Education Insider: How to Supplement Your Child’s Learning in Boston

It’s no secret that New England is an epicenter of world-class education. Home to over 250 colleges and universities and over 84 college-prep and junior boarding schools, New England is the place to be when it comes to student enrichment. Across the region, parents look to these institutions and other organizations in the community to help foster their children’s growth—both inside and outside the classroom. From pre-college and academic enrichment programs to athletics and the arts, here are some ways to enhance your student’s education to ensure they
continue to learn and grow every day.

The Arts

The arts can be a great avenue for children to hone new skillsets, gain confidence, and express themselves. From participating in art classes to performing in ballet, the arts can help bolster a
child’s emotional maturity, giving them opportunities to observe the world in new ways, reflect, and process dialogue.

Athletics

Engaging in regular physical activity outside the classroom has been shown to promote mental clarity and faster cognitive processing, helping students to perform better academically. Popular team sports like football, basketball, and volleyball allow students to socialize, connect, and develop a sense of responsibility.

Pre-College Programs

The transition into college can make anyone nervous. Pre-college programs are instrumental in easing anxieties, giving students a taste of college life. These programs can show high school students what it looks like to live independently, introduce them to college-level courses, and assist them in deciding what they’re looking for as they begin applying to schools. With 35 colleges in Boston alone, there are plenty of opportunities to explore in the region.

Academic Enrichment

To build on the academic skills that your child learns in school, you can enroll them in extracurricular activities that are catered specifically to their interests. For the literary enthusiast, youth book clubs can be a great way to enrich a child’s passion and make new friends. For those interested in STEM, there are coding and robotics organizations, after-school math programs, science camps, and more.

Community Service

Volunteering can be a great way for your child to develop a better understanding of the world and give back to their community. From assisting at a local food bank to volunteering at an animal shelter, there are many opportunities across the region that can suit your child’s needs.

Resource Guide

British International School of Boston

The British International School of Boston offers your child a distinctly different education of the highest academic quality through its carefully selected international curricula, personalized approach to learning, and collaborations with MIT, The Juilliard School, UNICEF, and IMG Academy. At BISB, children from toddlers through high school are inspired to reach their highest potential and develop the confidence to create their future! | Boston; 617-522-2261; bisboston.org; Instagram: @bisboston; Facebook: @britishschoolboston

Brown University’s Pre-College Program

Brown Pre-College Programs are designed for high school students to explore the challenges and opportunities of the college experience. Students enjoy the excitement and responsibility that comes from balancing challenging academics and enriching social activities—without the pressure of formal grades. | Providence, RI; 401-863-7900; precollege.brown.edu; Instagram: @brownprecollege

Cushing Academy

Cushing Academy develops curious, creative, and confident learners and leaders. Featuring an inclusive community from over 30 countries and 30 states, Cushing offers a transformative boarding school experience for student grades 9-12 (and PG) that pushes students to explore and elevate their unique range of talents, abilities, and interests. | Ashburnham, MA; 978-827-7300; Instagram: @cushingacademy

Lexington Christian Academy

Lexington Christian Academy blends rigorous academics with a strong commitment to Christian faith. Its focus is nurturing, morally driven individuals equipped to positively influence and lead within their communities. | Lexington, MA; 781-862-7850; lca.edu; Instagram: @lexington_christian_academy; Facebook: @lcamassachusetts

Russian School of Mathematics

RSM is an award-winning after-school math enrichment program trusted by parents for over 25 years across 15 branches in Massachusetts. Featured on NPR and in The Atlantic magazine as one of the key players in the “Math Revolution,” and ranked one of the best schools in the world by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, RSM helps children of all levels build a solid math foundation and develop their critical-thinking and problem solving skills. | 15 locations in MA; 855-MATH-855; mathschool.com; Instagram: @russianmath

Wellan Montessori School

Wellan Montessori School, an independent coed school serving students from 15 months-grade 8, fosters a dynamic and diverse learning community. Grounded in Montessori Philosophy and Experiential Learning, it inspires, challenges, and empowers learners, emphasizing respect for each child’s individuality and belief in their potential. | Newton Centre, MA; 617-969-4488; wellan.org; Instagram: @wellanmontessori