Five Ways Parents Can Help All Kids Have a Great Summer

When school lets out, a whole new world opens. For some kids, that means splashy pool days, sidewalk chalk and stacks of library books. For others, it means quiet days at home, skipped lunches and fewer chances to learn or play. That gap isn't fair. But there are simple ways to help that don’t require a big budget or plan.

Here are five meaningful ways you and your family can help make summer count for kids who need it most.

1. Support Summer Learning Programs for Kids

Save the Children’s Make Summer Fair campaign gives kids in rural and under-resourced areas things like books, meals, and fun, safe programming. It helps kids stay active and learn while school is out.

Highlights is proud to pitch in. We donate magazines to help keep imaginations buzzing and brains growing. You can help too by donating or sharing to your network.

2. Donate Books or Magazines

Got extra books on your shelves? Consider donating them to community centers, food pantries, or Little Free Libraries. Make sure they’re in good shape, either new or gently used.

Reading helps prevent the summer slide and builds a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

3. Talk About Fairness and Equity

Summer is a good time to explore big questions with little ones. Kids know what’s fair and what’s not. Talk with them about how some children have access to camps, books and outings, while others don’t.

Ask: “What do you love most about summer?” Then ask, “What might summer feel like for someone who doesn’t have those things?”

Kids have big hearts. Give them a chance to use them.

4. Gift a Magazine Subscription

A magazine in the mail feels like magic. Gifting a magazine subscription to a child can turn a regular day into a happy one. Call your local community center, library or shelter and ask if they accept donated subscriptions. You might be the reason a kid smiles every month.

5. Model What It Looks Like to Help

Kids learn by watching. Help them learn kindness and compassion, whether it’s volunteering as a family, raising awareness, or simply making extra snacks for the community fridge. When kids see grownups doing good, they’re more likely to follow. Helping doesn’t have to be fancy. It just needs to be real.

Every kid deserves a joyful and engaging summer. Help us make that happen.