A few weeks ago, one of my regular students asked me, "Teacher Cindy, How can I keep studying over the summer without getting bored or tired?"

It was such an honest and thoughtful question, and one I hear often around this time of year. As summer vacation gets closer, many students are excited for a break (and they should be!), but there’s also a quiet worry for some parents:

“Will my child forget everything they learned?”
“How can we keep their study habits going during summer?”

The answer isn’t to add more textbooks or long hours of quiet study. Instead, it’s about helping students build small, daily habits and giving them space to explore topics they’re truly curious about. It’s also a great time to build confidence, especially in studying alone, or learning at 自分のペース (your own pace).

Why now is the best time to build independent study habits

Before summer officially begins, it’s the perfect chance to guide students toward some light, enjoyable study routines. That way, they head into summer vacation already feeling motivated and in control of their own learning.

You don’t need to follow a strict routine. Just simple, steady habits can make a big difference.

Here are a few gentle ways to encourage 自主学習 (independent study) at home:

✔ Choose a quiet, tidy 勉強スペース (study space) that’s just for them
✔ Set small goals, like reading one article or reviewing one topic a day
✔ Let them pick a subject they like; curiosity is a great teacher!
✔ Use different activities: drawing, videos, games, or short writing practice
✔ Take breaks! Summer learning should feel light, not stressful

When students feel that they can manage their own study time, even for 20–30 minutes a day, it helps build focus, motivation, and confidence.

One of the ways I help students develop these skills is through my Science and Social Studies [SciSos] lesson. Lately, this has become my most requested lesson, especially for 小学生 (elementary students) and 中学生 (junior high students).

The reason? Students love learning about the world around them. And when learning feels exciting, it doesn’t feel like 勉強 (study), it feels like discovery.

In this course, students explore big ideas in a fun, interactive way. We use activities, discussions, and visuals that match each student’s age and level.

Here's what students can expect:

Science Topics
・Chemistry: everyday reactions, kitchen science, fun with molecules
・Physics: motion, energy, forces (this is my specialty!)
・Earth Science: weather, volcanoes, planets, natural disasters
・Biology: animals, plants, the human body

Social Studies Topics
・History: ancient civilizations, world history, inventions
・Geography: maps, countries, climate, oceans
・Government: how systems work, leaders, community rules
・Economics: trade, money, choices in everyday life

Hands-on learning
We don’t just “study”, we explore! Depending on the topic and level, students might:
・Do virtual simple experiments using advanced simulation tools
・Create a mini-presentation or timeline
・Have a discussion and share opinions
・Do small research projects with guidance

What makes this lesson good for building study habits?

Independent learning doesn’t always mean studying alone. It means knowing how to ask questions, stay curious, and organize ideas. That’s exactly what this lesson helps develop.

In every class, we:

✅ Focus on student interest (they help choose topics!)
✅ Practice thinking, explaining, and asking questions
✅ Work in small steps so the student feels success
✅ Use English in a relaxed, encouraging way

Because the lesson is personalized and paced just right, students often forget they’re “studying.” They start building their own strategies for learning, one lesson at a time.

A bit about me as your tutor

I have a background in engineering and social science, so I’m especially strong in topics like physics and general science. But I also cover biology, geography, and history, and I’m always happy to explore new topics together.

I believe learning should feel like a shared adventure. Sometimes we both say, “Let’s find out!” and explore a question as a team. That kind of shared curiosity helps students feel supported while still learning how to think for themselves.

I don’t speak Japanese fluently, but I always keep the pace comfortable for students. If they need extra support with English, I explain slowly and clearly, using visuals and examples. The goal is to make the student feel safe, understood, and excited to learn more.

What students and parents are saying

I’ve been so happy to see how many students return each week and how many parents write to say their child looks forward to class. Some have said:

“My son is now more confident in asking questions.”
“She said she wants to become a science teacher someday!”
“I didn’t know my child was so interested in geography and history until this lesson.”

These kinds of comments remind me that when students enjoy learning, it becomes part of who they are, not just something they have to do for school.

Ready to start your summer learning journey?

Summer can be more than just time off, it can be the beginning of something new. Whether your child wants to review topics, explore something exciting, or just build stronger study habits, this lesson is here to support that journey.

If you’re looking for a lesson that helps your child stay engaged, think independently, and learn in a fun way, I’d love to meet you.

Let’s make this summer a season of curiosity, confidence, and new ideas!

Book a Science and Social Studies lesson today and start exploring the world, one fun topic at a time.
お待ちしています！