Summer vacation is a time for kids to enjoy the freedom of life without the constraints of school. It’s a time for enjoying the outdoors, exploring new places, and having fun in general. Even though summer is break time from formal learning with teachers and books, it does not have to be a time where learning stops. In fact, with a little creativity, summer can be a time where learning becomes a hands-on affair and you can prevent summer learning loss.
What is Summer Learning Loss?
Long ago, researchers discovered that in certain situations, students returned to school in the fall with lower academic levels than when they left school at the beginning of summer. It is also called summer setback or summer slide. This phenomenon seems especially prevalent among those students from historically disadvantaged groups. Approximately one month of learning is lost over summer break. They also found that the loss seemed to affect math skills more than reading skills. Summer learning loss does not affect all students, nor does it affect all students across the board.
Steps You Can Take
There are several steps you can take to prevent summer learning loss. It begins with making time for learning. 15 – 30 minutes a day of reading can make a big difference. Trips to the library can make it enjoyable and profitable. Many libraries have summer reading contests or programs. Some offer special incentives for kids who take part.
If your child is reading below grade level, you can help by reading with your child. This time will help them sound out words they may have trouble with. Keep a dictionary handy, too, to help them figure out difficult words. The dictionary provides phonetic spelling.
You can help your child develop math skills by working on a few math problems every day. Make it fun by using the problems as a daily challenge. Workbooks are available at local bookstores and online for all grade levels. Practicing math skills a few minutes a day will help your child maintain their math skills and may even help them prepare for returning to school in the fall.
If your child needs improvement in a specific area, focus on helping to shore up that skill. Use the summer to help your child strengthen those areas. There are many online resources available, and you can browse materials in educational and teacher supply stores. Books, games, and computer games can be used to help your child improve.
Summer is a great time for fun, rest, and relaxation. It can also be a time for learning and improving skills. When you and your child think creatively, you both will find exciting ways to learn new things. Maintain this year’s learning, close the gaps, prepare for a new school year, and have fun!
Wisconsin Virtual Learning provides families with excellent education for all grade levels. Contact us for information about our curriculum and how your child can benefit from learning online.