How Integrating Arts in Education Enhances Learning

Students can learn about the same subjects in different ways. They can learn to memorize facts and figures without any outside context, or lessons can incorporate additional perspectives. One way to help expand students’ understanding of the material they are learning and the world around them is by integrating the arts into their education. Read on to learn about the different ways the arts enhance learning. 

Deeper Understanding and Retention

In early learning, kinesthetic assignments are common, as students are learning how to use items like crafting supplies, crayons and pencils to create something new. As students grow older, integrating arts into their learning might look more like relating a period of history to powerful art or music that further illustrates the time period. All of these lead to a deeper understanding of core subjects, allowing students to see them from multiple perspectives. 

Stronger Critical Thinking and Problem-solving

When the arts are integrated into core subjects, students are challenged to think differently. Viewing multiple perspectives leads to better critical thinking, rather than black-and-white thinking that can come from learning purely through facts and figures. This makes it easier for students to approach problems creatively and feel empowered to solve them. 

Communication and Collaboration Skills

The arts are all about communication and collaboration. Arts classes encourage students to find ways to improve on their creative work, which often happens by a combination of imitation and practice. Visual art students learn to critique each other’s work in a constructive way, making each project collaborative. Music and acting students learn techniques that help them improve their crafts, then practice those to hone their skills. 

Confidence, Belonging, and Student Voice

Arts classes can be humbling at first, especially when students do not feel naturally talented. However, as students see the power of practice to help them improve, their confidence often increases. With every project or performance, students work together toward similar goals, giving them a sense of accomplishment and belonging. The arts allow students to express their individuality, even in a room full of students with similar interests and skills. 

Real-world Readiness 

Integrating arts and education helps students learn crucial soft skills, helping them prepare for the real world. For those looking to pursue a career in the arts, classes in these subjects can give them opportunities to preview life after graduation by building portfolios, participating in exhibitions, giving performances and participating in client-style projects. 

At North Tampa Christian Academy, we believe the arts are valuable to all students, whether or not they decide to pursue creative careers after graduation. Students at our Tampa private school thrive creatively, academically and spiritually in a project-based learning environment. Faculty and families work together to inspire leadership through Christian innovation. Contact us today to learn more.

How to Set Your Child Up for Academic Success

While children are generally inquisitive and curious by nature, putting their heads down and focusing on academic success does not always come naturally. More often than not, they need their parents’ guidance, especially in subjects they don’t find relatable. Read on for some ways you can set your child up for success in any academic subject. 

Foster a Positive Attitude Toward Learning

The term “academic success” is often associated with perfect grades and aced tests. However, there’s more to it than that. For a child to succeed in academics, they need to enjoy learning. Show your child how you continue learning every day, even if you’ve been away from school for a long time. When children see that learning means being curious about the world, a love of learning can come much more naturally. This extends to their school performance. Praise them for their effort and perseverance in school, not just for getting good grades. 

Establish Effective Study Habits and Routines

Classroom habits are important, but how a child learns at home makes even more of a difference in how they view their education. Set a regular homework schedule, ensuring study and homework time is broken down into manageable chunks. Create a distraction-free environment for studying so your child can make the most of their study time. As your child’s classes become more advanced, help them set realistic academic goals. 

Communicate and Collaborate with Teachers

One important way to help your child succeed is by being part of their educational experience. Attend parent-teacher conferences whenever possible so you can stay in touch with your child’s teachers. This will help paint a clearer picture of how your child is doing in school. If your child is struggling, schedule regular check-in emails. Stay updated on classroom activities and school events so you always know what your child is learning and how you can support them. 

Provide Resources and Extra Help as Needed

In a perfect world, children would understand every academic concept the first time it’s introduced. However, this is not always the case. Sometimes, children need extra support. Identify when tutoring or counseling is needed, and empower your child by scheduling sessions for them. Help them understand that they haven’t done anything wrong and that you’re helping them get over this hurdle so they can strengthen their skills. 
At North Tampa Christian Academy, we know that learning starts at home, and we encourage parents to be involved in their child’s education. Students at our Tampa private school thrive creatively, academically and spiritually in a project-based learning environment. Faculty and families work together to inspire leadership through Christian innovation. Contact us today to learn more.

