Summer Learning Activities for 1st Graders
Summer vacation is always an exciting time for kids, but as parents, we want to ensure that they are still learning and growing. Luckily, there are plenty of fun summer learning activities for 1st graders that both you and your child will enjoy.
If you enjoyed these summer ideas, check out more Fun Summer Activities for Kids.
There are endless opportunities to keep young minds engaged and curious. With these ideas, your 1st grader will be ready to start the next school year with a mind full of new knowledge and experiences.

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Why is learning during summer necessary?
In my experience of teaching my first-grader, I cannot stress enough the importance of learning during the summer months. Research has shown that children who do not engage in some form of educational activity during the summer can lose up to two months’ worth of academic progress.
This phenomenon, known as the “summer slide,” can cause children to start the new school year at a disadvantage. However, with a little effort and planning, you can prevent this regression and even help your child improve their skills.
We keep schooling through the summer but on a lighter homeschool schedule. We get to do the fun stuff that was always put off. There are days when no school is done because we’re at the beach or on a road trip but we love that flexibility.
Summer learning doesn’t have to be a chore; it can be a fun and exciting opportunity for your child to explore new interests while reinforcing knowledge from the previous school year. Remember, learning never takes a vacation!
Recommended Summer Books for Kids
Summer is the perfect time for kids to dive into some great books and let their imaginations run wild! So grab a book, find a cozy spot in the shade, and let the pages transport you to new worlds and adventures!
Turkey’s Sandtastic Beach Day (Turkey Trouble)Pete the Cat: Pete at the Beach (My First I Can Read)Summer Vacation, Here I Come!A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee: (Read Aloud Books, Series Books for Kids, Books for Early Readers)Cannonball: A Fun, Summertime Read About Believing In Yourself and Having Fun (Diverse Children’s Book)The Night Before Summer Vacation

Recommended Summer Activity Kits
Whether you’re heading to the beach or park, or just playing in your backyard, these summer toys will keep your kids happy, healthy, and having fun all season long. So stock up on sunscreen, grab some snacks, and let the summer adventures begin!
60 Pcs Reusable Water Balls, Reusable Water Balloons for Outdoor Toys and Games, Water Toys for Kids and Adults Boys and Girls – Summer Toys Ball for Pool and Backyard FunJOYIN 22.5ft Slip Slide and 2 Bodyboards, Lawn Water Slides Slip N Waterslides Summer Water Toy with Build in Sprinkler for Backyard Outdoor Water Fun for Kids AdultsJOYIN Big Bubble Wands Set, 18 Pcs Giant Bubble Maker with Tray, 12Max Liquidator 6-Pack Water Blaster SetHelloJoy Bean Bag Toss Game Kids Outdoor Toys,Double-Sided Foldable Cornhole Board Backyard Beach Yard Outdoor Toys for Toddler, Outside Lawn Party Activities Toy Gift for Boys Girls Age 3 4 5 6 7 8Skillmatics Seek & Splash Diving Gem Toys – Underwater Search and Find Game, Perfect for Swimming Pool & Summer Fun, Gifts for Ages 6 & Up
Recommended Summer Activity Worksheets
Summer Color by Addition Worksheets
Celebrate summer sunshine, beach days, and cool treats with these summer color-by-number addition worksheets. Grab your copy today.
Kids can easily grasp the concept and distinguish every coin or bill if you let them have a fun learning activity like this Summer Money Puzzle!
How can I make learning fun for my kids this summer?
As a parent, it can be challenging to keep your child engaged in learning during the summer months. Luckily, there are several strategies you can use to make learning fun for your first grader this summer.
Incorporating games, crafts, and outdoor activities into your child’s daily routine can help them develop new skills while having fun at the same time.
For example, you can play educational board games that encourage critical thinking, or create a scavenger hunt that teaches your child about nature and science.
By taking a creative, engaging approach to learning, you’ll help your child build important skills while fostering a love for learning.
More Summer Activities
- Summer STEM Activities
- How to Make Super Bubbles
- Shaving Cream Sensory Soup
- Summer Playdough Mats by Homeschool Preschool
- Summer Word Scramble by Homeschool of 1















Did you find a fun summer activity to try with your child?
So why not try some of these activities this summer and see how they can help your 1st grader thrive?



















