Does summer learning loss really happen? Yes, summer learning loss does occur! In fact, students may lose up to 2.4 months of learning loss during the summer months. This applies to reading and math skills in most students and there is a greater loss for students in lower income areas. So how do we prevent this learning loss?
Here are some tips on how to prevent summer learning loss while promoting a summer of learning and exploration!
Read! Read!:
Reading all summer long is vitally important. Plan weekly trips to the local library. Allow your child to select books of interest. Reading does not have to be limited to just books. Expose your child to a variety of reading material: poems, comic books, newspapers, magazines. They should read whatever they can get their hands on!
Parlez Vous Francais?
Learn a new language this summer! Enroll your child in a summer program or choose an online program. Duolingo is one of our favorites! Learning a new language is not only fun but it opens a new world for your child.
Course Exploration:
Take the time to review your child’s upcoming course schedule. Choose a course and do some advanced summer exploration. Is your child taking a World History Course this year? Then start learning about some great historians. Make it fun and engaging. Plan trips to local museums or watch some documentaries. This is a great way to prevent summer learning loss and get them motivated for the upcoming school year.
Play Games To Promote Learning:
Kids learn best when they are relaxed, engaged and having fun! Here are some great games that your whole family will enjoy: Clue, Scrabble, Beat the Parents and Monopoly.
Exercise!
Studies show that physical activity is a brain booster. So get your kids moving this summer!
Enlist a Tutor:
Working with a tutor during the summer is an excellent way to prevent summer learning loss. Your tutor can create a summer learning program that focuses on your child’s exact needs, strengths and interests. Whether it’s to strengthen a specific math skills or foster a love of writing, a tutor is an excellent way to prevent a learning loss and prepare your child for a strong head start to the new year!
Learning should never STOP in the summer! Integrate these fun ways to keep learning all summer long! How do you encourage learning in the summer?