Back-to-School Transition: Tips for a Smooth Shift

Summer break brings a change of pace, and when school resumes, it takes some gear-shifting to adjust. Early mornings, structured routines, and academic expectations return all at once. This transition doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few intentional steps, families can ease back into the rhythm of the school year. Here’s how to help your child feel ready and confident on day one. 

Ease Back into Your Regular School Routine 

If your family’s daily schedule has shifted over summer break, the days leading up to the new school year are the perfect time to start adjusting children’s wake-up and bedtimes. To avoid protests and trouble falling asleep, shift the routine gradually — just 15 to 30 minutes at a time. Waking younger children in the morning may feel tough because they look so comfortable, and you want to let them sleep. However, easing into a routine now will help make the transition back to school much smoother.

Prepare the Work Space

Take time with your child to prepare their study area by sorting through papers, tossing out broken pencils, and organizing supplies. Clean the desk surface, remove any old stickers or marks, and arrange essentials for easy access. Ask your children what updates or new items they’d like to add to their learning space to make it feel more personal and inspiring. Starting the school year with a neat, inviting workspace can help set a positive tone for learning. 

Manage Back-to-School Anxiety 

Starting a new school or transitioning to a different class can bring up a lot of feelings for children, including worry, excitement, or uncertainty. It’s important to create space for them to express these emotions openly. Listen carefully, validate their concerns, and encourage them to share what specifically bothers or scares them. By understanding their feelings, you can offer reassurance and practical support, while helping build their confidence as they face these changes. 

Put Together a Personal School Calendar 

Create a family calendar marking important school dates, extracurricular activities, and special events. Involve your child in planning to help them feel organized and prepared for what’s ahead. As you review the calendar together, ask about the goals they want to achieve this year to encourage motivation and focus.

Practice Independence

Encourage your child, especially if they are just about to start school, to prepare for the next day by choosing their clothes the night before or packing for a fun activity ahead of time. These small habits build responsibility and confidence, making mornings smoother and helping them get ready for the independence school requires. 

Starting a new school year is a fresh opportunity for growth, learning, and new experiences. With thoughtful preparation and support, you can help your child transition smoothly and confidently into this exciting chapter. Every small step you take together builds a strong foundation for success—both in and out of the classroom. At our private Christian school near Tampa, we’re excited to welcome students back for another year of learning and personal growth. Contact us today to learn more about our vibrant community of teachers and students. 

5 Engaging Educational Apps for Summer Learning

Does your child rebel against textbooks during summer? For many students, summer means a break from studying, while parents worry that their children will lose skills before the next grade. One way to strike a balance is by making learning fun and engaging throughout the year. Learn how to make screen time your ally with these five educational apps that help students of every age sharpen skills and stay curious. 

Khan Academy Kids (PreK-2nd Grades) 

Khan Academy Kids offers a rich collection of interactive lessons, games, and activities designed to inspire lifelong learning in young children. They can practice letters, reading, math, and logic, as well as work on memory and social-emotional development — all while having fun with cute characters. The app covers topics appropriate for children from preschool through second grade, allowing you to select your child’s age within each subject. It works both online and offline and is available on the App Store, Google Play, and Amazon Appstore. Best of all, Khan Academy Kids is completely free, with no ads or subscription requests.

Prodigy Math (1st-8th Grades)

Prodigy Math turns math practice into an epic adventure. Players explore new worlds, embark on heroic quests, and solve math problems to earn prizes, collect pets, and challenge friends in a safe, engaging environment. Designed for students in grades 1 through 8, the game adapts to each learner’s level, helping them build skills and confidence through play. While children play, parents can track their progress. The app is free to use, with optional paid features, and is available on web browsers, the App Store, and Google Play. 

