Once the last bell of the year rings, many students simply look forward to kicking back, having fun, and completely forgetting about school. But experts say it’s a bad idea to stop all learning because students could potentially lose some of what they’ve learned during school. The term “Summer Slide” has been coined to describe how students lose significant amounts of knowledge in math and reading over the summer. In fact, one study suggests third to fifth graders lose 20% of reading gains and 27% of math gains on average during summer break. Parents don’t have to sit back and allow this to happen. We’ve compiled some ideas from Pinterest on how to help kids read, write, discover and practice academics throughout the summer break.
Download a Review Packet
Set your students up to complete a review sheet every day. Pinterest shows a variety of review packet options, in all grades, that provide parents with fun ideas to reinforce fundamentals. Many of the packets contain pages upon pages of printable lessons, allowing parents to spread a little bit of learning throughout the summer break.
Stock Up on Learning Games
Is it still learning if it’s also fun? Yes! Games that integrate reading and math are a great way to keep students learning all summer. A quick Pinterest search brings up tons of options that parents can buy or make themselves. Create your own homemade games like word hunt scavenger-type games, matching games, and addition games. Or purchase an existing game, like Bingo, Zoom, or Spelligator.
Cook with Your Kids
Getting kids in the kitchen is an easy and satisfying way to teach and reinforce skills. Following a recipe teaches kids: reading, fractions and comprehension. Plus parents get to interact with kids one-on-one, providing a fun way to take a digital break. There are many Pinterest finds for kid-friendly recipes to try out this summer. As a bonus, your kids might just eat an extra vegetable or two.
Take a Virtual Field Trip
The world may be opening up, but organizations still recognize the value of virtual tours. Many museums still offer virtual tours so your kids can take a tour and discover new things, while you’re finishing up work or dinner. Google Arts & Culture lists world-renown museums from A to Z.
Let Kids Read Whatever They Want
Reading doesn’t have to be limited to the same books and texts kids read in school. It’s summer. Let kids read their favorite comic, magazine or schedule weekly visits to the library. Pinterest is full of ideas on how to get kids reading more this summer. For example, make reading a challenge, complete with a reward for winning. No matter which method you choose, shoot for at least 20 minutes a day.
Preventing the summer slide isn’t just a repeat of remote learning. It only takes minutes a day to make sure your students won’t fall behind come fall.