Have you ever heard of “Summer Slide,” “Brain Drain,” or “Summer Learning Loss?” These are just a few names for a very real phenomenon that can affect children. Summer Slide is a regression in a child’s academic proficiency during the summer months when school isn’t in session. Studies show that with each passing year, there are subsequent skill losses, especially in younger children.
At Porter-Leath, we are educators and parents; therefore, we understand that pre-K children are at a very critical stage in their developmental learning. As you and your child are preparing for Kindergarten and beyond, here are five tips that you can use at home with your child to prevent summer learning loss:
- Read, read, read! - Keeping your child engaged and learning during the summer is as easy as reading daily for at least 20 minutes. You can also encourage your children to write their own stories.
- Problem Solve - Help your child practice cognitive skills by playing memory games, sorting cards, and lining up age-appropriate puzzles.
- Get Outside - Exploring nature and engaging in outdoor activities will help stimulate your child’s curiosity.
- Counting - Whether you and your child are home, outside playing, or running errands, encouraging them to count, match, and compare everyday things helps them use their math skills.
- Exploration - Encourage children to explore something different than they are used to. This can be joining you in the kitchen and assisting you in measuring, reading 2- or 3-step recipes, and learning about cooking. Plus, it’s a great way to spend quality family time together.
For more helpful tips, ideas for the summer, or to learn about programs benefiting children and families, visit porterleath.org, @PorterLeath on Facebook and Instagram, or contact 901-577-2500, rhughes@porterleath.org.