Fighting Back Against Summer Brain Drain
Every year when school ends, there is talk of summer “brain drain” or “summer slide.” What people are referring to is the loss of learning that can occur when students are out of school. There have been multiple studies over the years that have shown that students may lose one to two months of learning or more. Is this knowledge really lost? Probably not, but it does become fuzzier or forgotten.
Keeping learning going over the summer doesn’t mean making your child sit for hours working on packets or workbooks. It’s not drilling them endlessly on vocabulary or math facts. There are plenty of ways you can keep your child’s mind stimulated in more engaging and entertaining ways.
· Sign them up for summer camp or community programs
There are tons of organizations that offer summer programs for kids of all ages. Look through the options together and let them pick something that they find interesting. They’re more likely to be engaged if it’s something they’ve chosen to do. Chances are, there will be a lot of learning taking place, even if your child doesn’t realize it because they think they’re just having fun. From science to coding to art to culinary, be open to letting your child try new things.
· Have them help with daily tasks
There are plenty of times throughout the day when you are using math and reading skills. Practice measurement, fractions, reading comprehensions, and following directions by having your kids help with making dinner or dessert. Sit down together and create a schedule for the week, or a budget for a summer barbeque.
· Plan a trip
Summer is a prime time to go on vacation. Get your kids involved in the planning process. From deciding where to go, how to get there, and how long it will take to researching hotel costs, creating a budget for meals and activities, and deciding what they want to do while there. Sprinkle in some educational activities like going to a museum or historical site. Even if you’re staying home this summer, they can help plan some day trips.
· Volunteer or get a summer job
Help your high schooler find a volunteer opportunity or summer job. They are sure to use a variety of skills and keep their mind sharp while helping others. It is a great way to give back, earn some money of their own, and teach responsibility, critical thinking, and problem solving.
· Pause to read
Schedule time each day where the entire family stops what they are doing and spends 30 minutes reading. Take your kids to the library and let them pick out a variety of books that interest them. It doesn’t necessarily matter what they are reading, just that they are reading. Even graphic novels, comic books, and magazines can have value.
· Enjoy screen-free time
Take a break from televisions, phones, computers, and tablets. Encourage your kids to use their imaginations and do something creative. They could build something using things they find around the house, write their own story or play, draw a picture, or practice an instrument. Go on a walk as a family and talk about the different plants, animals, architecture, and activities you see.
Keep an open mind and go with the flow, tying learning into things your kids are interested in, or things you already do. If you want something more structured, sign them up for weekly tutoring sessions at Crafting Scholars where they can focus on building and maintaining key skills and knowledge that will support them next school year. You can feel confident knowing they’re getting lessons aligned with their specific needs, abilities, and goals. Contact us today to learn more and reserve your child’s spot!
