Summer Vacation! The time for fun, sleeping in, and... learning loss? Learning loss is unfortunately a downside of summer vacation. The summer "slump" is a phenomenon occurring when students start to forget the knowledge they have learned over the school year. However, don't be afraid of it, parents and caregivers! There is a solution, and this blog is just the thing to help inform why it happens and how to combat it, so your children are able to learn and grow all year long!
Why Does the Summer Slump Happen?
School is out for the summer, and with it, the consistency of everyday learning. Without the daily discipline that school provides, students are bound to forget what they have learned and eventually lose what is taught all together. This is especially true and equally a problem for younger children who are around the age where they just start learning math and how to read. Here is a list of reasons why this can happen:
- No regular routine: Classrooms provide students with well thought out lessons that make it easier for them to understand and retain information. Without this existing structure, they will find it hard to recall the content taught to them.
- Skill Application: Without putting to use what they learn; young children’s ability to do math and read can quickly decline.
- Shifting focus: Without a doubt, students have a great deal of fun during summer. However, extracurricular activities can start to trump learning.
- Varying learning styles: Learning is something unique and different to each one of us, some may learn well from traditional methods, and some may need a different approach.
- For example, a student who is an auditory learner might struggle with summer activities that have a lot of reading. A fix for that could be to listen to audiobooks or educational podcasts. While a visual learner might like to use flashcards or educational videos, it is more engaging than just simply reading from a textbook.
Conquering the Slump: Strategies for Summer Learning
The great news is that students have the resources and means to break the summer slump. Here are some ways they can keep their mind active while also learning:
- Have Fun with Educational Apps and Websites: Not only are there lots of online games but educational apps can also be a great way to learn. These can work wonders as they’re educational and fun! These apps might be a good place to start for your learner:
- Khan Academy Kids
- PBS Kids Games
- Prodigy Math
- Summer Learning Programs: Enroll your children in programs or summer camps. Over the summer, libraries and rec centers may even offer these services at a cut price or even for free! Explore the different types of programs that can cater to your child's interests.
- Sports camps promote teamwork, physical fitness, and following instructions.
- Arts programs can spark creativity and help children develop new skills like playing an instrument or drawing.
- Everyday Activities, Everyday Learning: Every action has an equal and opposite reaction whereas every task can be a learning lesson. For instance, shopping can be used to teach about quantities and estimating costs. Baking can also be used to teach following instructions and measuring ingredients!
Beyond Academics: Making the Most of Summer for Parents & Caregivers
During summer your children can strengthen their social skills, pick up new hobbies and recharge their batteries before school reopens. Here are some ways to help your children make the most of their summer beyond academics:
- Provide Time for Free Play: Allow your kids to have free time where they can develop their creativity, problem-solving, and independence.
- Outdoor Adventures: You can explore local parks, go on hikes, or visit museums with your children. Walking out into nature can be an opportunity to learn about animals and visiting museums can expose children to history, art, and science in a fun and interactive way!
- Family Fun: Summer is the best time for family fun and bonding. Plan outings, play games, and make the most of your time together.
- Pack a picnic lunch and head to the park for a day of frisbee, soccer, or just relaxing in the sunshine!
- Have a movie night at home! Pop some popcorn, dim the lights, and cuddle up on the couch for a classic family movie night.
- Organize a game night! Dust off those board games or card games and challenge each other to a friendly competition! Board games can also be a great way to practice critical thinking and problem-solving skills while also having fun.
Using these tips makes it possible for children to enjoy a fun and exciting summertime while not forgetting what they have learned. It is always good to remember, summer should be a great time for the entire family. With just a little planning and creativity, you can keep your child's mind active and stop the summer slump from stealing their academic progress!
Anthony Jiang serves as a Communications Intern at the ESC of Central Ohio. Currently attending Groveport Madison High School, he has worked with the ESC as part of his work-based learning experience for GMHS’ Interactive Media course.