5 Ways to Prevent Summer Learning Loss
Summer break gives students an opportunity for well-deserved rest. Unfortunately, the time away from the classroom can lead to summer learning loss, also known as the “summer slide.” Students spend several hours a day dedicated to learning during the school year. Then, when summer break rolls around, education is completely off the radar. This can make it tricky for students to pick back up on concepts when they return to school in the fall. Here are some ways you can help your child stay engaged in learning and prevent summer learning loss.
Check Out the Library
One of the best ways to get your child excited about learning is by going to the library. Each time you go, have your child pick out a few books. The books can be from summer reading lists or based on your child’s interests. The search for the best books makes reading feel like an adventure. Aside from books, libraries often offer summer programs for children that encourage reading or the exploration of other interests.
Brush Up on Math
When many children go back to school after summer break, they find that they’ve fallen behind in math. On average, children lose 2.6 months of learning in math over the summer. The main reason this happens is because children aren’t actively solving math problems during their time away from school. Practicing math with your child for a few minutes every day can help them stay on track and go back to school fully prepared.
Encourage Daily Journaling
Not every child has an inherent interest in writing, but most children enjoy recalling what’s going on in their daily lives. No matter what your child writes about, daily journaling can help them improve their writing skills. Offer up writing prompts like “What do you want to do the most this summer?” and “What would your dream vacation look like?” This keeps them focused, engaged and, most importantly, writing!
Pursue Academic Interests
Summer is the perfect time for children to dive into their interests on a deeper level. If your child is a math wizard or an aspiring engineer, consider sending them to a STEM camp. Children can also shine by taking art or music classes throughout the summer. For children who won’t stop talking about space or dinosaurs, there’s always the museum. (A lot of museums offer summer passes as well!) Whatever your child loves to learn about, take time over the summer to explore that interest. The more learning continues over the summer, the more prepared your child will be when school starts again in the fall.
We encourage our students to develop a love of learning, whether they’re in class or home for the summer. At our Polk private schools, we foster an atmosphere of care and an environment of high expectations and effective discipline. We allow students to explore their faith at school and encourage them to do the same at home. To learn more about what makes us different, contact us online.