Preventing the Summer Slump: How to keep kids engaged and learning during summer break

Some call it “summer learning loss,” others call it the “summer slump.” Either way, the idea is the same: without regular practice, new skills and knowledge fade. Studies suggest that kids can backtrack during the summertime, but there are ways to avoid the summer slump and make the most of the summer – without sacrificing summer fun. Here are some ways to help students maintain the knowledge they learned over the year.

Keep them reading

Studies have show that kids can lose up to 25 percent of their reading skills over the summer months, which can have a significant impact on their ability to get back into the school swing in the fall. Scholastic Books cites research that shows reading just six books over the summer months can go far in keeping students on track when they return to the classroom. Find something to read every day. Encourage kids to read the comics in the newspaper every morning or online resources while playing on their computer or tablet. Find things your kids want to read. Ask the librarian at your local library for recommendations. Read aloud. Ask your child to read a paragraph from his current book to you at night or read to him before bed. Children of all ages can benefit from hearing books read aloud to them.

Hang on to math facts

Math is another subject that tends to get lost in the summer shuffle. According to the National Association for Summer Learning, students lose approximately two months of math skills in the summer if they don’t participate in some sort of educational activity over their break.

Encourage teens to take math or science-related jobs that will help them refine their academic abilities while learning important job skills.

Look for summer camps or programs that utilize skills learned in math, such as robotics or space camps.

Find ways to add math to daily activities, such as calculating the volume of water at the city pool.

Let teens get in on the trip-planning action by setting a budget, calculating fuel needs or figuring the distance between destinations.

Keep the mind sharp during summer

Encourage children to research interesting places in your town or nearby. They can learn about local history, geography and cultural spots. This activity promotes reading and learning while getting them excited about exploring their own community.

Dedicate half an hour daily for family reading time, solving math problems or enjoying brain teasers, crossword puzzles and word searches. When the whole family participates, children are more likely to enjoy these educational activities.

Stock up on books, comic books and games that children can enjoy at home or in the backyard. Use this time to engage in conversations with your kids or play classic games like charades or board games.

Provide children with alternative activities that inspire creativity, such as arts and crafts, storytelling or building projects. These activities help ensure that their minds continue to grow and develop throughout the summer vacation.