Summertime planning is underway for families, from going to the beach to signing up for day camp. Children look forward to having a few months off of school to play with friends, but parents often want to keep their children’s academic skills sharp over the summer break. Research confirms that without practice in educational activities during the summer, children typically lose two months of grade-level equivalency in math and reading. As a result, time needs to be spent relearning material. What seems like taking two months off can turn into four months of progress lost.
School is becoming increasingly challenging each year and many students participate in learning opportunities during the summer months. This propels students into the following grade. The good news is there is plenty of time in the summer for fun and for learning.
Parents can find enjoyable ways to get children excited about learning during the break. There are many learning opportunities that can fit into your schedule such as Kumon, the world’s largest math and reading program. Kumon students develop the skills needed to gain an academic advantage once school begins. Students practice around thirty minutes a day, keeping their mind sharp and engaged. Scheduling can be flexible to accommodate summer activities.
Reading books frequently is another wonderful summertime activity to prevent summer learning loss in comprehension and vocabulary. It’s also very convenient because books can be read anywhere. Dr. James Kim, Associate Professor at Harvard Graduate School of Education, recommends the ABC’s for summer reading: Access to books, Books that match reader’s ability level and interests, and Comprehension activities monitored by an adult. The library is a valuable source of free books, recommendations from librarians, and summer reading activities such as a book club. Parents can also help their children in choosing skill-appropriate books that interest them. Children can benefit more when adults ask questions about the story, and seem interested in reading themselves.
Past articles from Kumon:
Past articles from Kumon:
- Kumon and the Common Core
- Reading Proficiency in Third Grade
- To Have and to Hold...A Pencil
- Motivation and Enjoyment
- Activities to Make Math Fun for Children