Vocabulary Practice: Greek and Latin Roots (K-12th

Grades)

This vocabulary app helps students strengthen language skills by exploring the Greek and Latin roots that form the basis of thousands of English words. Developed by Clever Dragons, the app features 15 levels and over 250 roots, offering a thorough and engaging way to build vocabulary and reading confidence. When players choose the wrong answer, the app provides immediate feedback—turning each mistake into a meaningful learning moment. Ideal for upper elementary through high school students, this app blends challenge and fun in a classical quiz format. Vocabulary Practice: Greek and Latin Roots is available on iOS for just $1.99, with no additional in-app purchases.

IXL (Pre-K–12th  Grades)

IXL is a digital learning platform for students to practice math, language arts, science, social studies, and more. Designed for learners from preschool through high school, IXL aligns with most school curricula and adapts in real-time to each student’s performance. Parents can track progress through detailed reports and insights. While IXL is not a free app, it offers several subscription tiers that can be canceled at any time. For families looking to try it out, IXL allows 10 free questions per day, making it a helpful option for short daily practice without a long-term commitment. Available on the App Store, Google Play, and desktop. 

Coursera (9th-12th Grades)

Coursera is a leading online learning platform offering courses from top universities and organizations worldwide. High school students can take advantage of this flexible resource to explore a wide range of subjects—from calculus to beginner guitar—and develop new skills at their own pace. Many courses are free, with some offering certificates for a fee. Most courses also include a free seven-day trial, allowing students to try before committing. The platform is available as an app on the App Store, Google Play, and on desktop. 

Learning doesn’t have to pause over the summer. By using technology mindfully, students can stay inspired by innovation, inquiry, and achievement—core values at North Tampa Christian School. With the right tools, summer becomes an opportunity to grow, explore, and keep curiosity alive throughout the year. If you’re interested in joining our community or searching for a private school in Tampa, contact us to learn more or schedule a tour.

Organization Tips to Help Children Wrap Up the School Year

Before diving into summer break, take a moment to wrap up the school year with an end-of-year organization routine. Organizing at the end of the school year builds a sense of accomplishment, marks the start of summer fun, and ensures your child will have fewer things to worry about when the new school year rolls around.

Backpack Clean-Up 

During the school year, backpacks often fill up with everything from broken pencils to food crumbs. Begin by emptying every compartment and pocket, inside and out. Then give the backpack a thorough wash so it’s fresh and ready for next year. Check the care instructions first. Some backpacks can go straight into the machine, but others might need special treatment. If the new school year calls for a new backpack, consider ways to recycle or repurpose the old one. 

Sort and Recycle Old School Supplies

Take some time to go through school supplies and see what your child could keep using. Set aside anything still in good condition, and toss what’s not. Sorting pencils, crayons, and markers by type or color will make it easier to see what you already have. When it’s time to buy new supplies, you’ll know exactly what you need. Consider donating gently used or unused supplies to those in need. Also, checking with local office supply stores to see if they offer recycling for school supplies is a thoughtful way to declutter without creating extra waste. 

Create a Memory Box for Favorite Projects

Encourage your child to choose a few keepsakes to remember the year. Help them pick out their favorite art and school projects, and put them in a special box or a folder. It’s a fun way to look back at what they learned. Older children might want to organize their projects on their computers in different folders to use in portfolios. 

Refresh The Workspace

Help your child clear off their desk by removing old papers, broken supplies, and anything they no longer use. Turn on uplifting music to make the process more enjoyable, and treat this time as an opportunity to reconnect and reflect on the school year together. Wipe down the surface, treat any stains, and peel off old tape or stickers. A clean, organized workspace sets the stage for a fresh start when school begins again.

Shop for School Supplies Early

Starting school supply shopping early is like buying yourself a few extra days of summer. With shelves still full and no last-minute lines, you’ll skip the rush and start the new school year feeling calm and prepared. Children love it, too—no stress over missing supplies, and you can enjoy quality time without the hassle of last-minute shopping.   

As the school year comes to a close, students are ready to embrace the joys of summer. Following these tips will help you and your child feel that the year is complete, and the summer break will begin with a sense of accomplishment. Both parents and children can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from being more prepared for the next school year. At North Tampa Christian Academy, we are honored to partner with families seeking excellent education for their children in a Wesley Chapel private school. Contact us today to learn more.