As the final school bell of the year rings, children eagerly look forward to summer: trips to the beach, family holidays, and long, lazy days. While these breaks are essential for rest and relaxation, there is a hidden consequence many parents and educators are aware of: the summer slide.

But what exactly is the summer slide, why does it matter, and how can we help our children keep on top of their learning throughout the summer months? Let's take a look…

What is the Summer Slide?

The summer slide refers to the tendency for students to lose some of the academic gains they made during the school year over the summer holidays. According to research, students can lose up to two months of reading skills and up to two and a half months of math skills over the break. This learning loss can have a cumulative effect over the years, contributing to a significant gap in academic achievement.

Younger students, especially those who are still developing foundational skills in reading and math, are particularly vulnerable. For children with learning difficulties, the impact can be even more pronounced.

Why Summer Learning Matters

1. Bridging the Achievement Gap: Studies have shown that the achievement gap between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds often widens during the summer months. Students who have access to enriching learning opportunities during the break tend to maintain or even improve their skills, while those without access fall further behind.

2. Retention of Skills: Just like with sports or music, academic skills require consistent practice. Long breaks can lead to forgetting important concepts, especially in subjects like math, which builds upon previous knowledge. Engaging in learning activities during summer helps reinforce these skills.

3. Building Confidence: Falling behind academically can affect a child’s confidence and enthusiasm for learning. Keeping their skills sharp over the summer helps children return to school feeling prepared and self-assured.

How to Keep On Top of Learning Over the Summer

1. Daily Reading Time: Encourage your child to read every day. Whether it’s a fiction novel, a non-fiction book of interest, or a graphic novel, the goal is to keep them engaged. For younger readers, reading aloud together can be both a bonding and educational experience.

2. Incorporate Math in Everyday Activities: Math doesn’t have to feel like a chore. You can include it in your day-to-day life by cooking together (measuring ingredients), playing games that involve counting, or setting up a small “store” to practice handling money. Online math games and apps are also great for keeping math skills fresh.

3. Explore Structured Literacy Programs: For children needing extra support in reading and writing, structured literacy programs can be a game-changer. These programs, especially beneficial for students with dyslexia, focus on systematic phonics and help reinforce reading fluency and comprehension.

4. Educational Outings: Visits to museums, Kelly Tarltons, or even nature reserves can be both fun and educational. Encourage your child to ask questions, observe, and reflect on what they’ve learned.

5. Start a Summer Project: Working on a project, like creating a scrapbook from a family holiday or building a small model, can foster creativity and apply various academic skills. Projects give kids a sense of accomplishment and can be a memorable way to keep learning.

6. Set a Routine: While it’s important to relax and have unstructured time, a loose daily routine that includes learning activities can help maintain academic skills. Aim for a balanced schedule that combines fun and learning.

Creating a Love for Lifelong Learning

Summer learning doesn’t have to be about sitting with workbooks for hours. Instead, think of it as an opportunity to explore new interests and subjects they’re curious about, or even learn something completely outside the school curriculum, like coding or photography. The key is to keep learning enjoyable and meaningful.

The Study Nook is committed to supporting families year-round, offering tailored programs that make summer learning engaging and effective. Whether you’re looking for structured literacy tutoring, math support, or enriching activities to keep your child on track, we’re here to help your child make the most of their summer.

Let’s make this summer a time for both relaxation and growth, setting your child up for a confident and successful school year ahead!

References

1. Cooper, H., Nye, B., Charlton, K., Lindsay, J., & Greathouse, S. (1996). The Effects of Summer Vacation on Achievement Test Scores: A Narrative and Meta-Analytic Review. Review of Educational Research.

2. National Summer Learning Association. (n.d.). Why Summer Learning Matters.

3. Allington, R., & McGill-Franzen, A. (2003). The Impact of Summer Reading Setback on the Reading Achievement Gap.