It's a perpetual question -- what should my child do this summer?  Our college counselors have already led a program about activities that may be helpful in preparing for university, but I'll offer a few more general remarks for children of all ages.

• Unplug.  For most teens, summer is the only chance where they might spend an extended period time away from their phone. Research has shown that teens often struggle for the first few days when they don't have their device, but actually feel better than normal after those first few days. Wilderness camps, sailing trips, even service trips may be a place where phones are not welcome or not usable, and this is healthy for teens.
• Serve.  Whether it's volunteering at a summer camp, or volunteering in a soup kitchen or hospital, there are lots of opportunities right here in Rome. Because of age limitations, some of those opportunities may require you as a parent to accompany your child, but that's OK -- it might be enjoyable for you both.
• Learn.  Your child might benefit from some sort of academic enrichment, but many kids are burned out after the academic year, and will not be focused enough to do summer work beyond that which St. Stephen's requires. Summer can be a chance to learn something new and non-academic, like how to windsurf, or how to garden, or how to play the piano.
• Read.  It is a lost form of leisure, but one that is making a comeback. Find a genre of books your child would find interesting, and offer to buy the books or even to read something together if that would be nice for them.
• Get out(side).  Our children spend less time outside than any generation in the history of humanity.  Whether it's just a day trip to the beach or the mountains around Rome, or something that involves a backpack and a sleeping bag, time in nature is good for the mind, the body, and the soul.

Still looking for something to do? Check out St. Stephen's School Summer Program below. You can apply here!