June means the start of a full and lively summer at Creative Montessori Academy. In anticipation of this time of rest and exploration, we also recognize the importance of keeping students engaged during the months away from school. Learning loss between school years is sometimes referred to as the “summer slide”, and can hinder kids’ academic progress when classes start come fall. Reading and math skills are most heavily affected by summer slide, especially in younger students. Thankfully, there are many ways to provide children opportunities to exercise their minds and apply their knowledge while on break.
Here are eight creative ways to combat the summer slide with your child this summer break:
Participate in a summer reading programs
Local libraries often offer free reading programs during the summertime, and these can be a fun way to encourage reading. This is a great opportunity for your child to read about what interests them and stretches their imagination.
Have children assist with cooking and baking
Baking and cooking are real-world activities that require kids to put their math skills to the test. Plus, after an exercise in fractions, time, counting and ratios, there’s a treat waiting at the end!
Bring students along on grocery trips
Grocery shopping is another great way to practice math skills through calculating percentages and comparing prices.
Get outside
Science comes to life outside. Whether you’re growing vegetables, catching bugs or drawing with chalk, spending time outdoors enlists your child’s scientific mind.
Visit a local museum or science center
Educational opportunities apart from a student’s regular routine are an exciting way to engage with new knowledge. Many of these establishments also offer special events during the summer.
Record summer memories in a journal
Writing down daily activities in a journal cultivates language skills.
Practice directions and distances in the car or on a walk
Have your child step into the role of navigator on an outing to practice verbalizing instructions and observations, as well as making decisions.
Have kids help with planning and researching for day trip activities or family vacation stops
Researching how to get to your destination, what activities are available and the history of where you’re going are just the start of getting kids involved in trip planning.
If you’re interested in learning more about summer slide, as well as how to prevent it, check out these great articles by Mayo Clinic Health System and Scholastic. As summer continues, we are eager to celebrate all of the growth and achievements of this past school year and prepare for what is to come! Our website and social media pages will be kept up-to-date during the break, so be sure to check in with us there. We are so thankful for our Creative Montessori Academy community, and are wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable summer.