Keep Learning Going Over the Summer
The end of the 2019–2020 school year has been interesting to say the least. Students and families alike have had to adapt to a lot of changes in a short period of time. Although remote teaching has been taking place, some question how much new knowledge students have gained these past few months, and what might happen during the summer when kids are on break.
There is no sure-fire way to accurately measure how learning has been impacted, but there are ways to support students in continuing to build their skills and stay engaged. Learning over the summer does not have to be a strict schedule that encompasses several hours a day. Even just 30 minutes a day can make a positive difference. Be flexible and focus on what makes sense at any given time and what your child seems interested in.
· Let kids lead the way.
Let your child’s interests guide what you do each day. If they’re really into science right now, focus on coming up with different activities or experiments to try. You’ll be able to incorporate other subjects as well by having them read and follow instructions, measure ingredients or materials, and think about how what they’re doing applies to the real world. They can even do some research on their own to learn more about whatever concept the project focuses on.
Don’t worry about sticking to a strict schedule of certain subjects or assignments each day. Go with the flow and take advantage of learning opportunities as they arise, whether you’re cooking, working in the yard, or out on a walk.
· Make it fun.
The last thing your child probably wants to do this summer is fill out worksheets or drill math facts. Make activities creative and hands-on. Find some online games, activities, or videos that are educational. Board games can be great learning tools too, so have a family game night. If you’re lining up cookies on a baking sheet to cool, casually ask how many you have by multiplying the number of columns and rows. Ask them to read you the directions for a project or recipe.
You may also be able to find some workbooks or activity books that don’t make it seem like your child is sitting down and practicing spelling or math. There are a lot of options out there, and sometimes kids like just sitting down and figuring out a few pages because it’s familiar and routine.
· Do it together.
Don’t make your child be the only one doing some work this summer. Have 30-minutes of screen-free time for the whole family where everyone takes a break and reads (or writes!). If they ask a question that you’re not sure of the answer to, spend time looking it up together and learning more. If their science experiment is building a kite, get your pen and paper out and draw up designs as well. Kids tend to be more engaged when their parents are too and when it’s something you can work on together.
· Take advantage of tutoring.
If ‘summer brain drain’ or ‘summer slide’ is something you’re concerned about, be proactive and sign your child up for tutoring. Even one day a week can make a difference and help them be more prepared for the upcoming school year. Plus, tutors know how to present information in a way that makes sense and keeps your child motivated. They’ll also be able to focus on specific skills or areas where your child may be struggling in order to boost their strengths.
Crafting Scholars is currently offering both in-person and online services to support students’ academic success. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment for your child.
