As summer settles in and school routines take a back seat, it’s easy for physical activity to fall by the wayside. But movement isn’t just something we encourage during the school year, it’s a vital part of every child’s well-being all year round.

Exercise supports health in countless ways. It helps improve motor skills, build strength and coordination, reduce anxiety, boost mood, and can even lead to better and more restful sleep.

At Focus Schools, our physical education program is thoughtfully designed to help students develop movement skills, body awareness, and social connections through active play and physical learning. That progress doesn’t have to pause when the school year ends. Staying active over the summer helps students return to school feeling confident, focused, and ready to jump back into learning, both physically and emotionally.

The Benefits of Staying Active

Whether a child loves running, swimming, dancing, or simply walking the dog, regular physical activity:
● Promotes healthy physical development
● Supports emotional regulation and reduces stress
● Encourages better sleep and energy levels
● Builds confidence and independence

Consistent movement helps students retain the physical skills they’ve gained during the school year, making for a smoother transition back into regular PE classes.

How to Make Movement Part of Your Summer

Keeping kids active doesn’t require complicated plans or expensive equipment. Here are a few simple ways families can stay moving during the summer months:

Water Activities

Sprinklers, pools, splash pads, or even water balloons offer a fun way to stay cool while staying active. Don’t have the resources at home? No problem! Tampa parks, such as Water Works Park, offer fun and accessible water play areas.

Nature Walks & Scavenger Hunts

Visit a local park or trail and make a game out of what you can see, hear, and touch. Tampa Bay has many parks and trails to choose from!

Active Play at Home

Turn on music for a dance session, watch dance-along YouTube videos, or take 15 to 20 minutes to do some stretching.

Chores with Movement

Involve your children in tasks like gardening, sweeping, or organizing to keep their bodies moving.

Community Programs and Camps

Look into local offerings that include physical activity or adaptive options for students with different needs and abilities.

Staying Active = Staying Ready

The key to a successful active summer is consistency, not intensity. A little movement each day can go a long way. Most importantly, choose activities your child enjoys. When kids are having fun, they’re more likely to keep moving, and that momentum will serve them well when the new school year begins.

At Focus Schools, we know that staying active supports learning and growth. By encouraging activity over the summer, families help set the stage for a strong return to school and a lifetime of healthy choices.