and the work they do. Plus, there's not much cuter than a photo-opp with your nieces and nephews sitting in a big red fire truck.

7. Recreation Centers
It’s important to get kids out and moving, and taking them to a local activity center could be the perfect way to get them to try something new. Your nieces and nephews may learn how to swim, play tennis, or even try something completely out of their comfort zone, like karate or gymnastics. Check out places like Chelsea Piers in New York City or a local YMCA.

8. Zoos
While the zoo offers the opportunity to see and learn about animals, they also offer shows and  interactive activities that go in-depth about the history, habitat or life of the animals.

9. Museums
There are many museums that love having children and offer interactive activities that get kids involved and learning something they never expected. Many regular museums have programs for children, but it may be beneficial to do a little research first, and find one that not only peaks your nieces and nephews’ interest, but is also designed for children. You can find a children’s museum in your area using this locator.

10. Astronomical Observatories
This will bring out the astronomer in your little one. Seeing the moon and the constellations up close will help your nieces or nephews understand the cosmos in a way they didn’t before. Whether it’s looking at distant galaxies, or hypothesizing about the creation of the universe, this trip may have the kids dreaming of a job at NASA.

11. Festivals
There are many summer festivals, and they often center around a unique theme. These are probably abstract things or concepts that your niece or nephew won’t be learning in school.. Check out this link for the tops cities for festivals.

12. Music Festivals
Music festivals can help with child development, inspiring creativity. Some music festivals incorporate children’s sections so children can play and learn at the same time. Here are some kid-friendly music festivals. And, check out this article for some helpful tips when planning the outing.

13. Cooking Classes
Depending on the age of your niece or nephew, they may not yet have much experience in the kitchen. If you're a GourmAunt, try to find a class where both you and your nieces and nephews cook or bake together. By measuring ingredients (math) and learning how things are made to taste good (chemistry), children can enhance their STEM skills. We love this article by a fellow auntie using math and science in the kitchen with her niece. You may spark their interest in culinary arts, and their mother and father will be thanking you later.

Photo: BlueOrange Studio