How to Help Your Scholar Avoid Summer Learning Loss

Most parents and teachers would agree students should enjoy summer break and relax a little following a daunting school year.  But this often leaves many parents, educators, and schools with one question:  What about summer learning loss?

Summer learning loss can be avoided with a little effort in planning a simple summer learning schedule and the research shows that a little is enough.

Research and Summer Learning Loss

Summer learning loss is the loss in academic skills and knowledge over the course of summer break.  Research shows that the learning loss depends on several factors, which include grade level, subject matter, and family income.

While all students experience some form of learning loss, some students are more vulnerable than others.  “Children who are the most susceptible are those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, ethnic minorities and students with exceptionalities (Graham, 2011; Guryan & Kim, 2010; & Kim, 2006). Further, it is predominantly literacy-related skills that are affected the most (Graham,2011).”

Planning a Summer Learning Schedule

Students spend roughly 180 days a year on a very structured schedule at school.  Structure is necessary for students as they become more fluent with transitions and expectations.  Structure is often missing over summer vacation.

A simple scheduled to help students avoid summer learning loss.  I propose that the summer schedule be created with the student.  Students are more inclined to take ownership of their summer goals and schedule if they’re part of the planning.  

Creating a plan will enable the student to expand their goal setting and self-reflection skills.  Designating a journal to document goal progress will also help.

Learning = Fun

Summer learning can be as enjoyable or as unpleasant as the parent/educator makes it.  Learning should be engaging.  Summer is a fabulous time to include other activities that involve learning and critical thinking while having fun.  

Lego's, model car kits, and puzzles are excellent toys for developing critical thinking skills.  Family game night?  Monopoly, chess, and card games all support learners observe patterns, plan ahead, and learn from experience.  

There’s no shortage of online websites and mobile apps to support student learning.  Take some time to scout out a few digital resources your scholar may be interested in and structure them into another learning block.

(Check out Graphite for a nice collection of suggestions, reviews, and ratings for online educational tools!)

Don’t forget that trips to a pool, park, museum, and library are learning experiences that will also have a lasting impression on their desire to learn more.  

So it is clear that although students do deserve a mental break, summer learning loss can be avoided by creating a learning plan, designating the time, and fostering the love of learning.

For more specific ideas, questions, and suggestions, please feel free to send in a message.