Summer can feel like it lasts forever. But if you look at the calendar, you’ll see that the first day of school is right around the corner.
If your kids have already logged plenty of travel miles, wrapped up camps, and settled into a predictable (ahem…screen-heavy) routine, you’re not alone. This is the perfect moment to shake things up with a fresh, engaging summer challenge.
Here are seven reasons why the middle or end of summer is the best time to start:
1. Most of the Busy Schedules Have Calmed Down
The whirlwind of camps, trips, and family reunions has probably slowed. That means fewer conflicts—and more time to focus on something meaningful.
2. Kids Need a New Spark of Motivation
By late July, the novelty of free time wears off. A challenge can rekindle curiosity and give them a fun goal to look forward to each day.
3. Screens Have Taken Over
One week of video games turns into two…then five. (It happens to the best of us – we’re not judging!) A summer program is an easy way to set healthy limits and replace mindless scrolling with purposeful activity.
4. It Eases the Transition Back to Structure
Going from endless summer to school-day routines is tough. A challenge helps kids gradually rebuild the habit of daily commitments and deadlines—without feeling like work.
5. Brains Need a Warm-Up, Too
Summer slide is real. Even a few weeks of engaging reading, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving can help kids feel sharper and more confident on that first day back.
6. It Makes the Most of Every Last Day
Instead of drifting through August, your family can squeeze every drop of adventure and learning out of summer. You’ll end the season feeling accomplished—not just relieved.
7. It’s Easier Than You Think to Start Late
You don’t have to plan months in advance. Programs like Brain Chase are designed to be flexible—so you can jump in, get set up quickly, and finish strong right before school begins.
If you’re ready to re-energize your summer, our next 5-week Brain Chase adventure kicks off July 14th. It’s the perfect way to bring back purpose, learning, and a little excitement before that first bell rings.
Explore the Summer Challenge →