Summer is here! The perfect season to go outdoors, breathe fresh air, and admire nature. Here are five ways you and your family can maximize the summer months:

1. Go outside! Plan your outdoor activities early

   Plan your activities ahead to have a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Weekends, especially long weekends, are fantastic opportunities to discover the province. Have a picnic in the park, go camping, visit museums, or go on a road trip.

2. Keep learning English

   I know studying English isn’t something you planned on doing this summer, but don’t let your progress go to waste! The good news is that there are many ways to continue learning without giving up your leisure time. Here are a few suggestions:

   • Use livelearn.ca’s self-study resources – You can use these materials any time of the day. Our website is also mobile-friendly – you can use your phone anywhere as long as you have internet connection. You can read or listen to idioms, do a few exercises each day, or just read articles (like what you are doing right now. Great job!).
   • Use audio resources and podcasts – Download language learning tools that you can listen to while on a long drive or while sunbathing. Learn about the power of audiobooks here: Which is better – reading a book or listening to an audiobook?
   • Attend the Summer Course – This is a nine-week course in July where you can learn more about summertime in Manitoba. You’ll also improve your speaking and writing skills through various activities. You’ll have a chance to share your outdoor adventures with your virtual classmates and improve your speaking and presentation skills in the process.

3. Start a garden

   Gardening is a great way to beautify your home, get exercise, and even get fresh veggies to save on your grocery budget. It’s also a good opportunity to teach your kids about responsibility, caring for the environment, as well as proper nutrition. You can do this even if you have limited space. First, know the right type of plants to grow and the specific ways to take care of them. The Community Gardener Guidebook is full of resources and tips to help you start your garden.

4. Start (or sustain) your exercise regimen

   Although exercising is recommended all year round, you have more options for outdoor activities in the summer. You can walk or jog around the block, bike, skateboard, or take longer hikes during the weekends. Adults and older adults should have at least 150 minutes of moderate-to vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per week, in bouts of 10 minutes or more. It is also beneficial to add muscle and bone-strengthening activities using major muscle groups at least two days per week. More physical activity provides greater health benefits (Healthy Living and Seniors).

5. Volunteer

   Aside from widening your network, learning new skills, and bolstering your resume, volunteering is good for your body and soul! Often, you will hear people say that volunteering helped them stay active, increased their confidence, and taught them to be more compassionate. You can spare of bit of your time this summer by helping out your community. Join community drives and clean-ups, or help out in summer events through your nearest immigrant-serving organization. You can also check opportunities here:

   • Harvest Manitoba – Harvest Manitoba is a food bank that caters to local communities. You can sign up as a volunteer using this link.
   • Meals on Wheels Winnipeg – Needs volunteers for its Adopt-a-Route Program which delivers meals to communities.
   • Volunteer Manitoba – This is the central agency for volunteering in Manitoba. Find volunteer opportunities, training, and other activities on their website.

Have a great summer!
 
Article updated June 21, 2023.