By Sarah Climaco

sarah.climaco@allisonpr.com

Many Lexington County families are preparing for more time indoors as the weather cools.

Many parents are concerned about the adverse consequences of the pandemic on their children’s education.

Researchers predict increased learning loss.

To keep your kids engaged , here are 4 kid-friendly indoor activities to combat learning loss this winter.

Joshua Kitchens, executive director of South Carolina Connections Academy, is an expert in remote learning.

He has a wealth of knowledge in combatting learning loss.

• Get your green on — Designate your children as household enviro-specialists. Help them determine local recycling guidelines and best practices when it comes to water and energy use in the home. You can also work with them to create a simple compost bin to use year-round.
• Put on a show — Music, art and theater foster well-rounded learners. Encourage kids to write their own play or musical, design sets and perform for family. If your child likes visual arts like painting and drawing, turn the living room into a gallery and host an opening reception.
• Delicious math – and nutrition — Children can make great Sous Chefs, and will feel empowered as your kitchen sidekick. Engage younger children by letting them measure ingredients and bring them into age appropriate tasks like cracking eggs, and counting and pouring ingredients while older kids can break down the meal’s nutrients and how they fit into the USDA’s MyPlate guidelines.
• Dance party — Keeping kids physically active is just as important as making sure they are mentally active. Encourage your children to meet the CDC’s recommendation of 60 minutes of physical activity every day by hosting a dance party. You can also create a theme or help them with fun costumes.

Sarah Climaco of Connections Academy can be contacted at sarah.climaco@allisonpr.com