Preventing Summer Slide in Early Childhood

The summer break can pose a huge setback in learning—find ways to beat the “summer slide.”

With summer just around the corner for most schools, kids everywhere are undoubtedly excited, but could the summer off actually hinder their learning? The “summer slide” is all of the knowledge kids forget over the summer before returning to school. In fact, studies have shown that students can return to school the following fall at least a month behind of where they were in the spring.

So, what’s a parent to do? While you want your child to have an enjoyable summer, it’s important to keep the learning going so your child does not fall behind. Here’s some tips for avoiding the dreaded summer slide:

• Send your child to an educational day camp
• Visit your local library and encourage reading
• Take your child to museums—some have free days!
• Explore the zoo and/or aquarium
• Plant a garden
• Encourage outdoor activity

While there is no set formula for preventing summer slide, keeping your child engaged and active is a step in the right direction.

Have some more ideas for fun summer activities for kids? Share them by commenting below, or on our Facebook or twitter pages.